CBD and Insomnia: Can It really Help?
Quite recently CBD, a new health fad, has gained a popularity in the mainstream market. Part of its popularity is due to the fact that it proves to be non-psychoactive and hence least likely to cause high. A lot of studies have proved some of its beneficial effects on people, such as its ability to alleviate pain, soothe inflammation, reduce anxiety and stress. But do you know which of CBD’s creditable properties receives the unequivocal support of the scientists? It is its ability to improve the quality of sleep. But still to find out what is fact and what is fiction a comprehensive research should be carried out.
How do cannabinoids, including CBD work?
Cannabis is the name of any product made from Cannabis Sativa, the green narrow-leaved plant. Cannabis plant consists of hundreds of compounds known as cannabinoids. The following two cannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD are known to have an impact on people. THC is specifically associated with the term “marijuana”, which is known to be addictive and is responsible for getting “high” off. On the contrary, CBD does not bring about such effects and cannot cause potential dependency or abuse. It enhances the endocannabinoid system whose main function is to maintain certain functions of the body, specifically our mood, sleep, appetite, and pain levels. This is achieved by stimulating the cannabinoid receptors in the brain. Likewise, CBD interacts with certain receptors without binding to them and affects the sleep cycle. At the same time, it can reduce pain, stress and anxiety which can disrupt the peaceful sleep. In this way you can enjoy the best of two worlds.
Causes of Insomnia
A good and restful sleep is absolutely essential to our overall well-being and mood. Nowadays more people than ever before irrespective of their age complain of not getting enough sleep. Some take medications which can lead to excessive sleepiness not only during the night but also the next day, besides they have dozens of proven side-effects. But before rushing to the drugstore for some pills, first it would be wise to find out what can cause this issue. The potential causes of insomnia include stress, an irregular sleep schedule, anxiety and depression, pain and other physical illnesses. Today’s technology can also be blamed for sleeping disorders. A lot of studies have proved that interactive technology when used at night keeps us more alert and gets in the way of restful sleep. Thus the majority of people have become “night owls”. But the question is: Are they happy about it? Wouldn’t they rather sleep like a newborn child? The answer is obviously positive. So, the first step to solve a problem is acknowledging that there is a problem.
CBD and Insomnia
Various studies of CBD suggest that certain dosages of CBD can improve sleep. Instead of going down, the cortisol level goes up at night and makes it hard to battle with insomnia and bothersome awakenings. They go on to indicate that CBD decreases the release of cortisol, the stress hormone, and acts as a sedative. Anxiety and stress can surely provoke sleeplessness. Extensive research on CBD oil has proved that it is quite capable of reducing the level of anxiety, as a result coping with a sleep issue. We all have experienced at close hand the additional anxiety from tossing and turning in our beds trying to sleep. Insufficient sleep leaves us sore and sleepy and affects our performance and mood next day. Besides not getting enough sleep may bring about withdrawal symptoms. CBD consumption can be of great assistance with combatting all these conditions. It helps to relax, calm our mind, thus facilitating the sleeping process. But for it to really stick a holistic approach should be incorporated.
CBD and Sleep Rhythm
Lack of sleep can affect people’s ability to think clearly and perform physical tasks safely. People who go without sleep for a few days become irritable, confused and forgetful, and may even have hallucinations. So not to let this happen, we should take good care of our sleeping process and pattern. Sleep comprises five stages; with one stage following another very smoothly. If this smooth line is interrupted at any stage, sleep pattern gets broken. Especially if it happens at the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. This is a stage when a person dreams, and any interruptions are sure to cause uneasiness and discomfort. With CBD these stages will be uninterrupted, the REM stage improved and peaceful and blissful sleep guaranteed.
CBD Consumption
CBD products are produced in various forms and shapes and their consumption is quite handy. They can be taken while eating or sublingually, through inhaling. You can always find the one corresponding to your taste and preferences. But before being dead-straight sure whether to incorporate CBD products in your everyday routine or not, an extensive study of the latter should be carried out.
Final Thoughts
The use of CBD products has become an ongoing discussion topic among researchers, producers, and consumers. Sadly, there is a little more than anecdotal evidence concerning its benefits, which leaves a wide gap in our attitude towards CBD. But what should be said with unfailing certainty is that it is a natural means capable of combatting a number of health issues, specifically problems with sleep, stress, anxiety and depression. It has also preventative properties which are no less important.
