Cannabis & Sleep: The Benefits of Cannabinoids for Aiding Sleep
Sleep is a crucial component of our overall health, both physically and mentally. Unfortunately, when we don't get enough restful sleep, it can have a number of negative impacts. All of us know the feeling of waking up after a night of bad sleep. For those dealing with serious illnesses, such as cancer, or suffering from severe pain, finding a solution to their sleep problems can be especially challenging and sometimes even impossible.
Enter cannabinoids - the active compounds found in cannabis. Recent research has shown that these compounds may hold the key to a good night's sleep for both medical patients and casual users.
For medical patients, traditional sleep aids like benzodiazepines and antihistamines may not be effective or can cause adverse side effects - read our article Cannabis Over Benzos for more info on the negative side effects of benzos. That's where cannabinoids come in. Cannabis contains various types of these compounds, including delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabinol (CBN).
THC is the psychoactive compound that causes the “high” associated with marijuana use, but it also has sedative properties that can help you fall asleep. CBD is non-psychoactive and has been shown to have a number of benefits, including reducing anxiety and pain, and promoting sleep. CBN is also non-psychoactive, and research has shown that it increases the duration of sleep. These cannabinoids working together have been shown to improve quality and duration of sleep - what we all need.
Studies have demonstrated the potential of cannabinoids to aid sleep in medical patients. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that cannabis use improved sleep quality in patients with cancer, while a study in the Journal of Pain found that patients with chronic pain who used cannabis reported significant improvements in sleep quality.
For casual users, cannabis may not be medically necessary, but it can still be an effective solution for those who struggle to get enough restful sleep. A National Sleep Foundation survey found that a substantial proportion of cannabis users reported using cannabis to aid in sleep with significant improvements in overall sleep quality.
Cannabinoids offer a natural alternative to traditional sleep aids, which can be addictive and come with their own adverse side effects. They offer a safe and effective solution for those looking for a more natural way to improve their sleep quality.
It's worth noting, however, that like any substance, cannabinoids come with risks. Using them in high doses or in combination with other substances can lead to adverse side effects, such as anxiety, paranoia, and impaired judgment. It’s important to do your own research, find cannabis products that work well for you and don’t abuse it. Overuse, or abuse, can render cannabis medicine less effective as you build a tolerance. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using cannabis as a sleep aid.
Why is Sleep Important?
Getting a good night's sleep is essential for our physical and mental well-being. Here are some of the reasons why it is important to get a good night's sleep:
Improved physical health: During sleep, our bodies repair and regenerate cells, tissues, and organs. This helps us to maintain a healthy immune system, keep our hormones in balance, and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
Improved cognitive function: Sleep is essential for cognitive processes such as attention, concentration, and memory. Getting a good night's sleep can improve learning, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
Better emotional regulation: Lack of sleep can negatively affect our mood and emotional well-being. It can cause irritability, anxiety, and depression. Getting a good night's sleep can improve our emotional regulation, helping us to feel more positive, stable, and resilient.
Increased energy and productivity: When we get enough sleep, we feel more alert and energized, allowing us to be more productive and efficient during the day.
Better physical performance: Sleep is important for physical performance and endurance, as it helps to reduce fatigue and improve reaction times.
Overall, getting a good night's sleep is essential for maintaining good health, improving cognitive and emotional function, increasing energy and productivity, and improving physical performance. It is important to prioritize and make time for adequate sleep as part of a healthy lifestyle.