Having trouble getting to sleep? Tossing and turning throughout the night? You’re not alone, and CBD oil might be able to help your sleep issues. Learn more about how CBD works and how it can help you sleep better.
How CBD works
CBD is short for cannabidiol, a compound found in cannabis. Many people are familiar with THC, which is the compound that produces a ‘high’ from marijuana, and while CBD and THC are related, it is possible to isolate CBD and avoid the psychoactive effects of THC.
The body has a natural endocannabinoid system that has receptors that work with the nervous system to affect:
- Sleep
- Pain
- Mood
- …and more
When CBD is absorbed in the system, it can help with sleep issues.
Is CBD legal?
Hemp plants and their associated products are legal in the United States, provided the plant or product contains less than 0.3% THC. In states where marijuana is legal, full-spectrum products (which contain CBD, THC, and other naturally-occurring cannabinoids) are available as well.
CBD oil for sleep
In people without sleep issues, cortisol, a stress hormone, is high in the morning (helping you stay awake) and low in the evening (which helps you fall asleep). If you suffer from insomnia, however, cortisol levels are also high in the evening, which makes it difficult to fall asleep.
Research indicates that high concentrations of CBD may help reduce cortisol levels, and a common side effect of taking high doses of CBD cause drowsiness. Several studies have indicated CBD can work as a sleep aid.
How do I use CBD oil?
There are several different applications for CBD oil, including as a topical treatment. For sleep issues, however, applying the oil under the tongue with a dropper (sublingual) works quickly and absorbs easily. Oil capsules are also available but can take as long as 2 hours to take effect.
Are there side effects to CBD?
Studies indicate that most people tolerate CBD very well, even at very high doses (1,500 mg per day). A small percentage of people experience weight gain and digestive issues, but most experience the sedative effect that is desired if you have sleep concerns. It is non-addictive.
Scientists are continuing to research to see if CBD interacts with prescription drugs.
How much CBD do I take?
Each person responds differently to CBD oil, but studies indicate that higher doses work better for sleep purposes. Several studies explored dosing and symptom relief for issues ranging from anxiety to insomnia. Participants were given CBD doses ranging from 25–175 mg. Higher doses helped more with sleep, and lower doses helped with anxiety.
Another study showed that participants taking 300–600 mg of CBD oil had a decrease in cortisol and fell asleep easier.
Consult with your doctor and check out this dosing guide, but remember that the overall guidance is to slowly increase your dose until you feel symptom relief.
What to look for in CBD oil
Not all CBD oils are created in the same way, therefore you’ll want to look for oil that is third-party tested for potency and quality. Hemp sourced from the United States and Europe is preferred. Not all bottles have the same potency, so check the bottle volume compared to the amount of CBD.
If you live in a state where marijuana is legal, full-spectrum oil may be available if you desire the effects of THC and CBD, and some studies indicate this full-spectrum blend may be more effective due to the ‘entourage effect’.
High-quality CBD oil can help you sleep better
CBD oil is shown to be effective in helping people fall asleep and have a more restful night. Choose only the highest-quality oil, and find a dose that works for you. Check out some of these top products for non-addictive sleep aid.
