Benefits of CBD oil for sleep

In recent decades, CBD oil has become all the rage among people suffering from sleep disorders. Studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of CBD for sleep, acting as a relaxant that helps one sleep better, are becoming more and more numerous. This cannabis compound has beneficial properties that improve various health problems by reducing anxiety and relieving pain. 

This substance is available in different formats and concentrates, be it creams, flowers or oils. Each of them offers perfect results depending on the type of problem to be treated. 

Types of sleep disorders

Approximately 35 – 40% of the world’s population is affected by a sleep disorder, the causes of which are often related to stress, anxiety and bad habits or schedules. So many resources are available to treat this type of problem, most of which have side effects. Here are some of them: 

• Insomnia. This is a disorder that people suffer from when falling asleep, taking time to do so. The result is a shorter sleep and a lower quality of sleep. Insomnia affects daily life which can lead to anxiety, depression and irritability. All of this is associated with problems concentrating on tasks or paying attention. 
• Heart rhythm disorders. Problems in relation to the sleep-wake cycle, which makes it more difficult to fall asleep and get up when it corresponds. The most frequent cases occur when our internal clock is not synchronised with the light-dark cycle; such as when jet-lagging or working shifts.

How does CBD oil affect sleep?

CBD or cannabidiol, like THC, is a cannabinoid available in Cannabis Sativa plants, but unlike THC does not generate side effects. This compound activates the endocannabinoid system and interacts with it. 

During the nocturnal hours, the endocannabinoids present in the body activate the CB1 receptor of the Central Nervous System, which controls areas involved in sleep regulation. In this way, neurotransmitters are released, decreasing neuronal activity and improving episodes of pain, anxiety or appetite, which favour the quality of sleep.

The latest research proves that CBD causes effects during the body’s natural process, by increasing endocannabinoid activity, which will help regulate the sleep-wake cycle. 

Since it affects the endocannabinoid system, it affects various metabolic functions that induce sleep. Below are some examples: 

• Hormone production
• Sleep-wake cycle
• Body metabolism
• Diet
• Work schedule
• Medication
• Heart rate

Which cases of insomnia improve with CBD?

This cannabinoid is not effective for all types of sleep disorders. Various research studies, such as the US National Library of Medicine, have demonstrated the effectiveness of cannabidiol. Research concludes that CBD use during the first month improves sleep parameters by 66%, also reducing anxiety by 79% in the long term. 

• Caused by alterations in heart rate
• Anxiety related
• Alterations in the REM phase that cause nightmares or similar. 
• Related to daytime sleepiness.

Benefits of CBD oil for sleep

CBD products are increasingly used by people suffering from insomnia. Thus, the effects of CBD Oil are as follows:

• Supporting central nervous system function by reducing the effects of anxiety.
• Stress increases cortisol levels. Cannabidiol reduces it by reducing the possible effects of overstimulation. 
• It is relaxing and therefore beneficial for those who have a lot of nightmares during REM sleep.
• It is effective for people with muscle pain or tension, which can negatively influence sleep patterns, and can also improve sleep-disordered breathing and other problems that prevent restful sleep.
• It improves concentration and energy, making you feel less tired.
• It helps memory, as stress can affect it. 
• It allows you to sleep more hours.
• Reduce hormonal disorders.

How to use CBD Oils for sleep ?

There are two ways to use CBD oil for sleep. The most commonly used method is to apply it before going to bed. In fact, it is ideal to have a bedtime routine and use the oil two to three hours before going to bed.

If you prefer, you can spread the doses throughout the day, using two drops in the morning, two at noon and two in the evening. As it is not a sedative, it does not disturb the mood during the day.

Some, such as Melatonin MCT GB hemp oil, have been specially developed to promote sleep and improve the quality of rest by providing melatonin. In this way, a perfect symbiosis is achieved between the two compounds to recover physically and mentally.

Beyond the use of cannabidiol, different factors must be taken into account, such as:

• Avoid naps longer than two hours, as well as caffeine consumption just before going to sleep.
• Do not use electronic devices such as a computer or mobile phone an hour before going to bed.
• Using the bed for everything can interfere with rest. It is very common to use the bed to watch films, TV series or work, so it is recommended to separate the spaces, which allows the bed to be associated with rest.

CBD oil has many sleep benefits for people suffering from sleep disorders and conditions such as anxiety or depression. Today, you can choose between oils with different concentrations and properties, to find the one that best suits your needs.