The Hidden Benefits of Cannabis for Sleep
With the mounting research and rapidly shifting public opinion, the link between cannabis and its possible health benefits is becoming impossible to ignore. This extends to one of life’s most vital requirements: sleep. With an estimated 40 million people across the United States who suffer from long-term sleep disorders(source), it’s only natural that many are turning to cannabis as a viable solution. This article examines the manifold benefits of cannabis for sleep and why it could be the ultimate sleep aid you never knew you needed.
Cannabis contains various cannabinoids, most notably tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Both THC and CBD have been found to provide an array of benefits for those struggling with sleep disorders. Here’s how:
##1. Insomnia Relief
One of the most significant benefits of cannabis is its potential to mitigate insomnia. Research shows that CBD, a non-psychotropic component of cannabis, has promising results when it comes to combating insomnia (source). This is because CBD can help manage the root causes of insomnia, such as anxiety and pain.
##2. Promoting Relaxation
After a stressful day, it can be challenging to calm the mind, which often interferes with a good night’s sleep. Cannabis is known for promoting relaxation and stress relief. THC, the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, is known for its calming, euphoric effects. Hence, it makes drifting off to sleep easier and can be a crucial part of a bedtime routine.
##3. Inducing Deep Sleep
Deep sleep is a pivotal part of the sleep cycle because it’s the time when the body repairs itself. Another potential benefit of cannabis, specifically THC, is its ability to increase the duration of this deep sleep stage(source). An increase in deep sleep often leads to a more restful sleep, making you feel refreshed and energized the next day.
##4. Alleviating Sleep Disorders
Apart from insomnia, cannabis can help combat numerous other sleep disorders. Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and REM sleep behavior disorder can interfere with a person’s quality of life. Studies suggest that cannabis, especially THC, can help manage these disorders (source).
##5. Improving Breathing
Emerging research has shown that cannabinoids like THC can help reduce sleep interruptions due to breathing problems(/source). This can significantly improve the quality of sleep in individuals who frequently wake up due to breathing issues.
The relationship between cannabis and its potential sleep-enhancing benefits can be a game-changer for those struggling with sleep disorders. However, it’s crucial to remember that every individual may react differently to cannabis. The dosage and strain of cannabis can significantly affect the efficacy of this potential sleep aid. Therefore, it is advised to use cannabis for sleep under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Cannabis is becoming a favourable choice for many when it comes to seeking a non-traditional, more natural route to restful sleep. As research progresses, it’s likely that we’ll uncover even more about this versatile plant and its broad-reaching potential for improving quality of life. The future looks promising for those who can envisage augmenting their sleep routine with cannabis.