It is no secret that CBD is an emerging and versatile compound that can potentially help the body with different physiological functions like pain, inflammation, anxiety and sleep by interacting with the human endocannabinoid system (ECS).
As we have already explored, there is clear evidence that the ECS maintains our sleep-wake cycle, so it makes sense that CBD can help with sleep issues like insomnia, grogginess, and disturbed sleep-wake cycle.
How does CBD help in maintaining a healthy sleep-wake cycle?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is widely known for its potential benefits in helping to improve our sleep quality and address common sleep problems.
So in the following blog, we’ll explore the many ways in which CBD could help you sleep better:
🌿 Reducing anxiety: CBD offers calming and anxiety-reducing effects. Reducing anxiety levels can help promote relaxation and create a more welcoming environment for sleep.
🌿 Managing stress: CBD may help manage stress levels, which can often interfere with sleep. By reducing stress, CBD may promote a more relaxed state of mind and improve sleep quality.
🌿 Alleviating pain and discomfort: CBD has been shown to have analgesic properties and may help reduce pain and discomfort, making it difficult to fall or stay asleep. By alleviating pain, CBD may contribute to better sleep.
🌿 Regulating sleep-wake cycles: CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates sleep-wake cycles. By influencing this system, CBD promotes a more balanced sleep-wake cycle, leading to better sleep patterns.
🌿 Addressing underlying conditions: CBD has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects in insomnia, sleep apnoea, and restless leg syndrome. By addressing the underlying causes of sleep problems, for example, stress, anxiety or pain, CBD may help improve your sleep outcomes.
It's important to note that while CBD shows promise for sleep improvement, individual responses may vary. Therefore, we always recommend consulting with your GP, health practitioner or a Doctor familiar with medical cannabis before using CBD for sleep issues, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.
How to take CBD for sleep problems.
CBD is conveniently and readily available in many forms. The different methods of taking CBD have pros and cons, so let’s look at some of the most common types of CBD products available to buy online and in CBD stores in the UK.
CBD Oil
CBD oil is the most popular and abundant product easily found by a simple Google search. Full Spectrum CBD or Broad Spectrum CBD is infused in a base oil like MCT, which the body can absorb easily. CBD oil is usually taken orally and sublingually, which means placing the CBD oil under the tongue for faster absorption through the mucous membranes, allowing for quicker effects compared to swallowing. This is a convenient and effective method of taking CBD oil. It passes through the metabolic pathway and reaches the bloodstream in 3 to 4 hours. Some of the dose is lost in the process, but the effects are long lasting. If you want restful sleep, you can buy CBD oil online and take the CBD oil 2 hours to 30 minutes before bedtime for maximum effects.
CBD Bath Oil
Adding CBD to your evening bath and wind down ritual is also a game changer. Skin is the body's largest organ with maximum surface area and the ability to absorb more CBD oil. The receptors in the skin can interact with the CBD bath oil and enter your system easily. In this way, CBD relaxes and soothes the muscles so you can sleep easily. A soothing bath before bedtime will surely help you relax in to the evening, preparing for a dreamy night’s sleep.
CBD Patches
Like nicotine patches, CBD patches are discreet and work by creating a transdermal pathway for carrying CBD to the bloodstream. CBD patches administer medicine quickly and effectively outside the digestive system, allowing for undiluted absorption of cannabinoids to be circulated. They are usually best used for targeted areas, such as pain and inflammation of the lower back, neck, knees and joints. Still, they can also be used when placed in a more vascular area of the body, like your wrist, abdomen or shoulder blade, for a more overall relief of symptoms and a sense of wellbeing.
CBD Vape/E-liquid
CBD vape is the fastest way to take your CBD dose into the bloodstream. The CBD dose enters the lungs, which take it directly into the bloodstream, offering effects in less than 10 minutes. While it's important to note that CBD vaping is not considered the healthiest way to take CBD, as inhaling any substance into the lungs carries risks, it can still be a viable option if you want to quit smoking and nicotine. Some people find that the act of vaping provides a similar sensation to smoking, which can help ease the transition away from traditional cigarettes and nicotine. Additionally, as we know, CBD has been studied for its potential anti-anxiety and stress-relieving properties, and it may further support you on your journey to quit smoking. It’s important to remember to avoid vaping or smoking CBD if you already have breathing issues.
CBD gummies
CBD gummies or CBD Edibles are the easiest and most convenient way to take CBD orally whilst avoiding its natural ‘weed’ flavour (produced by CBD terpenes), which some people do not like. They usually come in a variety of flavours, strengths and package sizes, from large tubs to handy mini grab bags allowing you full control over your dosage. You can take your CBD gummies with you anywhere and discreetly eat one when you need extra support throughout the day.
At Simply Serene CBD Apothecary, we have carefully curated a selection of premium CBD products from UK manufacturers, that provides you with an informed choice when it comes to making the decision of what type of CBD product you should take for sleep problems.
If you have any questions about our ranges of products, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Scott & Claire
References
Murillo-Rodríguez, E., Poot-Ake, A., Arias-Carrión, O., Pacheco-Pantoja, E., de la Fuente-Ortegón, A., & Arankowsky-Sandoval, G. (2011). The emerging role of the endocannabinoid system in the sleep-wake cycle modulation. Central Nervous System Agents in Medicinal Chemistry (Formerly Current Medicinal Chemistry-Central Nervous System Agents), 11(3), 189-196.