THC for Sleep: Does Cannabis Help You Sleep?

Sleep is essential for our physical and mental well-being, yet many people have trouble falling asleep or struggle with getting enough restful sleep. In recent years, more and more people have turned to cannabis, specifically THC, as a solution for their sleep issues.

But does THC really help with sleep, and what do we need to know about this relationship between cannabis and sleep? In this article, we will dive into the scientific evidence, potential benefits, and side effects of using THC for sleep. Whether you’re considering trying THC for your poor sleep or are simply curious about the topic, this article will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

 

Does Cannabis Help You Sleep?

Short answer, yes, cannabis, specifically the chemical compound THC, can help some people with sleep. THC has sleep-inducing properties that can induce drowsiness and promote sleep. However, the effects of THC on sleep can vary greatly depending on the individual and the type of cannabis product used. Cannabis research shows that THC can increase the amount of time spent in deep sleep, which is important for getting a good night’s rest.

 

How Does Cannabis Work as a Sleep Aid?

Cannabis works as sleep medicine by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors and chemicals that regulate various physiological processes in the body, including sleep. THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis plants, binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body, altering the perception of pain, mood, appetite, and other functions. This interaction leads to the sedative effects that make THC useful as a sleep aid.

Studies have shown that THC increases the duration of deep sleep, the stage of sleep when the brain is most active in repairing and restoring the body. THC also reduces the amount of time it takes to fall asleep and may help people with sleep disorders such as insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome.

CBD vs. THC – What’s Better for Sleep Disorders?

When it comes to sleep disturbances and sleep disorders, both CBD and THC have potential benefits, but they work differently and have different effects.

THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that is responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis flower use. As mentioned earlier, THC has sedative properties that can help cannabis users fall asleep and increase the duration of deep sleep. However, THC can also have negative effects on sleep, such as increasing anxiety and reducing the quality of sleep overall.

CBD, on the other hand, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis that is known for its potential health benefits, including improving sleep. CBD has been shown to have a calming effect and reduce anxiety, which can help people fall asleep and stay asleep. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce the “high” associated with cannabis use, making it a safer option for some people.

The choice between CBD and THC for sleep disorders will depend on the individual and their specific needs and preferences. THC may be helpful for people who struggle to fall asleep or have difficulty staying asleep, but it may also increase anxiety and reduce the quality of sleep. CBD may be a better option for people who are sensitive to the psychoactive effects of THC and who have anxiety-related sleep difficulties. 

However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dose and administration of both CBD and THC for sleep disorders. As always, it is best to consult a healthcare professional before using either CBD or THC for sleep or any other sleep disorders.

 

Does Cannabis Affect Your Sleep Quality?

Cannabis affects sleep quality in different ways, both positively and negatively.

On one hand, THC has sedative properties that can help people fall asleep and increase the duration of deep sleep, which is important for physical restoration. This can improve sleep quality for some people.

On the other hand, THC can also interfere with the normal sleep architecture and disrupt the quality of sleep. Studies have shown that THC can increase the frequency of nighttime awakenings, reduce the amount of time spent in REM sleep, and affect the overall quality of sleep. Additionally, the use of THC can result in the development of tolerance or dependence, and in some cases, it can also cause adverse side effects such as anxiety and paranoia, which can negatively impact sleep quality.

CBD has been shown to have a calming effect and the ability to reduce anxiety, which can improve sleep quality for some people. Items like UNO Sleep CBD Gummies are said to help improve sleep quality. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dose and administration of CBD for sleep and to fully understand its effects on sleep quality.

 

How Is Cannabis Different from Other Natural Sleep Aids?

Cannabis is different from other natural sleep aids in several ways. Unlike over-the-counter sleep aids, which often have sedative ingredients, cannabis has a unique combination of compounds, including THC and CBD, that can interact with the endocannabinoid system to produce a range of effects on sleep and wakefulness. Additionally, some natural sleep aids can have adverse side effects or interact with other medications, while cannabis can also have negative effects, including impaired cognitive function and increased anxiety.

 

What Form of Cannabis to Use for Sleep

When using cannabis for sleep, it is important to consider the form of cannabis product that is best suited to your needs. Some options include dried flowers, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. Cannabis edibles and tinctures may offer a more consistent and longer-lasting effect, while dried flowers and topicals may be better for localized chronic pain relief and relaxation. It is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until finding the optimal amount for sleep.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to ensure that the use of cannabis does not interact with any underlying medical conditions or medications.

Risks and Side Effects of Using Cannabis for Sleep Problems?

There are several potential risks and side effects associated with using cannabis to induce sleep, including:

• Addiction

Regular use of cannabis, especially high-THC sativa strains, can lead to the development of dependence or addiction. This can make it difficult to stop using cannabis, even when its effects on sleep quality become negative.

• Impaired cognitive function

Cannabis can impair cognitive function, including memory, attention, and decision-making, which can have a negative impact on daily life.

• Increased anxiety and paranoia

THC can have a negative effect on mental and physical health, where it can increase anxiety and paranoia in some people, which can interfere with sleep quality.

• Tolerance

Regular use of cannabis can result in the development of tolerance, meaning that over time, higher doses are needed to achieve the desired effects.

• Negative side effects

Cannabis use can result in adverse side effects such as dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, and in rare cases, more serious effects such as panic attacks and hallucinations.

• Interaction with prescription medications

Cannabis can interact with other medications, making them less effective or increasing the risk of side effects.

 

Where to Buy Medical Cannabis for Insomnia in Canada

Buy weed online in Canada at The Highest Farmacy. The Highest Farmacy is a renowned mail-order marijuana dispensary that provides patients with the best quality medical cannabis products at affordable prices. We have a wide selection of premium strains, edibles, concentrates and more.

 

References 

National Library of Medicine. National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2019 Jan 7). Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6326553/

UNO CBD Gummies. (2023, March 5). Buy UNO CBD Sleep Gummies Online. Available at: https://unocbd.com/product-category/uno-cbd-gummies/

National Library of Medicine. National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2018 Mar 13). Cannabinoid Receptors and the Endocannabinoid System: Signaling and Function in the Central Nervous System. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877694/

WeedSmart. (2023, March 5). Canada’s Best Marijuana Dispensary | Online Dispensary Canada. Available at: https://weedsmart.cc/

National Library of Medicine. National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2020 Jul 22). Cannabinoids, Endocannabinoids and Sleep. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7388834/

Hartney, Elizabeth. (2020, July 22). What is THC? Very Well Mind. Available at: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-thc-in-marijuana-4080556