How Can CBD Improve Your Sleep Quality?

How Can CBD Improve Your Sleep Quality?

Discover the power of CBD to help you get a better night's sleep.

27 April 2023 | Hannah Rubery

How Can CBD Improve Your Sleep Quality? (image)

Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a natural compound that is used to promote health and wellness. It is becoming increasingly popular as a natural alternative to aid in improving the quality of sleep. Unlike traditional sleeping aids, such as sleeping pills or melatonin supplements, which may not be effective for everyone, some individuals prefer to use CBD as it is a natural solution and carries a lower risk of side effects. The effectiveness of CBD as a sleep aid is still being studied so let's look at what we know so far.



The importance of sleep

Sleep is an essential part of life and necessary for both physical and mental wellbeing. Sleep cycles are the patterns of alternating between light sleep, deep sleep and REM (rapid eye movement) sleep throughout the night. It is important to get enough good quality rest as it helps you stay energized during the day while supporting your overall health. Deep sleep is the most restorative stage when your body and brain repair themselves, however many people struggle to get enough deep sleep each night.

The average amount of sleep for healthy adults is between 7-9 hours per night. As you get older, the need for sleep may decrease slightly as older adults may feel less tired during the day than younger people. However, getting enough adequate restful sleep is still important and could potentially be improved with the help of CBD.



Causes of Sleeplessness

Sleep deprivation can be caused by a range of different factors. Stress, anxiety, pain and hormonal imbalances are some of the most common causes of sleeplessness which can all have a significant impact on your quality of sleep.

Stressful situations or events can lead to an increase in cortisol levels which can reduce the quality of sleep. Anxiety can further contribute to the feeling of being overwhelmed and unable to relax. Physical pain or chronic conditions can also have a significant influence on your sleeping patterns, leading to disrupted sleep cycles. Hormones such as melatonin and cortisol play an important role in regulating our daily rhythms and sleep cycle, so any imbalances in these hormones can also lead to a decrease in sleep quality.



How Does CBD Help Improve Sleep?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a natural compound that has been used for wellness benefits. Although there is still a lack of scientific research proving its effectiveness, anecdotal evidence suggests that it may help with sleeplessness or improve sleep quality.

CBD is believed to potentially help improve sleep by reducing anxiety and stress levels, relieving pain, regulating hormone production and enhancing relaxation. Some studies have shown that CBD may reduce the release of cortisol which can help promote a more relaxed state, making it easier to drift off into a restful sleep. Additionally, its ability to reduce pain may help improve sleep quality as it eliminates any distractions caused by discomfort.

It's important to remember though that CBD is not produced for medical purposes in the UK and is sold only as a supplement, cosmetic or vape product. CBD should not be used to treat any medical condition unless advised by a clinician. Before using CBD you should seek advice from your GP especially if you take existing medication.



How to Start Taking CBD for Sleep

If you’re considering taking CBD for sleep, it’s important to do your research first. Speak with your GP before using CBD and make sure you buy from a reputable source that provides lab reports. This will ensure that the product contains pure, high-quality ingredients.

There are a variety of different CBD products available that can be used to help improve sleep. CBD oil is one of the most popular choices as it’s simple to use and can be taken orally by placing drops under your tongue or adding them to food and drinks. You could also try using a topical product such as a balm or cream to help relax tense muscles or soothe any aches and pains. CBD edibles are also an option, such as gummies with melatonin which can be taken before bedtime to promote peaceful sleep.

Whichever method you choose, it’s important to start with a low dose of CBD and increase it gradually if necessary. This will allow you to learn how your body reacts to the effects of CBD and adjust your dose accordingly. Try using 5% CBD oral drops and taking a full pipette before bed, or a couple of puffs of a CBD disposable vape pen - it may take a couple of days before you notice any benefits.

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for both physical and mental well-being. Although more research needs to be done into the efficacy of CBD, anecdotal evidence suggests it may help improve sleep quality.



In conclusion

If you're struggling to get a good night's sleep, CBD may be worth trying as a natural solution. Using CBD as part of your general wellness routine is a great way to promote relaxation and enhance your sleep quality. More research needs to be done into the efficacy of CBD, but anecdotal evidence suggests that it may help improve sleep. Always speak with your GP before taking any form of CBD and make sure you purchase your products from a reputable source. With the right dosage and consistency, CBD may help bring balance back to your day and night-time.