Sleep is an essential component of human health, however, many people are plagued by sleep disorders. A proportion of these individuals have found solace in cannabis, popularly known for its sleep-inducing properties.
Cannabis has been associated with improving sleep quality in individuals suffering from various conditions like pain, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic insomnia. It is mainly due to the influence that components of cannabis, like cannabinoids, have on the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system plays vital roles in various aspects of human health, including the regulation of sleep and wake cycles.
The interaction between cannabis and the ECS is largely attributed to THC and CBD, two dominant types of cannabinoids endocannabinoid system. THC is notable for its psychoactive effects, which gives the feeling of being ‘high,’ while CBD lacks these effects but is more associated with promoting relaxation. Both cannabinoids have shown potential in addressing different aspects of sleep disorders.
Anecdotal evidence and research studies suggest that cannabis may increase overall sleep duration. THC, in particular, is viewed by many as a powerful sleep initiator. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology demonstrated that THC reduced the time it took for both individuals with or without sleep disorders to fall asleep Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology.
On the other hand, CBD is a potential solution for sleep disorders that are results of anxiety, pain, and discomfort. By modulating the ECS to promote balance within the body, CBD may enhance sleep quality without the euphoric effects produced by THC.
Interestingly, cannabis has been reported to impact REM sleep, the period of sleep where we dream often. A study found that cannabis users experienced less REM sleep compared to non-users, suggesting that cannabis can reduce dream recall REM sleep. This can be beneficial to individuals experiencing nightmares or vivid disturbing dreams.
However, the relationship between cannabis and sleep is not entirely positive. Prolonged use of cannabis for sleep can lead to a dependency where individuals find themselves unable to sleep without it. This is often due to the temporary suppression of natural sleep-regulating compounds in the brain, leading to rebound insomnia.
Moreover, while THC can decrease the time to sleep onset, it may also reduce the time spent in the deepest stage of sleep, known as slow-wave sleep (SWS) or delta-wave sleep. This stage is crucial to restorative sleep where the body restores and rejuvenates itself. Some studies suggest that prolonged cannabis use can hamper the quality of this crucial sleep stage delta waves.
Cannabis also appears to have varying effects depending on the dosage. Small to moderate doses of cannabis have been shown to improve sleep, but this benefit may be diminished or reversed when consumed in high doses sleep quality.
Therefore, while many tout marijuana as a sedative, it’s essential to have an in-depth understanding of its impact on your sleep patterns before using it as a sleep aid. Talking to a healthcare professional can provide more insight into your specific needs and provide guidance on safe and effective use.
The relationship between cannabis and sleep is complex and not fully understood. Ongoing research is crucial to understand the curative and potentially detrimental effects of cannabis on sleep. Until then, it’s important for individuals to take responsibility for their health and obtain information on cannabis use for sleep from reputable sources.
