Sleep is crucial to keeping a healthy body and mind. Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking up rested affects millions. A mixture of things from stress and anxiety to age and other health conditions can all cause poor sleep.
As people seek more natural wellness alternatives, many turn to CBD for sleep. CBD (cannabidiol) is derived from hemp, making CBD a natural compound. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system and regulates sleep, mood, and the stress response.
Does CBD help with sleep? What's the best way to take it? How does it compare with other sleep-supporting ingredients?
This guide aims to help you understand the science, benefits, and the many CBD and sleep-related questions you may have.
Best CBD for Sleep
When people look for the best CBD for sleep, they usually want something to help them relax and keep a regular sleep schedule.
Some popular CBD products used for sleep are:
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CBD oil (full-spectrum and broad-spectrum)
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CBD capsules
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CBD tinctures
Some people prefer full-spectrum products because they have all the cannabinoids and terpenes to potentially help with sleep though the 'entourage effect.' It just depends on what you like and how much you need.
CBD for Sleep in Elderly Adults
As a person ages, sleep becomes more difficult. The elderly population may show:
- Increased instances of waking up at night
- Less deep sleep
- Waking up and getting out of bed early
- Difficulty falling asleep
Interest in sleep-related CBD products for the elderly is understandable. Adults often believe CBD is safe because it is naturally grown.
Some elderly people are looking to CBD in addition to other sleep hygiene practices. These other practices may be:
- Going to bed at the same time every night
- Reducing screen time in the evening
- Increased physical activity throughout the day
- Stress management
Seniors usually have multiple prescriptions. For that reason, it is crucial to talk to a doctor before starting a CBD regimen.
CBD for Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea is a medical diagnosis of interrupted sleep due to the failure to breathe regularly. It is imperative that the following is understood:
- CBD will not cure Sleep Apnea.
- There is no research to support the belief that CBD can take the place of a CPAP or any other doctor-recommended treatment.
There are people who have Sleep Apnea who take CBD for the following reasons:
- Relaxation
- Improved Sleep
- Reduced Stress
It is always best to follow the advice of your doctor if you have Sleep Apnea. CBD can only be viewed as a product to improve wellness and should not be used to as a treatment.
CBD Chocolate Bar for Sleep
Out of the many CBD products available, CBD Edibles have gained popularity. More specifically, CBD chocolate bars have become a highly sought after product.
The benefits of chocolate and CBD combined are:
- Easy dosing
- Long lasting effects
- Tasty
- Simple to add to a sleep routine
- Easy to use to sleep
Because edibles are digested, they take longer to take effect. However, they have the potential to last longer than other CBD products.
Best Ways to Use CBD Oil for Sleep
How to take CBD for sleep is a very popular question.
- The best way to take CBD oil for sleep is:
- Sublingual Method (fastest absorption)
- Place desired amount of oil under tongue.
- Wait 30–60 seconds.
- Swallow.
Some of the CBD will absorb through the mouth and not get lost in the stomach.
This method also offers:
- Faster absorption
- Better bioavailability
- More predictable onset
- Take CBD 30–60 minutes before bed.
CBD Oil and Sleep
How to take CBD for sleep really depends on the user and their unique needs.
Some factors include:
- Body Weight
- Metabolism
- Strength of product
- Sensitivity
- Sleep issues
This is just a sample list of factors and some of the factors may change the amount of CBD that a person takes.
The best method is to:
- Start low
- Increase slowly
- Take note of how it affects sleep
CBD Oil Benefits for Sleep
There are many reasons people use CBD oil for sleep.
Some of those reasons include:
- Relaxation before bed
- Less stress
- Falling asleep at consistent times
- Less anxiety at night
- Quality sleep
CBD oil is often considered a piece of the sleep puzzle, not the entire solution.
Using CBD Oil for Sleep Under Tongue
Using CBD oil under tongue for sleep is one of the best methods due to:
Faster absorption vs edibles
- Dosing is flexible
- Easy to do
- Very convenient for sleeping
- Many people choose the sublingual method because it is very convenient for evening routines.
CBD vs THC for Sleep
CBD and THC interact with the body in different ways.
CBD
- Non-Intoxicating
- Supports Relaxation
- Commonly Integrated Into Daily Wellness Routines
- Daily Use Considered Safe
THC
- Intoxicating Cannabinoid
- Potentially Alters Sleep Architecture
- Causes Psychoactive Effects
Some products combine CBD and THC, but everyone can respond differently.
Benefits of CBD Oil for Sleep
CBD and sleep research is still in its infancy. Possible benefits include:
Support for Relaxation
CBD may be beneficial for helping you calm down and get to sleep.
Stress Management
The racing thoughts and stress that keep many from sleeping may be eased with CBD.
Sleep Routine Consistency
CBD can be integrated into a sleep routine with proper sleep hygiene.
Non-Intoxicating Option
CBD won’t make you high like THC.
Flexible Use
CBD can be found in oils, capsules, gummies, and other formats.
Best CBD THC Ratio for Sleep
When asking about the best CBD/THC ratio for sleep, the following are commonly found:
- High CBD, Low THC
- Balanced CBD:THC
- CBD-Rich
What is the best ratio of CBD to THC for sleep? It depends on: The laws, the purpose of the product, and how it may affect you. Start with the least amount of product that will give the desired result. Look for products that clearly list ingredients and amounts.
How CBD May Affect Sleep
CBD will not work like sleep aids that are found in pharmacies. Sleep aids work by making you sleepy. CBD, on the other hand, works by promoting sleep through interaction with the endocannabinoid system. This is a research topic that is still developing.
The system helps regulate:
- Stress responses
- Mood
- Inflammation
- Sleep-wake cycles
- Overall balance
Supporting these systems may lead to better sleep.
CBD and Sleep Systems
Not everyone has the same experience with CBD. Here are a few reasons CBD may work differently in people:
- Product Quality: Products that are tested by third-parties are more trustworthy.
- Consistency: Using CBD consistently may yield better results than occasional use.
- Sleep Hygiene: The basics still apply. Make sure to practice good sleep hygiene.
- Timing: The time of day that CBD is taken may influence the results. Taking it too early or too late may be a factor.
- Biology: Each person has a different endocannabinoid system.
FAQs
Does CBD actually do anything for sleep?
There is some evidence that CBD may help provide relaxation and reduce stress and discomfort which are barriers to sleep; however, the results are highly variable.
Is it okay to take a CBD gummy every night for sleep?
A lot of people use CBD gummies in their nightly wellness routine. If you take other medications, be sure to get a medical opinion before use.
Is CBD better for sleep than melatonin?
CBD and melatonin serve different purposes; melatonin impacts the sleep-wake cycle, while CBD may foster relaxation and balance.
Who should not take CBD for sleep?
If you are pregnant, nursing, take certain medications, or have certain medical conditions, be sure to get professional advice before using CBD.
What CBD actually works for sleep?
Full-spectrum CBD gummies and oils may be the best options, but it is a personal choice.
Does CBD Make You Sleep?
CB does not induce sleep but many do report being more calm or relaxed which can lead to improved sleep.
What CBD dose is right for sleep?
This all depends on the strength of the product, how sensitive you are to CBD, and your body weight.
When should you take CBD oil to sleep?
Users usually take CBD oil or tinctures 30 minutes to 1 hour before they plan to fall asleep.
What is the most reliable CBD brand?
A good CBD brand is backed by 3rd party testing, quality and honest ingredients, and product consistency.
Final Thoughts
There is a lot of buzz about using CBD for sleep because it is a plant-based solution to help with relaxation and falling asleep. The research is new but it is common for users to take CBD outside of CBD for common sleep issues or as a sleep remedy.
For sleep CBD should be used alongside healthy sleep habits and routine. It has the potential to be an amazing addition to your night time wellness routine.
