The buzz on CBD oil (and its various offshoots: CBD gummies, CBD-infused lotion, and even CBD tea) and its anxiety-reducing qualities have been doing rounds for a while now – but is CBD oil also good for sleep? According to experts, the answer is ‘yes’.
If you’ve ever been up multiple nights due to anxiety or stress, you’ll understand the struggle. Bea Lyus, Registered Nutritional Therapist, College of Naturopathic Medicine, and Resident CBD Expert at Cannabotech UK, says, “We know very well that anxiety and stress contribute to sleep problems such as insomnia and that CBD can effectively reduce anxiety and stress, therefore aiding a better quality of sleep. However, it’s important to note that a low dosage of CBD may actually cause alertness, whereas a higher dosage will help you to feel drowsy and sleepy.”
Basically, CBD works by activating our serotonin receptors, which in turn calm the mind and any anxious feelings. “Serotonin is a neurotransmitter found in the brain and the gut which is responsible for managing our hormones and thus our mood changes,” adds Lyus.
Lyus continues to explain that research shows CBD working effectively to target the Endocannabinoid system (ECS) -the body’s network system. “The Endocannabinoid system is like a computer software which sends signals to the brain, nervous system, immune cells, organs. It acts like a main control of restoring balance in all biological functions, from sleep to appetite, memory, mood, immune system, pain control, energy, reproduction and cell replication.” Powerful, right?
CBD oil stands for ‘cannabidiol’ and is not the same as marijuana, although it is extracted from the cannabis plant – something that’s a common misconception about this herbal goodie. The two main active ingredients in cannabis are CBD and THC; CBD has a calming impact and is not psychoactive (meaning it does not change the state of mind), whereas THC is, and is responsible for the anxiety and paranoia commonly associated with marijuana use.
So how long will CBD oil take to work for sleep? of course every brain and body works and reacts differently. Lyus says, “We are all different individuals, so it may take longer for some people than others. Anecdotal evidence suggests it can take up to 15 minutes when using an oil, drop, tincture or mouth spray. Though, tablets and creams can take longer.”
The bottom line? Be sure to do your research when choosing a CBD product, but as long as you’re shopping from a reputable retailer, you’ll be fine.
