As a medical professional, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles that many individuals face when it comes to achieving a restful night's sleep. From insomnia to restless leg syndrome, sleep disorders can significantly impact one's quality of life. That's why I am constantly on the lookout for new and effective treatments for sleep issues. And one substance that has piqued my interest is CBD oil.While there is currently not enough research to determine the overall efficacy of CBD in treating various health conditions, preliminary studies suggest that it may be beneficial for a number of sleep disorders, including insomnia.
The hypothalamus, which plays a crucial role in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), influences sleep regulation, according to Dr. Daniel Whitelocke, D. Our circadian rhythms are 24-hour cycles that help our bodies fall asleep at night and wake up in the morning, and research indicates that the ECS is involved in this cycle. CBD has also shown promise in treating restless leg syndrome (RLS), a neurological condition that can disrupt both the quality and quantity of sleep by causing an unpleasant and uncontrollable urge to move the legs. Early research suggests that CBD may reduce the frequency of abnormal nerve activations that cause involuntary muscle spasms, which is the characteristic symptom of RLS.
Dr. Whitelocke notes that for individuals who cannot tolerate the intoxicating effects of THC, CBD taken orally or applied topically offers a viable alternative for pain relief. Both Strachen and Dr. Whitelocke state that CBD is a low-risk intervention and that drug interactions with CBD products are rare.
However, it is important to consult with your doctor before starting a CBD regimen, as it can increase liver enzymes in individuals taking medications that are metabolized by the liver. As a safe alternative to prescription medications for sleep, Dr. Whitelocke adds that CBD is a promising option. Similarly, Dr. Strachen emphasizes the importance of keeping your doctor informed about any treatments you are undergoing so that they can provide effective guidance based on your specific health concerns and other medications you may be taking.
Early studies suggest that high doses of CBD may help individuals fall asleep. Research has found that compared to a placebo, a 160 milligram (mg) dose of CBD increased the duration of sleep. The researchers also concluded that compared to a placebo, 5 mg of nitrazepam (a medication for insomnia), and 40, 80, and 160 mg of CBD all helped participants fall asleep. With up to two-thirds of the adult population experiencing issues with insomnia, it is no surprise that people are turning to CBD as a potential solution. Researchers are also exploring the use of CBD for other sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).However, current evidence linking CBD to improved sleep is limited, and further research is needed to determine if CBD is an effective remedy for insomnia and other sleep disorders.
Additionally, navigating the world of CBD can be tricky, as much of its long-term safety and efficacy remains unknown. One study even showed that taking less than 160 mg of CBD oil can actually promote wakefulness. While higher doses may promote sleep, it is important to note that the FDA has only approved one CBD product - a prescription medication for two rare forms of epilepsy. As other CBD products are not regulated, it can be difficult to know exactly what you are consuming. Experts still have many questions about the potential benefits and risks associated with using CBD, as well as its overall safety - including its use for sleep.
A sleep psychologist recommends exercising caution when stocking up on CBD products to treat insomnia. Cannabidiol (CBD) oil seems to be everywhere these days, touted as a treatment for anxiety, chronic pain, acne, and even used in some foods and drinks. For instance, CBD can help individuals relax by alleviating anxiety and pain - two factors that can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, according to Dr. Strachen. In a study examining the effects of CBD, researchers found that cortisol levels decreased significantly more when participants took 300 or 600 mg of CBD oil.
A retrospective review of the medical records of adult psychiatric patients who were treated with CBD for anxiety or sleep as an adjunct to their usual treatment was conducted at a large outpatient psychiatric clinic. CBD may be particularly beneficial for individuals, such as nurses, who suffer from circadian rhythm disorders due to shift work, where sleep patterns change depending on their work schedule. In addition, CBD shows promise as a tool for reducing anxiety in clinical populations. However, given the open and non-random nature of this large series of cases, all results must be interpreted with caution. The reason for this may be related to the ingestion of CBD or not, so the overall effect remains unclear.
Researchers have also found that applying CBD oil products to painful areas can lead to a reduction in pain and swelling - often associated with inflammation. Many CBD products come with a Certificate of Analysis (COA), which guarantees that an external laboratory has tested the exact potency of the product.
