Unless you happen to have been living under a rock for the last couple of years, you have probably heard of CBD and its promising health benefits. As a natural and useful supplement, cannabidiol (commonly known as CBD) is becoming a popular alternative for people seeking a healthier, yet effective remedy for various ailments, including insomnia.
However, considering the huge variety of CBD infused products, how can you take CBD oil for better rest? Here we have put together five common ways to use CBD as a sleeping aid:
CBD For Sleep: Can It Help?
While scientists aren’t entirely sure how CBD works to promote better sleep, it is thought to interact with GABA and serotonin receptors in your body’s cell-signalling system called the endocannabinoid system (or ECS).
This system helps maintain balance within the body, supporting the immune system, promoting optimal nervous system function, reducing stress and pain levels as well as regulating sleep patterns. While our bodies naturally produce the chemicals needed for the ECS system to function, CBD can provide additional support.
It is also worth mentioning that high levels of stress, anxiety and pain play a huge role in your ability to get restful sleep. You have probably noticed how much harder it is to fall asleep when you suffer from different discomforts or have things on your mind.
The good news is that CBD can also help to promote a restful night’s sleep by treating the main causes of sleeplessness. A 2019 study examined whether CBD could improve sleep and/or reduce anxiety. Within the first month of taking CBD oil for sleep, more than 79% of patients experienced lower levels of anxiety, and up to 67% of participants reported better sleep. Also, a 2018 review noted that CBD could relieve pain and chronic aches, thus helping you improve sleep.
Five Ways To Take CBD For Better Quality Sleep
CBD Tinctures
When it comes to CBD oil tinctures, this format is considered one of the most popular methods to take CBD. Aside from different flavours and concentrations, CBD oil can be swallowed, taken with a dropper, sprayed or added into drinks and daily meals.
It is important to note that oil tinctures are most effective when taken sublingually (under the tongue) for 60-90 seconds before swallowing. This allows the active components to bypass the first-pass metabolism and move directly into the bloodstream, which in turn will give it the quickest and strongest results.
CBD Capsules
Similar to traditional capsule-based supplements, CBD capsules don’t require special preparations, which make the process of CBD intake more fast and convenient. Also, since they usually come in pre-measured doses, you can easily track the consumed dosage of CBD oil by counting drops or measuring a special amount of cannabidiol.
However, this form of CBD must pass through your digestive system and liver before it enters your bloodstream and provides the first positive effects. For optimal results, it might be better to consume CBD capsules about an hour before bedtime.
CBD Tea
An essential part of getting good quality sleep is a relaxing nighttime ritual. For many individuals, a cup of soothing herbal tea is the perfect way to unwind before going to bed. And what is a better way to complement this tea than a beneficial serving of CBD oil?
CBD tea can be a great way to receive the positive effects of CBD, like aiding in your relaxation, relieving pain and preparing you for a good sleep while simply sipping a cup of warm tea.
CBD Gummies
Chewing some CBD gummies is truly one of the most delicious and playful ways to get ready for bed. Therefore, they might be an ideal compromise for users who want to experience the positive effects of CBD but can’t swallow capsules or do not enjoy that natural, earthy flavour of hemp.
Just like any other edible product, CBD gummies need some time to provide the first benefits. On the other hand, the slow release of CBD oil means that oral products like capsules and gummies can bring long-lasting effects, supporting your restful sleep.
CBD Bath Bomb
Taking a bath or shower before bed not only feels good but is also beneficial for improving sleep quality. A good soak in warm water can help to relax both your mind and body, soothe tight muscles and wash the stress away – all of which allow you to catch some z’s faster.
Adding CBD infused bath bombs to your tub can double the healing power of the bath and make your soothing ritual feel even more spa-like. Not to mention that CBD bath bombs fill in your bathtub with nice colours and pleasant aromas to help you relax and drift off to dreamland.
CBD Dose For Sleep
At the moment, CBD products do not have officially recommended dosage rates since responses and needs differ from person to person. It is recommended that you find a perfect dose for yourself. As a rule of thumb, start from very small amounts and work your way up. Take special note of how each dose makes you feel so that you can identify and set the dosage that is ideal for you and meets your goals and needs. And, of course, look for the best CBD oil product from a brand you can trust.
Are There Risks In Using CBD Products?
Similar to all hemp-derived products, CBD products are safe, non-toxic, and do not have psychoactive effects. Studies indicate that CBD has a favourable safety profile and doesn’t cause public health concerns. The human body can safely tolerate CBD because it doesn’t negatively affect heart rate, blood pressure, pH levels, body temperature, or sodium/potassium levels.
Studies also suggest that the human body can safely tolerate high levels of CBD. However, it is important to note that daily CBD doses of up to 300mg are well tolerated for six months. Higher CBD doses of up to 1500mg daily are safely tolerated for up to 28 days.
Similar to any product, there are some reports of minor side effects noted in some participants who have taken CBD in large doses. These minor side effects include appetite changes, mild drowsiness, weight changes, fatigue, and diarrhoea. However, these negative side effects are rare if users comply with the CBD recommended therapeutic doses.
*Photos by Daria Shevtsova
