Does Medical Marijuana Help With Insomnia

 

A recent study shows states where marijuana is legal are seeing a decrease in purchases of over-the-counter sleep medications. 

While scientists haven’t drilled down on the effects marijuana has on sleep, seasoned marijuana users can confidently say, for the most part, marijuana is a great remedy for a variety of sleep conditions. 

But what makes it great for insomnia? What do you need to know about using medical cannabis as a sleep aid? 

Can Medical Cannabis Help With Insomnia?

 

A new study demonstrates this way of thinking is not at all uncommon, showing less people are purchasing over-the-counter sleep medications when they have access to legal marijuana.

The study, published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine, was conducted by researchers from the University of New Mexico and California State Polytechnic University. These scientists looked into retail data collected from the Nielsen company in order to understand how legal marijuana in Colorado affected the sales of over-the-counter sleep medications. 

Nearly 600 stores (587) were analyzed and recreational dispensaries from different countries were also sampled. 

“For the first time, we show a statistically significant negative association between recreational access to cannabis and OTC sleep aid sales, suggesting that at least some recreational purchasers are using cannabis for therapeutic rather than recreational purposes,” says the study. 

The study explains even if there’s no clinical evidence that supports marijuana as a sleep aid, people are still taking matters into their own hands, causing a significant reduction in the use of over-the-counter sleep medications. 

“Our results are consistent with evidence that legal access to medical cannabis is associated with reductions in Scheduled II-V prescription medications (e.g., opioids and sedatives), many of which may be used in part as sleep aids,” say the authors. 

The Science Behind Using Medical Cannabis for a Lack of Sleep

 

The two most widely studied cannabinoids in the cannabis plant are CBD and THC. These two cannabinoids are responsible for the effects of cannabis. 

• Cannabidiol (CBD) is used to help with everything from anxiety to, yes, sleep disturbances, but when paired with THC, it really packs a sleepy punch. 
• Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) gives cannabis its traditional ‘high’ associated with cannabis, but it can also be quite potent in combatting insomnia. 

The combination of CBD and THC, however, might offer insomniacs the greatest benefits. Research shows that when people treat their insomnia with a mix of CBD and THC, their insomnia symptoms begin to ease. 

That same study also showed people fell asleep faster, enjoyed better sleep quality, and slept longer every night. 

How Does CBD Work to Improve Sleep?

 

Science has yet to reveal how CBD works to relieve insomnia. 

CBD may help with the receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). 

The ECS regulates everything from emotions to sleep patterns and pain. Cannabis and THC both interact with this system, which could support consistent, restful sleep. 

What is the Best CBD Dosage for Sleep?

 

Keep in mind the FDA doesn’t regulate CBD or cannabis, which means dosages are completely conjecture at this point. As a result, there is no one-size-fits-all dosage for CBD or cannabis. 

Some research points to the safety of taking 300 mg of an oral dose of CBD every day. Other scientific research shows that taking up to 1.5 grams of CBD daily has no adverse side effects. 

How Does THC Work to Improve Sleep?

 

Here again, science is somewhat limited in what it knows about using THC to improve sleep.

 However, low dosages of THC have been shown to improve sleep latency. Alternatively, higher dosages of THC can disrupt sleep patterns. 

Because THC has intoxicating effects on the body and brain, it is known to put you to sleep easily. 

What is the Best THC Dosage for Sleep?

 

We recommend starting with a 2-milligram dose if you’re using edibles. 

However, the best rule of thumb is to start with a low dose and increase your dosage when you’re comfortable with the effects.

The Entourage Effect

The entourage effect refers to how all elements of the cannabis plant work together to create a synergistic effect. 

CBD, terpenes, and other compounds create a harmonious effect that helps the body and mind relax, leading to potentially deeper, more restful sleep. 

Using cannabis strains that have all elements combined could be the best strategy to combat insomnia. 

Best Cannabis for Sleep?

 

Not all cannabis strains help you catch some zzz’s. Some are better than others. 

Terpenes, aromantic cannabis components that affect how cannabis makes you feel, also play a potential role in helping you get some rest. We recommend looking for strains with a heavy concentration of myrcene, linalool, and pinene.

A few of the best cannabis for sleep strains include:

• Darth Vader OG—THC 21%, CBG 1%
• Jupiter OG—THC 19%, CBG 1%
• White Kush—THC 22%, CBG 1%
• Grandaddy Purple—THC 17%, CBD 0%

Other Types of Medical Marijuana Products for Sleep

 

Besides flower, you can also use tinctures, oils, and even cannabis-infused gummies to enhance your sleep.

Benefits of Tinctures & Oils 

-Easier to manage dosage

-Reduced risks associated with smoking

Benefits of Gummies

-Better tasting

-Easier dosage management 

-Can be infused with Melatonin for deeper sleep

Benefits of Lotion & Creams 

-Easy to apply

-Absorbed easily into the skin 

-Promotes relaxation through touch

Benefits of CBD Capsules and Tablets 

-Perfect for CBD consumption

-Easy to take daily

Sativa Vs Indica—Which One is the Best Cannabis for Sleep?

Wondering does sativa make you sleepy? While all cannabis has an intoxicating effect, some strains hold more power over insomnia than others. In general, Indica-hybrids are the best strains for sleep. 

Sativa strains are typically more energizing and uplifting, giving you more of a buzz than a relaxation effect. Most cannabis connoisseurs don’t recommend sativa strains if you’re serious about catching quality shut-eye. 

Indica, on the other hand, is the perfect strain for a restful slumber. Strains like Purple Kush and Afghan Kush are excellent options for deep relaxation. 

We recommend using Indica-dominant hybrid strains, a balance of relaxation without complete sedation. 

How to Use Medical Cannabis Safely for Insomnia

We recommend consulting a healthcare provider as step one, mainly if you are on other medications or have underlying health conditions. 

You should also start with low doses of cannabis and monitor how your body reacts. With CBD, many report that smaller doses have a greater effect on sleep than using THC for insomnia. 

However, the best action plan is doing what works best for your body. If you already use over-the-counter sleep medications, ask your doctor about whether cannabis or CBD will interact negatively with them. 

Keep yourself and your doctors informed about any medications or supplements you use, even cannabis, to reduce the risk of complications and adverse side effects. 

Could Medical Marijuana Be A Remedy for Insomnia?

 

The answer is maybe. While science has not yet caught up with what medical marijuana users already know that cannabis can help with insomnia, it is up to you to decide if it’s right for you. 

CBD and THC are potent cannabinoids with relaxing effects. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing the amount you consume is the best way to ensure you get the most out of your cannabis experience. 

Learn more about obtaining your medical marijuana card here.