Treatment of insomnia with cannabis

Insomnia, one of the most common conditions in the modern world, can be debilitating for those who suffer from it. In the search for effective solutions, cannabis has emerged as an option to consider. But is it really effective, and how should we use it? In this article we will explore these questions and more.

How does cannabis work against insomnia?

Cannabis contains more than 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. Two of the best known and most studied are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These compounds can affect sleep in different ways:

THC

This psychoactive substance is responsible for the "high" that many people associate with cannabis. It can reduce the amount of REM sleep (the phase of sleep in which we dream), which can be beneficial for those with nightmare disorders, but may not be ideal in the long term.

CBD

Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive. It is believed to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can be helpful for those who are unable to sleep due to anxiety.

How many drops of cannabis oil to use for sleep?

Determining the right amount of cannabis oil for sleep can be tricky, as the optimal dosage varies depending on the individual, the concentration of the oil and the ratio of THC to CBD it contains.

As a starting point, it is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find the amount that works for you. For example, you can start with 1-2 drops before bedtime and observe how you feel. If you do not notice any effect, you can increase the dose little by little each night until you find an amount that helps you sleep.

How to combat insomnia permanently?

While cannabis can be a useful tool for treating insomnia, it is important to remember that it is only part of the picture. To effectively combat insomnia, it is critical to consider a combination of strategies:

Good sleep hygiene

This includes keeping regular schedules, avoiding caffeine and screens before bedtime, and making sure your bedroom is conducive to rest.

Relaxation techniques

Practicing yoga, meditation or deep breathing techniques can help reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep.

Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective approach that focuses on changing thoughts and behaviors related to sleep.

How does CBD work for sleep?

As mentioned above, CBD is one of the cannabinoids present in cannabis. Although more research is needed, it is believed that CBD may improve sleep by addressing the causes of insomnia.

CBD can:

• Reducing anxiety
  One of the main reasons people have difficulty sleeping is anxiety. CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic properties, which can help relax the mind and facilitate sleep.
• Pain relief
  Many people are unable to sleep due to chronic pain. It has been suggested that CBD has analgesic properties, which may facilitate a more comfortable sleep.
• Regulating the circadian cycle
  Some preliminary research suggests that CBD may influence the circadian system, which regulates our sleep and wake cycles.

Treatment of insomnia with cannabis is an area of growing interest. While it may offer relief for some people, it is critical to consider it as part of a comprehensive approach to addressing insomnia. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.