As marijuana legalization continues to sweep across North America, more and more people are curious about using cannabis as a sleep aid. After all, the plant has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including insomnia. Some people swear by its sleep-inducing properties, while others find it does nothing more than giving them a mild case of the munchies. So, what’s the verdict? Does cannabis help or hinder sleep? Does the strain you smoke make a difference? Let’s take a closer look.
What Are the Different Strains of Cannabis?
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the two main ingredients in cannabis. THC is the psychoactive component that gets you “high,” while CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce intoxication.
There are different strains of cannabis, each with its THC-to-CBD ratio. The two main types are:
Indica: These strains tend to have higher THC and lower CBD content. They’re often used to treat anxiety, pain, and insomnia.
Sativa: These strains have higher CBD and lower THC content. They’re often used to treat depression, fatigue, and nausea.
The effects of indica and Sativa strains are different. Indica strains are known for their “couch-locked” effects, which can be sedating and make it difficult to move or focus. On the other hand, Sativa strains are known for their “head high” effects, which can be energizing and uplifting.
Recently, hybrid strains have become popular. These strains are a mix of indica and sativa and can produce effects somewhere between the two.
Which Strain is Good For Sleep?
There is no definitive answer to this question. Different people ask the question whats the difference between indica and sativa and react differently to different strains, so it’s important to experiment until you find one that works for you. The indica vs sativa debate is also moot, as hybrid strains can produce similar effects. Some findings indicate that indica strains may be more effective for sleep, but this is inconclusive.
This is attributed to the high THC content in indica strains, which can be sedating. However, it’s worth noting that the effects of cannabis are not just due to the THC. CBD also plays a role; some studies have shown that it has potential sleep-promoting properties.
If you take cannabis to avoid nightmares, you may prefer more uplifting sativa strains.
Hybrid cannabis strains tend to have different outcomes, depending on the makeup of cannabinoids and other ingredients.
How to Use Cannabis for Sleep
The best way to use cannabis for sleep is to smoke or vape it. This method of administration allows the THC and CBD to enter your bloodstream quickly, producing immediate effects. If you’re not a fan of smoking, you can also try using a cannabis tincture. This extract is taken sublingually (under the tongue), which allows it to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
Cannabis edibles are also an option, but are not as effective for sleep. This is because they have to be digested and metabolized by the liver before entering the bloodstream. This process can take up to two hours, which means you won’t feel the effects of the edibles until long after you’ve gone to bed.
To try using cannabis for sleep, starting with a low dose is essential. You can always increase the amount you use if needed, but it’s best to avoid caution. It’s also a good idea to keep a journal to track your progress and find the correct dose and strain.
Cannabis may help some people sleep better, but it’s not without its risks. The most common side effects of smoking cannabis are dizziness, dry mouth, and red eyes. These side effects are usually mild and disappear quickly. However, cannabis can also cause paranoia, anxiety, and panic attacks. If you’re new to cannabis, starting with a low dose and increasing is best. You should also avoid using it if you have a history of mental health problems.
Cannabis also interacts with certain medications, such as blood thinners and antidepressants. If you take any medication, you must talk to your doctor before using cannabis.
Of the two main strains of cannabis, indica, and sativa, indica strains are more likely to be effective for sleep due to their high THC content. However, different people react differently to different strains, so it’s important to experiment until you find one that works. Hybrid strains are also an option, as they can produce effects that are somewhere in between the two. The best way to use cannabis for sleep is to smoke or vape it. This method of administration allows the THC and CBD to enter your bloodstream quickly, producing immediate effects. If you’re new to cannabis, starting with a low dose and increasing gradually is best. You should also avoid using it if you have a history of mental health problems.
