Cannabidiol Dosage Guide: How much CBD Should You Take
CBD oil, gummies, edibles, topicals - with so many cannabidiol products hitting the market, it…
Getting a restful night of sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being, yet many people struggle with sleep problems. While there are numerous remedies out there – from over-the-counter medications to prescription drugs – many are turning to CBD as a better natural remedy.
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring chemical found in the cannabis plant that is gaining popularity for its potential health benefits, including improving sleep.
In this article, we will dive into the use of CBD for sleep, including its effectiveness, safety, and practical tips for adding it to your sleep routine.
Unlike THC, the psychoactive chemical found in marijuana, CBD is non-intoxicating and non-addictive. Taking CBD will not get you high.
It is a safe option for those who want to avoid the side effects of traditional sleep aids or THC while experiencing the goodness of marijuana.
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating sleep, among other functions. It has many health benefits, ranging from pain relief to easing stress, seizures, anxiety levels, and inflammation.
Most studies on cannabinoids and sleep have looked at the combination of THC and CBD rather than just CBD alone.
Unfortunately, this makes it difficult to determine CBD’s specific effects on sleep quality. That said, below is a summary of what we know about how CBD helps poor sleep.
While some evidence supports the use of only CBD for treating insomnia and other sleep issues, more studies are needed. In addition, questions about dosage, safety, and long-term use must be answered with further research.
You will find a wide range of CBD products, including oils, capsules, gummies, flowers, and topicals. When choosing a CBD product for sleep, keep the following in mind for a good experience.
CBD products come in varying strengths (expressed in milligrams), and selecting a dosage appropriate for your needs is vital.
If you are new to cannabis, start with a lower dose, see how you are doing, and gradually increase as needed.
The amount of cannabidiol you need to take for sleep depends on:
Serious cases of sleep disorders will likely require a lot more cannabidiol.
If you are wondering how much CBD to take for sleep, there is no fixed or universal recommended dosage.
It is well-tolerated in varying amounts. A review published in 2017 highlighted that humans could tolerate up to 1,500 mg of cannabidiol per day without any adverse effects. Most people take between 100 mg to 200 mg per day – but this may not be the case for you.
Speak to your doctor to find the suitable CBD dosage for sleep – especially if you have any medical conditions.
CBD products (usually oils) come in three varieties: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate.
Full-spectrum CBD oil contains all cannabinoids and terpenes in the cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC. Broad-spectrum CBD is similar to full-spectrum CBD but has been processed to remove THC. Finally, isolate CBD is the purest form of CBD, with all other compounds removed.
Look for products that have been tested for purity and potency in third-party labs. These lab test results will be published on the site or on the product label in the form of a QR code. This ensures that the product contains the amount of CBD advertised on the label and is free from contaminants like pesticides, additives, and heavy metals.
When selecting a CBD product, choose a reputable brand with high-quality organic ingredients and a proven track record of producing effective products. Look for positive reviews, transparency, and quality.
CBD capsules are an easy way to take CBD. They come in pre-measured doses, making dosing effortless. Capsules are also easy to swallow, making them a good option for those who may not like the taste of CBD oil.
Locally-made CBD capsules are rare in Thailand at present, but the situation could change in the future as the industry expands.
CBD flowers are the raw, dried buds of the hemp plant. They can be smoked or vaporised, which can be a quick and effective way to experience the effects of CBD. Some people find this method to help them to relax and fall asleep faster. Popular CBD strains are ACDC, Charlotte’s Angel, Harlequin, and Cannatonic.
CBD oils are widely available in Thailand and come in a range of strengths and flavours. Some formulations are also approved by the Thai Government Pharmaceutical Organisation and can be prescribed by medical marijuana doctors.
They can be taken sublingually (under the tongue for 30-90 seconds) or added to food and drinks. Cannabidiol oil tinctures can take effect quickly and may be a good option for those who need fast-acting relief.
CBD topicals such as creams, balms, and lotions can be applied directly to the skin to ease muscle tension, soreness, and chronic pain. They are often used for a relaxing massage that can help improve sleep. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort that’s preventing you from getting a good night’s rest, CBD topicals can help.
CBD gummies are an enjoyable and easy way to consume CBD, with various flavours and strengths available. They can be a good option for people who want to add CBD to their nighttime routine in a fun and discreet manner. Some gummies for sleep may also include a blend of melatonin and CBD, which can enhance their sleep-promoting effects.
Remember, CBD is not a magical cure for sleep problems and may not work for everyone. Approach it with realistic expectations while also focussing on your sleep hygiene routine for the best results.
If CBD does not help you sleep better, seek other natural alternatives and remedies like lavender oil, valerian root, and chamomile flower.
While CBD is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, there are side effects that users should be aware of. These can include dry mouth, decreased appetite, dizziness, and drowsiness.
In some cases, CBD may also cause changes in blood pressure or heart rate. It’s important to note that the severity and frequency of these side effects can vary depending on the individual and the dose of CBD used.
CBD can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, antipsychotics, and antidepressants. When this happens, it can interfere with the medicine’s functioning, leading to unwanted effects.
Similarly, those with liver disease may also need to be cautious, as CBD can interact with liver enzymes and potentially worsen liver function. It is best to talk to your doctor before taking CBD in such cases. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using CBD due to the lack of research on its safety in these populations.
CBD shows potential as a natural sleep aid due to its effects on anxiety, pain, and inflammation. While research is still limited, the available evidence suggests that CBD may improve the quality and quantity of sleep in some individuals without causing significant side effects.
More long-term studies with larger sample sizes are needed to fully understand the efficacy and safety of CBD for sleep. If you’re considering using CBD for sleep, talk to your doctor first, especially if you’re taking any medications or have a history of medical conditions. With proper guidance and cautious use, CBD may be a useful tool in improving sleep and overall well-being.