Understanding How CBD Supports the Sleep-Wake Cycle
This article was revised on May 8th, 2023
If you’re having trouble getting a good night’s rest, you may be wondering when to take CBD oil for sleep. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-intoxicating compound derived from the hemp plant.
It has been shown to have a variety of potential health benefits, including supporting a healthy sleep-wake cycle. All humans go through a 24-hour sleep and wake cycle every single day.
We all have an internal biological clock that helps our bodies determine when we should eat, sleep, focus, go to the bathroom, get a lot done, and/or relax. You might have heard of the circadian rhythm. Basically, this is what we call our biological clock.
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps to regulate many physiological processes, including sleep. The ECS is a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids that work together to maintain balance, or homeostasis, in the body.
Research suggests that CBD may support a healthy sleep-wake cycle by interacting with the ECS in several ways. For example, CBD may help to reduce anxiety, which can interfere with sleep. It may also help to regulate the sleep-wake cycle by increasing the amount of time spent in the deep, restorative stage of sleep known as slow-wave sleep.
When to Take CBD Oil for Sleep
The best time to take CBD oil for sleep may vary depending on the individual. Some people find that taking CBD oil in the evening, before bed, helps them to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Others may find that taking CBD oil earlier in the day helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can help to improve sleep quality later on.
It’s important to note that CBD affects everyone differently, so it may take some experimentation to find the best time and dosage for you. It’s also important to choose a high-quality CBD oil from a reputable source to ensure that you’re getting a product that is safe and effective.
In general, it’s a good idea to start with a low dose of CBD oil and gradually increase the dosage as needed. It’s also a good idea to talk to your doctor before taking CBD oil, especially if you’re currently taking any medications or have any underlying health conditions.
Understanding how sleep cycles work
When we sleep, we go through different stages of sleep. The most important is rapid eye movement sleep (REM). REM is associated with rapid eye movements, low muscle tone, and vivid dreaming.
During REM, our body goes through the most repair and brain information processing. It increases brain activity, creates vivid dreams, and promotes learning.
This is why it is crucial to sleep long enough; to go through as many REM cycles as possible and promote health in the body.
What is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a beautiful hormone that is released by the pineal gland and helps us drift off into a peaceful slumber. It is only released when light is minimal, and darkness surrounds our environment.
If light is present, the secretion of melatonin is reduced or completely stopped. This is why it is vital to sleep in complete darkness and start shutting off lights around 9pm.
In order to produce melatonin, the body needs serotonin because it is a precursor, meaning the body uses it to produce something else, in this case melatonin, the sleepy hormone.
What is Serotonin?
Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT) is a type of neurotransmitter that is derived from an amino acid (protein) called tryptophan. Within the pineal gland in the brain, serotonin goes through acetylation and methylation in order to end up with melatonin.
Interesting fact: Many people feel very sleepy after Thanksgiving dinner, and one reason for this is that turkeys contain an amino acid called l-tryptophan. This, along with the large portions of food, can make people feel sleepy.
Final thoughts
CBD may offer a natural way to support a healthy sleep-wake cycle. When to take CBD oil for sleep may vary depending on the individual, but it’s generally a good idea to start with a low dose and gradually increase the dosage as needed. If you’re having trouble sleeping and are considering taking CBD for sleep, be sure to talk to your doctor first to ensure that it’s safe for you.
