CBD for Sleep: Why, What, and How
Oct 11th 2021
Why you should try CBD for Sleep
It’s 2:00 a.m. The clock ticks, the refrigerator hums, the dog snores and you just stare at the window where you can see the twinkle of a starlit sky through the bedroom curtains. Maybe if you count the polka dots on your pajamas, you can lull yourself to sleep out of boredom. Perhaps if you just pretend to be asleep your body and mind will comply. It’s now 2:01 and you are considering just turning on Netflix and waiting for the sun to come up.
According to the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 35% of adults don’t get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation can be both dangerous and costly. It is estimated that 20% of all vehicle accidents involve sleep deprivation. A study performed by Rand Corporation states that lack of sleep in the workforce costs the United States over $411 billion annually.
Falling Asleep Naturally
There are countless issues that could be contributing to your sleeplessness. From stress and anxiety to consumption habits and general sleep hygiene, serious rest can be difficult to come by. A report from NBC stated that 9 million Americans currently take prescription drugs to fall asleep. Despite the pros and cons of consistent medication use, you may want a natural option. At some point, you just want sleep.
If you have a chronic sleep condition such as insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy or any other medical concern, please see your doctor to determine the best way to achieve meaningful rest.
CBD for Sleep
You’ve seen it in your newsfeed, you’ve heard about it on the radio, your friends are all talking about it. Does CBD for sleep really work and what do you need to know?
What is CBD?
CBD is the abbreviated version of the word “cannabidiol,” which is a mouthful. This non-psychoactive cannabinoid is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. CBD is known for its positive effects on both the body and mind. The various other cannabinoids naturally present in hemp plants also have unique and beneficial interactions with the body.
What is the Endocannabinoid System?
“Endo” means inside and “cannabinoids” are cannabis compounds like CBD. We have cannabinoids already inside of us that the body naturally produces (cool, right?). All vertebrates have an endocannabinoid system. This system serves the purpose of helping your body establish and maintain balance for optimal health and wellness, also called “homeostasis.”
The body’s natural endocannabinoid system is enhanced with the addition of CBD which interacts with cannabinoid receptors. The two primary cannabinoid receptors in the body are CB1 and CB2. These little guys are found in virtually every organ in the body and throughout all bodily systems including the brain and skin.
How does CBD for Sleep work?
Beware, this gets a little sciency, but if you are a nerd like us, you’ll be fine.
CBD for sleep may be a function of two different concepts. One revolves around the ability to calm the body, thus allowing for less restlessness and wandering thoughts. The other centers around balancing the circadian rhythm through the ECS. Here is a little of the generally accepted science, as we know it.
Chilling out with CBD
Anandamide is an endocannabinoid receptor commonly referred to as the “bliss molecule” because of the way it makes you feel. It is notably found in chocolate, which may be one of the reasons chocolate is such a comfort food when we’re feeling down.
Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) is the enzyme that breaks down anandamide. However, the enzyme decomposes quickly in the body to prevent over-activity from high levels of anandamide. When you consume CBD, it inhibits the FAAH enzyme. As a result, the breakdown of anandamide occurs slowly. This increases the levels of endocannabinoids in the body, allowing the body to relax (feel more blissful). When the body is calm, without any feeling of worry and stress, a person can get to sleep more easily.
CBD and Circadian Rhythm
There is still a lot to be learned about the exact mechanisms of the ECS. Researchers are working to find clearer responses to how the ECS affects sleep and circadian rhythm. At the moment, we do know that the system has a profound effect on different parts of the brain and the body which are essential to enjoy a restful night’s sleep.
Evidence from healthy humans shows that plasma concentration of the endocannabinoid AEA has shown to be three times higher upon waking than prior to sleep, which has implied that the endocannabinoid system is important for sleep stabilization. Researchers also know that if a person has a deficiency of endocannabinoids in the body, it has an adverse effect on the person’s sleep and circadian rhythm.
Engaging the Endocannabinoid System
The need for fully functioning ECS receptors has been heavily evidenced by the 2006 European weight-loss drug “Rimonabant” which blocked CB1 receptors and thus much of the endocannabinoid system. The drug was quickly banned due to severe cases of anxiety, depression and even suicide. It was never approved in the U.S. The term “Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency” (CECD) refers to the theory that a certain amount of endocannabinoids must be maintained for optimal health.
According to the CDC, sleep disorders are so pervasive in the United States that they now constitute a public health epidemic. But you don’t have to have a disorder for it to impact your day to day life.
How to take CBD for Sleep
Receptra’s Serious Rest CBD tinctures are uniquely formulated to interact with your endocannabinoid system to restore balance and promote a normal sleep/wake cycle. All Receptra Rest CBD products are thoughtfully designed with added terpene and botanicals to support serious sleep and keep the mind and body at ease, empowering you for more productive, less drowsy days.
Recommended for most users, CBD potency of 25mg may be the ideal amount to inspire rest after a long day. An additional dose may be taken when rest is more difficult to achieve. For tinctures, adults should start with 1 full dropper 45 minutes before bed. Place the oil under your tongue for at least 20 seconds before swallowing. Capsules are also 25mg per dose and should be taken with water.
CBD tincture can also be added to food and drink for a fun way to consume. There are countless ways to integrate CBD into before bedtime snacks and teas. Feel free to get creative!
Added Botanicals for Better Rest
Receptra Serious Rest CBD tincture and capsules contain MCT oil, linalool and hints of valerian root. The tincture includes flavors such as vanilla, peppermint and chamomile that support serious sleep, and keep the mind and body at ease, naturally.
Naturally achieving Better Sleep
Getting optimal rest can be extremely difficult. Feel free to check out these additional tips on how to sleep better. And if you are really serious about getting ideal rest, we recommend you pair those tips with Receptra Rest CBD.