Supplements

CBD Oil Drops and Capsules for Sleep: Benefits, Dosage and Safety Info

Mark Hansen··8 min read
CBD Oil Drops and Capsules for Sleep: Benefits, Dosage and Safety Info

Over the last few years we have seen research surrounding the importance of sleep regarding human health and function absolutely explode. This has come with realisation that without regular (and adequate) sleep, our bodies would literally fall to pieces.

Evidence shows that chronic sleep deprivation can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, cognitive dysfunction, mental illness, and even cancer. Moreover, as little as 24 hours without sleep will start causing nausea, severe declines in cognitive function, and even mild hallucinations.

Of late there has been a huge amount of emphasis placed on finding natural supplements that can enhance sleep quality - which has been quite successfully I might add.

One such natural supplement is CBD Oil.

What is CBD Oil?

CBD oil is a completely natural supplement derived from marijuana.

For those of you who have been living under a rock, marijuana globally refers to the leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds of the cannabis plant. This unique plant is most well-known for containing the chemical known as THC (or as its scientifically known, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol)

THC is the compound that provides marijuana with the potent psychoactive properties that are responsible for its recreational use.

Considering this, it is important to note that THC is only one of over 70 potent compounds found within the plant known as cannabinoids - each of which exhibit different effects within the human body.

With all this in mind, there is one specific cannabinoid known as Cannabidiol (or CBD for short) that has shown a lot of promise as a sleep remedy.

Does CBD Oil Improve Sleep?

CBD has been shown to interact with a specific type of receptor in the brain known as a 'CB1 receptor'. These receptors are entirely responsible for managing neurotransmitter release in a way that prevents excessive neuronal activity.

As a result, the stimulation of these receptors via the consumption of CBD oil has been shown to exhibit a calming effect on both the mind and body, reducing sensations of stress and anxiety, while also lowering inflammation, improving memory, and enhancing cognitive function.

Through this action, CBD oil has also been shown to assist in the management of sleep.

You see, by inducing feelings of relaxation and decreasing nervous system activity, the supplementation of CBD oil has been shown to cause large improvements in sleep quality, while also improving the ability to fall asleep.

It is also important to note that this effect doesn't only appear limited to healthy adults, but also individuals suffering from diseases typified by heightened nervous system activity, such as epilepsy and people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

It truly is an incredible supplement.

What is the Optimal Dosage of CBD Oil?

Given that CBD oil is relatively new to the supplement game, there are no real recommendations around an optimal dosage. However, most research studies demonstrate that taking 15-30mg before bed provides an effective means to improve sleep while mitigating the likelihood of potential side effects.

Does CBD Oil have any Side Effects?

There is evidence to suggest that the supplementation of CBD oil can downregulate the activity of specific liver enzymes which are responsible for metabolizing a number of prescription medications. As such, you should seek the advice of your doctor before supplementing if you are taking any medication at all.

Other side effects can include:

  • Low blood pressure
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Excessive relaxation

Conclusion

There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that CBD oil has the capacity to enhance sleep in an extremely safe and effective manner. Moreover, through its regulation of the nervous system, it may also have a positive impact on the sleep of individuals suffering from emotional and nervous disorders.

Pretty incredible stuff really!

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