Sleep is a necessity and a good night's sleep contributes to our overall wellness. Experts recommend individuals sleep seven to nine hours per day. Proper sleep guarantees that you have enough energy to be able to function on the following day. But as per the National Sleep Foundation, between 50 to 70 million people in the United States have sleep difficulties. It isn't only falling asleep that people find difficult, as one-third of the population of the United States is unable to sleep through the night. It's no wonder that the quest for sleep-related therapies is a lucrative business. Doctor visits and medical expenses associated with sleep problems account for hundreds of billions of dollars in annual expenditures.
Unfortunately, over-the-counter sleep aids have well-documented undesirable side effects, such as sleepiness throughout the day and the development of chemical dependence on the medication. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mandated new "boxed warnings" for the sleep medications Ambien and Lunesta in 2019 due to their severe side effects, which include sleepwalking and even "sleep-driving." It has led to the increasing craze of cannabidiol in the medicinal world due to its immense potential in treating sleep disorders with little to no side effects.
What are CBD tinctures?
CBD products have flooded the market in recent years, promising a big spoon tincture for sleep assistance with little to no adverse effects. There are pills, oils, tinctures, and gummies to choose from in the market. Even though additional study is required to back up the present published results, many promising studies have emerged that indicate CBD to be an effective treatment for insomnia and sleep disorders. CBD available in the form of tinctures is an extract mixture containing alcohol and the natural compounds of the cannabis plant. To conceal the bitterness of tinctures, manufacturers typically combine them with sweeteners or add flavors and vegetable glycerin. Some businesses also include vitamins, herbal extracts, or melatonin, depending on the product's intended use. CBD tinctures are most efficiently absorbed when placed under the tongue, but this might take longer than regular sublingual use.
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CBD mechanism in our body
CBD interacts indirectly with CB1 and CB2 receptors in our body’s endocannabinoid system, essential for controlling your appetite. Studies show that CBD is effective in treating nausea and vomiting (ECS). According to current research, these two receptors are responsible for the ECS accountable for pain relief, inflammation reduction, relaxation, and, therefore, sleep aid. The results of another noteworthy study looked at a bigger pool of 1,521 individuals who had used CBD to help them fall and remain asleep in the past. Users also reported waking up less often during the night, with an average of four wake-ups each night reduced to only one with CBD.
Is CBD effective in improving sleep quality?
More and more evidence is accumulating suggesting CBD's value lies in its capacity to help you sleep for a more extended period. In a 2012 study comparing CBD with a sleep medication known as nitrazepam, researchers discovered that high-dose CBD at 160 milligrams categorized the improved length of sleep in the subjects. As per the National Library of Medicine Biotech information, CBD has a soothing impact on our neurological system. High-dose CBD is also said to be therapeutic for anxiety, sleeplessness, and epilepsy, as well as allowing for "mental sedation.”
One research conducted in 2018 on 409 individuals over two years looked at insomnia and the degree of symptom alleviation experienced by each participant. It concluded that the cannabinoids CBD and THC both show a "statistically and clinically substantial improvement" in the treatment of insomnia. The researchers also conducted several studies on the effects of different THC and CBD concentrations in the marijuana plant.
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CBD, Melatonin & CBN
CBD sleep ailments that combine melatonin and other natural sleep supplements to encourage sleep are another growing trend in the industry. More and more of these combinations are beginning to include less well-known cannabinoids, such as CBN. The combination of CBD and natural sleep aid melatonin seems to be the case. There are no known adverse interactions between CBD and melatonin, according to current studies. They are both categorized as "endogens," meaning that the body generates them alone. Both CBD and melatonin are generated naturally by the body. Thus they have much fewer side effects than other medicines. CBN is a cannabinoid that can be used as a sleep aid but has yet to be discovered. Researchers think that its binding causes THC’s psychoactive impact on CB1 receptors in the brain.
The unregulated market for CBD
The FDA has earlier cautioned CBD businesses that their products could not be marketed and sold without proven health claims. This includes claims such as CBD may heal or treat cancer, Alzheimer's, anxiety, and pain alleviation. Sleep is not included in this warning. Meanwhile, the FDA did not take significant steps in its study and claims to support or refute it. Unfortunately, unregulated CBD is available online, so be careful and buy only from reputable producers. Consult your doctor and listen to the dose and usage of CBD in your body.
Conclusion
So, do CBD tinctures seem to be the magic sleep supplement? There may yet be insufficient scientific evidence to indicate that, and indeed, that varies on the individual. Its effect on the body depends on the dosages. So, you must speak with your doctor before taking any CBD product. Do not forget to inform your doctor of any medicines, herbs, or supplements you are taking, so they can examine if CBD could interfere with your medical regimen. Depending on your health objectives, your doctor will tell you if CBD is a feasible option for you. This process will help you lead a healthy life and prevent any CBD overdose.
