Cannabidiol (CBD) has recently exploded in popularity. Unsurprisingly, much of the early interest stemmed from its link to marijuana, but CBD doesn’t make you high. Instead, it has other components: it can help alleviate anxiety, may dampen chronic pain, and most notably, it can help you sleep. The plant has numerous benefits, but you may be wondering what it actually is. Let’s get into more detail.
What is CBD?
Otherwise known as cannabidiol, CBD is a chemical found in cannabis plants. The term ‘cannabis’ often sparks thoughts of rolled-up joints and funky smells, but there are actually many forms of the plant. CBD is one of the ingredients derived from the plant, and it has many medicinal uses.
How does CBD work?
CBD isn’t a sedative – that means it doesn’t contain any ingredients that make you feel drowsy. Instead, it creates a sense of calm and relaxation.
By reducing anxiety and stress, and increasing dopamine levels, CBD can promote a therapeutic state that lures you into a peaceful sleep. The beneficial properties of CBD can improve your mental wellbeing to help you fall asleep.
It's a good natural addition to your nighttime routine and doesn't make you feel drowsy in the morning.
How do I make the most of CBD?
CBD aids sleep, but you need to actually create a healthy sleep environment to maximise its benefits. That means being strict with yourself. Put your phone away early at night, go to bed every night at the same time, and limit any coffee from the late afternoon onwards. Once you’ve promoted a healthy sleep routine, CBD will have a greater impact. Do your part, then enjoy the rewards.
What other natural remedies can help aid sleep?
Whenever you’re struggling for sleep, someone usually suggests a warm mug of chamomile tea as the solution. But does it actually have any impact?
There’s some evidence to suggest that it does. It has been linked to helping you fall asleep quicker, and improving the quality of your sleep once you nod off. We don’t suggest you rely on chamomile to get some shut-eye, but there’s no harm in adding it to your nightly routine.
Similarly to CBD, lavender has been shown to alleviate anxiety and create a relaxed state for sleep. It doesn’t directly make you fall asleep, but it can create a healthy sleep environment and improve the general quality of your sleep. Once again, it’s worth embracing when night falls.
The numan take
Start thinking about how CBD can improve your sleep. When introduced to your nightly routine, it can reduce anxiety, boost dopamine, and create a relaxed state of mind. But it’s not a miracle cure for insomnia – you need to create a healthy sleep environment to fully reap its benefits. Combine CBD with positive habits and notice the difference when you wake up each morning.
