Difficult Sleeping Article

Can CBD Help You Sleep?

Source: 
https://www.michiganmedicine.org

Link: 
https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/can-cbd-help-you-sleep

Article Summary:
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil has surged in popularity as a versatile remedy for conditions like anxiety, chronic pain, and even skincare, available in diverse forms from over-the-counter options to infused foods and beverages. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t induce psychoactive effects but is celebrated for its potential to induce relaxation, prompting interest in its role as a sleep aid. However, research on CBD’s impact on sleep remains sparse and inconclusive due to small-scale studies and variations in CBD formulations and dosages. While initial findings suggest CBD might alleviate sleep issues, especially those associated with anxiety, experts caution that comprehensive scientific validation lags behind the rapid proliferation of CBD products.  Concerns about CBD’s safety are notable, with evidence indicating that lower doses (below 160 mg) might exacerbate wakefulness, while higher doses could potentially aid sleep. The FDA’s approval of only one CBD product for epilepsy underscores the regulatory gaps and potential hazards associated with other unregulated CBD products. Deirdre Conroy, Ph.D., of Michigan Medicine stresses the imperative for more rigorous research into CBD’s long-term safety and effectiveness, highlighting potential risks such as liver damage and interactions with medications or substances like alcohol. Until conclusive data on CBD emerges, Conroy advises prioritizing established non-pharmacological strategies to improve sleep, including maintaining consistent sleep schedules, reducing screen time before bed, and managing stress through practices like journaling or therapy. She advocates relying on natural sleep aids like melatonin secretion over emerging CBD treatments, emphasizing the need for cautious exploration and further scientific inquiry before widespread adoption of CBD for sleep.