5 Things to Consider When Using Cannabis for Sleep

Cannabis and sleep go together like pillows and blankets. Here are a few things to keep in mind when using the herb for relaxation.

The Fresh Toast – Medications have side effects, so how about something natural? Here are 5 things to keep in mind when using cannabis for sleep

Although NyQuil is used as a sleep aid, it is not a sleep aid. It is a popular helper, but should not be used for longer than 7 days, even if there is a virus. While approximately 50-70 million Canadians and Americans suffer from persistent sleep problems, a little help is needed. Melatonin is also popular. If it works for you, you can take it every night for one to two months. It can also take up to 1-2 hours for melatonin to be released. Prescription medications have a high potential for addiction. Not only can this lead to addiction, but it can also lead to dysfunction and more insomnia. So how about something else natural?

RELATED: Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

Marijuana can be a great aid for sleep. While more research is being conducted, there is evidence showing how effective marijuana can be for people with varying degrees of insomnia. But stress, slight pain or other problems also cause occasional sleepless nights. It can work. And it doesn't have to be built into your system, it works and then disappears. Here are 5 things to keep in mind when using cannabis for sleep.

dosage

Using the herb before bed depends on the dosage and your experience with marijuana. If you smoke too little, you may not feel any effect. If you smoke too much, you may find yourself tossing and turning due to weed-induced paranoia. If this is your first time using marijuana to sleep, try your best to create a relaxing environment and avoid overstimulation from too much screen time or alcohol. Adjust your marijuana consumption and pay attention to your body and its signals. You'll be more prepared to jump into bed when it feels right.

Type of consumption

Photo by Jonathan J. Castellon via Unsplash

RELATED: Let's talk about why sleep is important — and how to get it

The way you consume marijuana affects how quick or intense your reaction will be. When consuming an edible, be sure to give your body time to feel the effects. When you vape, smoke, or use an oil, more control and less planning is required.

The type of cannabis is important

Whether you are consuming a THC or CBD based product, or sativas or indicas, it is important to know that all types of cannabis have different effects. Indicas are strains that act on the body in a relaxing and heavy way, producing sleepy effects. Still, that doesn't mean a sativa strain or hybrid won't make you sleepy. Marijuana is a trial and error type substance; Try different options and keep track of what works for you and what doesn't.

Marijuana hangover

Unless you're a big nighttime marijuana user, the groggy feeling you feel when you wake up can be puzzling. Although not as severe or frequent as a normal hangover, a grass hangover does exist. Although not fully understood, these are more likely if you have consumed low-quality marijuana. To cope, make sure to drink plenty of water, eat a healthy diet, and monitor your cannabis consumption throughout the day.

RELATED: People Who Use Weed Are Even More Fun, Too

Changes in sleep and dreams

One of the most noticeable effects of cannabis on sleep is the absence of dreams. This is because cannabis limits REM sleep, the stage of sleep where dreams are likely to occur. Scientific studies have shown that REM sleep is important for learning and rest. There's a lot we don't understand when it comes to the connection between cannabis and sleep. It's important to monitor your marijuana use and sleep habits, especially if you feel like the sleep you're getting isn't restful or good for you.