Full Spectrum CBD, CBN & Sleep:
Introduction: The Essential Role of Sleep in Wellness
Sleep plays a vital role in physical and mental health. It helps our bodies recharge, supports cognitive function, and regulates mood. And there are many more complex things that sleep does that we are only just starting to unravel. Yet, many people struggle to get the recommended 7-9 hours of rest each night. Stress, anxiety, chronic pain, and sleep disorders like insomnia often disrupt sleep. These stressors and conditions interact with each other and exacerbate each other, compounding the frustration of people who urgently need uninterrupted sleep.
Recently, natural sleep aids like CBD (cannabidiol), CBN (cannabinol), and melatonin have become popular. These alternatives to prescription medications offer a natural way to bolster the sleep we desperately need.. In this article, look in detail how Full Spectrum CBD and CBN can improve sleep, compare their effectiveness with each other and with melatonin. We’ll also provide some practical dosage recommendations.
Understanding Sleep Aids – CBD, CBN, and Melatonin
CBD, CBN, and melatonin each work differently. Let’s break down their unique benefits.
CBD (Cannabidiol) for Sleep:
CBD is a cannabinoid derived from the cannabis plant but doesn’t cause a “high.” associated with THC, it’s more potent and well known cousin. Instead, it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to regulate mood, pain, and sleep. It does this via interaction with the numerous CB1 and CB2 receptors distributed throughout the body. Research shows that CBD may reduce anxiety and alleviate chronic pain, two common causes of sleep disturbances. Many users report feeling calmer and more relaxed, which helps them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
CBN (Cannabinol) for Sleep:
CBN actually forms when THC breaks down over time through oxidation. Often called the “sleepy cannabinoid,” it has strong sedative properties and is gaining a lot of popularity as the prime cannabinoid for helping you sleep . While research on CBN is limited, early studies suggest it may help people fall asleep faster and improve sleep quality. Unlike CBD, which works indirectly, CBN directly promotes relaxation and drowsiness.
Melatonin for Sleep:
Melatonin is a human hormone that is involved in our sleep-wake cycle. It’s most effective for helping address circadian rhythm disorders, jet lag, and shift work sleep issues etc. However, melatonin may not help people with as much as cannabinoids do with underlying issues like anxiety or chronic pain. It’s also less effective for those who already produce enough melatonin naturally. Melatonin synthesis and secretion is enhanced by darkness and inhibited by light. Light travels to stimulate the retina to the pineal gland through intricate neurological ending at the hypothalamus. In humans, melatonin secretion starts soon after sundown. It peaks in the middle of the night between approximately 2:00am and 4:00am. Production of Melatonin then decreases gradually during the second half of the night. Close to 80% of our melatonin is synthesized at night. We are only just starting to map out the process and function of this hormone in detail, which has a clear and very important effect on regulating our Circadian rhythms.
Full Spectrum CBD vs. CBN for Sleep
Choosing between Full Spectrum CBD and CBN depends on your specific sleep needs.
Full Spectrum CBD:
Full Spectrum CBD contains multiple cannabinoids, terpenes, and it retains trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%). These compounds work together to create the much celebrated “entourage effect,” enhancing overall therapeutic effectiveness. For sleep, Full Spectrum CBD may address multiple disruptors, such as anxiety, pain, and inflammation. In other words, the many issues that contribute psychologically or physically to exacerbate insomnia. Many people swear by Full Spectrum CBD for these reasons, it depends on why you’re unable to sleep.
CBN:
CBN is marketed as a sleep-specific cannabinoid due to its strong sedative effects. While research is still not extensive enough to draw clear conclusions, anecdotally many people find it effective for reducing the time it takes to fall asleep. Combining CBN with CBD is another popular choice.
Dosage Recommendations for CBD and CBN
Finding the right dosage is key to maximizing the benefits of CBD and CBN. Here’s a practical guide: “Beginner’s Guide to CBD“
CBD Dosage Recommendations:
The consensus with most suppliers, advocates and experts is to start with 10-20 mg per day. To facilitate sleep, take 20-40 mg 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Gradually increase by 5-10 mg every few days until you achieve the desired effect. Take into consideration basic factors like body weight, metabolism, and the severity of your sleep issues. As always, be prepared to adjust your dose downward if you start to experience side effects like gastrointestinal issues. Drowsiness is one of the side effects so don’t worry about that if your aim is to sleep!
CBN Dosage Recommendations:
For users starting with CBN, a lower initial dose is recommended, something like 5-10 mg per day. In preparation for sleep, at bedtime take 10-20 mg. There are products with a formulation that combine CBD and CBN in a 1:1 ratio, which may enhance their sleep-promoting effects. Mellow offers this particular blend. Again.. start low and adjust as needed.
The Role of Anxiety in Sleep and How Cannabinoids Help
Anxiety is a big culprit when it comes to disrupting sleep, maybe even more than chronic pain. It can make it hard to fall or stay asleep. Cannabinoids like CBD and CBN can help. CBN has the role of facilitating sleep best, but CBD, even Full Spectrum or Broad Spectrum CBD have a reputation for more pronounced effect to reduce anxiety.
While CBN is primarily known for its sedative effects, it may also promote relaxation. When combined with CBD, it addresses both mental and physical barriers to sleep, offering a more comprehensive solution.
CBD interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, as well as the ECS to regulate mood and anxiety. By reducing anxiety, CBD creates a sense of calm that makes it easier to fall asleep. Many users find this indirect approach highly effective.
Side Effects, Cautions, and Drawbacks of Cannabinoids for Sleep
While CBD and CBN are generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and precautions.
CBD Side Effects:
Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, diarrhea, and changes in appetite. CBD may interact with medications that have a “grapefruit warning,” such as blood thinners and certain antidepressants.
CBN Side Effects:
In high doses, CBN may cause mild drowsiness or grogginess. Long-term safety is not yet fully understood. Obviously this is less of a concern if the principal purpose for taking it is to enhance sleep. It should be something that users are aware of though.
General Advice on using Cannabinoids:
Always choose high-quality, established and third-party tested product. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider first before using CBD or CBN. Do not use it if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.
Online Discussions – Reddit Users Share Their Experiences
Online forums like Reddit and Quora have provide valuable insights into how people use CBD and CBN for sleep. Here are some firsthand experiences:
User 1: “I’ve been using Full Spectrum CBD oil for about a month now. It doesn’t knock me out, but it helps me relax enough to fall asleep. I take about 25 mg an hour before bed.”
User 2: : “CBN has been a game-changer for me. I take 15 mg before bed, and I’m out within 20 minutes. It’s way better than melatonin for me.”
–User 3: “I combine CBD and CBN for sleep. The CBD helps with my anxiety, and the CBN makes me drowsy. It’s the perfect combo.”
These anecdotes highlight the varied ways people use cannabinoids for sleep and the results they obtained. While individual experiences differ, many users do report positive results.
Review of Mellow Oils & Cannabinoids
Mellow Oils offers a range of products designed to support sleep. Here’s a closer look:
Mellow Full Spectrum CBD Oil:
This product contains a blend of cannabinoids and terpenes. It’s ideal for those seeking the entourage effect to address multiple sleep disruptors.
Mellow CBN Oil:
Formulated specifically for sleep, this oil has strong sedative properties. It’s best for individuals struggling with insomnia or frequent awakenings.
Blended Cannabinoid Products:
Mellow’s CBD+CBN blends combine the anxiety-reducing effects of CBD with the sedative properties of CBN. These products offer targeted sleep support
Improving sleep requires a personalized approach. CBD, CBN, and melatonin each have unique benefits. If anxiety or pain keeps you awake, Full Spectrum CBD may help. For stronger sedative effects, try CBN. And if your sleep issues stem from circadian rhythm disruptions, melatonin could be the solution.
References:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5405617/#R22
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33048904/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7388834/
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