***Kiva Confections content related to both the effects of cannabis and the results of cannabis use is based upon general user experiences and testimony. This content should be considered anecdotal, and should not to be interpreted as medical advice. Please consult with a medical professional before adding or altering consumption of medication or medical-related activities. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Cannabis is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. ***

Cannabis has been commonly reported as an effective sleep aid and the reason why so many consumers keep their favorite go-to brand by their bedsides.

Not only do users report assistance with erratic sleeping patterns and overall quality of sleep, but it's also been stated to be increasingly beneficial for people with chronic insomnia. You can find escape to your land of dreams by using a relaxing strain for a good night's sleep.

If you are one of those who suffer from poor sleep, this article will walk you through the benefits of cannabis for sleep and the types to consider consuming to find sound sleep.

Before outlining the various advantages of marijuana for sleep, take a look at what the statistics are showing.

What Do The Stats Say?

Here's a fact you can't deny: cannabis, also known as weed or marijuana is commonly used for sleep assistance, in addition to recreational and medical purposes.

Listed below are a few statistics to prove the claim:

  • More than 68% of younger people who use marijuana claim they do it to get a good night's sleep
  • When it comes to long-term marijuana consumers (people who use it for over nine years or so), over 50% use it to help improve sleep
  • People who consume cannabis for health-related reasons like pain relief and promoting sleep (approximately 80%) report that it's beneficial for sleep

Research for cannabis for sleep is still nascent and developing. Though it can help people relieve insomnia and other sleep-related conditions when consumed occasionally, no extensive research has been conducted on the long-term benefits of cannabis consumption.

<h2>Does Cannabis Help Improve Sleep Quality?</h2>

In many cases, cannabis is a good sleep aid that helps improve sleeping patterns. People with medical conditions such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis (MS) and post-traumatic stress disorder can get improved sleep when consuming cannabis.

It helps them fall asleep faster, enjoy improved sleep quality and duration and wake up much less during the night. In addition, marijuana has been reported to help relieve symptoms of people suffering from Willis-Ekbom Disease (also called restless legs syndrome).

Moreover, you can marijuana can be used to treat anxiety, pain and insomnia. Though the effectiveness varies, one study found that people with insomnia who use cannabis reported relief.

Also, various studies indicate that marijuana affects sleep differently when used daily, less frequently and non-daily. Compared to people who take cannabis occasionally, daily marijuana users report severe sleep disturbances. However, non-daily consumers have fewer sleeping issues, so they drift off more easily than everyday users.

How Cannabis Can Lead To Better Sleep

It appears that marijuana's sleep-promoting effects happen as a result of our natural cannabinoid receptors (CB). Cannabinoid receptors have multiple roles in the body, including the balancing of moods, appetite controls, sensation of pain, muscles and immune system. Cannabinoids are also responsible for enhancing adenosine levels (sleep-promoting organic compounds) and control the autochthonous neural systems. This affects how quickly marijuana consumers feel sleepy or sedated.

Marijuana has a range of active compounds, from Cannabidiol (CBD) to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Although THC is more similar to a depressant (sedative), it can significantly have stimulating effects on users, particularly those consuming high doses or beginners.

On the contrary, CBD promotes sleepiness at a high dose and alertness at a low dose. The effectiveness of both these compounds combined depends on the ration, timing and dosage.

THC and CBD can help relieve symptoms of chronic conditions, such as chronic pain, etc., that hinder a good night's sleep.

For instance, synthetic cannabinoids are beneficial when treating PTSD nightmares, improving sleep quality for chronic pain patients and sleep apnea. In contrast, CBD helps minimize REM behavior disorder (RBD) and hypersomnia.

When consuming marijuana for sleep, it's best to use a top-quality strain, as effects vary based on the actual product you choose.

What Effect Does Cannabis Have On Sleep Quality?

Cannabidiol (CBD) has been shown to improve sleep onset latency, but it also has the potential to change how you transition between the various stages of sleep (aka sleep architecture).

Light cannabis usage over a short period can lengthen the duration of deep sleep, the stage associated with a more relaxing morning after use.

THC, on the other hand, shortens the duration of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which is optimal for dreaming, emotional processing and memory consolidation.

As nightmares are a prevalent and distressing symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it has been suggested that reducing REM sleep may be helpful. Research on young women, identifying as sexual minorities, with PTSD shows that those experiencing extreme symptoms and less sleep were more likely to seek cannabis for relief.

One study indicated that people living with PTSD who used synthetic forms of cannabis experienced a dramatic reduction in nightmare frequency and severity, with some even reporting an end to their nightmares altogether. The same study participants also noted an improvement in their general sleep quality and absence of flashbacks during the day.

Which Marijuana Strain Is Better For Sleep?

Cannabis strains are divided into two main categories: Indica and Sativa. Though a wide variety of cannabis strains are available in the market with different effects, the most widely consumed strains are based as follows.

  • Indica: Cannabis indica is more relaxing and can help generate feelings of sleepiness and calmness. Many users take Indica strains to help sleep better at night, feel more relaxed and relieve pain.
  • Sativa: Cannabis Sativa is more stimulating. For some, it can produce euphoric feelings. Many consumers take Sativa strains to boost their energy.

Indica strains are often called the best marijuana strains to sleep better due to the relaxing effects it generates. But, people who use cannabis to escape frequent nightmares may use Sativa strains.

Besides Sativa and Indica, there is a third cannabis strain which includes the hybrids (a mix of both Sativa and Indica). This strain generates fickle effects depending on cannabinoids and various other makeup ingredients.

Risks Of Using Marijuana For Sleep

Cannabis can help people sleep faster and better if they take it occasionally or for the short term. Health professionals often discourage people from using any kinds of sleep aids, such as cannabis, etc., for the long term. This is mainly because people taking any product to sleep for more extended periods may develop tolerance to the sedative effects, causing them to take higher doses.

Helpful Tips For Using Cannabis Before Bed

Ways To Consume Cannabis If You Need To Sleep

The benefits and drawbacks of each format vary but users can consume cannabis in several ways including smoking, vaping, ingesting or taking a sublingual tincture. The amount of active THC that can be expected to enter your bloodstream depends on the bioavailability of cannabis you are using. Because the THC in cannabis is absorbed directly into your bloodstream when inhaled, it has a high bioavailability.

In contrast, the psychoactive effects of edibles are lessened by the body's natural elimination processes. The bioavailability of cannabis increased by as much as 56% when smoked, compared to just 4% to 20% when taken orally, although some people may choose not to smoke due to concerns about the health of their lungs.

Best Time To Use Cannabis For Restful Sleep

It's important to remember that the onset of effects varies considerably between the various cannabis strains. The effects of smoking cannabis are often felt nearly immediately, whereas those of ingestible forms may take longer to kick in due to the digestive process.

Smoked cannabis can have a wide range of effects depending on the individual, the duration and frequency of inhalation and other factors. The knowledge that THC concentrations typically peak after 10 minutes can be helpful in some situations.

Indications Of Possible Side Effects

Since different people respond differently to different strains of cannabis, finding the correct delivery method, dose, and timing may require some trial and error. Although THC can help you get to sleep, it is also a psychotropic drug with various potential side effects. You could get tired, mellow, high or pepped up depending on your blend.

Cannabinoids may cause a variety of side effects in the user, including but not limited to dizziness, nausea, exhaustion, vomiting, dry mouth, confusion, loss of balance and hallucinations. The possibility of experiencing paranoia, panic attacks, and anxiety is also present. You need to identify and manage these symptoms before adopting the use of cannabis in your daily sleep routine.

Verify The Legitimacy Of The Brand

A state-licensed cannabis dispensary is an ideal place to get a high-quality CBD product. If that's not possible, try to stick to well-known national brands. Trustworthy manufacturers will post a certificate of analysis for each batch on their websites for customers to view.

You can find this certificate of analysis on the company's homepage under various headings such as Frequently Asked Questions, Lab Results and Certificate of Analysis. This verifies that a third-party lab has tested the product for the presence of CBD, THC, other cannabinoids and potential pollutants, including pesticides and heavy metals.

Choose a different brand if you have trouble locating an analysis certificate on the site. Some businesses may boast that their products are made using Good Manufacturing Procedures (GMP), which means they strictly adhere to regulations the Food and Drug Administration set forth.

The Legality Of Cannabis Use Varies Depending On Where You Live

The rules each state has enacted regarding the medical and recreational use of cannabis are constantly evolving. Thirty-three states now permit the use of cannabis for medical purposes. Ten states have allowed recreational cannabis use as of September 2022. In the most recent election, Michigan joined the states that legalized cannabis use.

Though recreational cannabis use may be legal in your state, you should always consult your doctor before beginning any new sleep regimen, including cannabis.

Don't forget that there are other methods to consume cannabis besides smoking; you can try cannabis as a tincture, edible or vaporizer if you're interested in using it to help you get to sleep.

Remember that many cannabinoids and terpenes present in cannabis can be used singly or in tandem with other naturally occurring components such as essential oils and natural sleep aids including lavender, Ylang Ylang and hops.

Find Cannabis Products That Help You Sleep Better

Kiva Confections can help you choose a quality cannabis strain to help you sleep well at night. We have a range of cannabis products to choose from that can help you relax, unwind at night and give a good night's sleep.


Visit our website to find products guaranteed to help you stay calm and rest well.