Sleep is among the most crucial functions of the human body. While some folks can sleep easy, almost effortlessly, many have some kind of sleep disorder or another. Sadly, the effects of not sleeping well extend much further than just feeling tired. It can affect performance at work, put strain on relationships, and lead to a myriad of other health problems all their own, from mild to very serious.
Fixing Sleep Imbalances with Cannabis
The science of sleep is still in its early stages, being very much an evolving field of study. However, current research suggests that marijuana therapy can prove essential in helping people treat various sleep issues, ultimately giving them their lives back. Scientific studies aside, almost everyone is familiar with the effects of cannabis swear by its ability to improve both quality and length of sleep.
Scientifically, research proves cannabis extremely effective at treating these common sleep imbalances:
Sleep Apnea
Many people suffer from sleep apnea. This condition is common, interrupting breathing for up to 30 seconds at a time. It affects sleep quality enormously, disturbing oxygen flow to the body and affecting cognitive function on a day-to-day basis. Fortunately, marijuana can help significantly, giving these people a second chance at living a healthy, happy, and normal life.
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, an interesting study investigated the use of synthetic cannabis, medical-grade, in treating sleep apnea in sufferers. Results were extremely positive, with researchers finding marijuana reducing sleep apnea immensely in the short-term. Furthermore, the study showed no negative side effects on the sleep architecture of its participants.
Insomnia
The U.S. National Library of Medicine published a study finding at least 4 in 10 Canadians suffering at least one side effect of insomnia, some more than one. Medical marijuana could just be the answer to lowering this statistic and allowing them finally to get some much-needed shuteye. In a review by the National Center for PTSD and Palo Alto University, researchers made an interesting discovery.
They found that “cannabidiol, or CBD, may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of insomnia”, and that “tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, may decrease sleep latency.” This is excellent news for anyone struggling to fall asleep at night and suffering the consequences of it every day. However, the research team did note that high levels of THC might have the potential to affect sleep quality in the long-term.
Fatigue
Fatigue, or hypersomnolence, is the opposite of insomnia. Sufferers struggle to stay awake during the day, often taking frequent naps regardless of where they are and without any relief from their tiredness. They suffer various symptoms, such as mental fogginess, performance and productivity issues, financial troubles, relationship stress, health concerns, and more, despite regular siestas and fitful sleep.
Fortunately, cannabis can help tremendously. Some strains of marijuana, not all, boost alertness, increase energy, stimulate cognitive function, and balance the sleep-wake cycle. Sativa strains are best for treating hypersomnolence, even Sativa-dominant hybrids. However, Indica strains tend to be more sedating, so avoid them if you are trying to keep awake during the day.
Restless Leg Syndrome
Explained by the name, restless leg syndrome manifests as an uncontrollable, irresistible need to keep your legs moving, especially when lying down or sitting. This is why the disorder is so very detrimental to getting any sleep, let alone a full night of it. Currently, there is not much research into how cannabis affects restless leg syndrome, but some studies do exist, and their results show much promise.
For example, according to Science Direct, a team of researchers conducted a study that found medical marijuana resolving restless leg syndrome completely in six participants. These results warrant further investigation to understand the mechanisms of action in achieving this, but it is evident that cannabis was the sole therapy responsible for this achievement.
Final Thoughts
As scientists delve into studying the role of cannabinoids in human health, it is becoming increasingly clear that marijuana is a safe and effective therapy for many medical conditions, including sleep imbalances and their symptoms, and without harming consumers in any way. Unlike tranquilizers and other drugs used to treat sleep disorders, cannabis comes without any nasty side effects.
However, when using cannabis to treat sleep issues, it is vital that you use the right strains. Some strains will make you sleepy; others will keep you awake. Conduct as much research as you can before starting cannabis therapy. Get advice from experts. You may have to experiment some to identify which strains work best for you, but that is, after all, more than half the fun.
Final Thoughts
As scientists delve into studying the role of cannabinoids in human health, it is becoming increasingly clear that marijuana is a safe and effective therapy for many medical conditions, including sleep imbalances and their symptoms, and without harming consumers in any way. Unlike tranquilizers and other drugs used to treat sleep disorders, cannabis comes without any nasty side effects.
However, when using cannabis to treat sleep issues, it is vital that you use the right strains. Some strains will make you sleepy; others will keep you awake. Conduct as much research as you can before starting cannabis therapy. Get advice from experts. You may have to experiment some to identify which strains work best for you, but that is, after all, more than half the fun.
