CBD Oil for Sleep: Unveiling Its Potential for Better Rest

Sleepless nights are the worst. Tossing, turning, feeling exhausted the next day… it’s a frustrating cycle, as many of us know too well. If you’re searching for a natural sleep aid, CBD oil for sleep might be worth exploring. Derived from hemp, it’s gaining attention in the UK for its potential to improve sleep without the grogginess of traditional sleep supplements. But how does CBD oil for sleep actually work? Unlike medications that force drowsiness by influencing our own chemical balance or using sedatives, CBD oil may address the underlying causes of your sleeplessness, like anxiety or pain. Could CBD oil for sleep and relaxation be the key to waking up refreshed and ready to take on the day?

Well, read on to find out.

Exploring the Science Behind CBD Oil for Sleep – Does CBD Help You Sleep?

The science behind CBD oil as a sleep aid is fascinating, but still not fully understood. Researchers are busy delving into how it interacts with the body’s natural systems to promote restfulness, such as the central nervous system (CNS) and the endocannabinoid system. It’s a promising new area of research, with plenty still to be discovered, that could unlock the secrets to consistently good sleep. CBD oil has been dubbed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as having great potential benefits for various forms of anxiety-related disorders, pain, and inflammation, to name a few areas currently being further investigated.

The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in Sleep

One of the most incredible discoveries in recent years is that there is an entire system in our bodies that we all have that purely exists to interact with and process cannabinoids. The endocannabinoid system, which interacts with roughly 100 cannabinoids—CBD and THC being just two of them—plays a crucial role in maintaining bodily functions, including sleep. It has also been discovered to be connected to the central nervous system (CNS). The cannabis sativa plant, from which CBD is derived from hemp plants, interacts with this system, particularly the cannabinoid receptors. These interactions can influence the body’s sleep-wake cycle, potentially helping you fall asleep at night, but more naturally than knocking you out with sedatives!

Research, such as that published in the Journal of Young Investigators, suggests that CBD can affect the circadian rhythm, thereby helping with regulating sleep patterns. This is promising for those seeking natural methods to improve their sleep quality, as well as being potentially helpful to shift workers who struggle to maintain healthy levels of REM sleep, This is the deep sleep that enables us to process memories, and things we learn during our time awake. Think of it as the part of sleep where we upload all of the day’s information into our hard drive storage. (source)

Could CBD oil help with Sleep Disorders?

While more research is needed, preliminary studies indicate CBD oil’s potential in treating sleep disorders, such as insomnia, which creates difficulty falling asleep for sufferers. Its ability to provide potential pain relief could be particularly beneficial for those whose chronic pain disrupts their sleep. CBD directly influences factors like daytime sleepiness, suggesting doses of CBD might be tailored to individual needs. (source)

Insomnia and CBD Oil – How does CBD oil help with insomnia?

Insomnia, one of the most common sleep disorders, can severely impact daily life. Research suggests that CBD might offer new hope. By addressing the root causes of insomnia, such as anxiety or chronic pain, CBD oil may help restore natural sleep patterns by targeting the root cause of the issue. Again, this is a very different approach than that taken with widely used sleep aids and medications, which generally look to force sleep rather than induce it naturally.

A study highlighted in the Permanente Journal shows promising results, with patients reporting improved sleep after using CBD oil. This research suggests CBD has potential as a significant aid for those battling insomnia. But more research is needed to be conclusive.

REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder and Its CBD Oil Mitigation

REM sleep behaviour disorder, often seen in Parkinson’s disease patients, can cause sleep disturbances. Initial results from studies suggest CBD oil might help. During studies, patients experienced a reduction in symptoms; these results suggest CBD as a potential treatment. Once more research has been undertaken to refine the method, dosage, and other finer specific details to ensure consistent positive outcomes,.

These results, while preliminary, are encouraging. They suggest that CBD oil could offer relief not just for Parkinson’s patients but for anyone experiencing similar sleep disturbances. It’s a promising area of research that could lead to new treatments.

Circadian Rhythm Disorders and the Effects of CBD Oil

Disruptions in the circadian rhythm, or the natural sleep-wake cycle, can lead to significant sleep problems and a general suppressed quality of life and wellness. However, CBD oil might offer a solution by potentially helping to regulate sleep habits, and support a better night’s sleep.

By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, CBD could help restore balance to the sleep-wake cycle. This could be hugely beneficial for those whose natural rhythm is out of sync, such as shift pattern workers, leading to better overall sleep quality.

How Does Sleep Effect Our Immune System?

Proper sleep is incredibly important for keeping the immune system working effectively, and it is vital for overall physical and mental health.

Top 5 ingredients for CBD Oil Products to Enhance Sleep Quality

When it comes to enhancing sleep quality, the right ingredients in CBD oil products make all the difference. From broad-spectrum CBD to sleep-promoting botanicals, these components work together to help you tackle trouble sleeping.

Comprehensive Guide to Using CBD Oil for Sleep – How do I use CBD oil for sleep?

Hemp-derived CBD has gained popularity as a promising sleep aid, thanks to its potential to alleviate sleep disturbances. Unlike other sleep aids, CBD oil works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system to regulate mood and stress, anxiety levels, pain and inflammation, which are all key factors that can influence sleep quality.

When considering CBD oil for sleep, it’s important to pay attention to the CBD content. Opting for products with a higher concentration of CBD may offer more pronounced benefits for sleep, potentially offering a natural solution to those struggling with insomnia or other sleep disorders.

Recommended Dose of CBD for Improved Sleep – Best CBD dosage for Sleep

For individuals exploring CBD and sleep, starting with a half dose (25mg) of the suggested optimum 50mg of CBD is recommended, before gradually building up if required.

Our recommendation is based on the broad-spectrum (distillate) CBD being used. Additionally, it is important to factor in other ingredients, such as the ones mentioned above, that are also present in the CBD oil. As sleep terpenes, for example, early research that is still being conducted has shown an ability to boost the effectiveness of other natural compounds, including cannabinoids, which makes a very formulated CBD oil for sleep more potent and effective, when compared to a basic CBD oil made with isolate.

This amount is seen as effective for most users, helping to enhance sleep quality without causing undue side effects. It’s important to note, however, that the MHRA doesn’t regulate CBD for sleep, so starting with a lower dose and adjusting as needed is advisable.

When using CBD oil to improve sleep, it’s also crucial to consider the levels of THC. Products with broad-spectrum CBD have undetectable low levels of THC, which are not likely to produce any psychoactive effects, making them more suitable for use as sleep aids. As always, consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement is recommended, especially if you are taking regular medications.

Different Forms of CBD for Sleep and How to Use Them

Aside from traditional CBD oil, there are various forms designed specifically for night-time use. Products like CBD evening balm, lavender bath bombs, and CBD aromatherapy candles offer alternative ways to incorporate CBD into your bedtime routine. Each product provides a unique experience, from the calming scent of lavender to the soothing topical application of a CBD balm.

These products are crafted to complement the effects of CBD oil, enhancing your overall sleep experience. Whether it’s the calming release of aromatic compounds from a bath bomb while soaking in the tub or the targeted local relief provided by an evening balm, combining these products with CBD oil can lead to a more holistic approach to improving sleep quality. Which is a healthy bedtime ritual to start.

The Potential Risks and Side Effects of Using CBD Oil

While hemp-derived CBD is generally considered safe, the WHO has also stated that there are no concerns regarding addiction to the compound and no known social problems caused by CBD either. However, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects such as drowsiness (generally in higher doses), dry mouth, and changes in appetite. These effects are typically mild and often dissipate with continued use. However, individuals may experience different responses based on the CBD content and their own sensitivity to the compound.

Moreover, CBD can interact with other medications, potentially altering their effects. Because of this, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD oil into your routine, particularly if you’re currently taking other medications for sleep disturbances or other conditions.

Legal Considerations and Safety

When exploring the potential benefits of CBD oil for sleep, it’s essential to consider the legal status of CBD in your region. While hemp-derived CBD is legal in many places, such as the UK, regulations can vary, impacting your ability to purchase and use these products safely.

Ensuring the safety and efficacy of CBD oil also involves choosing high-quality CBD products from reputable sources. Look for products that provide clear information about their CBD content and have been third-party lab tested to verify their purity and potency. This will help you make informed decisions and maximise the potential benefits of CBD for sleep.

Interactions with Other Medications

Before introducing CBD oil into your sleep routine, it’s important to be aware of its potential to interact with other medications. CBD can affect how your body processes certain drugs, potentially increasing or decreasing their effectiveness. This is particularly relevant for medications related to sleep, anxiety, and other conditions that might also be treated with CBD. SSRI medications used for treating depression have been reported to have interactions with CBD, so if you are taking a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, it is vital to consult your doctor prior to starting CBD orally.

To ensure safety and avoid unwanted side effects, discussing your intention to use CBD oil with a healthcare professional is advisable. They can provide guidance on appropriate dosages and advise on any potential interactions with your current medications, helping you to use CBD oil safely and effectively for sleep.

The Verdict on CBD Oil as a Sleep Aid

CBD oil has shown promise as an effective sleep aid for many individuals. By addressing factors such as anxiety and stress, which can contribute to sleep disorders, CBD oil can help improve sleep quality and duration. However, its effectiveness can vary, and integrating it into clinical practice and sleep medicine requires further research.

It’s also important to consider the quality of CBD oil and its source. Hemp-derived CBD products with verified CBD content can offer more reliable benefits for sleep. Before using CBD oil as a sleep aid, consulting with a healthcare professional, especially if you have existing sleep disorders, is advisable to ensure its safety and efficacy.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

Using CBD oil for sleep comes with its own set of pros and cons. On the plus side, CBD oil can offer a natural alternative to traditional sleep aids, with fewer side effects and the potential to address underlying causes of sleep disturbances. However, the variability in individual responses and the lack of regulation in the CBD market can make finding the right product challenging.

It’s also crucial to consider potential interactions with other medications and the legal status of CBD in your area. By carefully weighing these factors and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can make an informed decision about whether CBD oil is a suitable option for improving your sleep.

Beyond CBD: Alternative Natural Sleep Aids

While CBD oil has garnered attention for sleep improvement, exploring alternative natural sleep aids can offer additional benefits. These alternatives work in harmony with your body’s natural rhythms to encourage restful sleep without the need for prescription medications.

Among these alternatives, CBN (cannabinol) and melatonin stand out for their sleep-enhancing properties. CBN, like CBD, comes from the cannabis plant and is gaining recognition for its potential to improve sleep quality. Melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, is another popular choice for those seeking natural sleep solutions. Both options offer promising avenues for achieving a better night’s sleep.

The Promise of CBN for Sleep

CBN is emerging as a potent compound for sleep, thanks to its calming effects. Unlike CBD, CBN is specifically noted for its ability to induce sleep. This makes it an ideal candidate for those struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night.

Research into CBN’s effectiveness is still in its early stages, but anecdotal evidence suggests it could be a game-changer for sleep disorders. Its natural origin and potential for minimal side effects make CBN an attractive option for improving sleep quality.

The Role of Melatonin in Sleep Enhancement

Melatonin plays a crucial role in regulating our sleep-wake cycle. As darkness falls, your body naturally increases melatonin production, signalling it’s time to sleep. Supplementing with melatonin can help adjust your body’s internal clock, especially for those with irregular sleep patterns.

It’s important to note that in the UK, melatonin supplements require a prescription, reflecting the need for guidance on their use. Despite this, melatonin remains a popular and effective choice for enhancing sleep, especially for those dealing with jet lag or shift work sleep disorder.

Navigating the World of CBD for Sleep with Confidence

Entering the world of CBD for sleep can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge, you can make informed decisions. Understanding the quality and types of CBD products is crucial for maximising their sleep-inducing benefits.

Quality matters when it comes to CBD oils. Opting for products like broad-spectrum CBD rather than CBD isolate, which is extracted from hemp, ensures you’re getting a pure product. This is essential for experiencing the full potential benefits of CBD for sleep.

The importance of Quality CBD products

When choosing CBD oils for sleep, prioritising quality ensures you’re receiving a product that’s safe and effective. Look for CBD products that are transparent about their extraction methods and ingredients. Broad-spectrum CBD extracted from hemp, is an excellent choice for those looking to improve their sleep.

High-quality CBD directly impacts the effectiveness of the product. With CBD oils, the quality can influence how well they work for your sleep issues. Therefore, selecting a trusted brand that offers transparency and detailed product information is key.

Legal Status of CBD and How It Affects Your Choices

Understanding the legal status of CBD is crucial for making informed choices. In many places, CBD extracted from hemp with low levels of THC is legal, but laws can vary widely. This affects not only the availability of CBD products but also the types of products you can access.

Research has demonstrated that CBD offers potential benefits for sleep and anxiety, but it’s important to stay informed about your local regulations. Knowing the legal framework helps ensure that you’re complying with laws while exploring the potential benefits of CBD for sleep.

Which Type is the Best CBD for Sleep?

Well, we are going to be covering which type is the ‘best CBD for sleep?’ in another post, as it deserves its own dedicated look. But as an overview, there are 3 types of CBD used in commercial products on the market today. Isolate, broad-spectrum, and full spectrum CBD. Each, as with most things in life, comes with its own set of pro’s and con’s. At The London Dispensary, we chose to use broad-spectrum CBD, or distillate, as it can sometimes be called, in our edible and ingested products, and I will explain why after we have looked at the pro’s and con’s of each to determine which is the best CBD for sleep.

CBD Isolate

As the CBD industry in the UK began to hit mainstream usage and rapidly saw an influx of CBD brands appearing to service the new demand, the UK legal grey areas were far more grey than now. Due to concerns over changes potentially happening in the law and criminal liability due to a yet undefined THC legal limit at that point. Many brands have decided to use CBD isolate, which is ‘pure’ CBD. That might sound great, but hold on…..

CBD isolate has had all of the other cannabinoids stripped out of it, or, scientifically, the bonds broken between the compounds. To do this, it has undergone multiple levels of extraction and processing. So what might seem pure is actually the most manufacturer-made and unnatural CBD version left. We now also know about what is called the entourage effect. This was a discovery that confirmed that cannabinoids are more effective when there are other cannabinoids present. Why? We are still not sure, we just know it to be true currently.

The main pro for isolate is that it has 0 THC in it, so it had the least risk of being taken off the shelves had the laws changed early on. It’s also tasteless, so most CBD oils that have these very ‘interesting’ flavours use an isolate to make it easier to produce those elaborate flavours. Why you would want a Cola or bubble-gum CBD oil, I am not too sure, but each to their own!

The main con of isolate is that, as we now know, CBD edibles, vapes, and ingested CBD products made with it are largely ineffective and hugely inferior compared to the other versions. Brands still use it for the above reasons, and it also allows them to ship and sell the same product without modifications due to local laws in multiple countries without issue. But still, that means they are selling a very inferior product. If the label just states CBD in the ingredients of an oil, edible, vape, or gummy product, it’s most likely isolate.

CBD Full Spectrum

On the other end of the spectrum (pun intended!) there is full-spectrum CBD. As the name suggests, this is full of all of the natural cannabinoids occurring in hemp and, in different ratios, the cannabis and marijuana varieties too. That also means that full-spectrum CBD has a traceable amount of THC in it. The presence of the full profile of cannabinoids allows for the maximum benefit of the entourage effect, which I just explained above.

However, this has led to a number of products tested in the UK being over the legal limit of 1mg of THC per product. As full-spectrum CBD goes through the least processing, it is the more natural of the CBD types, but that makes it very difficult to accurately ensure the very strict THC limits are consistently adhered to. This led to a rather high number of products needing to be taken off the shelves and destroyed as they could not legally be sold in the UK. This also meant that some unsuspecting customers were actually in possession of a class B narcotic without realising it.

Brands that do sell and consumers that still buy full-spectrum CBD oil, either for sleep or other issues, do so with an element of risk still; they are widely available, and the brands that do sell them often do 3 or more rounds of batch testing to minimise any risk of legal implications due to THC.

Broad-Spectrum CBD or CBD Distillate

That brings us nicely to the third and final type of CBD, which has two names to make things a little bit more confusing. Broad-spectrum CBD and CBD distillate are the same thing but are interchangeable, distillate is the scientific classification; broad-spectrum, I generally feel, is more of a smart marketing nickname so that the three different types of CBD can be easily explained and recognised by consumers. But broadly speaking (there I go again!), broad spectrum CBD oil for sleep, anxiety, or a number of other potential benefactors, contains nearly a full cannabinoid profile, has had the THC compound removed until it is at an untraceable level using the latest testing methods available.

This is why we strictly buy broad-spectrum CBD oil to use in our edible and consumed CBD products, as the benefits from the entourage effect can be felt and utilised without any concerns or anxiety that you might be using an illegal product due to a too high  THC level. This gives us as a brand and you as the consumer peace of mind that when you buy broad-spectrum oil from us here at The London Dispensary, you are staying on the right side of the legal limits. Overall, you have no fear of potentially getting high from a CBD product containing too much THC. Shorten with AI

To prove the THC level is untraceable in our products, we publish our 3rd party accredited lab reports for each batch, which show the full cannabinoid profile of the CBD products.Shorten with AI

So, to make sure you are getting the best CBD oil for sleep with no legal issues that might come creeping out of nowhere, broad-spectrum CBD oil is your best bet. What is the best CBD oil for sleep? Well,  we believe its a broad-spectrum CBD oil for sure!

Other CBD Sleep Products – Can they help sleep?

When it comes to CBD in general and not just in relation to sleep, there are two clear product types that are clear favourites: CBD oils and CBD gummies. But that does not mean there aren’t other great CBD products that can benefit bedtime routines, evening rituals, and overall slumber. Talking of slumber, our aptly in house essential oil aroma for night time is called ‘Slumber’. The aromatherapy candle form has won multiple awards, including Best Sleep Candle. You can also enjoy the calming blend in luxury wax melt form.

Aromatherapy and CBD are a winning combination, especially when it comes to sleep. Terpenes, which give herbs and florals their own unique fragrances, come into their own when helping to induce a calmer and less stressed atmosphere. Essential oils help create a multi-sensory experience for the body and mind, filling the senses with supportive terpenes while the CBD oil gets to work internally.

If you are looking to dip your toe into the world of CBD for sleep, our Starter Kit for Sleep has been put together just for you! It includes a 30 night supply of Sleep Drops, our lavender pillow spray as well as a silk eye mask.

Testimonials & CBD Oil for Sleep Reviews

Here at The London Dispensary, we take transparency seriously, which is why we display every verified customer review we get. We have been able to establish a fantastic community of customers, particularly those who now swear by our CBD sleep oil. Here are some real customer testimonials and their CBD oil for sleep reviews.

Your Next Steps Towards Better Sleep with CBD Oil

If you’re considering using CBD oil to improve your sleep, integrating it into your sleep hygiene routine can be a natural next step. Sleep hygiene involves practices that are conducive to sleeping well on a regular basis, including using CBD oil.

By incorporating CBD oil into your nightly routine, you can enhance your body’s natural sleep mechanisms. Remember, consistency is key. Regular use, combined with other sleep hygiene practices, can significantly improve your sleep patterns over time.

Incorporating CBD into Your Sleep Routine

Integrating CBD oil into your sleep routine can be a smooth and effective process. Start by determining the optimal dose of CBD that works for you, focusing on how it helps you relax and prepare for sleep.

Consider taking CBD oil an hour before bed to allow it time to work effectively. Pairing CBD oil with other relaxing nighttime rituals, like reading or taking a warm bath, can further promote a restful night’s sleep.

Establishing a Sleep-Inducing Night-time Routine with CBD Oil

Creating a night-time routine that includes CBD oil can set the stage for improved sleep. The dose of CBD you use can be adjusted to fit your individual needs, helping you unwind and relax before bed.

Alongside CBD oil, incorporating activities such as light stretching or meditation can enhance its effects, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. This holistic approach to bedtime routines can transform your sleep quality.

A Final Word on Embracing CBD Oil for Sleep

Embracing CBD oil as a part of your sleep strategy requires balancing expectations with reality. While many have found relief from sleep issues with CBD, it’s important to remember that results can vary.

Being patient and adjusting your approach as needed can help you find the right balance. Remember, CBD oil is just one tool in your sleep improvement toolbox. Combining it with good sleep practices can enhance its benefits.

An award winning CBD sleep oil

For those seeking a direct path to better sleep, our award-winning CBD Sleep Drops offer a blend of quality, safety, and effectiveness. Crafted with natural ingredients and backed by clinical data, these drops are designed to decrease anxiety and improve sleep. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to learn more about our natural CBD Sleep Drops and start having the sleep of your dreams!

Frequently Asked Questions About CBD Oil and Sleep

Many people wonder if CBD oil can truly improve sleep quality. Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD oil may help by addressing factors that contribute to sleep disturbances, such as anxiety and stress. However, individual results can vary, and the effectiveness of CBD oil as a sleep aid depends on the quality of the product and the specific sleep issues being addressed.

The time it takes for CBD oil to affect sleep can also vary from person to person. Generally, it’s recommended to use CBD oil about 20–30 minutes before bedtime to allow the body to absorb and react to the compound. Consistent use over time may lead to more noticeable improvements in sleep quality. Currently, it is believed to take the average person at least 6 days to build up the required levels of CBD in the body to produce the most effective benefits.