Consuming cannabis for a better night’s sleep is trending, but achieving success comes down to finding the right product for you. There are so many options in dispensaries these days it can seem overwhelming.
Weed is still being studied for its impact on sleep, but much of the research is promising. The Community for Sleep-Care Professionals says, “It is a universally acknowledged truth that marijuana can make you sleepy.” I concur with this statement!
Specific cannabinoids within marijuana are linked to a better night’s sleep.
CBN is a newly popular cannabinoid and is often found in marijuana-infused sleep aids. Some studies have shown that CBN relieves stress and anxiety, which often get in the way of a good night’s rest.
CBG is a little-known cannabinoid which is known to help relieve pain and inflammation.
CBD has also shown to have a modulating effect on your endocannabinoid system (ECS), and may help to establish more regular sleeping patterns.
THC, the psychoactive component within weed, can also help you get to and stay asleep. However, with THC you’ll need to be cautious and not take too much – doing so can disturb REM sleep and keep you awake! Often, lower dose THC cannabis products are more effective for getting and staying asleep.
Brands to Look For
The primary problem many people have when using cannabis for a better sleep is finding the right products. Here are two of my personal favorites:
Dosist’s Sleep Vape Pen has been a favorite of mine for years. This vape pen is unique – as you inhale it vibrates when you have consumed a full dose. For me, understanding dosage is important, as I don’t want to overdo it before going to bed. With an 8:1 ratio of THC to CBD, it is fast-acting and helps me to relax almost immediately.
Wana Optimals Fast Asleep gummies are another great option. A fast-acting edible like this will help you get to sleep quickly. I had issues with restlessness when I slept until I started taking these low-dose THC gummies at night. Optimals has a unique blend of cannabinoids, including THC, CBG, CBD, and CBN, plus melatonin.
Before bed, I take one or two gummies and within twenty minutes, I will often nod off. You can find where to purchase Wana’s Fast Asleep gummies on Weedmaps.
Strains to Try
I’ve been using marijuana to help me sleep for a few years now. It took a bit of experimentation to figure out what strains of cannabis were finally best for sleep, but I’ve found some that work great for me.
THC and CBD can both support a better night’s sleep. I’ve found the key to success is to look for strains that have a bit more THC but are known to be sedative. THC can be tricky though, as you’ll want to find the right dose for you. Often, people find that low doses of THC are best, it really depends on you.
If you are vaping or smoking, I’d recommend consuming it very close to when you plan on going to sleep. This method of consumption is fast-acting and with the right strain you will find your Zzzz’s quickly.
Personally, there are a few weed strains that have worked wonders for me. I’ll list a few out below.
Harlequin is a great strain for sleep. Even though it’s Sativa-dominant, it contains high levels of CBD and does not have a strong psychoactive effect. This strain is perfect for newer cannabis consumers.
Another favorite of mine is Purple Urkle. This strain has been around since the 1980s and is perfect for unwinding after a long day. This strain is your classic Indica and may induce serious couch-lock – which is a great thing if you need to get a better night’s rest.
If I had to pick one favorite strain (and it wouldn’t be easy), I suppose I’d go with Lavender. I thoroughly enjoy this strain, and it has an all-over body sedative effect on me. The smell is surprisingly similar to actual lavender, which I also enjoy.
