Everyone knows smoking certain types of weed can make you sleepy upon puff, puff, passing. While others will energize and exhilarate your senses. Experts are finding that it’s the unique combination of cannabinoids that can assist with lulling cannabis consumers into a restful night of sleep.

This being a highly effective benefit for those who have trouble sleeping due to anxiety, sleeping disorders like insomnia, or have a hard time winding down in general. So how does cannabis work internally to help you fall asleep faster, and sleep more soundly? Here’s our in-depth guide into cannabis and sleep, and how the natural plant compounds can help.

How Cannabis Helps Sleep

Currently, 1 out of 2 Canadian adults report having trouble falling asleep, and staying asleep. Meaning, the demand for a remedy is high. Speaking of highs, cannabis is showing that it can help alleviate these sleeping issues that so much of the population endures. Most likely due to the fact that THC, one of its main cannabinoids, is proven to be a natural sleep-inducer at varied doses or levels.

Experts are finding that cannabis has the ability to reduce sleep latency. The fancy term for the period of time it takes to go from wakefulness to asleep. The recent study that came to this conclusion showed weed reduced tossing and turning to under 30 minutes for participants. The participants ranged from those who had no trouble sleeping, and those who did. After the dosage was administered, some even fell to sleep in less than 15 minutes.

These benefits for sleep, of course come from the unique makeup of cannabinoids and terpenes that cannabis contains. Next, we’ll explore what THC and CBD do specifically for sleep and the most beneficial scents to seek when seeking to improve your slumber.

Cannabinoids for Sleep

Trouble Sleeping? – How Cannabis Can Help

Trouble Sleeping? – How Cannabis Can Help

With the most recent debate of THC vs. CBD one cannabinoid comes out on top for sleep, with the research we know so far. That being, THC. In addition to being a natural sleep inducer, and reducing sleep latency, THC has also been studied due to its relation with REM sleep.

Or, rapid-eye-movement sleep. REM sleep typically induces nightmares and dreams that keep you from sleeping restfully. So it’s profound that a recent study has shown that THC can successfully reduce REM sleep, for a better night’s sleep all around.

CBD on the other hand, may also play a role but research is still trying to figure out to what extent. So far, experts know that CBD has an effect on feeling sleepy, by the way the cannabinoid interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system affecting the sleep-wake cycle. This could be why CBD at certain doses allows you to feel more alert, and at other dosages promotes sleepiness, too.

Terpenes for Sleep

Terpenes are aromatic centers of the cannabis plant, that provide the unique scents of each strain. Each terpene also has its very own effects and benefits, too. In fact and in regards to sleep specifically, one terpene, Limonene is showing to improve insomnia symptoms, proven by one study.

When combined with cannabinoids like CBD and THC, you’re treated to an ‘entourage effect’. That means the individual compounds amplify one another, for a more intense experience all around. This can be highly beneficial for sleep, for when more potent effects are required for helping a consumer fall asleep soundly.

Here’s a list of the most beneficial terpenes for sleep, and the aromas your nose should sniff for.

  • Myrcene – Earthy & musky in scent. Has sedative effects, and anti-inflammatory.
  • Caryophyllene – Clove-like & peppery in scent. Acts as an anxiolytic to reduce anxiety when falling asleep.
  • Limonene – Citrus & lemony in scent. Works as an antidepressant and reduces anxiety.
  • Terpineol – Pine & floral in scent. Has sedative effects, and pain-relieving for a restful sleep.
  • Linalool – Floral & herbal in scent. Is also found in abundance in the lavender plant, which is popular for promoting sleep. Linalool reduces anxiety and increases adenosine, a sedating hormone.

Best Strains for Sleep

So, when looking for the best strains for sleep now you know – high levels of THC are best, and a variety of terpenes can help promote sedating vibes, too. Since indica strains are more relaxing and soothing overall, these are the most common types of genetics to turn to for unwinding before bed. With a few that stand out more than the rest, when it comes to actual user reviews and real-time use.

From their cannabinoid and terpene combinations, to what users are actually saying here are a few of the best strains for sleeping soundly.

UBC Chemo

UBC Chemo or ‘Chemo’ is an indica dominant hybrid with moderate THC levels reaching 20% in some cases. The strain is abundant in caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene terpenes making it ideal for sleep.

Gorilla Glue

Known for ‘gluing’ you to your couch or seat, Gorilla Glue is an indica dominant strain ideal for sleep too. Its high in THC and its effects are relaxing with a sedating body buzz, perfect for nighttime use.

Cherry OG

Cherry OG is another indica dominant hybrid that is said to help alleviate the symptoms of insomnia. The high levels of THC provide a calming euphoria for the mind, for ultimate unwinding.

Zombie OG

Zombie OG is pungent in lavender scents from the terpene Linalool, meaning the indica dominant strain can help promote sleeping and sedating vibes. It also boasts high levels of THC.

Catching Z’s with Cannabis

Trouble Sleeping? – How Cannabis Can Help

Trouble Sleeping? – How Cannabis Can Help

From what we’ve learned today, there’s one thing that’s very clear – catching Z’s with cannabis is far from a myth. The key compounds and components of the cannabis plant naturally promote the pleasure of falling asleep. Peacefully, and soundly.

Between THC, CBD, and a plethora of soothing terpenes, cannabis might just be the best thing to hit the sheets for some. Especially for the abundant population that suffers from sleeping issues. If you’re seeking top-quality cannabis goods, with ideal levels of THC for sleeping comfort – look no further than Greenz and our premium collection of peaceful promoting products.