With 1 in 3 adults reporting that they don’t get the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep each night, it’s no wonder that there are so many products on the market that help people sleep. Insomnia has been linked to numerous chronic health conditions, including heart attack, COPD, stroke, cancer, depression, and coronary heart disease. Not getting enough sleep can contribute to accidents and affect work quality, causing an estimated $63.2 billion in lost productivity annually.

As you can see, this is a pretty serious issue, and one that needs more attention. In this article, we’re going to take a look at insomnia and other sleep issues, as well as some of the causes of insomnia, common treatments, and how CBD may help.

Causes of Insomnia

Let’s start by looking into the causes of insomnia. From time to time, we all experience a night where sleep is elusive. However, insomnia can become a longer-term issue that’s caused by underlying health conditions.

Here are some of the most common reasons for sleeplessness:

• Pain
• Anxiety
• Stress
• Hormones
• Changing time zones or Daylight Savings
• Overeating in the evening
• Poor daytime habits
• Too much caffeine
• Medications
• Medical conditions
• Alcohol consumption

Short-term insomnia can last a few days or weeks, but chronic insomnia lasts for a month or longer. Experiencing issues for longer than a month should warrant a consultation with a medical professional to evaluate any underlying conditions that could be causing it.

Symptoms of Insomnia

As surprising as it may seem, some people don’t realize they’re experiencing sleeplessness at first. They may feel a bit sluggish during the day or notice a few minor symptoms that seem innocuous. However, over time, this prolonged lack of sleep can interfere with their ability to work, operate a vehicle, or interact socially.

Sometimes, the symptoms can have minor effects, but others can affect your home and work lives, too. These are some of the minor indications of a sleep disorder:

• Unable to fall asleep or stay asleep
• Sluggishness during the day
• Waking up tired
• Difficulty paying attention
• Irritability
• Making mistakes at work or school
• Issues with memory
• Clumsiness

Over time, sleep disruption can result in more serious health conditions, so getting it under control should be a priority. Some of these issues can include:

• Weight gain
• Diabetes
• Accidents
• High blood pressure
• Anxiety or depression
• Job loss
• Sleep apnea
• Chronic pain
• Cancer

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, an evaluation by a healthcare professional can determine if insomnia is the cause, and what treatments can be helpful.

Common Remedies for Sleep Disorders

Getting to the root cause of insomnia can help determine the best course of action. While taking a sleep aid can help, treating the cause of the sleep disruption can help to keep it away for the long term. For example, if pain is the cause, then treating the problem with an effective pain management regimen could help resolve insomnia.

While medical interventions could be the right course of action, other integrative activities may also help. Before seeking any holistic, alternative, or integrative therapies, first check with your healthcare provider to make sure they don’t interrupt or conflict with other treatments.

These are some of the ways you can promote relaxation and prepare yourself for sleep:

• Yoga or deep stretching
• Meditation
• Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT)
• Practicing good sleep hygiene
• Reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption
• Putting away screens at least an hour before bedtime
• Deep breathing techniques
• Phone apps for sleep

Experimenting with different activities can help you figure out just the right regimen. Be patient and give this time to work, and if something isn’t working after a few weeks, try another technique. Everybody is different, and you may find that a combination of these activities is exactly what you need!

Does CBD Help Insomnia?

If you’re reading this article, you’re likely already exploring the various ways that CBD could help your wellness overall. And you’re possibly wondering how and if it can help you sleep better. Let’s look at some ways that CBD and its sister cannabinoid CBN could be beneficial.

CBD, also known as cannabidiol, has been studied for its calming effects, but is sought after partly because it doesn’t produce a psychoactive “high” as THC does. Clinical evidence has pointed to its value in helping epilepsy and mental health conditions. Additionally, researchers have studied it for its ability to calm the central nervous system (CNS).

In a study that evaluated people who suffer from insomnia and anxiety, patients reported that they found relief for anxiety after taking CBD over time. Sleep scores improved by a smaller degree. If stress is the root cause of insomnia, then improving the anxiety could possibly help sleep.

This study used 25mg/d capsules, which were administered depending on the patients’ complaints. If anxiety was the main cause of sleeplessness, then doses were given in the morning, and sometimes in the evening after dinner. If insomnia was the primary concern, then doses were given only in the evenings.

What is CBN?

CBN, or cannabinol, is another type of cannabinoid. CBN is also non-psychoactive and is extracted from older cannabis. Many CBD products on the market have trace amounts of CBN in them, but some products isolate the CBN during the extraction process to create products with higher levels of CBN.

In a study published by the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Ecology (FASEB) that compared it to NSAIDs for its use as an anti-inflammatory, CBN was found to reduce collagen-induced arthritis. If pain and inflammation are the root cause of insomnia, CBN may, over time, help to mitigate pain-induced sleep disruptions.

Psychology Today has touted CBN as a “powerful sedative” and says that it may prolong sleep time. It is a known CNS depressant. Research linking CBN to sleep improvement is relatively new, but we anticipate that after the Farm Bill of 2018 legalized industrial hemp, we could see more on the horizon.

CBD, the ECS, and Sleep

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) that regulates homeostasis in your body also plays an essential role in the quality of sleep you get. It regulates your sleep cycles, wakefulness, and even your dreams. Additionally, it oversees your stress levels, emotions, and pain, all of which can affect your sleep.

Your body produces cannabinoids naturally that bind with receptors in your body to regulate specific functions. However, phytocannabinoids such as CBD, CBN, and CBG can also interact with these receptors. These compounds can modulate your ECS to produce the hormones that promote sleep, as well as adjust neurotransmission rates and create a calming effect.

Best Forms of CBD for Sleep

Many forms of cannabidiol exist, but one size does not fit all. Here, we’ll look at some of the most popular forms of CBD products on the market, as well as the best products to use for those sleepless nights.

Forms of CBD:

• Tinctures and oils
• Softgels and capsules
• Topical creams, lotions, and salves
• Vape
• Edibles, gummies, and candies

There is truly something for every preference, right down to the dosage, flavor, and form you prefer. That said, some forms of CBD work differently than others.

For example, taking an edible such as a gummy will take longer to start working in the system, but it will last longer than vaping or smoking. And conversely, vaping will take effect within minutes, but its effects will not last as long as an edible form.

CBD oil, however, should be held under the tongue (sublingually) for a few minutes before swallowing. This allows for quicker absorption into the bloodstream and a higher bioavailability because it doesn’t have to pass through the digestive system first. When taken sublingually, CBD oil can take effect in 5-20 minutes, compared to oral consumption, taking anywhere between half an hour to two hours.

Finally, topical creams and lotions allow for cannabinoids to absorb through the skin’s surface, which will enable them to interact with cannabinoid receptors. This can be a good option for those who experience inflammation and need an onsite application. However, when applied topically, the peak effect happens around 90 minutes after application.

When it comes to sleep, how you take CBD could be influenced by some key factors. If achy joints cause sleep disruption, applying a topical could be the way to go. If stress and anxiety are the issue, you may decide to opt for drops. Or, if you’re waking up too early in the morning and desire a longer-lasting effect, the capsule or gummy could be most helpful.

This information is meant to inform and not to replace any advice given by your medical doctor. Our goal is to provide you with enough information to have an informed conversation with your medical provider or pharmacist, who can guide your healthcare.

Terpenes and Insomnia

Terpenes are found on plants and can influence how cannabis works in the body. While CBD has its own qualities, the terpenes work in concert with cannabinoids to produce the entourage effect. This means that the effects of the cannabinoids and the terpenes together create a more amplified result than just taking one or the other.

When considering CBD or CBN products to help you sleep, you might also consider the terpenes in the product. To determine which terpenes are in your product, take a look at the third-party lab testing, which will list the amounts as well. Side note: avoid cannabis products that don’t have this independent testing—they may not contain quality ingredients or even the amount of advertised CBD in them.

Here are some of the recommended terpenes that may help you sleep better:

• Caryophyllene: may produce calming effects, as well as help with pain and insomnia. Known for its relaxing and analgesic properties, and can bind with your body’s cannabinoid receptors.
• Linalool: could help to calm the body and create a drowsy effect. Potentially promotes the production of adenosine, and hormone that is responsible for inducing sleep.
• Myrcene: a commonly found terpene found in the cannabis plant known for its possible sedating effects.
• Nerolidol: known for its sedating effects, this terpene may also reduce inflammation and promote deeper sleep.
• Terpinolene: can induce sleepiness and sedative effects and may interact directly with your body’s CNS.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to using CBD for sleep, the full effects can take time to achieve. We recommend starting with a lower dose, then working up incrementally until the maximum effect is achieved. If you wake up feeling groggy, you might give it a few days or weeks to see if your body adjusts.

We are looking forward to seeing more research emerge in this field in the months and years to come!

The post Does CBD Help with Insomnia? appeared first on Your CBD Store / Ripon Naturals.

Cannabidiol (CBD) has been around for quite a long time, and now some other players in the cannabis market are emerging: cannabinol (CBN) and cannabigerol (CBG). The cannabis plant contains more than 100 different cannabinoids, and scientists are researching more about each of them to better understand their potential benefits. Each has its purpose in your healthcare and self-care regimen, but before you decide on which product to use, it’s important to take a moment to fully understand how each can potentially benefit you.

We’re going to explore an array of topics so that you can become more familiar with the potential benefits of CBD, CBN, and CBG. Read on to learn more!

What is CBD?

If you’re visiting our site, you’ve likely already heard of CBD and how it has shown promise in helping with a number of conditions, including inflammation, acne, anxiety, depression, seizures, and insomnia, to name a few. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a cannabinoid that is isolated and then extracted from the hemp plant, which contains high levels of CBD, but does not have THC.

People have used CBD for hundreds of years, and many prefer it to TCH because it has no psychoactive effects, or “high”. Users can take it throughout the day if needed, without slowing down from sedation or other side effects. While some CBD products do have a very small amount of THC (less than 0.03%), most do not contain any. Even products that have a trace quantity of THC don’t produce mind-altering effects, although you may feel relaxed. If you have a job that requires drug testing, using only the highest-quality CBD products is even more important. Some producers create products that don’t utilize strict third-party lab testing, and these products could contain higher quantities of THC that show up in a drug screening.

One question we get a lot is whether or not CBD is legal. CBD is legal in most states, but before you make a purchase, check on the specific laws in your state to make sure it’s lawful to use, and familiarize yourself with regulations that may be in place. Where some states allow all forms of cannabis for recreational and health use, others only allow it for health-related conditions, and a prescription is required. You may be required to carry documentation with you in some states.

What is CBN?

Cannabinol, or CBN, was the first cannabinoid to be identified by scientists, and shares many similarities with CBD: it’s also free of THC, and numerous studies have explored its potential health benefits, which we’ll cover more in depth below. CBN does not have remarkable psychoactive effects—however, CBN is more widely known for having a drowsy effect. Many times, it is combined with CBD and essential oils to create tinctures for sleep and other uses.

Interestingly, CBN is created as a cannabis byproduct. All cannabis products, whether oils, on plants, or in other forms, will eventually oxidize, and this is how CBN is produced. So for example, if you purchase a THC tincture, over time it will age and become CBN.

What is CBG?

CBG was first identified in the 1960s, and is emerging as yet another form of cannabis that can be used for its potential therapeutic effects. Studies surrounding cannabigerol have identified promise for possibly helping inflammation, neurological disorders, pain, and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. CBG is found in much lower concentrations in the cannabis plant, making it a bit more expensive and difficult than its counterparts to extract and produce. That said, hemp scientists are working to create hemp plants that are genetically engineered to have higher levels of CBG, leaving less waste and more efficiently grown crops.

How CBD, CBN, and CBG Work in the Body

To better understand which of these three cannabinoid strains could be the most beneficial for you, you should understand how they work in the body. You might have heard of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), but did you know that this system creates its own cannabinoids to achieve homeostasis in the body? Let’s break down how it all works.

Endocannabinoids

Endocannabinoids are a form of neurotransmitters that are produced when the body detects a disruption in homeostasis. They are released in the system and bind to either CB1 or CB2 receptors (more on those below), and perform specific tasks to bring the body back to its normal state. Once this is accomplished, enzymes are produced by the body that break down the endocannabinoids.

Phytocannabinoids

What’s the difference between endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids? Well, the biggest difference is that endocannabinoids are produced by the body, and phytocannabinoids are produced by plants. Phytocannabinoids, when consumed by eating, smoking, or vaping, act in the same way as endocannabinoids to interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors to produce various effects in the body.

CB1 and CB2 Receptors

So what are these CB1 and CB2 receptors we keep mentioning? CB1 and CB2 receptors are the two types of receptors that bind to cannabinoids in the body, and they work to regulate numerous physiological responses. Your nervous system (brain, spinal cord, and nerves) is packed with CB1 receptors, which help to regulate your mood, hunger, memories, and even movement. Pain and inflammation are regulated by CB2 receptors, which are found in many of your internal organs such as your heart, liver, bones, blood vessels, and reproductive organs. Take a look at the infographic to see where CB1 and CB2 receptors are found in the body.

How your ECS works with CB1 and CB2 Receptors

Now that you have a basic understanding of what the ECS actually does, let’s look at how these components all work together. Your ECS is tasked with regulating your body and achieving homeostasis, so when an outside stimulus disrupts homeostasis, your ECS activates and signals the brain to start producing endocannabinoids.

The endocannabinoids then bind to CB1 and/or CB2 receptors, depending on the stimulus that triggered their production in the first place. For example, when you experience pain or inflammation, they will bind to CB2 receptors to help mitigate pain or the inflammatory response. Once the body has returned to homeostasis, endocannabinoids stop production, enzymes consume the remaining endocannabinoids, and everything is good to go.

How CBD, CBN, and CBG Play a Role in Homeostasis

Phytocannabinoids can act like the natural cannabinoids your body produces. Let’s start with THC, which binds directly to your ECS receptors and creates a “high” feeling. Your body relaxes, your mind is happy, and everything is just…good. Unlike THC, CBD does not bind to these receptors, and instead, influences them indirectly to stimulate the production of cannabinoids. More than that, CBD also stimulates the 5-HTP receptors in your brain to produce serotonin, the “happiness hormone” that regulates your mood and emotions.

CBD and the ECS

Why take CBD, then, if your own body produces cannabinoids? Well, sometimes the body doesn’t produce enough cannabinoids to take care of pain, anxiety, inflammation, or to combat infections. Some people experience what’s called endocannabinoid deficiency and just don’t produce enough endocannabinoids to benefit their ECS. CBD, however, stimulates the production of cannabinoids to make up for what your body doesn’t naturally produce. But more than that, it also interrupts the body’s signal to stop producing endocannabinoids, and to produce the endocannabinoid-eating enzymes once homeostasis is achieved.

CBN and the ECS

Now let’s look at CBN and its role in the ECS. Like CBD, CBN does not bind to your CB1 and CB2 receptors, and it also stimulates the production of cannabinoids in the body. What cannabinol does is activate capsaicin-sensitive sensory nerves to reduce pain, inflammation, and even infections not only throughout the body, but also in damaged and inflamed tissues directly. Evidence also points to CBN producing the same effects in the body as taking a prescription valium. CBN is effective in very small doses, and has been found to be even more effective when combined with smaller amounts of CBD or THC.

CBG and the ECS

CBD has a low affinity for the CB1 and CB2 receptors and influences them directly, but cannabigerol works directly with them. CBG can also act as a buffer in conjunction with THC to reduce the paranoia that sometimes occurs. Additionally, it stimulates the body to produce a hormone called anandamide, which is also known as the “bliss molecule.” Anandamide binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors, and creates a “reward” effect, much like you feel when eating an incredible piece of chocolate. Furthermore, it stimulates endocannabinoids to help with pain, inflammation, and appetite.

Potential Health Benefits of CBD, CBN, and CBG

When considering potential health benefits of CBD, CBN, and CBG, consideration must be given to the Food & Drug Administration’s stance on cannabinoids. While the FDA has approved two prescription medications that utilize cannabinoids, no other products on the market have yet been given approval. We cannot make claims that CBD cures or treats health conditions, but we can discuss potential health benefits based evidence found in juried studies, and err on the side of sharing information responsibly.

What Are the Health Benefits of CBD?

One of the most commonly cited benefits of CBD is that it may help to reduce pain, inflammation, and neuropathy. Anxiety and depression are two other conditions that have also been extensively studied, and evidence points to CBD having a calming effect. Migraine sufferers may also find benefits to taking CBD, because of its anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and calming properties. CBD has been found to suppress appetite and reduce nausea. The FDA recently approved a prescription medication derived from CBD that treats epilepsy and protects the brain against neurodegeneration.

What Are the Health Benefits of CBN?

Research on CBN’s potential health benefits is in its early stages, but one of the most-often cited ailments it might help is insomnia. CBN’s sedative effects can help insomniacs sleep up to six hours longer throughout the night. Additionally, these effects have been linked to reduced anxiety and depression symptoms. Like CBD, CBN shows promise in reducing pain and inflammation, especially in capsaicin-receptive neurons. Some health conditions and medications suppress appetite, and studies have pointed to CBN as an appetite stimulant.

What Are the Health Benefits of CBG?

CBG is found in very small amounts in the hemp plant, making it more difficult to extract and more expensive to produce. More studies are being conducted to provide a wider understanding of its benefits, but what we know now shows promise. Similar to CBD and CBN, CBG has shown potential benefits to helping anxiety and depression, as well as reduced inflammation and pain. An analog of CBG called CBGV, has been found to increase your body’s ability to metabolize CBD, making CBD more potent (our CBG formulas also contain small amounts of CBD). One study also pointed to CBG as an appetite stimulant. More than that, studies have linked CBG as a promising treatment for glaucoma with its properties as a vasodilator. It is neuroprotective, and studies are in progress for its potential benefits of those with neurodegenerative disorders. It has also been linked to killing MRSA, a drug-resistant bacteria, and could help combat the inflammation associated with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome.

How Do I Choose Between the Three?

This is a great question! A lot of it depends on what your goals are for taking a cannabinoid. For example, if you’re looking for a good night’s sleep, you might consider CBN, which has been linked in numerous studies to its sleep benefits. CBG, on the other hand, has a more energetic effect, and stimulates appetite. Take a look at the infographic below to see a side-by-side comparison of some of the potential benefits.

How Should I Take CBD, CBN, and CBG?

The method in which one consumes CBD, CBN, and CBG matters depending on a number of circumstances. Every person’s body will react differently, so your mileage may vary, of course. Again, taking the time to research the source of a company’s products is crucial. Pay attention to third-party lab results, especially as they pertain to potency, toxins, and level of THC to ensure quality.

How to Take CBD, CBN, and CBG

CBD comes in a number of delivery methods, including oils, edibles, vape cartridges, bath bombs, capsules, creams, and lotions. The American Cancer Association has recommended using a vape cartridge to help nausea and vomiting because the effects occur more quickly than consuming it by mouth. Skin creams, lotions, and topical treatments can deliver CBD’s antibacterial properties right to the source if the intent is to treat dry skin, acne, or other inflammation. Soaking in a warm tub with a bath bomb is a fantastic way to de-stress and enjoy the relaxing effects of CBD.

CBD and CBG are offered in water-soluble and oil-based formulas. The benefit of water-soluble CBG and CBD is that it is more bioavailable than oil, which means a higher and faster absorption rate. Read more about the differences between water-soluble and sublingual CBD formulas here: Water Soluble CBD or Sublingual Oil?

As with any cannabis product, it is recommended that you start with lower doses at first. This can help you determine whether or not the dose is working well for you, and you can slowly titrate up as/if needed. Where less potent formulas of cannabinoids might require an entire dropper for a therapeutic effect, investing in a higher-potency formula could mean using only a few drops at a time. Pay attention to your body and make adjustments as needed.

We hope this article has given you a better understanding of the differences between CBD, CBN, and CBG. While this is by no means comprehensive, it is intended to provide a better overall understanding of the three. At Ripon Naturals, we’re committed to providing the best CBD, CBN, and CBG products possible. Shop our online store to buy CBD and other quality cannabis products!

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