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Having enough sleep, similar to regular exercise and a proper diet, is one of the most crucial components for a person to stay healthy and fit. However, it is regrettable that most adults suffer from sleep disorders, with insomnia being the most common. Insomnia and other sleeping problems can become a problem since lack of sleep can result in unproductivity, lack of focus, headaches, and other effects that can negatively affect your day-to-day living.
In this post, we are happy to tell you about how cannabis can be an effective sleep aid for most adults. Various cannabis strains have been proven effective in improving sleep and support in the treatment of insomnia. Particular cannabis strains can keep you relaxed, slow down thoughts, relieve pain, and help release certain chemicals from the brain to help you fall asleep and stay asleep. If you want to know more about the best weed strains for sleep, then read on!
Cannabis and sleep
We already know that there are significant differences between indica and sativa strains. The sativa ones help you get a good deal of energy boost, while the indica ones help promote full-body relaxation. These effects can also be based on the various cannabinoid and terpene concentrations rather than simply indica or sativa. The most abundant compound found in cannabis is THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, and it has been commonly associated with sedative and psychoactive effects. CBD another well-known compound found in cannabis and is known to have anti-inflammatory properties making it very practical to relieve pain. CBD is also associated to increased relaxation and has relaxing sedative effects when combined with THC.
Other than THC and CBD, there is another compound found in marijuana plants, and these compounds are referred to as terpenes. The terpenes known to induce sleep include myrcene, limonene, linalool, terpineol, and caryophyllene.
What is insomnia?
The most common sleep disorder that is being treated with the help of cannabis is insomnia. Clinically speaking, insomnia is defined as the difficulty of falling asleep or staying asleep for at least three nights per week over two consecutive weeks. This sleep disorder is often related to a life event such as a stressful day or an upcoming big event. Insomnia can also be caused by many variables, including but not limited to lifestyle, medication, and certain mental disorders. Insomnia can be acute or chronic.
THC & CBD
We all know that cannabis strains are not created equal, and they can be different when it comes to composition and content. If you are relatively new to using cannabis, you must become familiar with the major cannabinoids found in cannabis which are THC and CBD. THC is the primary psychoactive compound that is found to be effective in promoting appetite and relieve nausea. THC is also a natural sedative and pain-reliever. On the other hand, CBD is the major non-psychoactive compound in cannabis plants and is extensively recognized for its therapeutic effects, which include anti-inflammatory properties, pain relief, and aid in the treatment of anxiety and depression.
So, which cannabinoid will work best for helping you have a good night’s sleep? As mentioned above, THC has sound sedative effects that can facilitate sleep. At the same time, CBD can be very effective in alleviating symptoms of anxiety and pain, therefore, helping you get a more comfortable sleep. These studies and observations only mean that both compounds can be effective when it comes to helping you fall asleep. You have to identify which issue has been causing you to have a hard time falling asleep so that you can pick a THC-rich or CBD-rich strain that can help you address the problem and work effectively for you.
Indica, sativa, and hybrids – will it matter?
The indica vs. sativa topic has long been studied and continues to be researched since cannabis has been used for both medical and recreational use. Cannabis strains are often categorized as being an indica, sativa, or a hybrid of the two. Indica strains are known to be sedating, while the sativa ones are meant to give you an energy boost. The hybrids can be a combination of both, and the effects can depend on which elements are dominant in that particular hybrid strain.
Based on the characteristics of those mentioned above, if your goal is to sleep better, you may want to be more inclined to using indica or indica-dominant strains. However, each person is unique, so each might have different effects individually. This can also be a trial and error, and you must find the strain that will work best for you.
Edibles or smoking weed for sleep – Which is better?
The method of consuming cannabis will always be a matter of preference, and it is always up to you if you want to smoke or ingest your cannabis products. However, you may want to know the effects and their differences based and depending on the method of consumption that you will choose. When it comes to smoking or vaping, the results of the cannabis can be felt almost instantly, primarily within minutes, yet the effects can only last for 2 to 4 hours. On the other hand, Edibles may take quite some time for it to take effect, but the results can last for a more extended period of time, typically from 6 to 8 hours.
If you plan on using cannabis for sleep, smoking cannabis can be beneficial for people who have a hard time falling asleep. However, if your sleeping problem mainly relates to having difficulty staying asleep, consuming edibles may be a lot more beneficial since the effects can last for up to 8 hours.
Best weed strains for sleep
Purple Kush
The Purple Kush has a THC content of about 22% and a CBD content lesser than 0.1%. This strain is known for its sedative and pain-relieving properties and is admired by many users because of its sweet taste. This strain is a cross of the Purple Afghani and the Hindu Kush. If severe pain is the reason you cannot fall asleep, then this strain will work well for you.
God’s Gift
This heavy-hitting strain is indica-dominant and a cross of the GDP or Granddaddy Purple and the OG Kush. This is a very potent strain that provides a relaxing full-body high that makes you relaxed and will eventually help you fall asleep. This is a very impressive strain when it comes to handling problems with sleep, most especially insomnia.
GDP
Most commonly known as Granddaddy Purple, this indica strain is prevalent for its sedating and intensely relaxing effects. However, this strain can be too much for first-time users; that is why you must be careful when using GDP. The GDP has a THC content that ranges from 13% to 32% and a CBD content of less than 1%.
Critical Kush
The Critical Kush is an indica dominant strain cross of the OG Kush and Critical Mass. This strain boasts a THC content of about 25% and a CBD content of 1%. We recommend that you use the Critical Kush close to bedtime cause the effects can come quickly and intensely. If you use a large quantity of this strain, you can expect to wake up several hours later.
Northern Lights
This strain is known to be the most used and consumed strain in cannabis history. The Northern Lights can be consumed even by novice users since the THC content of this strain can come up for up to only 18%. The Northern Lights is considered to be a moderate strain, but the effects are impressively fast-acting. This strain is also very effective in melting the stress and anxiety away; therefore, this can significantly help you have a good night’s sleep.
Final thoughts on cannabis and sleep
Lack of sleep can be detrimental and damaging to a person’s health than merely making you feel tired, irritable, and grumpy. Sleep deprivation can lead to serious health problems such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and issues concerning the brain and heart. That is why it is crucial to address any problems or issues concerning sleep to avoid any further issues, and the best way to do it is by finding the best cannabis strain for you.
Let’s explore some of the top weed strains for sleep this year:
1. Chimera
This intriguing hybrid, a blend of White Truffle and The Creature, is gaining attention for its distinctive flavor profile, with notes of port wine and orange Tic-Tacs. Its relaxing effects make it an excellent choice for easing into a restful evening.
2. Hawaiian Snowcone
Renowned for its award-winning heritage, this strain combines Z and Lemon Cherry Gelato with Hawaiian Plushers. Its exquisite taste and soothing effects make it a popular choice for relaxation.
3. White Cookies Strain
This strain, a delightful mix of White Widow and Girl Scout Cookies, offers balanced effects appealing to both recreational and medicinal users. Its unique blend of citrus, earthy, and vanilla flavors makes it a top choice for cannabis enthusiasts.
4. Purple Kush
A beautiful hybrid born from Hindu Kush and Purple Afghani, Purple Kush is noted for its high THC content and profoundly soothing experience. Its earthy, grape, and woody notes add to its uniqueness.
5. Granddaddy Purple
A staple in the cannabis world, Granddaddy Purple presents a complex aroma of grapes and berries. It’s perfect for those seeking a mix of cerebral euphoria and physical relaxation to aid in sleep.
6. Northern Lights
One of the most iconic strains, Northern Lights is a pure indica known for its ability to relax muscles and soothe tensions, guiding you gently into a restful night.
7. Bubba Kush
Famous for its heavy, tranquilizing effects, Bubba Kush is a popular choice for combating insomnia, thanks to its rich chocolate and coffee notes.
8. Sugar Black Rose
For those who prefer a more potent strain, Sugar Black Rose boasts a high THC level. Its full-body buzz is ideal for unwinding before bedtime.
9. Chemdawg #4
Offering a tangy lemon flavor and significant THC content, Chemdawg #4 is great for those seeking mental relaxation before sleep.