Cannabis For Sleep: A Buyer’s Guide

How to Find the Right Product for Restful Nights

In today’s fast-paced world, sleep problems are increasingly common. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, or simply a busy lifestyle, getting a good night’s rest can sometimes feel impossible. But with the ever-expanding selection of cannabis products available, how do you know which one is right for you? Here’s a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you navigate the world of cannabis for sleep. From the different types of products to understanding the role of cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and CBN, this guide will help you make an informed choice to get the deep sleep you deserve.

 

Understanding Cannabinoids: THC, CBD, and CBN for Sleep

The primary cannabinoids found in cannabis interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system in different ways, influencing how they affect sleep. Here are the main cannabinoids that influence the way we sleep:

• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): Known for its psychoactive effects, THC can help induce sleep by promoting relaxation and drowsiness. However, higher doses may increase the risk of anxiety or make it harder to stay asleep, so finding the right balance is essential.

• CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-psychoactive, CBD is often favored for its calming effects without the “high” associated with THC. It’s excellent for reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, which can be beneficial if stress is keeping you up at night.

• CBN (Cannabinol): Often referred to as the “sleep cannabinoid,” CBN is a lesser-known compound gaining popularity for its sedative properties. Unlike THC and CBD, CBN is specifically linked to promoting sleep and can enhance the body’s natural ability to rest.

 

The Benefits of CBN for Sleep

CBN, which forms when THC oxidizes and degrades, is particularly useful for those seeking deeper, longer sleep without the intense psychoactive effects of THC.

Here’s why CBN is becoming a go-to option for sleep:

• Sedative Properties: CBN is believed to have more sedative effects than both THC and CBD, making it ideal for those struggling with insomnia or poor sleep quality. Early studies suggest that even small amounts of CBN may help users fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

• Non-Psychoactive: While THC is associated with a “high,” CBN is not psychoactive in typical doses, meaning you can benefit from its sleep-inducing properties without feeling altered or impaired.

• Combining CBN with Other Cannabinoids: CBN is often paired with other cannabinoids like THC and CBD in sleep products to create a synergistic effect known as the “entourage effect.” This combination can offer enhanced relaxation and sedation while balancing out potential side effects like anxiety from THC.

• Relaxing Muscle Tension: Some studies suggest that CBN can help reduce muscle tension and promote overall body relaxation, which is critical for easing into restful sleep. If you’re looking for a more targeted solution for sleep problems, cannabis products high in CBN—such as tinctures, capsules, or CBN-specific edibles—are worth considering. These products can be particularly beneficial for those with chronic insomnia or for individuals who find that THC alone isn’t helping them stay asleep through the night.

 

Different Formats of Cannabis for Sleep

When it comes to cannabis for sleep, you’ll find a variety of product types, each offering different delivery methods and onset times. Here are the most popular categories:

1. Flower

Cannabis flower, or bud, is the most traditional form. Smoking or vaping cannabis flower provides quick onset effects, often within minutes. Indica strains, known for their sedating and calming properties, are typically the best cannabis for sleep. Look for strains high in THC, CBN, and myrcene, a terpene that has been shown to promote relaxation. The benefits of flower are its quick onset and easily adjustable dosage, however, the effects wear off relatively quickly and it’s not ideal if you have lung sensitivities. Some great flower strains to try for sleep are 1964’s Organic Comatose, Carmel’s Masterpiece and Green Mile’s BC Key Moh Kush. All available now at Kelo Cannabis Pitt Meadows!

2. Edibles

Edibles, such as gummies, chocolates or beverages offer a convenient way to consume cannabis for sleep. The effects take longer to kick in (usually 30 minutes to two hours), but they last much longer than inhaled cannabis—perfect for those who need help staying asleep throughout the night. Many edibles designed for sleep are now formulated with CBN to enhance their sedative effects. The benefits of edibles are their long-lasting effects and ease of consumption, however, they can be hard to dose, have a delayed onset and can easily be overconsumed. Kelo Cannabis Pitt Meadows has a wide variety of edibles that help you get a good nights rest. Some good products to try are: Monjour Bare’s CBN Bedtime Blueberry Lemon Gummies, Wana’s Midnight Berry CBN/CBD Gummies and Wyld’s Real Fruit Elderberry CBN Gummies.

3. Tinctures

Cannabis tinctures are liquid extracts that can be placed under the tongue for sublingual absorption or added to food or drinks. Tinctures provide more control over dosage than edibles and offer quicker onset times, typically within 15-45 minutes. Tinctures that contain a mix of THC, CBD, and CBN are ideal for sleep. Tinctures are great because of their customizable dosing, faster onset than edibles, however, the effects may not last as long as edibles. Need a recommendation? Kelo Cannabis Pitt Meadows now offers MediPharm Labs’ CBN 1:2 Nighttime Formula.

4. Capsules

Capsules offer a discreet and precise way to take cannabis. Like edibles, they provide long-lasting effects, but without the need to smoke or deal with sugary products like gummies. They’re easy to dose and have long-lasting effects, however, they do have a slower onset than other ingestible products. A great capsule to start your cannabis sleep journey with is Emprises CBD + CBN Softgels, now available at Kelo Cannabis Pitt Meadows.

 

Choosing the Right Strain of Cannabis for Sleep

When selecting cannabis for sleep, the strain you choose can make a big difference. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for:

• Indica-dominant strains: Typically preferred for their body-high effects, helping you to relax and unwind. Indicas are known to be more sedating than sativas and are generally recommended for nighttime use.

• High-THC strains: Can be beneficial if you have trouble falling asleep, as THC has sedative properties in the right dosage. However, be cautious with very high doses, as too much THC can sometimes cause anxiety or disrupt sleep.

• High-CBD strains: Great for reducing anxiety and stress without the psychoactive effects of THC. If your sleep problems stem from a racing mind, high-CBD strains could help you relax.

• CBN-infused strains: For those looking for an extra sleep boost, choosing strains or products specifically infused with CBN can enhance the sedative effects and promote longer-lasting sleep. Some well-known sleep-promoting strains include Granddaddy Purple, Northern Lights, and Purple Kush, all of which are indica-dominant and high in myrcene.

 

Terpenes to Look for in Sleep Products

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis that play a role in its effects. For sleep, certain terpenes have been found to promote relaxation and sedation:

• Myrcene: The most common terpene in cannabis, known for its sedative and muscle-relaxing effects.

• Linalool: Found in lavender, linalool is another terpene known for its calming and anti-anxiety properties.

• Terpinolene: A less common terpene, but it can have sedative and calming effects. When shopping for cannabis products, look for those with a terpene profile that emphasizes these compounds for maximum sleep benefits. Don’t know how to look for terpenes in cannabis products? Our staff would be happy to help!

 

Dosing Cannabis for Sleep

Finding the right dosage is crucial for achieving the desired sleep effects without side effects like grogginess or anxiety. Here are some general guidelines:

• Start low and go slow: Begin with a low dose, especially if you’re new to cannabis or trying a new product. A common starting point is 2.5-5 mg of THC or CBD.

• Adjust based on your needs: If you find that the initial dose isn’t effective, slowly increase it over time until you find what works best for you.

• Consider timing: For fast-acting relief, inhaled methods (smoking or vaping) are ideal. If you’re looking for longer-lasting effects, opt for edibles or capsules, but take them an hour or two before bedtime to avoid delayed onset.

 

The Key to a Good Night’s Sleep

Finding the right cannabis for sleep may take some experimentation. It’s essential to consider your unique needs, such as whether you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. By paying attention to cannabinoid ratios (like adding CBN into the mix), strain types, and terpene profiles, you can tailor your cannabis experience to help you get the restful sleep you need. And as always, our knowledgeable and friendly staff at Kelo Cannabis are happy to help you find the perfect products for your needs.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating cannabis into your sleep routine, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications. Happy dreaming!