How CBD Became a Sleeper Hit
Looking for another option beyond melatonin gummies and blackout curtains? Say hello to CBD—the much-talked-about shorthand for cannabidiol, a calming compound found in the hemp plant. Unlike its molecular cousin THC (the stuff in marijuana responsible for that notorious ‘high’), CBD focuses on delivering relaxing effects… without any trippy side effects. That’s because it interacts with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in our central nervous system. For the record, CBD is 100% legal in France, and it’s the same in many other countries, too, as long as it doesn’t contain THC.
Over recent years, the CBD market has absolutely exploded. People use it for all sorts of reasons:
- Soothing anxiety
- Easing muscle inflammation
- Reducing general body aches
But the real question is: Can it really help you slip into the arms of Morpheus (a poetic way of saying « get some quality sleep »)?
What the Experts Are Saying (So Far)
To get to the bottom of CBD’s true effect on sleep, the British magazine Women’s Health spoke to sleep expert Sophie Bostock. She cleared things up, at least as much as science will currently allow. According to Dr. Bostock, we just don’t have enough clinical trials yet to say, with full certainty, that CBD is effective as a sleep aid. In her own words:
« There are no randomized controlled trials (meaning, the treatment for each person isn’t chosen by the doctor, but instead assigned by random draw) by placebo, » Dr. Bostock explains. « In other words, we’re still waiting for convincing research. »
She does want to reassure anxious sleepers, though: studies are definitely in progress. Dr. Bostock sums it up by saying,
« I’m not saying that CBD doesn’t help—it’s just that there isn’t enough research yet to be sure. »
So… Should You Try It Anyway?
So, what’s the bottom line? According to Dr. Bostock, science might not have all the answers about CBD and sleep quite yet. That being said, if you’ve found that a few drops of CBD oil help you unwind before bed, there’s no reason to stop. Go ahead—put those drops under your tongue and snuggle happily under the covers. After all, when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, sometimes you really do have to trust your own experience (and maybe a cozy pillow or two).
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
