Could cannabis possess sufficient therapeutic potential to be used as an insomnia treatment? This is what preliminary research into cannabis for insomnia tells us.

One of the main non-psychoactive cannabis compounds, known as cannabidiol (CBD), has been exposed for its medical qualities and suitability for sleep disorders. 

Studies report how the psychoactive cannabis compound Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) could reduce sleep latency, but enhance sleep quality on a long-term basis.

Benzodiazepines are being misused by insomnia sufferers

It is important that we shine a light on the alternative medication options for insomnia sufferers, what with thousands of patients becoming addicted to doctor-prescribed medications, such as Diazepam (Valium), in a desperate attempt to restore a healthy sleep pattern. Even though cannabis has been exposed for its multifarious medical uses, Diazepam is still being used far more frequently by infants and elderly patients.

As many as 15 million Diazepam prescriptions are issued annually by doctors in the United States, according to estimates from the USA government.

It is not uncommon to hear about cases involving benzodiazepine abuse and misuse. As a drug with addictive qualities, those who use them are at risk of becoming dependent. The same cannot be said for cannabis, which is natural and non-addictive.

Cannabis compounds could aid with various sleep disorders and conditions

A scientific study on cannabis for insomnia reported how patients with excessive daytime sleepiness and REM sleep behavior disorder may benefit from CBD, whereas synthetic cannabinoids like nabilone could potentially reduce PTSD-related nightmares and sleep problems.

Individuals who were most likely to use cannabis as a sleep aid and to cope with stress-related symptoms were those with high PTSD scores, as opposed to those with low PTSD scores.

Although the research on cannabis and insomnia is in the early stages, there is plenty of evidence to support medicinal use of the plant for sleep-related disorders. For example, this study on integrating cannabis into clinical cancer care showed how cannabis is useful in fighting insomnia, as well as pain, depression, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

However, further controlled and longitudinal research is essential to broaden our knowledge and make us aware of possible clinical implications.

Cannabis boasts therapeutic potential without addictive side effects

Experiments with CBD on animals have demonstrated how this unique cannabis compound possesses anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects.

During the experiments, CBD failed to activate neuroreceptors CB1 and CB2, with the majority of studies indicating a positive interaction between this potent medicinal cannabis compound and the 5-HT1A neuro-receptor.

Since these receptors play a major role in controlling emotions, such as depression and anxiety, cannabis’ therapeutic qualities could calm the mind and promote a good night’s sleep.

Sleep improvement is apparent among frequent cannabis consumers

Recent studies on cannabis for insomnia are consistent with previous research.

Higher rates of coping-oriented cannabis use and frequent cannabis use among medical users with severe PTSD symptoms was noticeable in another study.

Furthermore, those who used cannabis for coping-oriented reasons were most concerned about improving their sleep quality.

Ongoing research is required to assess the health implications of this approach to cannabis use.