Cannabis Users Ditch Conventional Sleep Aids For Natural Remedy, New Study Finds

A recent study found that most people who use cannabis to get a good night's sleep have stopped using over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription sleep aids. 

Led by Washington State University, the study surveyed 1,255 individuals, finding that over 80% preferred using high-THC cannabis, typically inhaled or vaporized. 

Published in the Exploration of Medicine, the study utilized self-reported data on cannabis use and its perceived effects compared to other sleep aids such as melatonin and benzodiazepines.

See Also: Study Confirms Medical Marijuana For Chronic Conditions Does Not Harm Cognitive Abilities

CBD And Myrcene: About half of the participants also chose cannabis strains rich in CBD and myrcene, one of the most abundant terpenes found in the cannabis plant. It is a compound also found in hops, basil and lemongrass. This choice is based on myrcene's potential sleep-promoting properties, which users had discovered independently, said Carrie Cuttler, senior author of the study and associate professor of psychology at WSU.

“There is some evidence in the scientific literature to support that myrcene may help to promote sleep, so cannabis users seemed to have figured that out on their own,” Cuttler said.

Participants reported that cannabis helped them feel refreshed, focused and better able to function in the morning. They also said they experienced fewer headaches and less nausea compared to when they were using OTC or prescription sleeping pills. However, some reported feeling drowsy and experienced mood changes, anxiety and dry mouth.

Researchers noted that more than 60% of the participants reported getting the recommended six to eight hours of sleep when using cannabis alone.

While most of the findings came out in favor of cannabis use for sleep, the study has its limitations. There was a strong selection bias for people who were already using cannabis because they perceive it to be beneficial.

The researchers cautioned that cannabis might not be effective for everyone's sleep issues and stressed the need for more objective and comprehensive future research.

“In general, the use of cannabis for sleep-related issues was perceived as more advantageous than over the counter medications or prescription sleep aids,” Cuttler noted. “Unlike long-acting sedatives and alcohol, cannabis was not associated with a ‘hangover’ effect, although individuals reported some lingering effects such as sleepiness and changes in mood.”

The research also supports the use of future clinical trials to validate the efficacy of myrcene and other isolated compounds in cannabis for sleep that don't have the intoxicating effects of THC.

Read more at WSU.

Photo: Benzinga edit with images by Edgard from Pixabay and DANNY G on Unsplash