Of the 120 active ingredients (cannabinoids) found in cannabis, cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are unquestionably the best-known and best-understood. What the two molecules have in common is their sedative powers. But while CBD and THC come from the same plant, they have very different effects on our cortex, and therefore on our sleep. Zeweed explains how.
Before deciding whether to choose CBD or THC for reconciliation with the pillow, it’s crucial to understand how the two cannabinoids affect sleep. For while CBD and THC are highly effective aids to falling into the arms of Morpheus, the way they operate on our brains is radically different.
HOW DOES THC AFFECT SLEEP?
All those with some experience of cannabis are unanimous on one point: THC is an excellent sedative. This property is due to its action on the endocannabinoid system via CB1 and CB2 receptors, and its pharmacodynamics are beginning to become clearer.
Empirically speaking, everyone recognizes the soporific power of CBD like THC, studies comparing the plant’s two alkaloids, on the other hand, are few and far between.
A gap that Canadian researchers at Laval University (located in Quebec) set out to fill by examining the effects of the two cannabinoids on sleep. The results were recently published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology. Among other things, they discovered that 15 mg of THC is enough to shorten the latency to sleep and induce drowsiness, whatever the time of day. The counterpart to THC’s radical effectiveness: impaired short-term memory, a tendency to drowsiness after waking up, and more frequent mood swings.
THC is therefore reserved for severe cases. Even with these clinically observed side effects, tetrahydrocannabinol remains a much healthier alternative to hynotic sleeping pills (Stillnox, Imovane, Noctamide…) and benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax, Tranxene…).
While many insomniacs in most countries resort to the “evening firecracker” as a way of nodding off, the editorial team strongly advises you to respect the laws of the country where you’ve set up your bed, if only to get a good night’s sleep.
HOW DOES CBD AFFECT SLEEP?
A second study shows that CBD reduces the latency of stage 3 sleep (the period between light and deep sleep), but without the adverse effects inherent in a high dose of THC. Thanks to its soothing and analgesic properties, CBD is also an effective aid in treating symptoms associated with pathologies that may interfere with the ability to fall asleep (inflammatory pain, anxiety, spasmodic pain).
Among the study’s conclusions, the researchers were able to demonstrate that ” CBD modulates wakefulness via activation of neurons in the hypothalamus and DRD“. (The two brain areas responsible, among other things, for vigilance, a major obstacle to sleep).
In other words, CBD actually makes you more alert. This may seem like a counterproductive attribute for a sleep aid, but its ability to prevent excessive sleepiness makes cannabidiol an excellent tool for anyone who needs to sleep less, or those trying to switch to a healthier sleep schedule.
UNDERSTANDING PSYCHOACTIVE EFFECTS
While THC’s effects on sleep are far more pronounced than those of CBD, THC is a psychoactive compound that makes you feel “stoned” and high. And that means there will always be a risk associated with the use of THC-rich drugs, not least of overdosing. A THC overdose may not be life-threatening, but it will make for a difficult tomorrow, with more frequent feelings of anxiety and even a tendency towards paranoia. These side effects won’t make it any easier to fall asleep the next day… unless you take more THC.
On the other hand, CBD has no noticeable psychoactive effect, which means it has no perceptible impact on our perception and judgment. This is why it is authorized in Europe and not considered a narcotic.
CBD OR THC: HOW TO CHOOSE?
There’s no simple, standard answer to this question. Whether you opt for CBD or THC-based medication really depends on your condition. The absence of psychoactive effects makes CBD a reliable option with no side effects. But if you need medication to fall asleep and/or are confident you can manage the psychoactive effect of THC, the latter remains the better option.
Finally, while THC consumption has been legalized in Canada since 2018, the molecule remains prohibited in many countries. Find out about the legislation in force in the country where you live and wish to get a good night’s sleep, and consult your doctor before starting any new THC treatment.
