MJ and Snoring: What Research Shows
Initial studies on the effects of MJ on sleep, as usual, were conducted on animals. Research found that one of the components of MJ—tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is not psychoactive—increases alertness in a lit environment, while it “rests” in the dark. This has led scientists to believe that these properties of THC could be used in medicine to treat insomnia, excessive sleepiness, and chronic snoring (sleep apnea).
Terpenes for Healthy Sleep
Indica strains are known for their stronger sedative effects, while sativa strains provide a boost of energy and alertness. However, there is still no definitive explanation for why indica has such a sleepy effect on people. Scientists suggest that the sedative properties of the plant are due to terpenes—aromatic compounds that make each strain unique. Indica, compared to sativa, is richer in sedative, relaxing terpenes.
Research has also confirmed that aged MJ has a stronger sedative effect. Over time, THC transforms into cannabinol, a sedative chemical that is five times more active than THC. It might seem simple: plant quality medical MJ seeds, follow the proper cultivation process, harvest, let it age, and you get a powerful sleep aid. However, there’s a catch—time. First, the aging process to reach the desired condition takes years (at least three). Second, the yield is not very efficient: after years of aging, MJ with 20% THC results in only 3-5% cannabinol. Unsurprisingly, this makes the final product quite expensive.
Ways to Use MJ for Faster Sleep
Scientists have concluded that while MJ is effective as a sleep aid, its effect is enhanced when used together with other natural remedies. Important sleep-inducing terpenes are also found in hops, lavender, and chamomile, and their concentration in these plants is even higher than in MJ. Using them together with MJ can boost the sedative (calming) effect.
Given MJ’s well-known ability to relieve stress, relax, and restore the body, it’s no surprise that it’s included among remedies that help people fall asleep faster. People suffering from pain syndromes, insomnia, multiple sclerosis, and other restless or severe conditions have especially appreciated its benefits.
There are several ways to use MJ for faster sleep—either by eating it or inhaling its smoke. Inhalation brings on sleep more quickly, while eating it increases the duration of healthy sleep.
The Cause of MJ Hangover and Restless Sleep
Such reactions are usually caused by low-quality MJ. While it doesn’t usually cause nausea, mild brain fog, dry eyes, dehydration, and sluggishness can occur—almost like a mild alcohol hangover. However, while these symptoms are common with alcohol, they are rare with MJ. Professional growers know how to avoid these effects by choosing high-quality MJ seeds, which guarantee a quality harvest.
MJ and Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is not only disruptive to others but is also a warning sign of serious health issues for the person who snores. In medicine, this is known as obstructive sleep apnea (a condition where breathing stops during sleep, often accompanied by loud snoring). People with irregular breathing often wake up during the night, leading to daytime sleepiness, fatigue, mood swings, headaches, lack of focus, and other problems.
Today, people with sleep apnea have reason to be hopeful—preclinical studies have shown that MJ cannabinoids can help those with apnea syndrome. Testing on a group of volunteers showed that out of 17 participants, 15 experienced normalized sleep and stabilized breathing after three weeks of MJ use.
The therapeutic properties of MJ in stabilizing sleep and treating apnea are another reminder to governments and society, regardless of geography, of the need to legalize medical MJ.