CBD Oil vs. THC Oil for Sleep. What’s the Difference?

You’ve probably had many sleepless nights and are now contemplating whether to take CBD vs. THC for sleep. The truth is that both compounds can help you get the sleep you need. However, they are different in terms of psychoactive properties and legality.

CBD and THC are the most common cannabinoids sourced from hemp and cannabis, respectively. Currently, several products that contain the two chemical compounds are on the market. They’re designed to alleviate ailments like anxiety, insomnia, and stress.

When you want to use THC vs. CBD for sleep, it’s vital to understand their differences. Thankfully, this guide explores the benefits and side effects of the two cannabinoids. In the end, you’ll be able to determine whether CBD or THC is better for sleep.

Differences between THC vs. CBD for Sleep

Sleep deprivation is a common issue in Canada. About 35 percent of Canadians have trouble falling or staying asleep. For that reason, most of them use cannabinoids such as CBD and THC to treat the condition. So, which compound is better for sleep?

Here are the differences between THC vs. CBD based on various factors.

CBD vs. THC: Sources

While CBD (cannabidiol) is available in hemp and marijuana, most companies usually obtain it from hemp, which has no or trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). On the other hand, THC is often derived from the marijuana plant.

Since the CBD obtained from marijuana might contain larger amounts of THC, it’s not an ideal source plant for people avoiding THC. It’s important to note that some CBD products from cannabis plants may contain more THC than what the label says.

CBD vs. THC: Chemical Structure

THC and CBD’s chemical structures are similar to the body’s natural endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters acting in the brain. Both THC and CBD have the same molecular structure, but the difference comes in the arrangement of these molecules.

The disparity in CBD and THC molecule arrangements gives them different chemical properties, affecting the body differently. They both mimic endocannabinoids, allowing them to bind with the receptors that release neurotransmitters in the brain.

CBD vs. THC: Psychoactive Properties

The receptors for CBD and THC in the brain are different, and because of that, CBD doesn’t have any psychoactive effect. In other words, the compound won’t make you feel high after consuming it. On the other hand, THC has psychoactive effects.

People who use marijuana frequently usually get high, and it is the THC responsible for that. It binds strongly with the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) brain receptors, producing a sense of euphoria. Conversely, CBD binds weakly to the CB1 receptors, preventing euphoria.

CBD vs. THC: Legality

Cannabis-related laws evolve regularly, prompting you to familiarize yourself with the current rules and regulations. Both industrial hemp and marijuana are legal in Canada. So, you can use CBD products like CBD oil and CBD gummies when in Canada.

CBD and other cannabinoids from cannabis plants are regulated under the Cannabis Act. However, the laws governing the production of cannabinoids vary in every territory and province. So, before buying any CBD product, check the laws in your area.

Using THC for Sleep

Many people using THC claim that the compound also helps to improve sleep. It’s the nightcap that some people need to fall asleep. THC also helps to improve breathing when one is asleep. But despite that, THC also has a few sedating properties.

If you are having trouble falling asleep, you could also try THC products. Unfortunately, THC may have more side effects on top of the ones for CBD. Its use may result in unpleasant side effects like dry mouth, memory loss, and increased heart rate.

Using CBD for Sleep

Cannabidiol (CBD) has proved to be an effective remedy for sleep deprivation. It is not psychoactive as its counterpart THC. Also, it helps alleviate symptoms like anxiety that can contribute to insufficient sleep, poor sleep quality, or sleep disorders.

However, research on the effect of CBD on sleep disorders is still in its early stages. Some individuals who often use CBD to reduce chronic pain have reported better sleep. But it’s unclear whether they sleep better due to pain relief or the direct effect of CBD.

Other studies of CBD for sleep disorders report positive outcomes. However, that’s not the case for everyone who takes CBD, and besides, different doses of CBD can cause different results. For example, high doses are sedating, while low doses are stimulating.

When to Consume CBD for Sleep

People who use CBD to induce sleep take the right amount of the product 1-2 hours before sleep. That time allowance gives the body more time to absorb the CBD fully. So you don’t have to take it when you still have things your want to do.

Consider consuming the CBD after you’ve completed your daily tasks and now ready to start sleeping. That is the time to relax and watch your favourite episode on Netflix series.

Potential Benefits of CBD

Besides helping improve sleep, CBD also has numerous benefits, such as alleviating the symptoms associated with the following conditions.

• Seizures
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Migraines
• Inflammation
• Depression
• Anxiety

Side Effects of CBD

While CBD has proven safe for consumption, it doesn’t mean you won’t experience unwanted side effects. Here are some of the side effects you might see.

• Drowsiness
• Changes in appetite and mood
• Nausea and dizziness
• Feeling of anxiety

To prevent unpleasant side effects, you can start by taking a small CBD dose and increase the dose gradually when the need arises.

Where to Buy CBD Oil in Canada

Now that you know the difference between CBD vs. THC for sleep, you can select what works best for your situation. Based on studies, CBD oil is better than THC oil when it comes to sleep disorder treatment. It’s because CBD doesn’t have psychoactive effects.

But since there are lots of CBD products on the Canadian market, getting a legitimate brand can be quite tricky. Almost every manufacturer claims to offer the best CBD product. At Zen Bliss in Canada, you’ll get high-quality CBD oil at affordable costs.

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