Are you struggling to get a good night's rest? You're not alone — approximately 50 to 70 million adults in the United States suffer from a sleep disorder. If you've tried everything from counting sheep to drinking warm milk before bed and nothing seems to work, it might be time to consider CBD oil as a natural solution for your sleep issues.
It’s recommended to take CBD oil at least an hour before bedtime if you have trouble falling asleep. This allows time for the CBD to take effect so you start feeling relaxed and sleepy by the time your head hits the pillow.
Besides getting the timing right, there are a few other factors to consider when using CBD oil for sleep, such as finding your perfect CBD oil formulation and landing on the ideal dosage for your sleep needs. Let’s get into it.
In this article, we'll cover:
How Does CBD Work for Sleep?
Before we dive into the details of when to take CBD oil for sleep, let's first discuss how it works. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. It is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the "high" associated with THC, another compound found in cannabis.
CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various functions such as sleep, appetite, and mood. When you take CBD orally, it diffuses into the bloodstream and binds to cannabinoid receptors in the body, promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality.
Studies show that CBD has impressive therapeutic potential for treating sleep disorders, including insomnia and restless legs syndrome. CBD even shows promise for reducing REM sleep behavior disorder, a sleep disorder that involves physically acting out your dreams.
Factors That Affect the Timing of CBD Oil Dosage for Sleep
Taking CBD oil one or two hours before bed is key to maximizing its sleep-promoting benefits. If you take CBD oil immediately before bed, you might find yourself lying awake waiting for it to kick in.
Keep in mind there are a few key factors that can affect the timing of your CBD oil dosage for sleep. Here are the most important ones to consider:
Formulation
One of the main factors that can affect the timing of your CBD dosage for sleep is the type of formulation you are using. There are several different types of CBD oil products on the market, including tinctures, drops of cbd oil, capsules, and edibles. Each type of product is absorbed differently by the body and can have different effects on sleep.
For example, CBD drops or tinctures are typically taken sublingually and absorbed faster than capsules, which means they may take effect sooner. On the other hand, edibles, such as gummies or capsules are absorbed more slowly and may take longer to take effect.
CBD Oil Dosage
The dosage of CBD oil you take can also affect the timing of its effects on sleep. A general rule of thumb is to start with a low dosage and gradually increase as needed. It's important to follow the recommended dosage on the product label and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Here are some CBD oil dosage recommendations to get you started:
Remember, these are just general recommendations. You may need more or less CBD oil to experience your desired sleep benefits, so feel free to experiment with your dosage. Adjust your dose by 5 or 10 mg increments each day until you find the optimal amount of CBD for your sleep needs.
Time of Day
The time of day you take CBD can also make a difference in its effectiveness. Some people find that taking CBD oil in the morning or early afternoon helps them sleep better at night, while others prefer to take it closer to bedtime. It's worth experimenting with different times of day to see what works best for you.
Unlike other sleep aids like melatonin, CBD doesn’t make you feel drowsy or groggy. This means you can take CBD during the day for a relaxation boost, even if you’re not going to bed anytime soon.
How Long Does CBD Oil Take to Work for Sleep?
CBD oil typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes to kick in, reaching peak efficacy around one to two hours after consumption. Ultimately, how long it takes to feel the relaxing effects of CBD depends on a number of factors, including the type of product you are using, the dosage, and your individual body chemistry.
As previously noted, tinctures and cbd oil and CBD drops tend to absorb into the body faster than capsules or edibles, which means they may take effect sooner. However, the timing can also depend on how quickly your body processes the CBD. Some people may feel the effects within an hour or so, while others may not notice any effects for several hours.
Tips for Maximizing the Effectiveness of CBD Oil for Sleep
Now that we've covered the main factors that can affect the timing of your CBD oil dosage for sleep, let's discuss some tips for maximizing its effectiveness.
Find the Right CBD Oil Product
As mentioned, there are several different types of CBD oil products on the market. It's important to find a product that is right for you. Consider the type of formulation, the dosage, and the quality of the product. Look for products that are third-party tested and made from high-high-quality, organically-grown hemp.
For help finding the best CBD oil for sleep, check out our comprehensive buying guide where we break down some of the top oils on the market.
Discover Your Optimal CBD Routine for Better Sleep
Determining the best time to take CBD oil for sleep requires learning how your body responds to CBD and adjusting your routine accordingly. Start by taking a low dose around one hour before bed and gradually increasing your dose over the next few nights as needed.
Are you ready to explore the sleep benefits of CBD? Our FOCL CBD tinctures make it easy to customize your dose, especially if you’re new to using CBD for sleep. Check out our full-spectrum CBD drops and build your personalized CBD sleep routine today.
