Insomnia is a top reason why people use cannabis medically, and for good reason. One of my patients recently recounted to me that he suffered nightmares every night for many years until he began using cannabis before bed.

The complex activity of sleep is modulated by our body’s own endocannabinoid system. Metabolites of THC and terpenes such as myrcene and linalool (found in lavender) have sedative properties, and CBD can improve dreaming and help you wake up feeling refreshed. THC stimulates the release of melatonin, the sleep hormone that helps regulate our body’s internal clock. To help with sleep, I recommend the following when you are home and unwinding from the day:

• A Tikun Alaska tincture or vape in low doses can help relieve the pain and anxiety that often make sleep difficult. Tikun studies in Israel showed that 81% of patients saw improvement in their sleep while taking Alaska.
• A Tikun Midnight tincture or vape also addresses the root causes of a majority of insomnia – pain and anxiety. CBD modulates the psychoactivity of THC making it less intoxicating and leaving you more clear headed. This may be especially important for older adults. Higher doses of THC can worsen anxiety and are usually unnecessary.
• Using a tincture or vaping low doses of THC (1-5 mg) should be done about 1 hour before bed to allow for the accumulation of the sedating THC metabolites.  0.25 mL of a tincture will give you 5 mg of THC in the case of Alaska, and 2.5 mg of THC and CBD for Midnight. Microdosing by vaporization (max 1-2 puffs) is also excellent.

Also check out this article about creating a zen environment in your bedroom.

If you still have questions, email me at drdan@acefd58f784ad7a.stagebox.tpa.wdc.servcdn.io. Pleasant dreams.