{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/sleep/2","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3752-markdown","title":"Weed & Sleep: 5 Things to Know About Your Cannabis Nightcap","slug":"weed-and-sleep-5-things-to-know-about-your-cannabis-nightcap","content":"Some days I wake up tired or groggy – well, that’s pretty much every day. The first thing I do every morning is make my morning brew, between 2-3 cups of black coffee which wakes me up and provides clarity and focus on the lens of my day. You could even say that coffee is what puts a smile on my face. It’s an enjoyable habit, and I can easily say I’m addicted to the aromatic black liquid. \n\nA few hours later, when the caffeine high wears off though, I drag myself through the rest of the day. The evening comes and I feel sleepy and even a little depressed so I drink alcohol; and one drink leads to two and more. After imbibing too much I hit the sack, falling asleep right away, but then wake up in the middle of the night wide awake, so I lie helpless as my monkey mind run away from me. In the morning I need coffee, and so the cycle continues!  \n\nWelcome to modern life. And, welcome to the lives of 50 to 70 million U.S. adults who experience symptoms of a sleep disorder, or the about 40 million Americans who experience insomnia every year.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-30 at 2.25.00 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_30_at_2_25_00_PM_4e812fd59c.png)\n\nKiva's [Terra CBN Milk and Cookies](https://grassdoor.com/product/terra-cbn-milk-and-cookies): A natural night time sleep aid\n\nOften, the substances we rely on to wake us up or to help us fall to sleep, whether that be coffee, alcohol, or others, can be blamed for poor quality of sleep. Coffee is a great example of a stimulant that helps us wake up, but also keeps us from achieving a proper night’s sleep. Alcohol is a great example of a depressant, which can help us relax and take our mind off the day, but which also interrupts a good night’s rest.\n\n### Why We Need a Good Sleep\n\nSleep is as important to our health and wellbeing as diet and exercise. While modern life isn’t conducive to good sleep patterns, we can improve them by imposing a regular schedule, with adequate shut-eye hours. Staying active during the day, avoiding alcohol, and minimizing screen time at night can help us get a good night of Zzzzzs.\n\nBy getting enough sleep (seven to 10 hours for teens and adults), we [receive benefits](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325353#lower-inflammation) such as:\n\n- Boosting our productivity and concentration\n- Consuming fewer calories during the day\n- Achieving better athletic performance\n- Lowering the risk of heart disease\n- Gaining more social and emotional intelligence\n- Preventing depression\n- Lowering inflammation\n- Improving the immune system\n\n### Don’t Overdo Caffeine, Alcohol and Sleeping Pills\n\nOur [morning cup of coffee or tea](https://www.livestrong.com/article/289985-caffeine-sleeping-pills/), wakes us up with a caffeine boost. [Caffeine works in two ways]( https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/caffeine-addiction#TOC_TITLE_HDR_3):\n\n- It prevents your brain cells from signaling that you’re tired.\n- It causes your body to release other natural stimulants and boosts their effects.\nThe end result of caffeine’s effect on the brain is feelings of alertness, well-being, concentration, self-confidence, sociability and motivation to work.\nWhile it may wake us during the day, it can play havoc on our sleep if we take too much too late. It can increase the time it takes to get asleep, and reduce the amount of deep sleep we get. And the feeling of wakefulness we have with that first cup in the morning may be a sign of caffeine dependence and ending the withdrawal you are experiencing from not having coffee through the night. \n\nTo get to sleep at night we may try over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription sleeping pills. While these may work for a short-term sleep problem, if you use them constantly, you will probably develop a tolerance that prevents them from working well or at all. And some sleeping pills have the undesirable effect of making us feel groggy the next morning.\n\n[Research shows](https://believeperform.com/how-does-alcohol-caffeine-and-hyper-hydration-affect-sleep/) that consuming alcohol before sleep can disturb your sleep quality and quantity. Because alcohol metabolizes quickly, it may divide your sleep into two parts: The first part of the night you can sleep alright, with an increase in non-REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, but in the second part of the night sleep can be interrupted with lots of wake-ups and increased REM sleep and dreaming — this is why you often feel fatigued in the morning.\n\n### Marijuana as a Natural Sleeping Aid\n\nNot all substances which help us achieve a proper night’s rest are bad. Some substances, , such as marijuana, can be used as natural and effective sleep aids. When consumed properly, cannabis can enhance one’s ability to fall asleep as well as stay asleep, without causing an endless cycle of sleep disturbance on the other side.\n\n“Marijuana is an effective sleep aid because it restores a person’s natural sleep cycle, which so often falls out of sync with our schedules in today’s modern lifestyle,” says [Dr. Matt Roman, a medical marijuana physician, in a Healthline article](https://www.healthline.com/health/medical-marijuana/cannabis-for-sleeping).\n\nMost people consume THC in order to go to sleep. In some instances, people find CBD to be a potent relaxant, although in some cases it may keep you awake. Another cannabinoid which is now getting a lot of attention is CBN. Research is now pointing to CBN as the most sedative out of all the compounds in cannabis. CBN was discovered recently from decomposed THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis). \n\n### Five Ways Marijuana Can Help You Sleep Better\n\nThat weed could be a [sleep aid](https://hellomd.com/articles/dreaming-of-better-sleep-cannabis-may-help) is common sense for anyone who has experienced couch-lock after consuming a nice relaxing strain of potent indica.  \n\nHere are five ways marijuana can help you achieve a good night’s rest:\n\n1. Triggers ECS Receptors\nCannabis works by triggering receptors in our endocannabinoid systems (ECS), helping to regulate hormones, immunity, pain, hunger and, yes,  sleep. Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in marijuana plants, which help have medicinal and therapeutic effects. Two of the cannabinoids that are well-known for inducing a sleep-filled night are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).\n\n2. THC Makes Your Eyelids Heavy\nTHC, more than CBD, makes us sleepy, so you want a strain of weed that has a high percentage of THC. It usually reduces the amount of REM sleep you get. Reducing REM sleep means reducing dreams — and for those who experience PTSD, it could mean cutting back on sleep-disturbing nightmares. If you spend less time dreaming, then you may spend more time in a deep sleep.\n\n3. Changes Your Sleep Cycle\nUsing cannabis can change your sleep cycle, so you need to use it carefully, so it doesn’t interrupt sleep patterns in a bad way. Some medical professionals suggest, for example, capping the amount of THC in your cannabis nightcap at 20%. Going over this amount gives you a powerful dose that may hinder, not help, your quest for better sleep.\n\n4. A Little Bit Goes a Long Way\nOne way to enjoy the therapeutic effects of weed is by [microdosing](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-to-microdose-with-cannabis-a-hellomd-event). This is taking cannabis with a lower dose of a specific cannabinoid (often one to three milligrams), such as THC, so that it works in the background. \n\nYou don’t necessarily feel it physiologically but get the enhancement, such as better sleep. This approach is particularly good for people who don’t want to feel the “high” often associated with some strains of weed. Microdosing usually works best if you use cannabis from licensed medical cannabis dispensaries, which strictly regulate and reveal the amounts of cannabinoids in their products.\n\n5. Be Wary of Edibles at Night\nWeed edibles are wonderful but they can take longer to kick in. This may leave you tossing and turning for a couple of hours at night before they start to work and then make you feel punchy in the morning with their lingering effects. Again, a little can go a long way. If you’re new to cannabis, try an edible that has 2.5 mg of THC or less. Titrate the dosage upwards night by night until you find the right amount for your system.\n\n### Need Your Medical Marijuana Card?\nIf you want to buy medical cannabis in a state where it is allowed, you’ll need to get a medical marijuana card. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) can help you with online virtual medical consultation and get your medical card fast, easy and private.\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/14b42/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/f836f/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg 200w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/2244e/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg 400w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/14b42/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg 800w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/47498/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/0e329/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg 1600w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/96a0e/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg 6860w","srcWebp":"/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/58556/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/61e93/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp 200w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/1f5c5/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp 400w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/58556/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp 800w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/99238/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp 1200w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/7c22d/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp 1600w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/2edd4/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp 6860w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3660-markdown","title":"Simple Hacks for Getting a Good Night's Sleep, Including Cannabis","slug":"simple-hacks-for-getting-a-good-night's-sleep-including-cannabis","content":"Getting good sleep often seems like an unattainable dream for people who suffer from insomnia or mental health issues. Anxiety, depression, and ADHD are just a few conditions that can keep a person from getting good rest, and because [inadequate sleep](https://hellomd.com/articles/dreaming-of-better-sleep-cannabis-may-help) can cause physical and mental problems in its own right, it becomes a vicious cycle that leaves you feeling exhausted. \n\nThe stress that lack of rest can bring can also exacerbate feelings of anxiety or depression, so it’s essential to look for ways that you can help your body and mind relax and prepare for downtime.\n\nThe good news is that there are several things you can do to get better sleep. From changing things up in your bedroom to make it more relaxing to creating a routine during the day that will help you unwind and get comfortable when you’re ready to rest, there are many ways you can boost your ability to sleep well.\n \n### Consume Some Cannabis\nWhether you be a long-time consumer of cannabis or a complete newbie, cannabis the right cannabis can be a powerful sleep aid. Studies show that many patients report falling asleep easier and more quickly after consuming cannabis. Cannabis can also help ease chronic pain anxiety, which also may contribute to a poor nights sleep. \n\nFor most people, consuming THC, and particularly an Indica strain can help ease insomnia. If you have trouble falling asleep, consuming a sublingual, such as a fast acting tincture, 30 minutes before bedtime can help you fall asleep faster.\n\nIf staying asleep is more of an issue for you, many people enjoy edibles. Eat an edible shortly before bed and within 2 hours it should be in full affect and last between 4-6 hours.\n\nDosing is important with THC, as too much and you may stay awake, and too little, you may not feel the effect. When starting out we suggest using a quarter of the suggested dose and working upwards nightly until you find the right amount for you.\n\n### Find the Right Mattress\n\nOne of the easiest ways to boost your sleep quality is to look for a new mattress. Many mattresses will sag over time or become lumpy, leaving you feeling uncomfortable during the night so that even if you do sleep, you still feel tired the next day. \n\nConsider a memory foam mattress, which comes in a variety of types, including soft or firm and single-sided or flippable. Not only that, but they also have a nice price range, so you’re sure to find one that fits your budget. There are many [online resources](https://sleepopolis.com/guides/how-to-choose-a-mattress/) for finding a new mattress, which allows you to to find the best one for your needs and compare prices.\n \n ### Correcting  Sleep Apnea\n\nSleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that can leave you feeling groggy and fatigued every day. It’s a condition you might not notice, but sleep apnea is disruptive enough to inhibit quality sleep. If you have trouble breathing when you sleep or if your partner says your snoring is especially loud, consider having a sleep study to determine whether you have sleep apnea and what you can do to treat it. \n\nThe most common treatment for sleep apnea is to use a [CPAP machine](https://www.medicinenet.com/what_is_cpap_therapy/article.htm) to boost your oxygen intake during sleep. This helps open an obstructed airway by using pressurized air to deliver enough oxygen. \n\nAnother popular treatment for sleep apnea is overbite correction. A recessed jaw from an overbite can lead to airway obstructions, and this can be remedied through treatments like surgery, braces or an alignment system. Surgery and braces are recommended for more serious correction treatment, while clear aligners have shown impressive results for mild overbites. Plus, with [brands like](https://smileprep.com/most-effective-clear-aligners/#TOC_0) byte, Invisalign and Candid, you can count on a shorter timeline than braces. Talk to your orthodontist to find out which system will work for you and help eliminate your sleep apnea.\n\n### Change Your Sleep Environment\n\nThe area you sleep in is very important when it comes to how well you rest. Everything from the temperature to the paint color on the walls can have an effect on your ability to sleep well, so take a look at your bedroom to see where a [few changes](https://nutritiouslife.com/sleep-deep/bedroom-better-sleep/) might be made. \n\nCalming colors like blue and green are great for bedrooms. If you have a television in your room, turn it off at least an hour before bedtime in order to avoid [sleep interruptions](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/block-blue-light-to-sleep-better), and read a book instead. Making these changes can help you relax, destress, and prepare your body and mind for sleep after a long day.\n\n### Get Some Exercise\n\nThere are many benefits to getting regular exercise, including [stress relief](https://www.coreproducts.com/blogs/news/the-importance-of-hobbies-for-happiness-and-stress-relief) and a sense of accomplishment, and when you are living with anxiety or another mental health condition, being good at something can truly change your mindset for the better. \n\nNot only that, exercise can help you get active, which will help to tire you out and get a better night of sleep; on the flip side, some exercise are more [soothing](https://hellomd.com/articles/should-marijuana-be-part-of-your-fitness-regimen/), such as Tai Chi, and can be done before bedtime to help you prepare for rest. Whether you enjoy making playing a sports, gardening, hiking, or something in between, getting regular exercise is a great way to focus, relax, and feel better.\n\n### Find Some Calm in Your Day\n\nWhile there is no single cure for a particular mental health condition, many people have found relief in setting aside quiet time every day in order to meditate or simply unplug from technology. You can even incorporate an exercise like yoga into this time to work on relaxing [breathing techniques](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/yoga-for-sleep), or you can simply turn off your phone, close your eyes, and find some inner peace. \n\nThis can be done at intervals throughout the day if you’re feeling very stressed, or you can set aside time before bed to unwind and get ready for sleep. Meditation has proven to be a very [effective strategy](https://blogs.biomedcentral.com/bmcseriesblog/2018/05/02/putting-claims-about-mindfulness-meditation-to-the-strongest-test/) for individuals who struggle with stress, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia.\n\nFinding better sleep when you’re living with a mental health condition is not always easy. It may take some time before you’re able to find a method or activity that works for you, so try to be patient. With a little creativity and a few changes to your lifestyle, you can put yourself on the road to feeling better through better rest.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABQAAAANCAYAAACpUE5eAAAACXBIWXMAABYlAAAWJQFJUiTwAAADj0lEQVQ4yz2RaUzURxiH/3sAK3RFCh4FWipHILGRpGz7AWzt0sRWLWhLBI219WhhRWmKyiIUkENNrCkNGukSpEeMQu2XFjAp2OUQWGCXay8oulQELB4NiILAp6ezpGWSd37zTub9zfPOSNkp8VhNRhbnppl78gCX08qYa4j52X+Ye/qIqYfjjA4PLudzM49w9JiZeXyfZ1OTLM5OU11azK6NL5H2VhjSiZ1vUnQogbE7Dhbnn/JkSpgO2pmbneK5iJnph4zfdTEvLlxcmOHxgwlGXX+y8HyahflndN64zsHYUI7GR6Lb7DbcoUG/U0N5biqjzn7uOXqwthkZsZn5+7aV+3fsDPeamByxMemy4jA1M2xpZdRuZsjUSPFeLV9oI8h4J4w90f5In8aGkJ2wkfwkDZez9mK8lEddaS43ygowGgpprjpLY3khxsoztFSdpvFSPk3fFdBsOMWFw4lkvr9hiSwh0pfo1Z5IIWoPNIE+aMNfZNfrQZzep8VwLIUf8w5xtTidmjMZ/HIuk2slR7lSeJhK/ceUpSdSkBInzgfzboQfMetUBHorUCtkSGs8ZYSqFWjE5tZwNVnvRfFTzifUlOj49Vs99Re/ou5CDnVlJ/mtNIufz2ZQcXw3+m2vsV1QvRHoTfgqD9ao5Kx/QYHk5yEnyEdJlL8KbZgfuzUvk5MUy7nPd1CeuY/LOalU5hzhSvExKrI/o+zIR+Qlx7E/LpS3168i1E/Fam8lKz2Fj6CUVghMtTBVe3oQ5LuCmJAA0hK01FdfxVCST4HuAMW6VL5OO4A+OZmsD7dwcFMkW6MCiAjwwVMuR5JkKGSyJUpJDPeEyssLmUxOgI8KvS4dW/8gg3YnE+MTVFdWsX/zJnSJSaRuiScpJpwQb4mVSlGnXDJBKZMI8PrPUKVUoFJIrPNVU5Sbj/H3BswdnfR1m3EMDNDd3sbNujrajUaM9bVc++F78vUn2fBqMF7CSCko5UL9vUTLMoH6P2VRwSkmx8cYdjoYstm4Pehc0mGnUEHrGLByd+Qv2hsayc3I4MvME8u17nA/n+Tu353oj2dxzzWCxSTIusz0mLqwdIho76JX5L1d3fQI6rY/WrhuqMDwzXk620ykJO9ZNnS3LfmKRdIH23Fa7aK1DloamuhobmPA0oOttw97Xz92of3dFno7uzA1tWJqvkXrzVvU1tRSfv4i0a+sJVi86VrxKf8CuhltESgChQIAAAAASUVORK5CYII=","aspectRatio":1.5151515151515151,"src":"/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/ee604/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.png","srcSet":"/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/69585/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.png 200w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/497c6/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.png 400w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/ee604/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.png 800w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/f3583/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.png 1200w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/156e8/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.png 1386w","srcWebp":"/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/58556/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/61e93/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.webp 200w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/1f5c5/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.webp 400w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/58556/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.webp 800w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/99238/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.webp 1200w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/31167/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.webp 1386w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3655-markdown","title":"DIY Recipe: Adaptogen CBD & Ashwagandha Sleep Tonic","slug":"diy-recipe-adaptogen-cbd-and-ashwagandha-sleep-tonic","content":"[Adaptogens are a hot wellness trend](https://hellomd.com/articles/adaptogens-what-are-they-and-how-to-combine-them-with-cbd) at the moment, but what exactly are they? Essentially, they're natural plants that have evolved to help our bodies fight and resist life's stressors; whether they be physical or mental.\n\nThese herbs and roots act like nature's pharmacy, adapting to what our bodies need. If you're fatigued, they turn up the energy dial, and when your anxious, they turn the dial down. Adaptogens are particularly useful during acute stress or anxiety, helping us cope and adapt to the pressure naturally. Put simply, adaptogens help our bodies achieve homeostasis or balance in times of need. They are particularly well known for helping cope with anxiety and hormone inbalances.\n\nThe use of adaptogenic herbs and roots can be traced back to 3000 B.C. and are linked back to Chinese and Ayurvedic practices. For millennia, people have depended on these herbs and roots for medicinal properties as well ass for food. These plants are healing and rejuvenative and are now making the comeback they deserve.\n\nTo gain the benefit of adaptogens, it's suggested to take them every day for a few weeks. Taking your adaptogen of choice in the morning is preferred as your cortisol is higher in the morning. Taking your adaptogens in the morning will stimulate your adrenals, helping you be more awake and alert. \n\n### Common Adaptogens\n\nSome adaptogens are more common than others and are easy to find in natural supplements, in powder form, or even in the produce aisle of your local Whole Foods. Below are some of the more common adaptogens you will see today:\n\n**Ashwagandha**\nIn studies, ashwagandha has been shown to significantly reduce anxiety and promote sleep. It is also known to help the body repair from the damage caused by stress and environmental damage. It has been consumed for thousands of years to promote better learning and memory retrieval. It is an all around body balancer in that it boosts stamina, cognitive abilities, promotes better sleep and reduces stress.\n\n**Asian Ginseng**\nGinseng has long been one of the most popular herbal remedies. It is often found in supplements as well as tea. It is known to boost memory, increase energy, increase insulin production, and help to relieve headaches. It's a saught after herb for people who feel overwhelmed and stressed out. \n\n**Brahmi/Gotu Kola**\nGotu Kola is part of the parsley family and traditionally has been used by yogis to enhance meditation practices. Traditionally, it is known as a \"spiritual\" herb for these reasons and is related to the crown chakra at the top of the head. Gotu Kola is known to help balance the nervous system, support connective tissues, and promote healthy blood circulation.\n\n**Cordyceps**\nIn traditional Chinese medicine, cordeceps was one of the most valued medicines. It has been used for thousands of years as an immune supportive herb, supporting the kidney and lung systems. It is also known to increase stamina, provide antioxidant support and help to control the body's response to stress. Cordyceps are a mushroom that contain fruiting bodies which provide multiple wellness benefits.\n\n**Lion's Mane**\nLion's mane is an edible mushroom and is known for it's super food properties and white strand-like projections. Consuming lion's mane has been shown to help cope with anxiety and stress as well as cognitive function. Animal research has shown that consuming lion's mane promotes hippocampal neurogenesis —which helps promote good mood and emotion.\n\n**Maca**\nThe maca root is packed with vitamin C, and is known to boost immunity. One of the well-marketed benefits is that it's an aphrodisiac that helps increase libido. A 2002 [study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12472620) found that men experienced increased sexual desire when ingesting the maca root and decreased erectile dysfunction.\n\n**Moringa**\nMoringa, a superfood adaptogen, comes from the moringa tree and it's leaves are packed with antioxidants and vitamins. It is known fro helping to balance hormones, decrease Type 2 diabetes, lower blood pressure and cholesterol.\n\n**Holy Basil**\nKnown to help with \"brain fog\" or improve cognitive function, holy basil is also known to reduce bloating or gassy feelings. A small study by [Nepal Medical College Journal](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19253862) showed that holy basil helps improve feelings of depression. Aside from relieving stress, it also eases inflammation, alkalizes the body, and fights the common cold.\n\n### Is Cannabis an Adaptogen?\n\nTechnically, cannabis is not classified as an adaptogen, however, CBD mimics many of the same effects that adaptogenic herbs have on our system. While adaptogens work on the adrenal system cannabis, and CBD, work on the endocannabinoid system. Like adaptogens, cannabis, and particularly CBD, help to balance out stress and anxiety and work to establish homeostasis within the body.\n\nCBD oil is best known for helping to relieve the feeling of anxiety and stress. It is non-intoxicating, so you will not feel the mind altering effects associated with THC. Some [scientists believe](https://hellomd.com/articles/why-taking-cbd-daily-can-help-reduce-your-anxiety) that CBD works well at reducing anxiety, because of the way it interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain; lack of serotonin may be a principle cause of anxiety and depression. \n\nCBD may also act similarly to SSRIs, such as Wellbutrin, blocking the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain. This makes serotonin more available in the synaptic space, increasing serotonin signaling. CBD is known to reduce anxiety, promote better sleep, and help people to better cope with pain.\n\n### DIY Recipe: CBD & Ashwanganda Sleep Tonic\n\nAshwagandha has been used throughout the ages to promote sleep and ease stress. Combined with CBD, it is a perfect sleep and anxiety-reducing tonic. Combining honey, dairy-free almond milk, CBD and ashwagandha root, there's a potent mix of ingredients included to  get a good night's sleep or ease away the day's tension. The following recipe should make between 2-3 mugs of sleep tonic, which can be refrigerated after making.\n\n### Ingredients\n\n- 6 cups unsweetened almond milk\n- 2 tablespoon of local raw honey\n- 1 Medjool date\n- 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon\n- 2 dashes of nutmeg powder\n- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla bean\n- 1 dash of clove powder\n- 2 teaspoons of ashwagandha powder\n- 2 pinches of Himalayan pink salt\n- 1 handful of chopped almonds\n- 1 packet of [CBD beverage infuser](https://www.curednutrition.com/product/cinnamon-honey/) from Cured Nutrition per drink\n-OR-\n- 1 1/2 dropper of [hemp CBD oil](https://www.curednutrition.com/product/raw-daily-hemp-oil/) per beverage\n\n### How-To\nPut all of the ingredients into a mixer and blend. Pour into a pot and heat on low for 15 minutes, then pour into a mug and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a handful of chopped almonds, and a dash of love. Sleep well!\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/c14d199af8c790631121b1d8a8e6222e/ee604/d6be53dcb6b32941b16c9c4f589e71cd.png","srcSet":"/static/c14d199af8c790631121b1d8a8e6222e/69585/d6be53dcb6b32941b16c9c4f589e71cd.png 200w,\n/static/c14d199af8c790631121b1d8a8e6222e/497c6/d6be53dcb6b32941b16c9c4f589e71cd.png 400w,\n/static/c14d199af8c790631121b1d8a8e6222e/ee604/d6be53dcb6b32941b16c9c4f589e71cd.png 800w,\n/static/c14d199af8c790631121b1d8a8e6222e/f3583/d6be53dcb6b32941b16c9c4f589e71cd.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c14d199af8c790631121b1d8a8e6222e/58556/d6be53dcb6b32941b16c9c4f589e71cd.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c14d199af8c790631121b1d8a8e6222e/61e93/d6be53dcb6b32941b16c9c4f589e71cd.webp 200w,\n/static/c14d199af8c790631121b1d8a8e6222e/1f5c5/d6be53dcb6b32941b16c9c4f589e71cd.webp 400w,\n/static/c14d199af8c790631121b1d8a8e6222e/58556/d6be53dcb6b32941b16c9c4f589e71cd.webp 800w,\n/static/c14d199af8c790631121b1d8a8e6222e/99238/d6be53dcb6b32941b16c9c4f589e71cd.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3603-markdown","title":"Dreaming of Better Sleep - Cannabis May Help","slug":"dreaming-of-better-sleep-cannabis-may-help","content":"Sleep is a non-negotiable. It’s as necessary to health and happiness as food, water, and exercise. It’s not surprising then, that when we don’t get enough sleep it can feel like our whole world has been turned upside down. In this article, we’ll take a look at [common sleep disorders](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000800.htm), some simple changes you can make at home to improve your sleep, supplements and drugs you can take to support better sleep, and last (but certainly not least) some exciting new technology that can support healthy sleep in a variety of ways.\n\n### What is Healthy Sleep?\n\n![What does healthy sleep look like?](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_12_26_at_6_12_47_PM_108495d9b6.png)\n\nDuring healthy sleep, our brains cycle through five stages: stage 1, 2, 3, 4, and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. According to [an article published by the U.S. National Library of Medicine,](https://medlineplus.gov/healthysleep.html) each phase performs processes that lead to the following benefits: \n\n- Feeling well-rested and energetic the next day\n- Having the ability to learn information, gather insights, and form memories\n- The opportunity to rest your heart and vascular system \n- Release of growth hormones, which help children grow and boost muscle mass in adults.\n- Release of sex hormones, which contribute to development and fertility\n\nThe production of cytokines (hormones that help the immune system)  can fight infections and help us stay healthy.\nThe article specifies that you need all 5 phases of sleep to get these benefits and that going through these phases takes time. \n\n### How Much Sleep Do You Need?\n\nThe National Sleep Foundation tells us that [“healthy adults need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night](https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/how-much-sleep-do-we-really-need)  . Babies, young children, and teens need even more sleep to enable their growth and development. People over 65 should also get 7 to 8 hours per night.”\n\n![Older people may sleep less but still need as much as younger people.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_12_26_at_6_14_09_PM_454522d445.png)\n\nIf these guidelines don’t sound right for your personal needs, you might [consider trying this experiment offered in the New York Times’ WELL section .](https://www.nytimes.com/guides/well/how-to-sleep)\n\n- Find a span of about two weeks when you do not need to wake up at a specific time. (We know, it sounds impossible. Maybe on a vacation?)\n- Turn your alarm clock off.\n- Go to bed at the same time each night.\n- Record what time you wake up each morning.  Using a [sleep diary](https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-sleep-tracking-app/) can help you see patterns and identify problems and possible solutions.\n\nWhen the two weeks are over, review your results.  The article suggests that you may see longer sleep times the first few days, but the times should begin to level out and reveal the amount of sleep your body needs naturally.\n\n![Having good sleep hygiene and falling asleep on time can help you sleep better. ](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_12_26_at_6_15_53_PM_393635e798.png)\n\nOnce you know that, you can adjust your bedtime to give you the desired amount of sleep before waking. You may find that you don’t need an alarm clock at all. \n\nHaving routines when it comes to sleep and waking can really improve your ability to fall asleep at night. In fact, when it comes to sleep, the more routine the better!  Having set mealtimes, workout times, and so on, can really help your body settle into some healthy patterns that encourage good sleep. It’s one of many habits that can help you sleep better.\n\n### Common Sleep Disorders\n\nSleep disorders are conditions that keep you from getting healthy sleep even under the best of conditions. They are different from conditions like heart disease, lung disease, mental illness, and chronic pain, which obstruct or make sleep difficult. \n\nSleep disorders are conditions in and of themselves:\n\n- [Insomnia](https://medlineplus.gov/insomnia.html) - the inability to fall asleep and stay asleep\n- [Sleep apnea](https://medlineplus.gov/sleepapnea.html) - a condition where you stop breathing for 10 seconds or more (often multiple times a night!) during sleep\n- [Restless leg syndrome (RLS)](https://medlineplus.gov/restlesslegs.html) - a condition where your legs feel tingly, pin-prick sensations and a powerful urge to move during the night\n- [Hypersomnia](https://www.hypersomniafoundation.org) - Uncontrollable sleeping during the day, including [narcolepsy.](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/narcolepsy/symptoms-causes/syc-20375497) Rather than giving you restful sleep, it causes extreme sleepiness during the day.\n- [Circadian rhythm disorders](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12115-circadian-rhythm-disorders) - problems sleeping and waking at the right times.\n- [Parasomnia](https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/parasomnias) - sleeping, talking, eating, walking or doing other activities in your sleep. This can also include more common conditions like [night terrors,](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-terrors/symptoms-causes/syc-20353524) [sleep paralysis](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sleep_paralysis) and [bedwetting].\n\n![Talk with your doctor if you are having sleep issues.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_12_26_at_6_17_48_PM_9843990369.png)\n\nYour health practitioner may be able to support you in diagnosing these sleep disorders. Although a conversation with your doctor may not be all it takes to solve your sleep problems, it can certainly help. Sleep apnea, for instance, can be fairly well managed with a medical device, like a [CPAP](https://www.aastweb.org/blog/what-is-cpap-continuous-positive-airway-pressure-therapy) or an [APAP](https://www.resmed.com/en-us/sleep-apnea/sleep-blog/what-is-apap-and-how-is-it-different-than-cpap/)   \n\n### Cannabinoids in Cannabis: THC, CBD & CBN\n\nIn a recent article, the [Community for Sleep-Care  Professionals](https://www.aastweb.org/blog/medical-marijuanas-effect-on-sleep) says, “It is a universally acknowledged truth that marijuana can make you sleepy.” They felt most comfortable recommending cannabis when sleep is disturbed by depression, anxiety, PTSD or chronic pain. However, they qualified this by saying they were not yet sure of the effect cannabis has on the quality of one’s sleep. \n\n![Cannabis flower can help you sleep at night.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_12_25_at_11_56_31_AM_30b1188f1f.png)\n\nCannabis works by triggering receptors in our endocannabinoid systems. These triggers help regulate hormones, immunity, pain, hunger and (You guessed it!) sleep! \n\nThere are several reasons that cannabis can help with a good night's sleep and the secret is in the cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis Sativa plant (marijuana), which help cause medicinal and therapeutic effects. Three of the cannabinoids that are well-known for inducing a sleep-filled night are THC, CBD, and now, CBN.\n\nTHC is the psychoactive cannabinoid prized for the euphoric feeling you get when you ingest cannabis. CBD is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid sought for its relaxing, anti-anxiety, and other therapeutic benefits. CBN, a lesser-known cannabinoid, is now prized for its sleep-inducing effects.\n\n![Cannabinoid molecules from the cannabis plant](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_12_26_at_6_20_04_PM_4af38db9aa.png)\n\nSo why not skip the high and go for the relaxing, sleep-friendly benefits of CBD?  Two reasons. First, CBD does relax and relieve anxiety, but there is some evidence that too much CBD may actually spark feelings of wakefulness. However, this depends on how your body reacts to CBD, some people find that taking a high CBD edible or vaping before bed helps them relax into a deeper slumber.\n\nTHC, on the other hand, has been shown to cause users to sleep longer and [may increase in slow-wave sleep, an essential aspect of cerebral restoration and recovery.](https://www.aastweb.org/blog/medical-marijuanas-effect-on-sleep).  So if you’re looking for more, quality sleep, look for an Indica-dominant (sleep-friendly) cannabis product with both THC and CBD.  \n\nCBN, is often associated with THC products that have aged over time. Overexposure to light, and time, can convert some juicy flower (or even an edible) from an energizing boost into a couch-lock coma. However, the research that backs THC and CBD as a sleep aid, just isn't there for CBN. That said, people within the cannabis industry have been touting CBN as the go-to for a restful night for decades. For now, the jury is out. \n\n### What Do I Purchase to Sleep Better?\n\nFinding what works for you is an individual process. Not only may different cannabinoids, such as THC, CBD, and CBN work differently in your system, the type of consumption method and the product itself may vary in results. We often suggest taking the time to try a variety of consumption methods - vaping, edibles, gel caps, etc., and trying different brands, until you find what works best for you. Depending on your dispensary, you may be able to find a product that specializes in sleep and may in fact combine all three cannabinoids discussed above.\n\n![Cannabis can replace alcohol quite nicely.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_30_at_10_48_17_AM_5ed9df608a.png)\n\nBe aware that dosage levels will vary person by person and that you may need to experiment to get the right dose for you. Your best friend may take an edible that is 2mg of THC and she sleeps well through the night, while you may need 10mg for the same effect. If you are new to cannabis, our recommendation is always to go low and go slow, and start with the minimal viable dosage and work up until you find what is right for you. We also suggest talking to a [knowledgeable professional about cannabis practitioner](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) before you start.\n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Cannabis\n\nIt's easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and start purchasing medical cannabis today.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.4705882352941178,"src":"/static/d05414868ab252e05357324e5b219084/ee604/bf414cbbf19866ba5ec3f1707d29e997.png","srcSet":"/static/d05414868ab252e05357324e5b219084/69585/bf414cbbf19866ba5ec3f1707d29e997.png 200w,\n/static/d05414868ab252e05357324e5b219084/497c6/bf414cbbf19866ba5ec3f1707d29e997.png 400w,\n/static/d05414868ab252e05357324e5b219084/ee604/bf414cbbf19866ba5ec3f1707d29e997.png 800w,\n/static/d05414868ab252e05357324e5b219084/f3583/bf414cbbf19866ba5ec3f1707d29e997.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/d05414868ab252e05357324e5b219084/58556/bf414cbbf19866ba5ec3f1707d29e997.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d05414868ab252e05357324e5b219084/61e93/bf414cbbf19866ba5ec3f1707d29e997.webp 200w,\n/static/d05414868ab252e05357324e5b219084/1f5c5/bf414cbbf19866ba5ec3f1707d29e997.webp 400w,\n/static/d05414868ab252e05357324e5b219084/58556/bf414cbbf19866ba5ec3f1707d29e997.webp 800w,\n/static/d05414868ab252e05357324e5b219084/99238/bf414cbbf19866ba5ec3f1707d29e997.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3134-markdown","title":"4 Experience-Based Holiday Gift Ideas for An Unusual Holiday Season ","slug":"4-experience-based-holiday-gift-ideas-for-an-unusual-holiday-season","content":"It's the holiday season, and maybe you're thinking about gift-giving. But, this is not an ordinary year. The regular Black Friday specials, well, perhaps that just doesn't cut it. \n\nI don't know about you, but I look in my closet and maybe 80% of what's there - I don't wear at the moment. Ditto - for a lot of my life. This year is well, different. What you give to people in the age of COVID, matters. Why? Because, it's so unique and frankly, a lot of us are having a hard time.\n\nWe think this is a gift-giving season of self-care, for gifts that benefit our overall body, mind, and spirit. I might propose that every gift we give has a socially positive impact on the receiver. Maybe that's too ambitious, but let's give it a go!\n\n### 4 Experiential Gifts for the Holidays\n\n![The Oura Ring helps you with a better night's sleep.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_18_at_11_00_01_AM_17ea827ec7.png)\n\n### 1. The Oura Ring\n\nThe [Oura Ring](https://ouraring.com/?utm_campaign=brand-us&g_acctid=553-919-5922&g_campaign=Brand%20-%20US&g_campaignid=1016078591&g_adgroupid=70823106696&g_adid=451501039328&g_keyword=oura%20ring&g_keywordid=aud-314758640118:kwd-305035554360&g_network=g&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&gclid=Cj0KCQiAk53-BRD0ARIsAJuNhpvPsHlLJnYyH1_Mr3i24T6k_ZlqdDLtcq-oqCv33VNTjEt4_paOZ5YaAurAEALw_wcB), if you haven't heard, is all the rage. From Prince Harry to Jack Dorsey to my favorite gal pal down the street, it seems I've heard a lot about how tracking sleep is the route to wellness and whole-being.\n\nWhat is the Oura Ring? They say on their site, \"The Oura Ring tracks key signals from your body, delivering critical insights to help you build good habits and harness your body's potential every day.\" \n\nBasically, it tracks your sleep. And sleep is important!\n\nAccording to [Fast Company](https://www.fastcompany.com/90408868/jack-dorsey-biz-stone-and-marc-benioff-use-oura-rings), \"The Oura ring is lined with sensors that measure heart rate and body temperature. Every morning, the Oura app gives you a \"readiness score,\" informed by your resting heart rate, physical activity, and quality of sleep the night before.\"\n\nThe Oura ring weighs in at $299, but the Oura ring implies it is the \"secret weapon for personal improvement.\" \n\n![Luxury cannabis edibles by Herve](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_18_at_11_15_25_AM_8502c233aa.png)\n\n### 2. Luxury-Infused Cannabis Edibles by Herve\n\nIf you live in Nevada or California, you're in for a treat with [Herve's luxurious cannabis macarons](https://hervedibles.com/welcome/). Handmade using the finest ingredients, these tasty morsels rival the best french pastries, yet these contain 10mg of THC per cookie. A perfect gift for the holidays, they come in Peppermint, Sour Green Apple, Sour Peach, and Sour Cherry flavors. Gluten-free and vegan, a box of three macaron cookies will make a splash at any holiday gathering, no matter how small it may be during the pandemic. One box of three cookies can be purchased directly from the [Herve site](https://shop.hervedibles.com/) for $20.\n\n![23&me helps people figure out how genetics shape their world.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_18_at_11_41_07_AM_79f436ede6.png)\n\n### 3. Genetic Testing\n\nWhen you land on the [23 & Me site](https://www.23andme.com/?dch=br), the tagline says \"Give your family a more complete picture of their health with DNA insights.\" It's about knowing your personal story in the way they deliver it, based on your DNA, which is kind of cool. But, beware, no matter what your results say \"F.D.A.-approved\" does not necessarily mean \"clinically useful.\" However, it seems to be the go-to genetic test for wellness.\n\nWith their [Ancestory & Traits Service](https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=search_generic&utm_campaign=US_evergreen_sales_prs_beta&gclid=Cj0KCQiAk53-BRD0ARIsAJuNhpuQ4nUQ9lfVm78qmnh_5ZCU1LXiDPZ9rTqzEDZyKuGSCuF36MFVWNIaAgUzEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds), you will receive a comprehensive ancestry breakdown. Apparently, this will allow you to find your genetic ancestry and narrow it down from some 2,000 regions. \n\nAre you looking for family origins? If that's your end game, AncestryDNA may be the right solution for you. The health report generates the Ethnicity Estimate report, which shows what regions in the world your ancestors were most likely linked to.\n\n![Peloton became the hot trend in exercise during COVID.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_18_at_11_45_32_AM_b9a62c1d94.png)\n\n### 4. Peloton Bike\n\nPre-Covid, I was a cardio addict and went to class after class, in addition to hiking and yoga. Post-Covid I've tried to keep up my fitness level, but it's been difficult. I've been working full time and homeschooling 3 kids and dealing with the ups and downs of uncertainty and stress. I knew I needed a new solution to get my ultra-self on and keep my muffin top at bay. \n\nSince day 1 of COVID, my best gal pals screamed at me to get a Peloton stationary bike. We did Soul Cycle together weekly and yes, Soul Cycle, has its own version of at-home cycling now.  But ultimately, [Peloton](https://www.onepeloton.com/bike) is the answer to my exercise blues and has gotten me back in shape during the rolling lockdowns. Even if I have nowhere to wear my holiday dress, at least I can fit into it!\n\nWhatever your holiday season may look like, we wish you health and happiness during this season!\n\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/14b42/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/f836f/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.jpg 200w,\n/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/2244e/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.jpg 400w,\n/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/14b42/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.jpg 800w,\n/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/47498/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/58556/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/61e93/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.webp 200w,\n/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/1f5c5/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.webp 400w,\n/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/58556/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.webp 800w,\n/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/99238/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3056-markdown","title":"6 Cannabis Strains to Pair With Your ASMR Triggers","slug":"6-cannabis-strains-to-pair-with-your-asmr-triggers","content":"o say that ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) has gone mainstream is a pretty gross understatement. After all, Michelob featured the techniques for triggering [ASMR in a Super Bowl ad](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Blf2ZBw8xfg) last January. In the commercial, HBO star Zoë Kravitz softly whispers a few lines while creating sounds such as a gentle drumming of her fingernails on a beer bottle. A kaleidoscope of nature shots—lush, green mountains; wispy clouds; crashing waterfalls—punctuate the ad.\n\nThis combination of audio and visual stimuli is intended to produce ASMR, or more specifically, a tingly sensation across the scalp, neck or back. Physical contact like a massage or back scratch can also trigger this sensory experience.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nAlthough not everyone experiences ASMR, interest in it has exploded with upwards of 1.5 million Google searches conducted monthly on the acronym alone. Meanwhile, YouTube channels such as [GentleWhispering](https://www.youtube.com/user/GentleWhispering) and [MassageASMR](https://www.youtube.com/user/MassageASMR) garner millions of viewers. \n\nThis may be because folks—along with [preliminary research](https://peerj.com/articles/851/)—are finding that ASMR triggers can help:\n\n* Promote calm\n* Boost mood\n* Induce relaxation and sleep\n* Reduce pain\n\nWouldn’t you know that these are the very same things that cannabis can help with as well? So, if you’re interested in checking out the scalp-tingling sounds and visuals of ASMR—or you already do—consider enhancing this said-to-be-soothing activity with one of the following cannabis strains.\n\nRELATED: [TAKING CANNABIS DAILY FOR GOOD HEALTH](https://hellomd.com/articles/taking-cannabis-daily-for-good-health/)\n\n### 1. Cherry Pie Can Intensify the Sounds & Visuals of ASMR Triggers\n\n\nDescended from two popular strains, [Granddaddy Purple](https://hellomd.com/strains/granddaddy-purple/) and [Durban Poison](https://hellomd.com/strains/durban-poison/), this indica-leaning hybrid is a popular choice for those looking to wind down and relax. Clocking in around 16–24% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), [Cherry Pie](https://hellomd.com/strains/cherry-pie/) can also help:\n\n* Improve mood\n* Reduce stress \n* Ease pain \n\nEffects come on slowly and can sometimes bring added dimension to sounds and visuals, making it the perfect complement to your ASMR stimuli.\n\n### 2. Snoop’s Dream Is for the Pro Canna Consumer Who Wants to Enhance Their ASMR Experience\n\n\nNot for the faint of heart—or the cannabis newbie, [Snoop’s Dream](https://hellomd.com/strains/snoop's-dream/) is an indica-dominant hybrid that can register as high as 26% THC. A cross between [Blue Dream](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a70be4e6c30440008cafd14/blue-dream) and Master Kush, this marijuana strain will mellow you out with its uplifting cerebral effects and gentle body buzz. \n\nFeelings of euphoria followed by a deep sleep are common when consuming Snoop’s Dream. So, when you’re tuning in at night to your favorite ASMR YouTube channel, give this strain a try.  \n\n### 3. Medihaze Is a 1:1 Cannabis Strain You Can Pair With Your Fave ASMRtist\n\n[Medihaze marijuana strain and ASMR](https://hellomd.com/strains/super-silver-haze/)\n\nIf too much THC turns you into a nervous Nellie, then consider [Medihaze](https://hellomd.com/strains/medihaze/), whose THC content is often evenly balanced with its cannabidiol (CBD) content. \n\nDescended from [Super Silver Haze](https://hellomd.com/strains/super-silver-haze/), [Haze](https://hellomd.com/strains/haze/) and an unknown high-CBD strain, this sativa strain typically energizes and uplifts, even while it relaxes tight muscles, and helps relieve pain and inflammation. \n\nGive this marijuana strain a go during your midday break, when you’re listening to your preferred ASMRtist—yep, that’s what they’re called—brush their hair.\n\n### 4. Berry White Can Ease Both Mind & Body While You Listen to Your ASMR App\n\n![Berry White marijuana strain and ASMR](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-66941aa1-477d-4e55-8583-6dbfafee52fb/original.png)\n\nAveraging around 22% THC, [Berry White](https://hellomd.com/strains/berry-white/) is touted for its balanced effects, which ease both mind and body _sans_ the couch lock that typically comes with indicas or indica-dominant hybrids. \n\nThat said, this soothing cannabis strain is better suited for the nighttime or weekends when you’ve got nothing planned other than to listen to the light patter of rain drops or crashing of ocean waves on your ASMR app.\n\n### 5. Harlequin Is a High-CBD Strain That Will Calm & Uplift During Your ASMR Pursuits\n\n![Harlequin marijuana strain and ASMR](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/59932ad8324eaa2c552ce53f/embedded_images/59932ae0324eaa2c552ce543/Screen_Shot_2017-08-15_at_10.02.44_AM.png)\n\nIf you’re looking for a high-CBD companion to your ASMR-inducing activities, [Harlequin](https://hellomd.com/strains/harlequin/) may be just the thing for you. With a CBD-to-THC ratio of 5:2, Harlequin won’t likely get you high. But it’ll make you feel good by calming frayed nerves and boosting your mood. \n\nAches and pains are said to melt away with the consumption of this sativa-dominant cannabis strain, which is an offspring of landrace cannabis strains from Colombia, Thailand, Switzerland and Nepal.\n\n### 6. Northern Lights Will Glue You to the Couch in a Good Way While You Watch Your ASMR Videos\n\n![Northern Lights marijuana strain and ASMR](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-c76c1fce-ece9-47d4-ac7b-eeb08b088090/original.png)\n\nHeavy-hitting [Northern Lights](https://hellomd.com/strains/northern-lights/) is a classic indica that can knock you out in a very short span of time. Needless to say, couch lock is a certainty, coupled with feelings of utter bliss and contentment. \n\nA cross between [Afghani](https://hellomd.com/strains/afghani/) and [Thai](https://hellomd.com/strains/thai/), this marijuana strain may be best consumed curled up in bed, watching videos of, say, PBS landscape artist Bob Ross—posthumously dubbed the godfather of ASMR—speak in soothing tones as he paints his “happy clouds” and “happy little trees.”\n\nPhoto credit: palidachan/Shutterstock.com\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. And if you have questions about cannabis, [ask them](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) and our community will answer.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/14b42/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.jpg","srcSet":"/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/f836f/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.jpg 200w,\n/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/2244e/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.jpg 400w,\n/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/14b42/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.jpg 800w,\n/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/47498/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.jpg 1200w,\n/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/0e329/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.jpg 1600w,\n/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/de132/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.jpg 3638w","srcWebp":"/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/58556/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/61e93/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.webp 200w,\n/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/1f5c5/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.webp 400w,\n/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/58556/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.webp 800w,\n/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/99238/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.webp 1200w,\n/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/7c22d/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.webp 1600w,\n/static/da667b616f7426ca79c5e819fb1fb6ad/833d2/6b8f9fec001b2ac77ec86830f579f1b9.webp 3638w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3053-markdown","title":"3 CBD Products to Help You Go Back to Sleep","slug":"3-cbd-products-to-help-you-go-back-to-sleep","content":"You’ve finally fallen asleep and are getting some much-needed rest—but suddenly you’re awake and can’t fall back to sleep. This is a nightly struggle for so many of us. \n\nInsomnia is a common condition. In the U.S., [30–35% of adults suffer from temporary symptoms of insomnia](http://www.sleepeducation.org/news/2014/03/10/insomnia-awareness-day-facts-and-stats), including:\n\n* Inability to fall or stay asleep\n* Fatigue during the day\n* Mood disturbances\n* Poor memory\n* Trouble focusing\n\nSome adults—15–20% of them—experience longer-lasting insomnia (up to three months), and 10% have chronic and ongoing insomnia. \n\nWhile many consider insomnia as just difficulty getting to sleep, for many, the challenges begin in the middle of the night when their eyes pop open and they just can’t settle back down. It can be so frustrating, after a long struggle to get to sleep, to have to wake back up and do it all over again. \n\nBut CBD could help with these middle-of-the-night battles with insomnia. \n\nThe body’s natural endocannabinoid system (ECS) is key in regulating sleep. When plant-based cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) stimulate the ECS, it can [activate your body’s natural mechanisms for rest](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55e5c6573236300006350000/medical-marijuana-could-help-insomniacs-sleep-better). \n\nIn fact, HelloMD and the Brightfield Group conducted one of the largest studies on CBD usage to date, and they found that [60% of the 2,400 participants used CBD to successfully reduce insomnia or other sleep problems](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a340a9d100a820006562ec4/largest-cbd-usage-study-published-by-hellomd-with-brightfield-group).\n\nStudies even show that [folks report falling asleep easier and more quickly after consuming cannabis](http://www.beyondthc.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Tringale-Jensen-20111.pdf). And cannabis can even decrease episodes of sleep apnea, which [helps sleep apnea sufferers get a better night’s rest](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55959b7130633100060c0000/no-longer-sleepless-in-seattle-medical-marijuana-eases-insomnia). \n\nSo, there’s good reason to believe CBD could help improve your sleep. Here are three CBD-rich products that may help you get back to sleep when you wake up during the night. \n\nRELATED: [4 WAYS YOU CAN USE CBD TO BEAT INSOMNIA](https://www.hellolift.com/health-wellness/5be3805026ef630008f055c5/4-ways-you-can-use-cbd-to-beat-insomnia)\n\n### 1. Keep CBD Drops + Sleep By Plant People on Your Bedside Table \n\n![Plant People Drops + Sleep CBD tincture](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-446d8464-314a-4dc5-b65b-bce6d03d3e92/original.png)\n\nSo, you’ve woken up again and need to fall back asleep. This is the perfect time to reach for [Drops + Sleep by Plant People](https://www.hellolift.com/products/5d0d6b77f8f00491e4b733cb/drops-sleep) to help you drift back to dreamland. \n\nThis CBD-infused tincture is specifically designed with sleep in mind. In addition to the CBD, the tincture is formulated with a blend of cannabinoids:\n\n* [Cannabinol (CBN)](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a00c7e5462abf14dd36415f/having-trouble-sleeping-try-non-psychoactive-cbn), which has potent sedative effects\n* [Cannabichromene(CBC)](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a99e483f24d1300077ccb6e/beyond-thc-and-cbd-what-you-need-to-know-about-cbc-cbn-and-cbg), which may ease pain and can act as an antidepressant\n\nHold a few drops under your tongue for 30 seconds to a minute, and let yourself fall gently back to sleep. \n\n### 2. Try a Calming Self-Massage With CBD-Infused Soothing Lotion by Humble Flower Co. \n\n![Humble Flower Co.CBD Soothing Lotion ](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-a4aa05b6-fcaf-478e-b110-ca4b9c645b0b/original.png)\n\nFor another sleep-inducing option, try massaging yourself back into a relaxed state with [Soothing Lotion from Humble Flower Co.](https://www.hellolift.com/products/5cc3767a947aecc917f376b7/soothing-lotion)\n\nThis CBD- infused topical will seep into your pores to reach your sore or tense muscles, thereby providing a whole new level of relaxation. Plus, this lotion is infused with a blend of essential oils that contain some serious relaxation properties, including:\n\n* Jasmine\n* Vanilla\n* Rose \n\nThe aromatherapy mixed with the relaxing effects of the CBD topical is a perfect combination for rest. \n\n### 3. Dissolve a Dream CBD Peppermint by Mr. Moxey’s Mints Under Your Tongue to Help You Fall Back to Sleep\n\n![Mr. Moxey's Mints CBD Peppermint mints](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-0be513af-d26b-41ee-8ffa-15b1966ebf9e/original.png)\n \nTo add a little bit of sweetness to the middle of your night, try out these [Dream CBD Peppermints by Mr. Moxey’s Mints](https://www.hellolift.com/products/5cccfe33b3fcfa753128e7af/dream-cbd-peppermint). These delicious little CBD mints are vegan and gluten free. They’re also enriched with sleep-inducing passionflower and valerian root, adding to the sedative effects of the CBD. \n\nDissolve one of these mints under your tongue for best results; you should feel sleepy again in just five to 15 minutes. Let these mints lull you back into la la land.\n\nPhoto credits: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock.com (main image), [Plant People](https://www.instagram.com/p/BxGMI8EhkxL/) (Plant People image), [Humble Flower Co.](https://www.instagram.com/p/BxtBFQSBbTP/) (Humble Flower Co. image), [Mr. Moxey's Mints](https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwu-6vSgJf2/) (Mr. Moxey's Mints image)\n\nWant to try CBD, but don’t know where to start? [Shop our selection of high-quality, lab-tested CBD products](https://www.hellolift.com/products) and have them shipped to your door. And if you have questions about CBD, [ask them](https://www.hellolift.com/answers) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/14b42/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.jpg","srcSet":"/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/f836f/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.jpg 200w,\n/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/2244e/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.jpg 400w,\n/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/14b42/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.jpg 800w,\n/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/47498/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.jpg 1200w,\n/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/0e329/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.jpg 1600w,\n/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/391cf/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.jpg 1772w","srcWebp":"/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/58556/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/61e93/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.webp 200w,\n/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/1f5c5/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.webp 400w,\n/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/58556/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.webp 800w,\n/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/99238/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.webp 1200w,\n/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/7c22d/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.webp 1600w,\n/static/969b6b600d395915c2b33826864cf115/edb99/7ab63b67ce296c44a5807213c69a53d9.webp 1772w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2989-markdown","title":"5 CBD Products for a Good Night’s Sleep","slug":"5-cbd-products-for-a-good-nights-sleep","content":"Sleep problems may affect as many as 70 million Americans. Good sleep is key to good health, but things like stress, long work hours and even your diet can disrupt sleep patterns. This can cause problems with concentration, memory and coordination.  \n\nTo deal with sleep issues, many people turn to prescription or over-the-counter sleeping pills. But these medications can have potentially serious risks and side effects. Fortunately, [cannabidiol (CBD) can help promote healthy sleep](https://www.projectcbd.org/medicine/cannabis-sleep-disturbances), without the side effects of common sleep aids.  \n\n### The Many Kinds of Sleep Problems\n\nEveryone knows sleep is essential for good health.  If you’ve ever done an all-night study session, worked the late shift, or tossed and turned all night with worry, you can feel the effects the next day. \n\nInsomnia—difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep—is most likely the best-known sleep problem. But people suffer from a variety of sleep disturbances, such as:\n\n* **Sleep apnea:** This is a condition in which a person has abnormal breathing patterns throughout the night.  That person may intermittently stop breathing or have other kinds of disruptions to their regular breathing. Sleep apnea sufferers may not wake up when their breathing becomes abnormal, but they can experience symptoms such as daytime sleepiness or poor concentration.  \n* **Narcolepsy:** People who suffer from this condition report periods of extreme sleepiness and episodes of suddenly falling asleep during the daytime.\n* **Restless legs syndrome:** Also known as RLS, this is a sleep movement disorder that causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an urge to move them as you’re falling asleep.\n* **Parasomnia:** This is a group of sleep disorders that includes sleepwalking, sleep terrors or other unusual behavior that only occurs when a person is asleep.\n* **Sleep paralysis:** This is when a person is temporarily unable to move while either falling asleep or waking up.\n* **Seasonal affective disorder:** Also known as SAD, this condition causes excessive sleepiness and depression during the winter, when a key part of the brain doesn’t receive enough bright light.\n* **REM behavior disorder:** This condition causes people to act out intense and often violent dreams.\n* **Circadian rhythm disorders:** This is a group of sleep issues with an underlying imbalance in a person’s internal, biological clock. These disorders can cause sleep cycles to be out of sync with external cues, such as light and darkness, which tell the body it’s time to sleep.\n\nMany health conditions can also contribute to sleep problems, too, since the symptoms can make it hard to get comfortable or relax enough for sleep.\n\nRELATED: [3 POPULAR QUESTIONS ABOUT CBD & ANXIETY ANSWERED](https://hellomd.com/articles/3-popular-questions-about-cbd-and-anxiety-answered/)\n\n### How Do People Usually Tackle Their Sleep Problems? \n\nBecause sleep disturbances can have so many causes, there’s a long list of medications developed to treat them.  These can include true hypnotic medications like Ambien and Lunesta, along with a number of medications to treat anxiety, depression and other issues that can contribute to sleep problems. \n\nBut even limited use of sleep aids can cause a hangover effect that impacts functioning the next day. CBD can be a more effective and less risky option, because of how it works with the body’s natural endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a major role in regulating sleep.\n\n### The Endocannabinoid System Regulates Sleep Cycles\n\nThe ECS is a network of receptors found almost everywhere in the body. These receptors respond to compounds the body itself makes, as well as those found in the cannabis plant.  \n\nThe ECS plays a major role in maintaining homeostasis, or balance, in the body’s many different systems, including the sleep-wake cycle and other kinds of circadian rhythms.\n\nThe relationship between different cannabis compounds such as CBD and the ECS is complicated, especially as it relates to sleep. Many people say that CBD helps them stay alert and focused. But in higher doses, it appears to help people fall asleep and stay asleep, with fewer episodes of sleep interruptions. \n\nCBD also seems to reduce the symptoms of REM behavior disorder, a sleep disorder that causes people to act out violent or vivid dreams.  \n\nAnd studies have shown that CBD can help relieve sleep problems caused by other health conditions, such as arthritis pain, nightmares from PTSD or the tremors of Parkinson’s disease. \n\nWith this in mind, here are five hemp CBD products that can ease sleeping problems and help you get the rest you need.\n\n### 1. Relax Pain Spray From Basic Jane Relieves Aches to Help You Sleep\n\n![Basic Jane Relax Spray](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-21a39c04-674a-464f-9659-d5f44f04971f/original.png)\n\n[Basic Jane’s Relax Pain Spray](https://www.hellolift.com/products/5beca4f22ae500a0ad82dfff/relax-pain-spray) is a fast-acting, high-CBD topical that brings relief from the pain of arthritis, sprains, strains and muscle cramps. \n\nFormulated with Basic Jane’s signature blend of high-quality hemp and the soothing scents of lavender, clary sage and menthol, the spray also calms the mind and eases stress for a good night’s sleep. It’s easy to apply and works in combination with other Basic Jane topicals for maximum relief.\n\n### 2. Aches Vape Cartridge by Wildflower Has Calming Lavender to Ease You Into a Deep Sleep\n\n![Wildflower Aches Vape Pen](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-04525535-10be-429f-943b-846b1b117175/original.png)\n\n[Wildflower’s Aches Vaporizer Cartridge](https://www.hellolift.com/products/5be61ee1a032d6672015e58a/aches-cartridge) is a high-CBD cartomizer that’s compatible with Wildflower’s rechargeable vaporizer.  \n\nThe cartridge contains 150 mg of CO2-extracted, full-spectrum CBD combined with the calming scents of lavender, peppermint and spearmint essential oils. One draw provides 1 mg of CBD to help relieve stress as well as the aches and pains that can keep you awake at night.\n\n### 3. Relief Lotion by Vertly Soothes Before Bedtime\n\n\nFor gentle relief from daily aches and pains, reach for [Vertly’s Relief Lotion](https://www.hellolift.com/products/5ba2a9de1669df4c6daec804/relief-lotion). It combines 150 mg of CBD with:\n\n* Organic oils \n* Shea butter\n* Arnica flower extract\n\nPackaged with the calming scents of citrus and lavender, you can use this lotion  before bedtime to soothe stress and ease minor discomforts.\n\n### 4. Calm CBD Peppermints by Mr. Moxey’s Mints Includes Herbal Extracts for a Peaceful Sleep\n\n![Mr. Moxey's Mints CBD Peppermint Mints](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-675beed3-5e45-419a-ad4e-2d5470eacc45/original.png)\n\nInfused with full-spectrum, organic hemp oil, [Calm CBD Peppermint Mints by Mr. Moxey’s Mints](https://www.hellolift.com/products/5cb6622f265821263c0bf486/calm-cbd-peppermint) are naturally gluten free and vegan.  \n\nEach mint provides 5 mg of CBD along with extracts of Indian gooseberry and echinacea to boost the immune system while calming the mind for a peaceful sleep. \n\n### 5. CBD+ Relief Tincture by Wildflower Helps Support a Restful Sleep\n\n![Wildflower CBD+ Relief Tincture](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-c7697bec-57c2-422a-bef8-58bf3e4625e3/original.png)\n\n[Wildflower’s CBD+ Relief tincture](https://www.hellolift.com/products/5b57ae8402f1740001523015/cbd-relief) provides fast relief from sleep-robbing discomforts such as anxiety, and aches and pains. \n\nThis tincture provides 33 mg of full-spectrum, hemp CBD per dropper, combined with tropical fruit flavor. CBD+ Relief also supports the endocannabinoid system and boosts immunity for better health.\n\nGetting a good night’s sleep is a key part of staying healthy. But for many, deep, restorative sleep remains elusive. In topicals, tinctures and all its other forms, CBD can relieve the pain, discomfort and stress that disrupts sleep—without the risks and side effects of common sleep medications.\n\nPhoto credits: [Tracey Hocking](https://unsplash.com/photos/5N1gLVUmp10) (main image), [emmasoninsta](https://www.instagram.com/p/BtT7OMVDvNO/) (Basic Jane image), [Vertly](https://www.instagram.com/vertlybalm/) (Vertly image), [Mr. Moxey's Mints](https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwe8XRaB71O/) (Mr. Moxey's Mints image), [Wildflower](https://www.instagram.com/wildflower_plantsheal/) (Wildflower  images)\n\nWant to try CBD, but don’t know where to start? [Shop our selection of high-quality, lab-tested CBD products](https://hellomd.com/) and have them shipped to your door. And if you have questions about CBD, [ask them](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/6d1eb04eaf3678dd223f679f7c170676/14b42/bc2c9477e3c9e72b34ff7015542e6f3e.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6d1eb04eaf3678dd223f679f7c170676/f836f/bc2c9477e3c9e72b34ff7015542e6f3e.jpg 200w,\n/static/6d1eb04eaf3678dd223f679f7c170676/2244e/bc2c9477e3c9e72b34ff7015542e6f3e.jpg 400w,\n/static/6d1eb04eaf3678dd223f679f7c170676/14b42/bc2c9477e3c9e72b34ff7015542e6f3e.jpg 800w,\n/static/6d1eb04eaf3678dd223f679f7c170676/47498/bc2c9477e3c9e72b34ff7015542e6f3e.jpg 1200w,\n/static/6d1eb04eaf3678dd223f679f7c170676/e373b/bc2c9477e3c9e72b34ff7015542e6f3e.jpg 1282w","srcWebp":"/static/6d1eb04eaf3678dd223f679f7c170676/58556/bc2c9477e3c9e72b34ff7015542e6f3e.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6d1eb04eaf3678dd223f679f7c170676/61e93/bc2c9477e3c9e72b34ff7015542e6f3e.webp 200w,\n/static/6d1eb04eaf3678dd223f679f7c170676/1f5c5/bc2c9477e3c9e72b34ff7015542e6f3e.webp 400w,\n/static/6d1eb04eaf3678dd223f679f7c170676/58556/bc2c9477e3c9e72b34ff7015542e6f3e.webp 800w,\n/static/6d1eb04eaf3678dd223f679f7c170676/99238/bc2c9477e3c9e72b34ff7015542e6f3e.webp 1200w,\n/static/6d1eb04eaf3678dd223f679f7c170676/8b598/bc2c9477e3c9e72b34ff7015542e6f3e.webp 1282w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2770-markdown","title":"A Holistic Approach to Alleviating Insomnia","slug":"a-holistic-approach-to-alleviating-insomnia","content":"Sleep is just as important for a healthy body as a balanced diet is. Good sleep habits, just like eating, can drastically improve overall mental and physical health. According to an article by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, [proper sleep habits play a role in forming new pathways](https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/node/4605) for learning, decision-making skills, managing emotional issues, healing, repairing blood vessels and more. Plus, a lack of proper sleep can lead to an increased risk of heart and kidney disease, diabetes, stroke and obesity. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nFolks struggling with insomnia are, unfortunately, acutely aware of how vital quality sleep is. Insomnia, defined as habitual sleeplessness, is an incredibly common problem affecting up to 30% of Americans every year. A number of things can cause insomnia including:\n\n* Genetics\n* Hormones\n* Chronic pain\n* Depression\n* Anxiety\n* A snoring partner \n\nWhether you’re suffering from acute or chronic insomnia, the traditional medical fix usually includes sleeping pills. This course of action may not be ideal for many people as sleeping pills come with some serious side effects including addiction, confusion and problems with attention.\n\nIf you find yourself looking for holistic ways to treat insomnia, here’s a quick list of the top methods for getting your zzz’s. And, you guessed it, this list includes: cannabis. \n\n### Take an Hour to Power Down\n\nFor some, insomnia can be the result of simply not putting your brain to rest properly. If you’re like most Americans, our brains are buzzing constantly from incoming text messages, social media imagery, emails and the latest Netflix shows. In an ever-connected world, it’s often hard to get our minds to slow down and our eyes off our screens. This failure to calm the brain ahead of sleep can make good rest hard to find.\n\nAccording to clinical psychologist and sleep specialist [Michael J. Breus, Ph.D.](https://www.thesleepdoctor.com/), quality sleep takes a powering down process. In his book titled _The Power of When_, Breus suggests a three-part, 60-minute approach to bedtime. \n\n* For the first 20 minutes, finish any of the “must accomplish” tasks that will keep you up at night if they aren’t crossed off your to-do list. \n* Use the next 20 minutes to complete your bedtime routine, like brushing your teeth and washing your face. \n* Use the final 20 minutes of your power-down hour to lie in bed and focus on your breathing. \n\n### Stick to a Strict Bedtime\n\nIf you’re experiencing a particularly stubborn bout of insomnia, you may benefit from sticking to a very strict bedtime for at least two weeks. This includes weekends because, despite the rumors, sleeping in on the weekends can actually be more detrimental to sleep than it is restorative. \n\n[Keeping a regular sleep schedule is the Sleep Foundation’s number one tip](https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-tools-tips/healthy-sleep-tips) for healthy sleep. That’s because the brain and body respond well to routine. The more consistent your bedtime schedule is, the more likely your body and mind are to adhere to that schedule. \n\nIf this method means you’d be drastically changing your bedtime, say going from 2 a.m. to 10 p.m., it’s going to take some time to make the change. It’s better to do it in gradual increments, according to the Sleep Foundation. Start by going to bed at 1:30 a.m. for a few days, then move bedtime up by another 30 minutes a few days later. Repeat this process until you reach your bedtime goal. \n\n### Wind Down With Cannabis\n\nThe role that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays in vital functions of the body is hard to overstate. The ECS is involved in everything including:\n\n* Hunger\n* Pain\n* Fertility\n* Memory\n* Locomotive activity (walking and running)\n\nSleep is also one of the functions that relies on ECS regulation. When tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) interact with cannabinoid receptors in the body, they can help modulate sleep patterns. \n\nRELATED: [FINDING RELIEF FROM INSOMNIA WITH CANNABIS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5abe9f5ff24d1300077ccba9/finding-relief-from-insomnia-with-cannabis)\n\nDr. Claudia Jensen, M.D., noticed many of her patients reporting that since taking medical marijuana, they started falling asleep faster. Using data collected from her clinic, Dr. Jensen published a study in 2011 in _The Journal of Cannabis in Clinical Practice_.\n\nPatients fell asleep 30–45 minutes faster, on average, after they began using medicinal cannabis. Of the 116 people interviewed during the study, 79% claimed their sleep quality improved with medical marijuana. \n\nIf you’re interested in taking marijuana to help you fall asleep and stay asleep, you’ll probably need to experiment a bit to find the cannabis strain, consumption method, timing and dose that help you best. Many people find indica strains help them fall asleep, while others pay more attention to the THC-to-CBD ratio than strain variation. Now, in some states, there are even cannabis products marketed specifically for sleep with names like Sleep, Calm and Dissolve. \n\nIt’s worth noting that cannabis edibles seem to be a good choice for people who have problems staying asleep. Because of how the marijuana is processed through the liver, a cannabis edible will take longer to kick in. However, it will last longer than vaping or smoking will—typically 6–8 hours, depending on the dose amount, when you took the edible and what you had for dinner. \n\n### Relax Your Mind With Meditation \n\nMeditation is billed as a tool for calming, among other things:\n\n* Anxiety\n* Anger\n* Sleeplessness\n* Bad mood\n\nAccording to a study published in _JAMA Internal Medicine_, mindful meditation can evoke the [relaxation response necessary for our bodies to fall into sleep](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2110998). The participants in the study included 49 middle-aged to elderly adults who experienced sleeping problems. Half of the participants completed a mindfulness awareness program with exercises designed to focus on the present. The other half was put through a course on sleep education, equipping them with ways to improve sleeping habits.\n\nThe study concluded that the participants in the mindfulness group had less insomnia, depression and fatigue than those in the other group did. \n\nTo practice mindfulness meditation, [Dr. Herbert Benson](https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/mindfulness-meditation-helps-fight-insomnia-improves-sleep-201502187726) from the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine suggests two steps: \n\n1. Focus on something that calms you. This could be your breathing or repeating a sound aloud. \n2. Relax your mind and whenever it wanders, gently bring it back to the calming point of focus. \n\nUse this technique throughout the day and before bed to help you relax into slumber. \n\nFinding a way to successfully treat insomnia is vital to your health. Proper quality and quantity of sleep can help you:\n\n* Be more productive.\n* Maintain a healthy weight.\n* Make better decisions.\n* Decrease your risk of developing serious medical issues.\n\nLet us know how any of these holistic insomnia treatments worked for you in the comments section below. \n\nPhoto credit: [Eric Danley](https://www.flickr.com/people/edanley/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/14b42/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/f836f/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.jpg 200w,\n/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/2244e/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.jpg 400w,\n/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/14b42/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.jpg 800w,\n/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/47498/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/0e329/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.jpg 1600w,\n/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/6055f/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.jpg 2327w","srcWebp":"/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/58556/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/61e93/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.webp 200w,\n/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/1f5c5/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.webp 400w,\n/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/58556/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.webp 800w,\n/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/99238/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.webp 1200w,\n/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/7c22d/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.webp 1600w,\n/static/d988ff9908c607bb137cfe2c45378b0d/7cad6/a64144c3dec12b9eaa29c2da335a6bbe.webp 2327w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2627-markdown","title":"Top 5 Cannabis Products to Help You Stay Asleep","slug":"top-5-cannabis-products-to-help-you-stay-asleep","content":"
If you’re one of the roughly 10 million Americans who rely on a prescription drug like Ambien or Lunesta to help relieve your insomnia, you may also find yourself dealing with a host of side effects such as drowsiness during the day, dizziness, headache and memory loss. As it is, these sleeping pills, which can become habit-forming, are meant to treat insomnia only in the short term.\n\nFor folks having trouble staying asleep, a safer, long-term solution is—you guessed it: cannabis. This powerful plant not only helps regulate sleep patterns, but it can also reduce stress, anxiety and pain as well as improve mood—all things that can determine whether you’ll have a good night’s sleep.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nWhen it comes to middle-of-the-night or late insomnia, edibles are likely the best choice as they typically last about 6–8 hours. And because effects aren’t immediate, you can consume a marijuana edible an hour or two before bedtime with the expectation that the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD) or other cannabinoids will come on right as you’re hitting the hay.\n\nOf course, because everyone reacts differently to cannabis’s various chemical compounds, some experimentation is required. If you’re not sure what product or dose is right for you, start out with a small amount, and see if it helps you sleep through the night. If it doesn’t, slowly increase your dose with the goal of consuming the smallest amount possible to ease your insomnia.\n\nRELATED: [TOP 5 CANNABIS PRODUCTS TO HELP YOU FALL ASLEEP](https://hellomd.com/articles/top-5-cannabis-products-to-help-you-fall-asleep)\n \nWith that in mind, take a look at our top five picks of cannabis edibles that we’ve found ensure a full night’s sleep.\n\n### 1. Kiva Blueberry Terra Bites\n\n![Kiva Blueberry Terra Bites](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5aaab2c6f24d1300077ccb8b-5a54fc2f-ad5d-4b2b-ab71-86e4edf5bf3c/original.jpg)\n\nCloaked in cocoa powder and creamy milk chocolate, Kiva’s Blueberry Terra Bites are a crowd favorite. These easy-going edibles lay claim to a number of awards, including winner of the best edible from The Errl Cup, _SF Weekly_ and _East Bay Express_.\n\nAt just 5 mg of THC per blueberry, Kiva Terra Bites are a great choice for folks looking for a lower dose of cannabis to achieve a solid night’s sleep. And for those who need more, it’s a cinch to up your amount by popping a second—or third—blueberry before bedtime.\n\n### 2. Kikoko Tranquili-Tea\n\n![Kikoko Tranquili-Tea](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5aaab2c6f24d1300077ccb8b-83ee1b9d-12fa-42ba-aa64-439e70078310/original.jpg)\n\nAs far as cannabis teas go, Kikoko has it dialed in. Each cannabis-infused tea bag is water-soluble, carries an exact dose and uses only organic ingredients.\n\nPeppermint, chamomile, lemon myrtle and lavender are just a few of the items that spice up the flavor profile of [Kikoko’s Tranquili-Tea](https://www.hellomd.com/products/58dc2cfe53635624bf2a4992/tranquili-tea), which contains 3 mg of THC and 5 mg of cannabinol (CBN). [Non-psychoactive CBN](https://hellomd.com/articles/having-trouble-sleeping-try-non-psychoactive-cbn), which results when THC oxidizes, is touted for its sedative effects, and Kikoko’s Tranquili-Tea is one of only a handful of products out on the market that contains this sleep-inducing cannabinoid.\n\n### 3. Sensi-Chew Insomnia With Melatonin\n\n![Sensi-Chew Insomnia With Melatonin](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5aaab2c6f24d1300077ccb8b-24b5479d-8a24-41e0-b6f3-27d09f914529/original.jpg)\n\nIf you’re in need of a bit more indica to keep you in the land of Nod, you may want to try Sensi-Chew’s cannabis-infused chocolate caramels. Each dose comes loaded with 10 mg of full-spectrum THC along with small amounts of several other cannabinoids including CBN.\n\nAnd for good measure, one chewy chocolate caramel contains 4 mg of melatonin, which helps reset your sleep and wake cycles. Though your body typically produces enough melatonin on its own, there are times when a melatonin supplement can prove helpful—for example, when you’re suffering from jet lag or the occasional insomnia.\n\n### 4. Care by Design 18:1 Softgel Capsules\n\n![Care by Design 18:1 Softgel Capsules](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5aaab2c6f24d1300077ccb8b-b23b6d59-1aa9-48da-85f0-84983c216989/original.jpg)\n\nSensitive to THC’s psychoactivity? No worries. You can still achieve a restful sleep by consuming products with high levels of non-psychoactive CBD. Known to reduce anxiety as well as modulate pain, mood and stress, [CBD—when taken regularly—can help individuals](https://hellomd.com/articles/whats-so-great-about-cannabidiol-or-cbd) waking up mid-sleep for these reasons.  \n\nEnter Care by Designs 18:1 CBD gel caps, which contain cannabis oil that’s been CO2 extracted and lab tested to ensure each dose has a consistent level of potency and is free of contaminants. Care by Design’s 18:1 CBD-rich capsules come in 10 mg and 20 mg doses and use coconut oil to increase the cannabis’s absorption rate.\n\n### 5. Mind Tricks Cannabis-Infused Toffee\n\n![Mind Tricks Cannabis-Infused Toffee - PB+J](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5aaab2c6f24d1300077ccb8b-6d6018c0-7b5c-442e-9b0e-e7ebbb503142/original.jpg)\n\nTo satisfy your sweet tooth, we recommend following dinner up with a little dessert—specifically, Mind Tricks’ cannabis-infused toffee. A collaboration between canna-business Jetty Extracts and candy shop Sweetbricks, [Mind Tricks Toffee](https://deskgram.org/mindtricksedibles) comes in a variety of tantalizing flavors including cookies n cream, salted dark chocolate walnut and PB+J (pictured).\n\nEach Mind Tricks bag comes with five chunks of toffee dosed at 20 mg of THC each. If 20 mg is too much, crack off a piece to get your desired dose, then let the feelings of relaxation and well-being wash over you as you slide into bed and a peaceful slumber.\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) guide. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/14b42/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/f836f/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.jpg 200w,\n/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/2244e/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.jpg 400w,\n/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/14b42/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.jpg 800w,\n/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/47498/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.jpg 1200w,\n/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/0e329/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.jpg 1600w,\n/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/6a059/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.jpg 6000w","srcWebp":"/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/58556/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/61e93/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.webp 200w,\n/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/1f5c5/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.webp 400w,\n/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/58556/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.webp 800w,\n/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/99238/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.webp 1200w,\n/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/7c22d/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.webp 1600w,\n/static/e1aefa0dfff1b7732cce50ea8d5eab90/3041e/532b6a5c936949d323a5684d1643bebe.webp 6000w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2591-markdown","title":"Top 5 Cannabis Products to Help You Fall Asleep","slug":"top-5-cannabis-products-to-help-you-fall-asleep","content":"Insomnia is one of the most common reasons for people to seek out cannabis, and it’s easy to see why: A recent study in the _Journal of Psychopharmacology_ found that [65.2% of 264 medical marijuana patients who were using sleep medications reduced their consumption of these drugs with the help of cannabis](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28372506).  \n\nIndeed, many insomnia sufferers say they’ve found relief in medical marijuana. However, cannabis affects each individual differently, so what helps one person go to sleep might not work for another. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, we’ve compiled a diverse list of cannabis products that can help you wind down for the night. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### 1. Dosist Sleep Dose Pen\n\n![Dosist Cannabis Sleep Dose Pen](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5aa05f6cf24d1300077ccb7e-d722df9b-ae5d-4763-8f66-3e03905153d6/original.png)\n\nIt can take marijuana edibles up to an hour or more to kick in, so if you’re looking to fall asleep quickly, vape pens are the way to go. Upon inhaling, cannabinoids—the active chemical compounds in cannabis—enter the bloodstream via the lungs leading to a much more immediate effect. \n\n[This vape pen by Dosist has a CBD (cannabidiol) to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) ratio of 1:8](https://dosist.com/formula-detail/sleep) and a terpene blend that includes myrcene and nerolidol, aromatic compounds that are believed to have sedating properties. Dosist pens also vibrate to let you know that you’ve consumed 2.25 mg of the oil inside the cartridge, a feature that lets you dose accurately. \n\nRELATED: [3 POPULAR QUESTIONS ABOUT MARIJUANA & INSOMNIA ANSWERED](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a020cd61d901d0dde1bb18a/3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-insomnia-answered)\n\n ### 2. Care By Design Drops\n\n![Care By Design Cannabis Sublingual Drops](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5aa05f6cf24d1300077ccb7e-1390c74a-89a9-4c8f-a369-f62d5084c02a/original.png)\n\nSublinguals can come in the form of tinctures, sprays or lozenges; they’re one of the few non-inhalable cannabis options that still offer fast-acting effects. These products are held under the tongue, which is packed full of capillaries—small blood vessels that provide a direct route for cannabis to enter to the bloodstream. By bypassing the digestive system, sublinguals usually take effect in as little as 15 minutes. \n\nFor cannabis consumers who aren’t interested in inhalables or THC, [Care By Design’s sublingual drops](https://www.cbd.org/products/cbd-sublingual-spray) are a good option. The drops come in a variety of CBD to THC ratios, so you can find a combination that suits your needs. \n\n### 3. Bloom Farms PAX Era Pod Indica+\n\n![Bloom Farms PAX Era Indica Pods](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5aa05f6cf24d1300077ccb7e-50e0e4fb-50f4-481c-b20b-ed6ff7e1eaca/original.png)\n\n[Bloom Farms PAX Era Indica Pods](http://getbloomfarms.com/bloom-farms-era-pods/) contain a special blend of CO2 extracted cannabis oil that’s meant to promote a full night’s sleep. \n\nThese pods are only compatible with the [Pax Era Vaporizer](https://www.paxvapor.com/era), so if you don’t have one, it’s a great excuse to get one. Often dubbed a revolutionary vaporizer by many reviewers in the cannabis world, the Pax Era is easy-to-use, lightweight, compact and allows consumers to control temperature ranges and settings via an app. \n\n### 4. AbsoluteXtracts Grand Daddy Purp Cartridge \n\n![AbsoluteXtracts Gran Daddy Purp Cartridge](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5aa05f6cf24d1300077ccb7e-431d01da-4f6e-47bf-822c-f16d785f5c54/original.png)\n\nThe strain [Grandaddy Purple](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7cbbc4d520d60009f4f4a4/granddaddy-purple) is a favorite in the cannabis world for its powerful, relaxing effects. And now, with [AbsoluteXtract’s Grand Daddy Purp Cartridge](https://www.abx.org/vape-strains#gdp), you can have this much-loved flower in vaporizer form. The oil in each cartridge is formulated to match the cannabinoid and terpene content of the Granddaddy Purple cannabis strain, so you’ll be able to kick back and melt into your couch—or in this case, your bed. \n \n### 5. Garden Society Mini Joints\n\n![Garden Society Mini Cannabis Joints](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5aa05f6cf24d1300077ccb7e-c1a2b908-3629-4a0c-9c4c-5a48e6815570/original.png)\n\nThe modern-day cannabis world has a variety of options for cannabis consumers, but sometimes sticking with the classics is the way to go. Case in point: Garden Society’s mini joints. Pair these minis with your favorite book to wind down for the night. Each tin comes with 10 pre-rolled miniature joints for easy, no-fuss smoking. These minis come in both high CBD (28:1) and high THC options, so you can find one to meet your needs. \n\nDo you have a favorite product that helps you fall asleep at night? If so, share them with the community below. \n\nMain photo credit: [Benjamin Combs](https://unsplash.com/@b3njamin)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/14b42/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.jpg","srcSet":"/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/f836f/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.jpg 200w,\n/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/2244e/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.jpg 400w,\n/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/14b42/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.jpg 800w,\n/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/47498/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.jpg 1200w,\n/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/0e329/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.jpg 1600w,\n/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/b56c7/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.jpg 3640w","srcWebp":"/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/58556/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/61e93/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.webp 200w,\n/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/1f5c5/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.webp 400w,\n/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/58556/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.webp 800w,\n/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/99238/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.webp 1200w,\n/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/7c22d/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.webp 1600w,\n/static/12279779ab352bc3eaf95a52e2d2c3b7/fe53a/c20702a76db3ba916d3056402c2216ff.webp 3640w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2574-markdown","title":"Does Cannabis Reduce REM Sleep & Your Ability to Dream?","slug":"does-cannabis-reduce-rem-sleep-and-your-ability-to-dream","content":"Sleep is unbelievably important for humans. As far as biological needs go, sleep is right up there with water and oxygen. It plays an important role in boosting our immune system, regulating metabolism, controlling appetite and so much more.\r\n\r\nUnfortunately, good sleep is elusive to many Americans. According to the [National Sleep Foundation](https://sleepfoundation.org/media-center/press-release/lack-sleep-affecting-americans-finds-the-national-sleep-foundation), 45% of Americans report that “poor or insufficient sleep” affected their daily activities at least once in the last week. And according to a Consumer Reports survey of over 4,000 U.S. adults, [68% reported having trouble sleeping at least once a week](https://www.consumerreports.org/sleep/why-americans-cant-sleep/). \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nMany people credit insomnia as the reason they turned to medical marijuana. [Cannabis has been shown to effectively decrease sleep latency](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1521-0391.2013.12003.x/abstract), or the time it takes for a person to fall asleep, in male chronic cannabis consumers. \r\n\r\nAnd while cannabis can help you say hello to quality sleep, it could cause you to say goodbye to something else: dreams.  \r\n\r\nRELATED: [MEDICAL MARIJUANA COULD HELP INSOMNIACS SLEEP BETTER](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55e5c6573236300006350000/medical-marijuana-could-help-insomniacs-sleep-better)\r\n\r\n### The 5 Stages of Sleep\r\n\r\nIn one eight-hour night of sleep, we go through the sleep cycle about three times on average. There are five stages total: Stages 1, 2, 3, 4 and REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep; each stage has specific brainwaves associated with it. \r\n\r\n* Stages 1, 2 and 3 are transition stages that help you travel from the world of wakefulness to the world of sleep. \r\n* The fourth stage is known as “deep sleep,” which is the most restorative for our bodies. \r\n* REM sleep, the final stage in the cycle, is when almost all dreaming occurs. Dreams can occur in non-REM sleep. However, it’s very uncommon, and the dreams are much less likely to be remembered upon awakening. \r\n\r\n### Does Cannabis Decrease Your REM Sleep?\r\n\r\nA study from 1972 used young adult male volunteers and dosed one group with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and another with a synthetic compound similar to THC, called synhexl. Each subject then had their brainwaves measured with an electroencephalogram (EEG) while they slept. Researchers found that [varying levels of THC as well as synhexl increased Stage 4 sleep (deep sleep), but decreased REM sleep](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/wol1/doi/10.1002/cpt1972133426/abstract).  \r\n\r\nWe know that dreaming happens during REM sleep. If THC decreases the amount of REM sleep a person gets, then it also decreases the amount of time a person has to dream. \r\n\r\nOf course, these findings should be looked at with a critical eye. The study is from 1972, and there hasn’t been, so far as we can find, a study done like it since. Only a small handful of subjects—all of whom were young and male—were studied, so the sample isn’t representative of the entire population. \r\n\r\n### Are Dreamless Nights Bad for You?\r\n\r\nLet’s imagine that the results from the study above and the anecdotal evidence is correct, and cannabis consumers do experience a decrease in dreams. Is that a bad thing? How important is dreaming on a biological and emotional level?\r\n\r\nThe jury is still out on just how important dreams really are to humans. Researchers haven’t quite nailed down the exact function of dreams or determined their exact biological value. But there’s some interesting scientific literature on the topic. \r\n\r\nHistorically, most researchers have agreed that dreaming plays a role in processing emotional memories, balancing mood and learning. But David Maurice, Ph.D. and professor of ocular physiology at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, believes REM sleep plays a different role: [providing much needed oxygen straight to the cornea of the eye](http://www.columbia.edu/cu/21stC/issue-3.4/breecher.html). \r\n\r\nIf dreams really do help process emotional memories, especially traumatic ones, dreaming could be an essential part of grief therapy and conquering post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). On the other hand, those experiencing PTSD with intense night terrors could be grateful for a break from the dreams. \r\n\r\nOne clear way that decreased REM sleep and increased Stage 4 sleep can adversely affect humans has nothing to do with dreams at all. Stage 4 sleep, while the deepest and most restorative stage in the sleep cycle, is very hard to wake up from. Forget waking up on the wrong side of the bed: If you wake up during the wrong stage of the sleep cycle, you’ll end up irritable and mentally foggy. If marijuana increases Stage 4 sleep like the 1972 study suggests, then that could explain why many cannabis consumers feel groggy when they wake up. \r\n\r\n### What Happens to REM Sleep & Dreaming When You Take a Cannabis Cleanse? \r\n\r\nBut don’t worry too much. Just because you consume cannabis now doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to dreaming and REM sleep forever. If you abstain from marijuana, it’s likely you’ll eventually begin to dream normally again. In fact, you’ll probably experience a period of intense dreaming right after you quit consuming. This is known as [REM rebound](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/strange-but-true-less-sleep-means-more-dreams/), which is known to occur after a person has been deprived of REM sleep. \r\n\r\nSo, if you’ve been using cannabis as a sleep aid and don’t think you’ve been dreaming as usual, there’s scientific research that says this can happen. If you miss your dreams, abstain from cannabis for a while and slide back into REM sleep. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Alexandra Gorn](https://unsplash.com/@alexagorn)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. 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