The Science of Marijuana and Sleep – There are two primary kinds of cannabis, sativa and indica, which should be mentioned first. Both strains include THC, the “high-inducing” cannabinoid. In contrast to sativa, however, indica has more CBD, which offers a variety of health advantages.
Why can cannabis cause fatigue?
THC – Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the principal component responsible for the psychoactive “high” associated with cannabis. However, this molecule may also be responsible for the herb’s sedative properties. THC commandeers the landing places of natural substances that help control the biological clock and pleasure regions of the body.
- Specifically, the psychoactive substance mimics chemicals that may interact with melatonin at least in part.
- Additionally, it alters the levels of the pleasure and focus hormone, dopamine.
- Let’s start with melatonin.
- Melatonin is a neurotransmitter that signals the onset of sleep.
- The body’s synthesis of melatonin increases when the sun sets and diminishes during the day.
While research on cannabis and melatonin is somewhat limited, a 1986 study reveals that THC may boost the production of melatonin quickly after smoking the psychoactive herb, with a peak melatonin concentration around two hours later. While some studies shows that the effect of cannabis on melatonin may be more complex than this preliminary study suggests, an increase in melatonin may be one of the reasons why the plant induces sleepiness at unusual times of the day.
The effects of THC on dopamine are more evident. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that allows you to experience pleasure during sexual activity, eating, and other pleasurable activities. However, the neurotransmitter has a dark side as well. Dopamine also contributes to focus and motivation. It is dopamine that aids in maintaining focus and completing tasks.
Low dosages of THC can induce a pleasant dopamine surge. However, research indicates that if the herb is used in excess and over an extended period of time, it may contribute to an overall drop in dopamine. After using excessive amounts of THC, you may experience fatigue and lack of motivation.
The THC concentration of cannabis sativa can have an effect on the sleep cycle. Cannabis sativa cultivars typically provide psychoactive effects. The cannabis plant has three species, each of which contains variable quantities of the hallucinogenic chemical tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
- These three varieties are Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis.
- However, the predominant component of the most readily accessible Sativa strains is limonene, which has a mood-enhancing effect.
- C Indica causes drowsiness.
- The amount of THC in your system might affect your sleep cycle.
A higher concentration of THC might increase the likelihood of insomnia or disturbed sleep. Cannabis also contains terpenoids, which give it its distinctive properties. The many kinds of terpenes found in cannabis include: Myrcene has a sedative effect.
Which Cannabis Plants Cause Sleepiness?
Cannabis Strains That Cause Drowsiness – Cannabis plants that contain a high volume of sedative terpenes are more likely to induce sleepiness, regardless of their classification as indica or sativa. Cannabis cultivars with a greater myrcene content are likely your best choice if you’re looking for plants that may be useful for sleep.
Although not all cannabis sellers test and disclose myrcene levels, the following strains are likely to be effective: White WidowGranddaddy PurpleOriginal GlueBubba Kush (GG4) Hoping to remain awake? Consider selecting strains that contain cannabidiol (CBD). CBD is in many ways the antithesis of THC.
The former is non-intoxicating, which means it will not induce euphoria. In low to moderate dosages, CBD is anticipated to provide energizing effects. However, at greater amounts, the herb may induce sleepiness like THC. Choosing a high-CBD strain or a plant that has both CBD and THC will likely keep you more alert than choosing an indica or sativa plant alone.