Dreams have always fascinated us. They can be mysterious, vivid, and at times, downright bizarre. While we may not fully understand their meaning, dreams undoubtedly impact our emotions, thoughts, and even the decisions we make. That’s why we worry if something we are doing or consuming can alter our dreams.

With the growing popularity of CBD, many are curious about its potential influence on our dreams. Have you heard about CBD dreams? Are they good dreams? Nightmares? Let’s explore why we dream, how CBD affects dreams, how other cannabinoids can impact your dreams, and more.

Why Do We Dream?

Our sleep is divided into several stages, collectively known as the sleep cycle. Each stage plays a critical role in our overall health and well-being.

Sleep Cycles

Stage 1 (Light Sleep): This is the transitional phase between wakefulness and sleep. It’s easy to wake up during this stage.

Stage 2: Heart rate slows, body temperature drops, and the body prepares for deep sleep.

Stage 3 (Deep Sleep): This stage is vital for physical restoration, growth, and immune system strengthening.

REM (Rapid Eye Movement) Sleep: During this phase, brain activity increases, and most dreaming occurs. REM sleep is essential for cognitive functions such as memory and learning.

What Are Dreams?

Dreams are sequences of images, ideas, emotions, and sensations that occur involuntarily during sleep, primarily during REM sleep. While the exact purpose of dreams remains a mystery, some theories suggest they help process emotions, consolidate memories, and problem-solve unconsciously.

Why Do We Dream?

Dreaming might serve several purposes:

• Information Processing: Dreams may help us process and store information from the day.
• Emotional Regulation: Dreams could be a way for our brains to deal with strong emotions, both positive and negative, allowing us to work through them in a safe space.
• Cognitive Development: Dreams may play a role in cognitive development, particularly in children.
• Brain Maintenance: Dreaming might simply be a byproduct of the brain’s need to stay active during sleep.

What Can Influence Our Dreams?

Many factors can shape the content, intensity, and nature of our dreams.

What Causes Weird Dreams?

• Stress and Anxiety: Heightened emotions often lead to vivid or strange dreams.
• Diet: Consuming certain foods, especially those high in sugar or caffeine, close to bedtime can affect dreams.
• Medications: Certain medications, including antidepressants and sleep aids, may alter dream patterns.
• Sleep Disorders: Conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea can disrupt REM sleep and lead to unusual dreams.
• Substance Use: Alcohol and recreational drugs can disrupt sleep cycles and lead to more frequent and intense dreams.

Why Do We Have Nightmares?

• Trauma: Experiencing or recalling traumatic events.
• Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sleep can intensify dream activity.
• Underlying Mental Health Issues: Conditions like PTSD or anxiety disorders can trigger nightmares.

CBD and Sleep

CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-intoxicating compound found in cannabis, and it has been studied for its potential to improve sleep. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating sleep-wake cycles, mood, and stress.

Given that our mental and emotional state can have a big impact on our sleep quality and our dreams, several studies have paid attention to how CBD could promote relaxation and reduce anxiety:

This case study involved 72 patients who used CBD as an adjunct to their usual treatment for anxiety and sleep complaints. After one month, 57 patients reported decreased anxiety, and 48 experienced better sleep.

A 2023 study involving 374 participants investigated the effectiveness of CBD oil in managing stress. Participants used an isolate CBD for a period, followed by a broad-spectrum CBD oil. The study found that participants reported significantly greater stress reduction and overall effectiveness with the broad-spectrum CBD oil compared to the isolate, suggesting that broader-spectrum CBD products may be more beneficial for stress management. 

Also, a 2023 clinical study investigated the effects of 50 mg oral CBD on mental health and sleep over eight weeks. Fourteen participants receiving CBD showed significant improvements in sleep quality compared to the placebo group, as measured by sleep questionnaires.

How Can CBD Help You Sleep Better?

Based on the previously mentioned studies, CBD could potentially help to have better sleep by:

Reducing anxiety: CBD may help to calm the mind and reduce racing thoughts, which can interfere with sleep.

Promoting relaxation: CBD may have a relaxing effect on the body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Improving sleep quality: Some studies suggest that CBD may help to improve sleep quality by increasing deep sleep and reducing the number of awakenings during the night.

How CBD Interacts with the Endocannabinoid System

CBD is believed to interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a regulatory system in our bodies, by influencing receptors like CB1 and CB2. This interaction extends to the hypothalamus, a brain region controlling sleep and other functions. Within the hypothalamus, the SCN, our internal clock, regulates our sleep-wake cycles. By potentially balancing the ECS, CBD may improve sleep quality and duration.

CBD Dreams

If you feel CBD is causing you vivid dreams, you’re not alone. Many users report experiencing more lucid dreams since starting CBD. However, the nature of CBD dreams isn’t figured out yet, and more often than not, these dreams are actually pleasing.

That said, determining if your bad dream was a ‘CBD nightmare’ can be tricky. Nightmares have many possible triggers: from work stress to a simple case of indigestion. So, before blaming CBD, consider the full spectrum of potential causes.

Does CBD Reduce Nightmares?

Anecdotal evidence and preliminary research suggest that cannabinoids may help reduce nightmares, particularly in PTSD patients. 

Additionally, CBD could decrease the intensity and frequency of bad dreams, even if you experience vivid ones, by improving overall sleep quality.

CBD’s Impact on Dreams

While the exact mechanisms remain unclear, early research indicates that CBD improves sleep quality and may influence the type and recall of dreams. By reducing anxiety and promoting restful sleep, CBD might create a foundation for more positive dream experiences.

Does CBD Help Remember Dreams? 

There isn’t a definitive answer. However, CBD could potentially help us better remember our dreams. 

CBD may help reduce anxiety, stress, and physical discomfort, potentially improving overall sleep quality. Better sleep might result in more vivid or memorable dreams. 

That means that CBD may affect dream recall indirectly by improving sleep quality. When people sleep better, they may be more likely to remember their dreams. 

How to Incorporate CBD Into Your Nightly Routine

Incorporating CBD oil and topicals into your nightly routine can be a relaxing way to enhance your sleep quality. Here’s how:

CBD Oil

• Dosage: Start with a low dose (e.g., 5-10mg) and gradually increase as needed.
• Administration: Place the desired amount of oil under your tongue for 60 seconds before swallowing.
• Timing: Take CBD oil 30-60 minutes before bedtime.

CBD Topicals

• Application: Apply CBD salve to areas of discomfort, such as sore muscles or joints. Gently massage the area for better absorption.
• Timing: Use CBD topicals before bedtime for a relaxing massage. 

Additional Tips

Choose high-quality products: Look for products that are third-party tested. 

Consult with a healthcare professional: Talk to your doctor before using CBD, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Start low and go slow: Begin with a low dose and gradually increase as needed to find the right amount for you.

Be patient: It may take several weeks to experience the full effects of CBD.

Combine with other relaxation techniques: Incorporate CBD into your nightly routine along with other relaxation techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, or reading.

Remember: Everyone’s body reacts differently to CBD. It’s important to find what works best for you and to adjust your dosage and timing as needed.

Cannabinoids, Sleep and Dreams

You’re not alone in wondering, “Does cannabis affect dreams?” – scientists are still figuring that out too! But here is how some cannabinoids may interact with our dreams:

• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): Known for its psychoactive effects, THC can induce sleep.
• CBN (Cannabinol): Formed from THC degradation, CBN is increasingly recognized for its sedative properties and potential to promote deeper sleep. This could potentially enhance dream recall or intensity.
• CBG (Cannabigerol): Considered a “stem cell” cannabinoid, CBG may have neuroprotective effects and could potentially influence dream patterns indirectly.
• Terpenes: These aromatic compounds found in cannabis interact with cannabinoids, potentially modulating their effects on sleep and dreams. For example, linalool is known for its calming properties, which could help with better sleep and nicer dreams.

The Entourage Effect & Dreams

The entourage effect suggests that cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids work synergistically, amplifying or modifying each other’s effects. This could mean that full-spectrum CBD, which contains a wider range of compounds, including CBD, other cannabinoids, and terpenes, may have more nuanced and potentially more beneficial effects on sleep and dreams than isolated CBD.

CBD Dreams FAQs 

Does CBD Affect Rapid Eye Movement (REM) Sleep?

CBD’s interaction with REM sleep is still being studied. While it may not directly impact REM sleep, it is known to improve overall sleep quality, which can indirectly affect dreaming.

Can I Take CBD Oil Before Bed?

Yes, CBD oil is often used before bed to promote relaxation and improve sleep. Follow dosage guidelines and consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Does CBD Cause Weird Dreams?

While uncommon, some users report experiencing vivid or unusual dreams with CBD. If this is your case, just try lowering the dose you are taking.

Does Cannabis Cause Bad Dreams?

Cannabis, particularly THC, may impact REM sleep. When usage stops, REM rebound can occur, leading to more intense, but not necessarily bad dreams.

Does CBD Make Me Have Vivid Dreams?

There’s no conclusive evidence that CBD directly causes vivid dreams, but improved sleep quality might make it easier to experience and remember dreams, including lucid ones.

The Bottom Line

Dreams are a window into our subconscious, shaped by countless factors, including what we consume. Whether you’re exploring CBD dreams or curious about the broader impact of cannabinoids on sleep, understanding your body’s unique needs is key. 

You can potentially enhance your sleep and dream experiences by choosing high-quality products like full-spectrum CBD.

Ready to improve your sleep and explore the potential of CBD? Visit our shop to find premium full-spectrum CBD products designed to support your wellness journey.

References

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Kisiolek JN, Flores VA, Ramani A, Butler B, Haughian JM, Stewart LK. Eight Weeks of Daily Cannabidiol Supplementation Improves Sleep Quality and Immune Cell Cytotoxicity. Nutrients. 2023 Sep 27;15(19):4173. doi: 10.3390/nu15194173. PMID: 37836465; PMCID: PMC10574483. 

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