Ben Greenfield’s Weekly Roundup: July 12

I’m often asked about the science behind cannabis for sleep, and while I advocate its use for achieving a good night’s rest, there are *subtle nuances* that can greatly affect how refreshed you feel in the morning when using it as a sleep aid.

But before I get too deep into explaining these nuances, it’s important to understand why cannabis is an effective sleep hack to begin with.

Cannabis contains over 100 different cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, both known to promote deep sleep. These cannabinoids mimic natural compounds produced by your body, exerting physiological effects that enhance relaxation and alleviate stress, anxiety, and pain when consumed externally.

The endocannabinoid system functions similarly to a “lock and key” mechanism. Cannabis cannabinoids act as keys that unlock receptors, influencing neurotransmitter function. This includes enhancing GABA production, which produces relaxation effects similar to those from a glass of wine, and releasing adenosine, which induces sleepiness and relaxation. The combined effects of GABA and adenosine can significantly influence sleep by promoting calming and drowsiness.

So, what about those “subtleties” I discussed earlier?

While cannabis can be an effective sleep aid, it isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution; there are many variables to consider if you want to use it to achieve a good night’s sleep. For instance, edibles versus smoking can yield different effects, with smoking sometimes disrupting sleep. Studies also suggest that indica strains (a type of cannabis) are often more relaxing and helpful for sleep than sativa strains.

Additionally, THC and CBD affect sleep differently based on their receptor bindings. THC binds to CB1 receptors, while CBD interacts with CB1, CB2, serotonin, and other receptors, promoting relaxation and sleep support.

Though THC can be effective for reducing sleep onset, meaning you fall asleep faster, it can also potentially disrupt REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, which is crucial for memory consolidation and optimal recovery. CBD on the other hand can help improve sleep quality through the night with less risk for grogginess the following day.

Additionally, long-term use of THC can result in withdrawal effects upon cessation, underscoring it as a sleep “band-aid” rather than a solution.

So what’s the bottom line, and how do I personally use cannabis to help me get restorative sleep?

Either using *only* CBD or combining THC with CBD are the best approaches for enhancing sleep benefits, though CBD’s effects may be more delayed than THC’s.

Personally, I opt for CBD-rich strains with minimal THC to avoid dependency and optimize sleep quality. 

My favorite CBD product on the market right now is Element Health’s Full Spectrum Maximum Strength CBD Oil, which delivers excellent results (and includes anti-inflammatory properties). I either use about one or two droppers full of their oil or take one or two CBD gummies, chilled in my fridge, which is ideal for bedtime — especially during travel or high-stress periods.

For particularly challenging nights, like during long travel or when I’m jet lagged or very stressed, I turn to my “emergency pack”: Element Health’s Extreme Potency CBD Gummies, which include more THC and other cannabinoids.

You can discover more about Element Health’s CBD products here (use code Ben15 to save 15% off your order).

🎙️ My Latest Interview with Danica Patrick Gets *PRETTY INTENSE*: I Answer the Age-Old Question, “Does Size Matter?” 👀

If you haven’t caught my latest appearance on Danica Patrick’s Pretty Intense podcast (you can watch our other two shows together here and here), let me tell you — you’re in for a WILD ride (and not just because Danica is a former professional race car driver). 

This enlightening episode includes an in-depth exploration of IV NAD therapy and its profound benefits, along with my personal experiences with more “unconventional” therapies, including my participation in groundbreaking research involving stem cell injections for male enhancement (you can discover more about all my crazy, size-boosting dick experiments here too).

Additionally, Danica and I discuss practical health strategies such as protecting yourself from radiation during air travel, supplements that deliver real results, the benefits of microdosing versus the serious risks of higher doses, and insights into my personal practices and preferences when it comes to psychedelics, emphasizing the importance of informed and responsible use.

From the positive effects of methylene blue to the crucial role of magnesium in enhancing gut health, this show is full of insights you don’t want to miss.

Ready to explore this wealth of information that can help elevate your health journey to the next level?

You can watch or listen to my latest interview with Danica here!