At some point during an intense work week, we have suffered from those sleepless nights, haven’t we? While some of us might take the route of calming tea or non-addictive sedatives, however, some people are turning to a surprising and yet somehow unsurprising solution: marijuana. In fact, research indicates that insomnia is one of the biggest reasons people starting using the little green plant in the first place. What you might not know is that this practice of using pot as a sleeping aid is nothing new. In fact, as far back as 1,500 B.C., Aryan settlers in the Indus Valley started using the plant to help them drift off to dreamland. (At least, that’s what historians from the 1950s have written.) So how does this fragrant herb stimulant sleep so well? Let’s take a closer look at why marijuana induces sleepiness.
Sedation on Behalf of THC
While you are definitely familiar with its psychoactive effects, THC is also an infamous culprit behind marijuana’s sedative effects. After being consumed, this cannabinoid completely disrupts focal points that control our biological clocks and happiness centers. In other words, THC directly impacts the flow of the neurochemicals melatonin (a sleep agent) and dopamine (a pleasure agent). Back in 1986, a study on the marijuana plant first shed light on the fact that THC could possibly interact with melatonin after a user consumed the herb.
Fragrant, Relaxing Terpenes
Besides THC, marijuana’s slew of beautiful terpenes can also induce sleepy-time dreams. In total, marijuana plants can produce an estimated 200 terpenes (also known as aroma molecules) which, combined in the right order, produce unique fragrances and flavors. Even more fascinating, cannabis happens to have a string of terpenes that stimulation sedation. One particular terpene called myrcene is an infamous contender, producing the “couch-lock” and hypnotic euphoria characteristic of the class “pothead” scenarios.
Interestingly, in 2002, scientists confirmed this theory after exposing mice to myrcene and two more terpenes. After being exposed to the myrcene, the rodents slept approximately 2.6 time longer than the other subjects.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
