In a previous blog post, we addressed some of the questions surrounding CBD and sleep. As the conversation surrounding a good night’s sleep continues, melatonin as a sleep aid and when combining melatonin and CBD, begs some attention.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone produced in the pineal gland which is located in our brain. The pineal gland is inactive during daylight hours and as the sun sets, the gland wakes up and starts to produce melatonin which in turn is released into the bloodstream. On average, melatonin levels increase two to three hours before the body needs to fall asleep. Melatonin dims our level of alertness and encourages drowsiness which leads to sleep. Melatonin levels in the blood can remain elevated for up to 12 hours.
Many people have found that taking melatonin as a supplement can assist with falling asleep. Taking a commercial melatonin supplement (most are synthetic) of 1 to 3 mg can increase the melatonin levels in the blood by 1 to 20 times what is normal. Dr. Satchin Panda, Professor at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies warns against high levels of commercial melatonin. Dr. Panda has researched melatonin and the effects of melatonin the system two to three hours upon waking. Initial research is revealing that melatonin that remains in the system upon waking can inhibit the production of insulin which can impact glucose levels. Dr. Panda suggests that if one takes melatonin to sleep that upon waking it may be best to wait one hour or more before eating. The Mayo Clinic states that melatonin is generally safe but cautions against long time melatonin use and use by people with autoimmune disorders. Further, if taking prescription drugs, consult with a doctor for possible interactions between pharmaceuticals and melatonin.
Combining Melatonin and CBD
People that have experienced positive results with melatonin and cbd as sleep aids, inquire about the effectiveness of combining the two. There are several CBD companies that have combined CBD and melatonin into a capsule and market the product as a sleep aid.
At Cordial Organics, our position has always rooted in treating the root issue and not the symptom. While melatonin and cbd in conjunction may end a week’s worth of sleepless nights, combining the two into a capsule does not allow for longtime use. Ultimately homeostasis will need to be present in order for sleepless nights to truly subside.
We recommend all the things to promote homeostasis and especially if sleep is difficult. Our go-to for promoting homeostasis is regular exercise, a healthful and balanced diet, as well as taking Balance CBD or Enhance CBD. This also includes turning screens off in the evening to avoid blue light stimulation, light stretching and meditation, a warm cup of herbal tea or magnesium (we love the Calm). If available to you, a warm bath before bed and as an evening ritual offers many health benefits and both our formulas Reverence and Renew have been crafted with well-being in mind and with the intention to coax one off to sleep.
Please share your experience in the comments if you have used melatonin as a sleep aid or have combined melatonin with CBD.
