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1. Insomnia
Etiology
Insomnia is characterized by persistent difficulty falling or staying asleep. It can be caused by factors such as stress, environmental changes, medications, or underlying illnesses.
Presentation
Patients often experience fatigue, irritability, decreased concentration, and mood disorders.
Molecular and cellular mechanisms
Imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain, as well as alterations in circadian cycles, may contribute to insomnia. Dysfunctions in the GABAergic system are often observed.
Interest of cannabinoids in the treatment of insomnia
- CBD : Showed potential to increase total sleep duration and decrease frequency of nighttime awakenings.
- CBN : Has sedative properties that can help you fall asleep.
- Terpenes (Linalool, Myrcene ) : Can promote relaxation and make it easier to fall asleep.
2. Sleep apnea
Etiology
Sleep apnea is characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. Causes include obesity, anatomical abnormalities of the airways, or neuromuscular dysfunction.
Presentation
It manifests itself by snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness and breathing pauses observed during sleep.
Molecular and cellular mechanisms
Airway obstruction or a weakness in the nerve signal controlling the breathing muscles can lead to temporary cessations of breathing.
Interest of cannabinoids in the management of sleep apnea
- CBD : Has demonstrated improvement in sleep quality in some patients, although the specific mechanisms related to apnea remain to be elucidated.
- CBN : Studies are limited, but CBN may have a role to play in airway modulation.
- Terpenes : More research is needed to establish a direct link to sleep apnea.
3. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Etiology
RLS is a neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by unpleasant sensations. It may be associated with iron deficiency, kidney problems, or pregnancy.
Presentation
Symptoms worsen in the evening or at night when the patient is at rest, hindering sleep.
Molecular and cellular mechanisms
Imbalance of neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine, in the central nervous system is considered a key factor in RLS.
Interest of cannabinoids in the management of RLS
- CBD : May modulate dopamine activity, providing potential relief from RLS symptoms.
- CBN : Although research is still preliminary, CBN may have a sedative role, helping with better sleep.
- Terpenes (Linalool, Myrcene) : Their relaxing effect could help alleviate the unpleasant sensations associated with RLS.
4. Sleep paralysis
Etiology
This phenomenon is characterized by an inability to move or speak when falling asleep or waking up. It may be linked to paradoxical sleep disorders or other factors such as stress.
Presentation
Patients often describe a feeling of chest tightness and a threatening presence in the room. The paralysis usually lasts a few minutes.
Molecular and cellular mechanisms
Sleep paralysis occurs when the brain is awake, but the mechanisms that paralyze the muscles during REM sleep remain active.
Interest in cannabinoids in the treatment of sleep paralysis
- CBD : May modulate anxiety and stress associated with sleep paralysis.
- CBN : May help regulate REM sleep, potentially reducing episodes of paralysis.
- Terpenes : May contribute to better relaxation before sleep, minimizing the chances of paralysis occurring.
5. Narcolepsy
Etiology
Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and unexpected sleep episodes.
Presentation
Patients may also experience episodes of cataplexy (sudden loss of muscle tone), hypnagogic hallucinations, and sleep paralysis.
Molecular and cellular mechanisms
This disorder is often associated with a deficiency of hypocretin (or orexin), a neurotransmitter that regulates wakefulness.
Interest of cannabinoids in the treatment of narcolepsy
- CBD : Although studies are still needed, CBD could help modulate episodes of daytime sleepiness.
- CBN : Its sedative effect can be useful in regulating the sleep cycles of narcoleptic patients.
- Terpenes : May improve sleep quality and minimize episodes of cataplexy.
Using CBD Oils for Sleep Disorders
One of the most common approaches to consuming CBD for the purpose of treating sleep disorders is the use of oils, especially full-spectrum ones. These oils contain not only CBD, but also other cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, maximizing the entourage effect .
SATISOM is an oil specially developed for the management of sleep disorders, rich in CBD , CBN and linalool .
To optimize its effects, it is recommended to consume SATISOM approximately 20 minutes before going to bed. This practice can help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. If you wake up at night, a new dose can be taken to promote a rapid return to sleep.
CBD flowers for pre-sleep relaxation
CBD flowers offer a natural alternative for those looking to unwind in the evening, reducing the apprehension often associated with going to bed in those with sleep disorders. These flowers can be consumed in several ways, including infusions.
When selecting flowers, it is essential to favor varieties with ideal CBD levels, and rich in CBN as well as specific terpenes such as linalool and myrcene. One strain to consider is Holy Bull , known for its composition suited to relaxation and promoting healthy sleep.
Conclusion
Sleep disorders are varied in their etiology and presentation, presenting a major challenge for medical management. Cannabinoids, such as CBD and CBN, as well as certain terpenes, show promising potential to complement existing therapeutic approaches and improve patients' quality of life.