CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in hemp and cannabis plants. Unlike THC, CBD doesn't produce a "high" or any intoxicating effects. CBD is known for its relaxing and calming properties. However, some people report feeling tired after taking CBD. Let's dive into the effects of CBD and see what the research has to say.
Can taking CBD make you tired?
There's no definitive answer to this question since each individual reacts differently to CBD. Some people feel more alert and energetic after taking CBD, while others might feel tired or drowsy.
The effects of CBD also depend on the dosage, the method of intake, and individual factors such as size, weight, and metabolism. Generally, CBD is known among users to induce a sense of relaxation and balance. If you find that taking CBD makes you tired, it could be due to taking high doses or other factors such as stress, lack of sleep, or interactions with medications.
How can stress make you tired?
Stress is a natural response to any demand made on the body, whether external, like a looming work deadline, or internal, like worries or fears. The body responds to stress by releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol that lead to a fight-or-flight response. This response is useful in emergencies, but when constantly activated, it can strain the body.
Chronic stress can lead to a variety of symptoms, including fatigue. If the body is in a constant state of alert, it doesn't get the time to rest and regenerate, leading to a feeling of exhaustion. Stress can also significantly impair sleep, which further exacerbates daytime fatigue. Moreover, chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making people more susceptible to illness.
Studies suggest that the anxiolytic properties of CBD make it a useful tool for managing stress and enhancing mental clarity without inducing drowsiness or lethargy.
Interaction with Medications
If you're taking medication and feel tired or drowsy after taking CBD, it could be due to CBD interacting with certain medications, like blood thinners. In addition, CBD can interact with enzymes responsible for metabolizing drugs.
Therefore, taking CBD along with other medications could cause the body to process the drugs slower, which may result in increased fatigue. If you're concerned about feeling tired after taking CBD, it's best to consult with a doctor or pharmacist to determine whether taking CBD is right for you.
Can CBD cause daytime drowsiness?
While THC, another cannabinoid from the hemp plant, is known for its strong sedative effect, CBD usually doesn't cause drowsiness. On the contrary, it might even improve mental clarity. However, this strongly depends on the dose taken.
The authors of a 2019 review found that this cannabinoid increases alertness and could possibly be used therapeutically for sleep disorders that result in excessive daytime drowsiness.
Even though more research is needed to confirm these effects, CBD could be an effective means to improve sleep behavior and feel more awake during the day.
How does CBD affect sleep?
CBD affects sleep by interacting with receptors in the brain responsible for regulating sleep and wakefulness. CBD can help extend the time you spend in a deep, restful sleep. Research suggests it may also decrease the number of nighttime awakenings.
Conclusion
CBD alone doesn't make you feel tired or drowsy. Research provides evidence that CBD can enhance brain performance. It's important to keep in mind that the effect of CBD varies from person to person and depends on various factors.
CBD can help combat the causes of fatigue such as stress and poor sleep, but finding the right dosage is crucial.
If you're taking medication, you should consult a doctor before taking CBD, as it can interact with the drugs and cause unwanted side effects, including fatigue.