Cannabis Terpenes to Soothe Insomnia
What is Insomnia? Individuals that have difficulty falling or staying asleep have what is classified as “insomnia”. It is considered the most common sleep disorder whereby over 1 in 4 individuals have experienced symptoms at least once in their life. These symptoms can appear in various ways depending on the individual but typically resemble one of the following: ● Taking a long time to fall asleep ● Only sleeping for brief periods of time or waking too early ● Being awake for much of the night There are two types of insomnia: acute and chronic. Acute insomnia is generally related to life events or a change in circumstances. The causes range from financial stresses to changes at work to receiving bad or stressing news. This type of insomnia is very common and is often self-resolving within one to three weeks, depending on the individual. Chronic insomnia on the other hand can last for a much longer period. Typically insomnia is not considered chronic unless sleep has been disrupted for 3+ nights per week over a one month period. This type of insomnia is often caused by environment, health conditions, unhealthy sleep habits or shift work. This type of insomnia affects approximately 10% of adults.
While insomnia can be treated via medication, sleep therapy and personal therapy there are alternative options as well - such as cannabis. Moreover, cannabis terpenes in particular are proving to be a more targeted method for treating insomnia.
Best Terpenes for Soothing Insomnia
The full-spectrum experience of cannabis is based on the idea that cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids and other compounds in the cannabis plant all work together to produce the effects of that strain. As with any symptoms or condition, there are cannabis strains that provide better relief than others. When it comes to insomnia, the following cannabis terpenes are best suited to help you get a good night's sleep.
Limonene Limonene a widely-studied terpene that is commonly found in citrus peels and has a very citrusy aroma, similar to lemons or oranges. This terpene exhibits potent sedative effects that reduce motor function (ie: couchlock) in addition to anti-stress benefits. This terpene has also been found to reduce cortisone levels caused by physical or social stress and can help decrease feelings of anxiety. This can be beneficial as often insomnia is caused by daily anxiety or large stressors, such as changes at home or work. This terpene is notoriously found in citrusy strains including: ● Super Lemon Haze ● Sour Diesel ● Hindu Kush ● Durban Poison ● Jack Herer
Myrcene
Mycerne is one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis and appears in larger amounts than other terpenes - in fact, in some cases, Mycerne can make up 50% of the total terpene value within a strain. Also found in hops, lemongrass, mangos and basil this terpene is known for its sedative qualities and is predominantly found in Indica-strains. This terpene is also famous for improving synergization and absorption of other terpenes and cannabinoids, providing a better overall experience. This terpene is commonly found in Indica-dominant strains, which tend to exhibit relaxing properties. Some of the strains high in Mycerne include: ● Blueberry ● Granddaddy Purple ● Purple Kush ● White Widow ● Skunk #1
Caryophyllene Caryophyllene, or Beta Caryophyllene, is a terpene commonly found in hops, black pepper, rosemary and cannabis. A non-psychoactive compound, this terpene has amazing benefits including inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, improving metabolism, protecting against neurodegeneration and relieving pain. As this terpene can help reduce pain and balance the Endocannabinoid System, it is valuable for helping individuals suffering from insomnia. Some strains that are high in Beta Caryophyllene include: ● Cherry Pie ● Bubba Kush ● Chemdawg ● Skywalker OG ● Rockstar
Terpinolene Terpineol is a terpene commonly found in lilacs, pine trees, eucalyptus and cannabis. Linked to a decrease in mobility, this terpene is said to have an influence on couchlock effects of heavy Indica strains. In addition, this strain has some potent anti-inflammatory effects and can assist with pain as well. The sedative and anti-inflammatory benefits are excellent for many conditions, including insomnia and Restless Leg Syndrome. This terpene is not as common as some others, but can be found in a few strains including: ● OG Kush ● White Widow ● Girl Scout Cookies ● Jack Herer ● G4
Buy Cannabis Online! Whether you want to take a terpene-based approach to your cannabis experience, or simply choose the old fashioned way based on strain attributes and THC content, FairCannaCare has you covered! We offer a variety of cannabis products, including dozens of flower and shatter options for the budding connoisseur. Visit our online cannabis dispensary shop today!
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Sources: https://www.leafly.com/news/strains-products/best-terpenes-for-insomnia https://www.leafly.com/news/strains-products/cannabis-strains-high-limonene-anxiety-stress-depression https://www.cannaberry.com/blog/best-terpenes-for-relaxation-and-insomnia https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/cannabis-terpenes-terpineol-valencene-geraniol http://medicinebox.green/2017/05/terpineol/