Do CBD & Melatonin Work Together?

CBD and melatonin supplements are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to improve their sleep. But do these two products work well together?

 

Even though our lifestyles have changed drastically, our bodies are still the same as they were thousands of years ago. We have the same sleep-wake cycles, or circadian rhythms, that our ancestors did.

And that can be a problem.

The artificial light from our phones, computers, and lamps disrupts our natural sleep-wake cycles. Add in work demands, social obligations, central heating systems, and stress, and it's no wonder many people struggle to get enough sleep.

Under such circumstances, you may look for supplements and methods to get better sleep, and CBD and melatonin are becoming more widely used and acknowledged as two effective natural sleep aids.

Melatonin is a natural chemical that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycles produced by the pineal gland, a small endocrine gland in the brain.

While further research is needed on the suggested health benefits of CBD, there are promising strides that it can be used to help with a wide range of conditions, including to support occasional sleeplessness. Let's explore how they work together for improved sleep results.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating compound found in the hemp plant. 

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS)-a system that regulates various biological functions. The ECS is made up of endocannabinoids- molecules that bind to cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2)-and enzymes that break down endocannabinoids after they’ve been used.

CBD has been shown to increase levels of endocannabinoids in the body, thereby potentially enhancing the ECS’s ability to regulate sleep, mood, and other functions. In addition, CBD may also be able to address aspects such as, which can also interfere with sleep.

Will CBD Help Me Sleep?

In the last decade of research, CBD in itself may help with sleep in some people. CBD is not as directly connected to the sleep process as melatonin is, but it is sometimes (rarely) enough to help people who have occasional minor sleep problems gain some sleep.

A study published in the found the relationship between sleep and CBD to be different based on when you take it and at what dose. The study's findings point to CBD's ability to interact with serotonin and GABA receptors in the brain. The neurochemical interactions between CBD and these receptors play an essential role in sleep.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood, appetite, and sleep. CBD's interaction with serotonin receptors can help to reduce stress and promote feelings of well-being. GABA is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in relaxation and sleep. CBD's interaction with GABA receptors can help to promote feelings of calmness and relaxation and, in turn, help with sleep.

The impact of varies a lot from person to person. Some people find that it helps them sleep better, while others don't notice any difference.

 

What is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a naturally produced hormone in the body that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle and the circadian rhythm. Melatonin production is stimulated by darkness and inhibited by light. As such, melatonin is sometimes called the "darkness hormone."

According to the , melatonin has several benefits, including:

• promoting sleep
• helping to regulate the sleep/wake cycle
• reducing the effects of jet lag
• helping with occasional sleeplessness

Melatonin 1a and melatonin 1b receptors are present in the central nervous system, specifically the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus. The activation of these receptors leads to the inhibition of wake-promoting signals and sleep promotion.

In addition to its direct effects on the sleep/wake cycle, melatonin also indirectly affects the circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm is an internal biological clock regulating many bodily functions, including sleep.

While the precise mechanisms are not fully understood, melatonin influences the circadian rhythm by resetting the body's internal clock. This resetting process is known as entrainment.

Entrainment occurs when the body's circadian rhythm is synchronized with the external environment. For example, when we travel to a different time zone, our bodies must adjust to the new schedule.

This adjustment is made possible by the resetting of the internal clock. Research suggests that melatonin plays a role in this process by helping to shift the body's circadian rhythm.

How Does Melatonin Manage My Circadian Rhythm?

Melatonin is a hormone produced naturally and plays a vital role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. The production of melatonin starts after sunset and reduces in the morning.

Usually, the body makes more melatonin at night. However, the production of melatonin is commonly affected by factors such as age, jet lag, irregular working hours and exposure to artificial light. This is especially relevant to today's generations as they are regularly exposed to artificial light and being connected to devices 24/7. While melatonin does not put you to sleep effectively, it does alert the brain of the need to fall asleep.

Granted, not everyone naturally follows the same schedule. However, exposure to artificial light can disrupt the body's natural production of melatonin, making it more difficult to fall asleep.

What are the Benefits of Taking Melatonin?

Melatonin supplements work by interacting with melatonin receptors in the brain, known as MT1 and MT2 receptors. Doing so can promote sleepiness and help regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.

Although it is possible to get melatonin from foods such as fruits and vegetables, many people find it challenging to get enough through diet alone. As a result, some people turn to melatonin supplements to:

1. Improve sleep quality.

Sleep quality refers to how well you sleep and how rested you feel when you wake up. When taken as a supplement, melatonin can help to improve sleep quality by resetting the body's internal clock and restoring a regular sleep-wake cycle.

2. Reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.

In addition, melatonin supplements can help to reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and improve sleep efficiency. For people with jet lag or shift work, melatonin can also help to adjust the body's clock to sync with the new sleep schedule.

3. Increase the amount of time you spend in deep sleep.

Most people spend most of their sleep time in light or REM sleep, but deep sleep is the most restorative phase of sleep. During deep sleep, your body heals and repairs itself, your brain solidifies memories from the day, and your hormones are released to help with growth and development. As a result, deep sleep is essential for physical and mental health.

 4. Reduce daytime fatigue.

Daytime fatigue can impact productivity and quality of life. When you take melatonin supplements, it can lead to improved energy during the day.

5. Improve overall sleep health.

Taking melatonin supplements can help improve your sleep health by resetting your body's internal clock and restoring a regular sleep-wake cycle.

Can You Take CBD & Melatonin Together?

Before taking CBD and another supplement, it is always important to speak to your health care practitioner. However, the short answer is, yes, you can take CBD and melatonin together.

Due to the complementary relationship between CBD and melatonin, many people find that taking them together can be beneficial. However, it is important to note that different portions of the brain regulate melatonin and CBD.

This must be done with high-tech equipment to ensure the ratio of cannabinoids and melatonin is perfect. Combining CBD and melatonin, especially in melatonin gummies that you may be able to take just before you go to sleep, can be a potent combination and an effective means of getting quality sleep.

CBD and melatonin work together to provide you with the best possible sleep. CBD calms the mind while melatonin relaxes the body. This combination can help you fall asleep and stay asleep through the night.

Is It Safe to Take CBD & Melatonin Together?

Yes, CBD and melatonin are safe to take together. However, it's important to note that CBD and melatonin can interact with other medications you may be taking, so it's best to speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.

The doses of CBD or melatonin you take together may also vary depending on several factors, such as age, weight, and other health conditions you may be experiencing.

There is still no solid evidence that taking CBD and melatonin together helps with better sleep, but only your doctor or relevant healthcare professional can guide you on what's best for you.

What is the Best Way to Take CBD & Melatonin?

There is no one "best" way to take CBD and Melatonin, as people may have different preferences. Some methods people use include taking the CBD and Melatonin internally, in the form of capsules or gummies, or using topical CBD products that also include melatonin.

Oral Consumption - Capsules/Gummies

and gummies are popular ways to consume CBD. Each capsule or gummy packs a specified amount of CBD and melatonin, which makes it easy to control the dosage. However, the effects of CBD may be minimal due to the low bioavailability as the CBD is broken down in the digestive system when consumed orally, reducing its effectiveness. 

Topical Administration - Lotions/Balms

CBD topicals are a great option for those who want to apply to a specific area of their body with the added benefits of melatonin. CBD topicals are available in the form of lotions, balms, and creams and can be applied directly to the skin.

What is the Right Dose for Taking CBD with Melatonin?

CBD has been shown in multiple studies to affect sleep, though the exact nature of that effect may vary depending on the dosage. CBD may act as a stimulant in small doses, while in larger doses, it may cause sleepiness.

This is why starting with low doses of CBD and melatonin is important, before increasing doses if needed. Taking both together is generally considered safe, but make sure you consult a healthcare provider prior to use.

The rule of thumb is to start with low dosages and increase as needed. By doing this, you can find the perfect dosage that will lead to a good night's sleep.

Buy CBD-Based Products from Safe & Reputable Companies

When it comes to CBD products, safety and quality should always be a top priority. Unfortunately, not all companies that sell CBD-based products can be trusted. Some may use low-quality ingredients, while others may not disclose important information about their products, such as the amount of CBD they contain.

Therefore, it's important only to buy CBD products from safe and reputable companies. Companies committed to safety and quality will use high-quality ingredients and provide clear and accurate information about their products. As a result, you can be confident that you're getting a product that is safe and effective. When it comes to your health, don't take chances - only buy CBD products from the best of the best.

uses all-natural CBD and a unique refinement process creates wellness products with the highest quality standards. Our science-based products are formed from years of research to amplify CBD absorption and make it more usable by your body.

Final Word

CBD and melatonin are both safe, natural substances that have complementary effects. When taken together, they can be more effective than when taken separately. Speak with your physician before taking melatonin, CBD, or a combination of the two into your routine.