Many cannabis users turn to weed as a natural sleep aid, but how does getting high before bed actually affect your sleep? Some people report falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer, while others experience grogginess or vivid dreams.
Let’s break down how cannabis impacts your sleep cycle, the benefits and drawbacks of sleeping high, and which strains are best for bedtime use.
How Does Being High Affect Sleep?
Cannabis affects sleep by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates sleep, mood, and relaxation. The two main cannabinoids—THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol)—play different roles in sleep:
- THC: Helps users fall asleep faster but may reduce REM sleep (dreaming phase).
- CBD: Can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, helping with overall sleep quality.
How Cannabis Affects Sleep Stages
Your sleep cycle consists of four main stages:
- Light Sleep (Stage 1 & 2) – Cannabis can help users relax and transition into deeper sleep faster.
- Deep Sleep (Stage 3) – THC is known to increase deep sleep, which is crucial for physical restoration and muscle recovery.
- REM Sleep (Stage 4 – Dreaming Phase) – THC may suppress REM sleep, leading to fewer dreams.
This means that while cannabis can help with falling asleep and staying asleep, it may reduce dreaming and REM sleep, which is important for cognitive function and memory processing.
Benefits of Sleeping High
✅ Falls Asleep Faster – THC has sedative effects, helping users with insomnia.
✅ Deeper Sleep – Increases slow-wave (deep) sleep, essential for muscle and body recovery.
✅ Pain and Anxiety Relief – Reduces discomfort and stress that may interfere with sleep.
✅ Fewer Nightmares – Useful for PTSD sufferers, as THC can suppress REM sleep.
Downsides of Sleeping High
❌ Reduced REM Sleep – Less REM sleep may affect memory and cognitive function.
❌ Morning Grogginess – Some users feel “weed hangovers” with lingering drowsiness.
❌ Increased Tolerance – Frequent cannabis use before bed may reduce its effectiveness over time.
❌ Possible Rebound Effect – If you stop using cannabis suddenly, you may experience vivid dreams or restless sleep as your REM cycle readjusts.
Best Cannabis Strains for Sleep
Indica-dominant strains are typically recommended for sleep because of their relaxing and sedative effects. Here are a few top strains:
🌿 Granddaddy Purple – Known for its heavy body relaxation and deep sleep effects.
🌿 Bubba Kush – A classic indica that promotes calmness and muscle relaxation.
🌿 Northern Lights – Great for insomnia relief and deep sleep.
🌿 Pink Kush – Helps relieve stress and anxiety before bedtime.
For non-intoxicating options, CBD-rich strains like Harlequin or Charlotte’s Web can help with relaxation without the psychoactive effects of THC.
Tips for Using Cannabis for Sleep
✔ Use 30–60 Minutes Before Bed – This gives THC time to take effect.
✔ Choose the Right Dose – Low to moderate doses (5–15mg THC) work best; high doses may cause grogginess.
✔ Try Edibles for Longer Sleep – Edibles last longer than smoking, helping you stay asleep through the night.
✔ Avoid Sativas – Sativa strains can be stimulating and may keep you awake.
✔ Stay Hydrated – To prevent dry mouth and dehydration overnight.
Final Thoughts: Does Sleeping High Help or Hurt?
For many, cannabis can be an effective sleep aid, helping users fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep. However, frequent use may lead to tolerance, reduced REM sleep, and grogginess. If you’re considering using cannabis for sleep, experimenting with different strains, doses, and consumption methods can help you find what works best.
Looking for high-quality indica strains and edibles to help with sleep? Check out Gold Dreams for premium cannabis products designed for relaxation and restful nights.