The Washington PostThe Washington Post

Does weed help you sleep?

By Hannah Docter-Loeb

03 Apr 2023 · 5 min read

Editor's Note

Many people claim that cannabis products help them sleep. However, the research has shown mixed results. The Post looks at the research and explains why it's so challenging to study.

Many people say they turn to marijuana or CBD products as a way to help them sleep. But whether that edible, swallowed pill or inhaled hit soothes you to sleep may depend largely on how often you use it.

Researchers have known since the 1800s that the cannabis plant can have sleep promoting effects. The plant contains tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the main psychoactive chemical in marijuana which causes a "high," as well as cannabidiol, or CBD, which is not psychoactive but may still affect your mood and feelings of well-being. THC and CBD have the same chemical formula but different structures, which is why they have different effects on the body.

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