Delta 8 is a form of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) that has gained popularity for its reported calming effects, reduced stress, and pain relief. However, there is currently no scientific research available on how Delta 8 specifically affects REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep.
While Delta 8 has a similar chemical structure to THC, it is believed to have less psychoactive effects and produce a milder high. However, there is no concrete evidence available on how Delta 8 specifically affects REM sleep.
1. What is REM Sleep?
When we sleep, we go through four stages of NREM (Non-Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, labeled as stages 1-4. While stages 1 and 2 are lighter stages, they still serve important purposes.Â
During these stages, our body goes through hormonal changes to prepare for deeper sleep, and our brain carries out essential cognitive processes like transferring new memories to long-term storage.
Stages 3 and 4 are the deeper stages of NREM sleep and are equally important. They involve restorative functions such as repairing cells and regulating the immune system. Late-stage NREM sleep also contributes to memory processing.
After going through the NREM sleep stages, we enter a short period of REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. During this phase, our eyes move rapidly beneath closed eyelids, but our brain doesn’t receive visual signals.Â
REM sleep is a vital part of our sleep cycle, where we experience vivid dreams. It helps regulate our emotions, consolidate memories, and support our cognitive abilities. REM sleep is a unique stage of sleep characterized by rapid eye movements, muscle paralysis, nightmares, and vivid dreaming. It has a crucial role in regulating our mood, memory, and cognitive function.
2. What Role Does Delta-8 THC Have in the Endocannabinoid System for Inducing Sleep?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) comprises endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), and enzymes. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the body’s balance, or homeostasis, and sleep is a vital component of this balance for overall health and well-being. The ECS is involved in sleep regulation and may even influence dreaming.
The CB1 receptor, one of the primary cannabinoid receptors in the ECS, is responsible for regulating various functions such as pain, sleep, energy metabolism, stress, and hunger. Scientific research suggests that activating the CB1 receptor promotes sleep. When Delta 8 THC binds to the CB1 receptor, it is believed to trigger sedative effects, potentially contributing to its impact on sleep.
3. But Does Delta 8 Affect REM Sleep?
To understand more clearly, Delta-8 can potentially improve the quality of sleep and reduce the occurrence of nightmares and disturbances for many individuals, in addition to its known benefits for stress and pain relief. When taken before bed, delta-8 sleep gummies can decrease the time spent in REM sleep, associated with vivid and sometimes distressing dreams.Â
By reducing REM sleep, it may decrease the likelihood of waking up due to nightmares, although this effect may not be experienced by everyone. It’s important to note that REM sleep plays a vital role in memory consolidation, emotional processing, and brain development, so delta-8 should be used as a sleep aid periodically rather than consistently.
