Weed and Dreams - 5 Things to Know
Cannabis appears to have a range of effects on dreaming. For some people, it seems to give them a dreamless sleep. Other people may experience bizarre dreams. From a scientific point of view, cannabis seems to promote relaxation, increase deep sleep, and suppress rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, the state in which dreaming occurs.
While some may find the possible effects cannabis has on sleep enjoyable—especially those with sleep disorders—others may struggle with issues like REM rebound. Join us for an exploration of the relationship between weed and dreams.
Why Do We Dream?
Scientists and researchers do not fully understand why we dream. However, they do offer some ideas as to why we dream. According to one theory, dreaming is a way for the brain to process and consolidate memories. Another theory is that dreams are a mechanism for emotional regulation and processing. Other theories suggest that dreams are a byproduct of underlying brain activity during sleep. In any case, we know that sleep, whether we dream or not, is essential for restoring our bodies and minds.
Do Cannabis Consumers Dream?
Some cannabis consumers have strange dreams, and others might dream but aren’t aware of it when they wake up. Some studies have shown that regular cannabis use—particularly strains high in THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)—can decrease REM sleep, which is the stage of sleep associated with dreaming. As a result, cannabis consumers may experience a decrease in dream recall or have fewer dreams overall.
REM Rebound
For some cannabis consumers—such as people who suffer from nightmares—dreaming less may be a good thing. However, when they take a tolerance break, there may be a rebound effect that increases the amount of REM sleep and the person might have very vivid dreams and experience sleep disturbances during the night. If nightmares or sleep disturbances are making it hard for you to take a planned T-break, it’s important to seek help from a doctor or mental health professional so you can get back on track.
Is It a Problem If You Don’t Dream?
Not dreaming on a regular basis isn’t necessarily a problem. Research shows that cannabis can assist in improving sleep in adults who have insomnia, and sleeping without dreaming is certainly better than not getting enough sleep.
It's also worth noting that the effects of THC on REM sleep and dreaming can vary from person to person. Factors such as tolerance, dosage, frequency of use, and individual brain chemistry can all influence the specific effects you experience.
Five Things to Know about Cannabis and Dreams
Ready to hit the pillow? Here are five fun facts about weed and dreams.
1. THC Can Increase Deep Sleep
Deep sleep, also known as slow-wave sleep, is a stage of sleep that plays an essential role in growth, memory, and immune functions. Slow-wave sleep produces high-amplitude, low-frequency brain waves. Cannabis appears to increase non-rapid eye movement sleep or slow-wave sleep with moderate consumption.
Slow-wave sleep may help cannabis consumers achieve deeper and more restorative sleep, allowing the body to recover fully—both physically and mentally—after a long day. Furthermore, slow-wave sleep is essential for people who want to wake up feeling energized and awake, as it plays a vital role in efficient functioning during the day.
2. Cannabis Can Decrease or Increase Dream Recall
Since cannabis consumption tends to suppress REM sleep, which is the stage of sleep where dreams occur, people may experience fewer dreams overall when consuming cannabis close to bedtime. Contrarily, some cannabis consumers report an increased ability to recall their dreams after consuming cannabis. This might be because of the way in which THC affects memory and cognitive processes.
3. Marijuana May Reduce PTSD-Related Nightmares
According to some clinical studies, medical cannabis can help reduce nightmares in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This may be because cannabis activates hippocampal CB1 receptors, which may reduce hyperarousal and intrusive memories.
4. Low Doses of Cannabis Can Shorten Sleep Latency
According to some studies, THC may help reduce sleep latency or the time it takes a person to fall asleep, at least in the short term. This research indicates that THC, even at low doses, can reduce sleep latency in individuals who do not typically consume cannabis.
5. Cannabis May Alleviate Chronic Pain
The analgesic qualities of cannabis may aid in the relief of pain that makes it hard to sleep. Some studies even suggest that cannabis may work just as well as opioids, which are some of the most potent medications for treating pain.
Sweet Dreams!
There is a good amount of evidence to suggest that cannabis affects dreams by reducing REM sleep and increasing the length of deep sleep. Cannabis may also help you fall asleep faster and relieve aches that make it hard to sleep.
Because dreams may become more vivid when reducing or pausing cannabis consumption, it is important to consider your mental health and tolerance levels before using cannabis as a sleep aid and to seek help if you are struggling with nightmares. That said, one thing is sure: lots of people around the world use cannabis to help them slip into a sweet slumber.