They are good for your mental health and most occasionally remember them, here is how marijuana effects dreams. Â
Dreaming is a universal human experience involving a state of consciousness during sleep characterized by sensory, cognitive and emotional occurrences. Dreams are stories the brain creates during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. Time spent in dream sleep is healthy. REM-sleep dreaming appears to take the painful sting out of difficult, even traumatic, emotional episodes experienced during the day, offering emotional resolution when you awake the next morning. Nearly 11% of people remember their dreams every night. Only 6% of people report never remembering their dreams. About 29% of people report remembering dreaming a few times a week. Not all is happy though, 80–90% of adults have had a nightmare at some point in their lives. Considering how cannabis helps with sleep, here is how marijuana effects dreams.
RELATED: The Best Refreshing Cocktails
Marijuana has a complex relationship with sleep and dreaming, affecting various aspects of our nightly rest. Understanding these effects is crucial for both recreational users and those considering cannabis for medical purposes.
Cannabis, particularly strains high in THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), can significantly alter sleep architecture. THC is known to decrease the duration of REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, the stage where most vivid dreaming occurs. This reduction in REM sleep often leads to fewer and less memorable dreams for regular cannabis users.Conversely, marijuana tends to increase the time spent in deep, slow-wave sleep. While this might sound beneficial, it’s important to note that a balance between all sleep stages is crucial for optimal rest and cognitive function.
One of the most intriguing phenomena related to marijuana and dreaming is the “REM rebound” effect. When heavy cannabis users stop consuming, they often experience a surge in REM sleep, leading to more vivid and intense dreams. This effect is typically temporary, lasting for a few weeks as the brain adjusts to the absence of THC.
While THC is primarily responsible for suppressing REM sleep, CBD (cannabidiol), another major component of marijuana, may have different effects. Some research suggests that CBD might actually increase dream vividness. This highlights the complexity of cannabis’s impact on sleep and dreams, as different strains and consumption methods can yield varying results.
The dream-suppressing effects of marijuana have sparked interest in its potential therapeutic use for certain sleep disorders. For instance, it may help manage nightmares associated with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).
It’s crucial to note altering  the natural sleep cycles can have long-term consequences on cognitive function and emotional regulation. While marijuana can significantly impact dreaming by suppressing REM sleep, its effects are not uniform and can vary based on usage patterns, individual physiology, and the specific cannabis strains used. As research in this area continues to evolve, it’s essential for users to be aware of these potential effects and consult healthcare professionals when considering cannabis for sleep-related issues.
