Reference

Sleep & Cannabinoid Glossary

Plain-English definitions of the terms behind better rest — the science we reference across the journal, without the jargon.

CBN (Cannabinol)

A non-intoxicating cannabinoid most associated with sleep. It forms as THC ages and oxidizes, and leans sedative, which is why it is often used for the staying-asleep side of the night. Direct human sleep trials are still limited.

Read more: CBN vs Melatonin for Sleep →

CBG (Cannabigerol)

The 'mother cannabinoid' — the precursor the cannabis plant converts into CBD, THC, CBN, and others. A partial CB1 agonist that does not cause a high; early research points to calming activity at GABA and serotonin pathways, though the evidence is mostly preclinical.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

A non-intoxicating cannabinoid that is broadly calming and works indirectly. It is associated more with easing anxious, racing-mind wakefulness than with direct sedation.

Melatonin

A hormone the brain releases as evening light fades. It is a timing signal that tells the body it is night, not a sedative. Lab-made and plant-made melatonin are the identical molecule; what differs is dose and regulation.

Montmorency tart cherry

A tart cherry varietal containing naturally occurring melatonin and polyphenols. It supplies food-level (microgram) amounts of melatonin; its sleep evidence is modest and mixed.

Circadian rhythm

The roughly 24-hour internal clock that governs when you feel sleepy and alert. It is set primarily by light, which is why morning brightness and a dim evening matter so much.

Endocannabinoid system (ECS)

A regulatory signaling network of receptors, naturally produced molecules, and enzymes that helps keep the body in balance — including the nightly negotiation between wakefulness and sleep.

Slow-wave sleep (deep sleep)

The deepest stage of non-REM sleep, when much of the body's physical restoration happens. It tends to dominate the first half of the night and declines with age.

REM sleep

The dreaming stage of sleep, which becomes more common in the second half of the night — part of why a small disturbance around 3 a.m. wakes you more easily.

Read more: Why You Wake Up at 3 A.M. →

Sleep onset latency

How long it takes to fall asleep after getting into bed. Falling asleep is partly a cooling event: it begins as core body temperature drops.

Sleep maintenance

The ability to stay asleep through the night. Trouble here, rather than with falling asleep, is what people usually mean by a '3 a.m. wakeup.'

Read more: Why You Wake Up at 3 A.M. →

Cortisol awakening response

A sharp, normal rise in the hormone cortisol in the first 30 to 45 minutes after waking. It mobilizes energy and alertness; morning light and a consistent schedule help it fire cleanly.

GABA

The brain's main inhibitory ('braking') neurotransmitter. Falling asleep is largely a braking maneuver, and several sleep-related compounds appear to work by supporting GABA signaling.

Entourage effect

The idea that cannabinoids taken together (for example CBN with CBG) may accomplish more than either alone. It is a reasonable working hypothesis rather than a settled fact.

Distal vasodilation

The widening of blood vessels in the hands and feet near bedtime, which releases heat and lets core temperature fall. It is why warm feet — and a pair of socks — can help you fall asleep.