Ever since turning forty-five years old, I’ve dealt with insomnia on a regular basis. It is one of the worst side-effects of menopause. While the hot flashes are uncomfortable and embarrassing, they only last for a few minutes. The insomnia keeps me awake all night. Lying in bed wide awake is so frustrating and I’ve no energy the following day. I was unwilling to try over-the-counter medicine or prescription medicine because of the many harmful side-effects. I finally stopped by a local cannabis dispensary and consulted with a budtender. I learned that cannabis can provide an effective sleep aid. It helps to slow racing thoughts, lessen pain, relax muscles and supply sleep-inducing chemicals that help me get to sleep and stay asleep. There are specific, sedating strains that I look for whenever I visit the dispensary. I’ve found that THC strains are more beneficial for me than CBD-dominant products. I don’t suffer any unpleasant side-effects. However, I typically chose a lighter dose of THC to avoid any issues with anxiety. While I have had good luck with the quick onset of effects from tinctures or smoking, I usually buy edibles. The effects take longer to test in, but they also last longer. It’s taken me a while to figure out the right strains, potency and flavors for my exact needs. One of my favorites is a Granddaddy Purple because of its high levels of myrcene and strong flavors of grape and berry. I also like a THC-dominant hybrid called Tahoe OG Kush. It provides limonene, caryophyllene and myrcene terpenes and is typically smoked or vaped.