CBD & Insomnia

Everyone has trouble sleeping from time to time, as much as 80% of our population struggles at least once a week. Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. For some it’s more of a chronic issue, occurring at least three times per week for months on end. Lack of sleep can lead to daytime functional impairment that affects your daily life with feelings of irritability, depression, anxiety, lack of focus, difficulty with memory, and increased errors and accidents.

Many of the existing treatments for insomnia are not very effective and can be risky. Side effects of frequently prescribed medications such as Lunesta, Sonata, Ambien, etc. can include anything from headaches and dry mouth to balance issues, diarrhea, constipation, sleep walking, changes in appetite and grogginess that lasts into the next day. They can also be dangerous for people who have chronic breathing issues such as asthma, emphysema, or COPD.

Cannabidiol (CBD) has recently exploded in popularity because of its potential health benefits. Several studies have shown promising results. What is CBD? Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found in therapeutic hemp plants (cannabis sativa). Cannabis has been used for its possible health benefits, for centuries. A Chinese medical text dated 1200 A.D. describes using cannabis as a sleep aid.

Some research shows that CBD may affect sleep directly by interacting with receptors in our endocannabinoid systems that control the body’s daily sleep and wake cycles. Other research suggests that CBD may work by alleviating anxiety and pain, thereby producing an overall feeling of relaxation and resulting in a more restful sleep. While prescription drugs may still be necessary for some, CBD may be a safe, non-habit forming, and natural alternative. As always, talk with your doctor about drug interactions or before stopping any prescription medications.

CBD is great for your pets, too! Though your pets may not suffer from insomnia in the same way you do, CBD may relax them on those long, stressful car rides to your vacation destination, while meeting new people or for trips to the vet.

CBD & Chronic Pain

About one in five adults in the US suffers from chronic pain. That’s around 20.4% of our population who suffer from daily pain that has limited the activities in their everyday life.
You’ve heard about the opioid epidemic. Every single day at least 130 people in the US die from an opioid overdose and yet, doctors are still prescribing these highly addictive pain killers. CBD may just be the answer.

Fortunately, studies are showing very promising results with CBD for tackling chronic pain. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid that was discovered in 1937 in the hemp derived cannabis plant and accounts for up to 40% of the plant’s extract. Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp and CBD are now legal in all 50 states. Therapeutic hemp is differentiated from cannabis plants by its low levels of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the principal psychoactive constituent in cannabis that gets you high.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is naturally occurring in our bodies, everyone has an endocannabinoid system (ECS). The endocannabinoid system is composed of endocannabinoids which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in our central nervous system and enzymes that break them down. CB1 receptors are mostly associated with cognitive actions such as mood, thinking, memory and appetite. On the other hand, CB2 receptors are found in the immune system and are more responsible for pain and inflammation. CBD doesn’t attach to the CB2 receptors, it encourages the body to make more of its own cannabinoids, possibly creating a positive effect on pain and inflammation.

Debilitating pain is usually accompanied by stiffness, loss of range of motion, and frequently, depression and anxiety. Medications and treatment programs treat the symptoms but often come with a whole host of side effects. Patients are looking for more natural treatment options and are turning to CBD with great results. Studies have shown that CBD may help patients with chronic pain associated with arthritis, joint neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, pain associated with cancer and chemotherapy treatments and fibromyalgia. It may also help with the anxiety and depression that often go hand in hand with chronic pain. As always, we encourage you to speak with your doctor before starting a CBD regimen.

In a 2016 study, researchers used CBD in rats with arthritis. The rats received a topical CBD gel of either 0.6, 3.1, 6.2 or 62.3 mg daily for four days in a row. Pain scores were not improved by the lower doses but researchers found that rats who received 6.2 mg per day showed marked signs of improvement. The substantially larger dose (62.3 mg) did not result in less pain. More human trials are needed but these results are very promising!

Our pets suffer a lot of the same conditions that we do. CBD is safe for pets and may provide the same benefits and pain relief that it does for us. Check with your veterinarian about dosage and possible side effects.

Resources:
Journal of Pain and Symptom Management
https://www.jpsmjournal.com/article/S0885-3924%2809%2900787-8/fulltext
Cnet
https://www.cnet.com/news/cbd-for-pain-relief-what-the-science-says/
Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Network
https://www.rheumatoidarthritis.org/cbd-oil/
Healthline
https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-oil-for-pain

Ten Reasons Why You Should Try CBD Products

So you’ve heard all the hype, you’ve seen all the ads, you’ve read all the studies, but you’re still wondering if a CBD regimen can help you. We’ve laid out ten reasons why you should start taking cannabidiol (CBD).

What is CBD? Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of dozens of non-psychoactive cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Cannabidiol, and all the other cannabinoids, were patented by the United States Government in 2003 as neuroprotectants and antioxidants (Patent No. 6,630,507). Cannabinoids are characterized by their ability to act on the cannabinoid receptors that are found throughout the body. CBD and other cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds that display signs of being potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. They may promote the body’s healthy regulation of the central nervous, immune, and endocannabinoid systems.

1. CBD is naturally occurring in your body:
The endocannabinoid system is made of three parts, endocannabinoids, receptors in the nervous system that bond with cannabinoids, and enzymes that help break them down. It’s a crucial part of our bodies! The CB1 and CB2 receptors in our bodies help to regulate functions such as appetite, digestion, mood, sleep, memory, pain, and so much more! Your body was made for CBD!

2. Boosts your overall health/immune system:
Taking CBD oil may help to recharge the endocannabinoid system thereby helping your body to repair, clean and strengthen your physiological systems. Therefore, CBD may be beneficial even if you’re well!

3. Relieves pain, anxiety, insomnia, and more:
Research shows that CBD may possibly interact with the endocannabinoid receptors in our brains and immune systems, creating pain relieving effects and benefiting those with chronic pain. Insomnia is often caused by chronic pain, restless leg syndrome, anxiety and depression. CBD may boost signals through your serotonin receptors, providing a sense of calmness and relaxation.

4. No medical card or prescription necessary:
CBD is legal in all 50 states! No need to wait for an appointment or a prescription to be filled. You can purchase online and have it shipped directly to your home.

5. Will not show up on drug tests:
Make sure you know the THC level in the CBD you purchase. Only purchase products that have their data analysis listed right on their website and participate in third party testing. Any products with less than .03% THC will most likely not test positive.

6. Impossible to overdose:                                                                                                                                                 Testing has been done on up to 1500 mg, way more than anyone should actually consume. However, it may interact with some prescription medications so always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before starting a CBD regimen.

7. Does not stimulate appetite:
THC is known for stimulating your appetite (munchies!!), however most people claim that CBD does not. Some studies actually have shown that it has reduced the appetite in rats and several studies have shown that it may have helped people who struggle with obesity!

8. Heals and soothes skin
CBD studies have shown promising powerful anti-inflammatory properties which may reduce acne and eczema related flare-ups. It may also ease the itching and swelling from bug bites, rashes, and sunburn!

9. May reduce risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity
Research has shown that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties of CBD may reduce the spikes of high blood pressure by reducing your overall stress. Research stages are still in their infancy but so far, the studies have been very promising! A 2017 human study showed a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate compared to those patients that received a placebo.

10. Doesn’t get you high
Unlike THC, Cannabidiol (CBD) is non-psychoactive. Which means you will not experience the euphoric high that marijuana is known for.

These are not just human problems, anything with a vertebra may benefit from CBD. This includes your pets! Pets suffer many of the same issues that humans do and studies have shown that CBD may be highly effective in relieving these symptoms.

As always, consult with your doctor before starting a CBD regimen and discuss what pharmaceuticals you are currently taking that may interact with CBD. Many people are reporting that they’ve been able to replace prescription drugs with CBD! What are you waiting for?

Resources:
Healthline
https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-for-heart-disease

Medical News Today
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324733.php

Suffering from anxiety? You’re not alone, even though it may feel that way. There is no shame in seeking help, anxiety is one of the most common mental disorders in the US and more than 18% of us are affected by it. Typically it is treated with counseling and medication but more and more people are choosing CBD for treatment of their symptoms. The medications usually used to treat anxiety can come with a whole host of side effects and/or be highly addictive.

Numerous animal and human studies have shown promising results in reducing anxiety with CBD. Taken as needed, it is non-addictive and may treat many anxiety disorders including panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder and mild to moderate depression. Whereas Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) often has a psychoactive effect, cannabidiol (CBD) does not.

Cannabidiol (CBD) interacts with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in your nervous systems. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a huge roll in your overall mental health. Those with low serotonin levels often report feelings of depression and anxiety. This is usually treated with prescription medications but studies are showing that CBD may alter those serotonin signals. CBD may boost the signals through your serotonin receptors. Human studies are looking at anxiety indicators such as heart rate, blood pressure, cognitive impairment and overall discomfort during public speaking. Those who received a placebo during these studies reported no changes in their anxiety whereas those who were given CBD noticed a significant decrease in their symptoms.

More long-term studies are needed, but so far the results are very promising! As always, seek advice from your doctor regarding any treatments and before stopping any prescribed medications.

CBD may work for your pet’s anxiety, too. If you have a pet who suffers during thunderstorms, fireworks or other loud noises (construction, vacuuming, etc.) or while traveling, going for vet visits or in social situations, they too may benefit from CBD. Symptoms usually include pacing, shaking, whining, licking, scratching at doors, cowering in corners and loss of urinary control. Of course, CBD products might help your pet with other issues, including pain and epilepsy. Again, talk to your veterinarian before discontinuing any prescribed treatments.

Resources:
Healthline
https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-for-anxiety#what-research-says
Medical News Today
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319622.php
Very Well Health
https://www.verywellhealth.com/cbd-oil-for-anxiety-4176279
PetMD
https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/whats-latest-using-cbd-pet-anxiety-and-pain

Can CBD oil help treat your epilepsy?

There are many studies that show cannabidiol (CBD) may be effective in treating seizure disorders. We encourage you to do your own research but we’ve outlined some facts for you here.

What is CBD? CBD is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in therapeutic hemp, industrial hemp and marijuana. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid and does not cause a high. Both hemp and marijuana are from the same family, cannabaceae. CBD extracted from therapeutic hemp contains very low THC. We test for over 200 pesticides, herbicides, mold, fungi, heavy metals and mycotoxins. It is lab tested as soon as it is extracted and then again by a third party lab to ensure an accurate amount of CBD. Our oils are CO2 extracted from hemp organically cultivated on a licensed farm in Colorado, high up in the mountains, isolated from sources of pollution and irrigated with mountain stream water.

What is epilepsy? Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder and affects people of all ages, causing unpredictable seizures and a whole host of other health problems. Patients with epilepsy experience a wide range of seizure types. Seizures are sudden and uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. They can cause changes in behavior and in levels of consciousness. Seizures can also be caused by brain tumors, low blood sugar or sodium levels, head injuries, stroke or low oxygen, but if you have recurrent seizures, you probably have epilepsy. Seizures can range widely in severity, most lasting from 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Any seizure lasting more than five minutes is classified as a medical emergency. Signs and symptoms of a seizure may include temporary confusion, staring off into space, uncontrollable movements of arms and legs, loss of consciousness or awareness, or cognitive/emotional symptoms such as fear and anxiety.

Each year 150,000 Americans are diagnosed with epilepsy and 1 in 26 people will experience recurring seizures at some point during their lifetime. Seizures can often be controlled with diet and medication however for about 30%, these conventional tactics simply do not work. Current medications used to treat epilepsy often have side effects such as drowsiness, anxiety, changes in appetite or mood, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea and vomiting.

How does CBD oil work on seizures? There are many different types of epilepsy. In particular, Dravet Syndrome and Lennox Gastaut Syndrome often do not respond to conventional treatment. Although cannabidiol does not produce psychoactive effects, it has been shown that it may promote positive effects in different parts of the body. CBD is mostly devoid of adverse psychoactive effects and may possess anticonvulsant, analgesic, anti-anxiety, antiemetic, immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotectant, and anti-tumorigenic properties.

Product Safety Though often well tolerated, CBD oil can cause side effects for some people. These side effects are usually mild but can include dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness and fatigue. It can also interact with other medications so speak to your doctor before giving it a try.

Studies & Trials
The New England Journal of Medicine
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1611618
Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/neurology-neurosurgery/news/clinical-trials-of-cannabidiol-for-epilepsy/mac-20429606
Journal of Epilepsy Research
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5767492/
WebMD
https://www.webmd.com/epilepsy/news/20180516/low-dose-of-cbd-oil-eases-epilepsy-seizures#1
Epilepsy Foundation
https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/other-treatment-approaches/medical-marijuana-and-epilepsy
Epilepsy Society
https://www.epilepsysociety.org.uk/cannabis-oil-epilepsy#.XPVnj9NKii4

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