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Here’s How CBD Can Help With Stress
If you’re feeling stressed out, you’re not alone! Rising stress levels have led the American Psychological Association to call stress a national health crisis. One potential remedy is medical cannabis, though some people find that THC can actually worsen stress instead of making it better. But not all cannabis is created equal. If THC is an imperfect solution, millions of Americans are turning to CBD for stress as an alternative. Sometimes known as the “second cannabinoid” in the cannabis and hemp plants, CBD is an all-natural compound popular for its calming effects. And in addition to a mountain of anecdotal evidence, a growing number of clinical studies suggest that using CBD for stress relief may be a gentle, sustainable, and effective way to help manage feelings of overwhelm. In today’s post, we’ll share everything we know about using CBD for stress. CBD For Stress: How Does It Work? When we ingest THC or CBD through products like CBD oil, they produce their effects by interacting with something called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS works to keep the body in balance by regulating such crucial functions including sleep, appetite, discomfort, and stress. And as such, many physicians believe it’s one of the body’s most vital regulatory networks. THC, the cannabinoid best known for imparting the cannabis plant’s intoxicating psychoactivity, works by binding directly to cell receptors in the ECS. But CBD—which imparts at most a very gentle cerebral “buzz”—works differently. It interacts with the ECS through complex and indirect mechanisms that researchers are working to understand more precisely. That said, a number of studies point to the cannabinoid’s effectiveness. Numerous studies conducted on both animals and humans indicate that CBD has strong potential to help us manage and treat stress. One test designed to simulate the challenges of public speaking found that moderate doses of CBD proved effective in reducing subjects’ stress. And as a recent large-scale study demonstrates, there’s a large body of anecdotal evidence that suggests that many of us get lasting relief from stress through daily use of CBD products such as our original- and double-strength softgels, capsules, and drops. One 2011 study on CBD for stress relief found that pre-treatment with CBD oil resulted in less stress and cognitive impairment in test subjects. Another study from 2019 found that pre-treatment with moderate doses of CBD helped test subjects decrease stress when compared to a placebo. Moreover, a 2020 review of eight individual studies found that CBD was able to help reduce a number of stress-related disorders, in each case with few reported adverse effects. What about the neuroprotective effects of CBD? Stress reduction may play a role here as well. According to one 2017 study, some of CBD's potential to help reduce stress may come from its ability to regulate emotional memory processing. By regulating fear memory processing, for instance, CBD may be able to reduce the stress responses produced by learned fear. In effect, this may potentially allow people to remain calm in situations that would ordinarily inspire an anxious, stressed, or even fearful response. We’ve just shared a number of clinical studies, but what about the anecdotal, or self-reported evidence? In this case, the results are even more conclusive: From individuals relieving work-related stress to a recent survey that found that 37% of respondents used CBD for stress, a large body of documentation suggests that using CBD for stress relief is a strategy that’s paying real-world dividends for millions of Americans. CBD Gummies for Stress: Easy, Convenient Self-Care Here at Papa & Barkley, we’re thrilled to offer an easy, convenient (and delicious!) way to enjoy the benefits of CBD: With our handcrafted CBD Releaf Gummies. Offering a simple way to fold CBD into your daily wellness routine, these small-batch vegan gummies contain nothing but full-spectrum solventless CBD alongside other natural and Fair Trade Certified™ ingredients. We believe they’re best CBD gummies for stress. Our very first mouthwatering flavor is berry pineapple, a tropical and fruity pairing that provides a top-shelf taste experience without any bitterness. As with all our ingestibles, our edible gummies deliver precise doses of cannabinoids for consistent and predictable outcomes. Each gummy contains 15 mg of pure CBD. Start by taking two gummies once per day, then increase the dosage as needed. We recommend a consistent, daily CBD routine as this helps increase the efficacy of the product and produces noticeable long-term results. What CBD Dosage for Stress is Right? When it comes to leveraging the power of CBD for stress, finding your perfect dose may require some trial and error. A good place to start is at 30 mg of CBD (that’s the amount of CBD in a single serving of our best-selling CBD Releaf Drops). If you find that amount isn’t quite getting the job done, then you can bump your dose up slowly. Upping the dose by 5 mg at a time is an easy and often effective increment. For best results, we recommend upping your dosage slowly over time. Why? While the likelihood of your experiencing one of CBD’s rare, minor side effects (such as nausea or dizziness) is quite low, increasing your dose slowly over time allows you to adjust to gradual changes in your intake. In addition, documenting the effects of each dose in a cannabis journal can be a good way to keep track of how each dose makes you feel and could help you to narrow down your perfect dose more quickly. CBD for Stress Relief: In Conclusion If you know Papa & Barkley at all, you know that we’re committed to our customers’ wellness and the potential of this natural plant medicine. We’re passionate about our process, and are continually working to make the solventless, chemical-free CBD solutions we provide the very best available on the market. Using gentle infusion, the integrity and benefits of the cannabis plant are maintained, while avoiding harsh chemicals commonly used with CO2 and butane extraction. By choosing the best of the best hemp farmers in America, we closely work with our farmers to ensure every plant and every ingredient is clean, safe, and ready to make the most effective products for you. If you have other questions about how to use CBD to support your health and wellness, reach out. We’re always here to help!
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6 Self-Care Ideas for Holiday Stress
Learn how you can combat holiday stress this year with these six self-care ideas.
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Building a Better You: CBD & Meditation
CBD is a great way to help expand your daily meditation practice. Our daily lives have changed. Managing a career, family time, personal life, and finding the time for self care can become increasingly difficult. Daily stress seems like a common experience for most people. If the stresses of modern life have become too overwhelming, perhaps consider starting your own meditation practice. MEDITATION & STRESS According to the American Psychological Association (APA), the most common sources of stress are the future of the United States, money, work, the current political climate, as well as violence and crime. Stress levels are higher than ever among Americans and as a result many individuals are turning to meditation to combat daily stress. MEDITATE TO COMBAT STRESS In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has estimated that: Among adults aged 18 and over, increases were seen from 2012 to 2017 in the use of yoga, meditation, and chiropractors during the past 12 months. Yoga was the most commonly used complementary health approach among U.S. adults in 2012 (9.5%) and 2017 (14.3%). In 2017, women were more likely to use yoga, meditation, and chiropractors in the past 12 months compared with men. The report from the CDC suggests that 14.2% of American adults surveyed in 2017 said they had practiced meditation at least once in the last year. HEMP CBD & MEDITATION Using meditation to focus and be more present to yourself as well as surroundings is a great way to relieve stress. According to an NIH survey, approximately 18 million people have turned to a daily meditation practice to alleviate stress and tune in to their body. It’s no wonder that many people are also adding CBD to their practice to help center and focus their attention on being present. CBD has several properties that reduce stress and create calm in the body, helping to further the practice of meditation. CBD is non-intoxicating and can provide comfort from minor aches, but when combined with mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation, the effects are compounded. Give it a try today and tell us your experiences! READY TO START? Made from all-natural ingredients grown on Colorado farms, our formulas feature all natural plant ingredients. Shop CBD For Meditation
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6 Ways You Can Use CBD For Better Sex
CBD FOR SEX For those who suffer from stress, performance anxiety, or discomfort in the bedroom, CBD-infused pleasure enhancers are here to help. In recent years, medical experts and scientists have tapped into CBD’s healing properties, including decreased inflammation, improved gut health, calmed nerves, improved sleep and more. However, beyond medicinal purposes, cannabidiol can also be used to give your sex life a boost. As the non-psychoactive ingredient in the marijuana plant, CBD can alleviate inhibition during sex, as well as reduce discomfort during penetration and enhance sensations. In other words, instead of using another substance (i.e., alcohol) to unwind, CBD can provide similar effects without the hangover or fuzzy memories. In fact, because cannabidiol helps with restful sleep, incorporating an edible, vaporizer or CBD-infused lube can actually improve post-sex sleep. 1. IMPROVING DESIRE While the most well-known benefits of CBD are tailored toward stress reduction and discomfort, there’s also a chance that it can help with arousal and desire levels. When applied topically, the CBD and THC dilate your blood vessels, allowing fresh oxygenated blood to flow more easily. In other words, CBD and TCH are vasodilators. Typically, fresh oxygenated blood is associated with increased arousal and stimulation. 2. RELIEVING DISCOMFORT If chronic discomfort or sexual dysfunction are problems, CBD may also be able to help with discomfort during sex. Studies show that CBD is a potent option for normal inflammation, and can be effective as an adjunct treatment for discomfort. For example, topical, whole-plant CBD balm can help women experiencing painful sexual intercourse due to vaginal dryness or irritation. CBD lube also does the trick. 3. REDUCING STRESS One of the many ways that people use CBD is to help overall well-being and improve their mental state. CBD works directly on the body’s endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors in the body that help regulate the nervous system, immune system, and the body’s organs. Those receptors, when activated by the body’s own endocannabinoids, can have a calming effect on the brain. Furthermore, using CBD in the bedroom can create a feeling of calm, relaxation and elation, translating into enhanced sexual pleasure. 4. STRENGTHENING SENSATIONS When it comes to the female reproductive tract, cannabinoid receptors are found in the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, vagina and vulva, and they play a significant role in the day-to-day pleasures and discomfort associated with sex. These receptors are key in improving low libido and the inability to achieve orgasms. As previously mentioned, CBD increases blood flow and nerve sensation, which can help enhance sexual pleasure and intensify orgasms for all parties. 5. ENHANCING FOREPLAY To help tune into the physical experience of foreplay, CBD lube enhances sensation and climax. Largely due to its ability to repair tissue damage and improve blood flow to the genitals, a coconut oil-based CBD lube is gaining popularity. Combined with THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, men and women report an enhanced sex drive. Plus, CBD lube relieves women of the discomfort they sometimes feel during penetration as it relaxes the tissues surrounding the sex organ. 6. RELAXING WITH CBD BODY OIL Fast-absorbing and lightweight, a sensorial body oil offers targeted topical relief as well as natural energy. In between the sheets, try a CBD-infused body oil to reduce muscle tension and create a soothing sensation. The therapeutic blend of essential oils combined with full-spectrum cannabinoids leverage the natural power of the whole plant. Before getting frisky, massage your partner’s back and arms with CBD body oil. Edie Horstman is a certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, wellness blogger, and freelance writer. She works with health-focused brands, co-creating content in the digital marketing space. She lives in Denver, Colorado. References https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/cbd-and-sex-explained https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/high-blood-pressure-medication/art-20048154 https://www.drperlmutter.com/targeting-inflammation-with-cbd/ https://papaandbarkley.com/product/releaf-balms https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/cannabis-lube-benefits#1
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How To Talk To Your Parents About The Health Benefits of CBD
Talking with your parents about using cannabis might fill you with anxiety, but there are ways to make the conversation run smoothly if you’re willing to broach the subject with honesty and intelligence. While the history of cannabis use in the U.S. is a complicated one, that trajectory is rapidly shifting. Adding your voice to the chorus of others who credit cannabis for discomfort, decreased stress, improved sleep, and more creativity only helps to make conversations about cannabis easer, both in your family and on a national level. BE HONEST If the thought of your parents catching you with marijuana or even CBD oil brings up images of sneaking around in your younger years, you’re not alone. Roughly four in 10 cannabis users are secretive about it. But in order to shed the misinformation and negative stereotypes that may have led your parents to dissuade you from using cannabis in your youth, it’s important for educated and well-adjusted cannabis users to come clean (and come out of wherever you once engaged in cannabis use in secret). DEBUNK MYTHS One of the best ways to debunk myths and “stoner” stereotypes — like a lack of motivation or going into psychosis — is to come to your parents armed with evidence that proves the opposite. When it comes to a lack of motivation, it’s worth noting that some strains will produce different effects in the body. While indica strains might make you feel relaxed, sativa will have the opposite effect, leaving you energized, and perhaps more creative. The idea that cannabis lowers IQ is also a myth, as determined by a 2017 study that showed cannabis use in even adolescent users did not cause IQ decline or impair executive functions. Another myth to debunk is the idea that all cannabis gets you high. Cannabidiol, or CBD oil, which is a compound of the cannabis plant that lacks psychoactive properties, is rising in popularity as treatment for a number of ailments from stress to normal inflammation. DESCRIBE HEALTH BENEFITS The medical benefits of cannabis are abundant, with countless scientific studies to back up your claims. Some of the health benefits of cannabis include: Discomfort More restful sleep Reducing stress Gut health Easing muscle spasms There are studies on the efficacy of both THC and CBD oil for discomfort, as well as emerging research on other wellness trends like enhanced athletic performance and even skin conditions. Gone are the days when cannabis was almost always smoked. These days, vapes, edibles, tinctures and balms are just as popular, each delivering its own health benefits to suit your unique concerns. USE IT TOGETHER Take your conversation a step further and consider using cannabis with your parents, or offering them a cannabis-infused gift that you think may help them. Whether they’ve told you about their sleepless nights or achy back, chances are there’s a product that can help. Most of all, don’t assume that your parents don’t already know the benefits themselves. Research shows that more baby boomers are turning to marijuana than ever before. The fastest growing demographic of cannabis users aren’t millennials — they’re seniors. Erica Garza is an author and essayist. Her work has appeared in Time, Health, Glamour, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, The Telegraph and Vice. She lives in Los Angeles. References: http://www.drugpolicy.org/blog/how-did-marijuana-become-illegal-first-place https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2503660/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/ https://www.healthline.com/health/medical-marijuana/cannabis-for-sleeping https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/marijuana-users-creative-cannabis-study-weed-study-a8057956.html https://www.sacbee.com/news/nation-world/national/article145681414.html https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikeadams/2018/05/23/cannabis-consumers-want-hollywood-to-abandon-marijuana-stereotypes/#731c85e2ca1e https://www.leafly.com/news/health/cannabis-induced-psychosis-real-or-reefer-madness https://mic.com/articles/166057/best-weed-for-anxiety-all-the-strains-to-help-you-relax#.ROLuRpz2m https://www.leafly.com/news/strains-products/7-high-energy-strains-to-help-you-get-active-and-fight-fatigue https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/add.13946 https://www.businessinsider.com/health-benefits-of-medical-marijuana-2014-4 https://www.businessinsider.com/new-national-academies-sciences-report-marijuana-cannabis-health-effects-2017-1 https://www.leafly.com/news/health/cbd-for-treating-anxiety http://jpet.aspetjournals.org/content/335/1/92.abstract?sid=c09c62d8-996e-4071-bbed-ff8d46fca175 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK224382/ https://www.projectcbd.org/sleep-disorders https://health.usnews.com/wellness/fitness/articles/2018-05-11/can-cbd-products-improve-your-fitness-results https://www.allure.com/gallery/cbd-skin-care-products https://www.cnn.com/2018/09/06/health/baby-boomers-marijuana-study/index.html https://www.mensjournal.com/health-fitness/why-the-elderly-are-the-fastest-growing-pot-demographic-in-the-us-w500055/
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Reduce Stress Naturally with CBD and Adaptogens
CBD oil, or cannabidiol, is the non-intoxicating cannabinoid extracted from hemp or cannabis plants that can be used to reduce stress and help the body function at its best. Adaptogens are plant compounds that help the body cope with stress, and promote balance and wellness. Sound similar? The medicinal properties of CBD mimic the effects that adaptogenic herbs have on your adrenals and immune system, both of which play an integral role in your body’s ability to stay healthy, fight disease and manage stress. Let’s take a closer look at how these plant compounds can work together to strengthen the body. WHAT ARE ADAPTOGENS? Adaptogens are plants that support the adrenal system. They help the body cope with stress and promote normal function by regulating hormonal balance. The benefits of adaptogens are numerous. They have an anti-fatigue effect that increases attention and cognitive function, even during periods of mental exhaustion and stress. Further research shows positive effects on immunity, brain health and sleep cycles while also reducing normal inflammation. They can also improve the appearance of our hair, skin and nails. Some of the most commonly known adaptogens include ginseng, ashwagandha, matcha and medicinal mushrooms such as maitake and cordyceps. They help create and maintain homeostasis in the body, continually working to regulate systems to calm or energize as needed. In other words, they help the body adapt to various stressors. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CBD OIL? CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating bodily functions like appetite, mood, sleep, and immunity. CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning users can glean the medical benefits without feeling impaired or foggy. Like adaptogens, CBD helps to maintain homeostasis in the body. It can help boost focus and clarity, or have a relaxing effect. There are many health benefits of CBD oil including decreased stress, more restful sleep, lower blood pressure and eases discomfort and normal inflammation. HOW TO TAKE ADAPTOGENS Unfortunately, most people cannot stomach the taste of adaptogens on their own. Powdered adaptogens can be added to smoothies, cereal and other foods for maximum palatability. They are also available in capsule form or tinctures. There are some synergistic adaptogen blends that contain CBD — but, when starting out, it is best to try adaptogens individually to note how each affects your body. The general rule is to allow three to nine months for adaptogens to take their full effect. While cannabis is not officially classified as an adaptogen, it meets all of the criteria of being a nontoxic, natural plant that has a stress-reducing effect on the body. Because CBD and adaptogens work similarly, there is potential that they boost or enhance the effects of the other when taken in combination. Pair the relaxing, mood-boosting effects of CBD with various adaptogens to enhance their effects and reap the medical benefits of each. Jacquelyn Nause is a contributing writer with specialties in cannabis, real estate and wellness. She enjoys traveling with her husband, being a doting mother to her two incredible kids and enjoying the beautiful Pacific Northwest playground. References: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/01/style/what-are-adaptogens.html https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3991026/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3991026/ https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/what-are-the-effects-of-cbd https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569602/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2828614/
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Why CBD with Yoga is the Best Idea Ever
Cheryl Guinto What is better than living your best life with the daily practice of yoga? Adding CBD to help you connect and relieve stress. It is estimated by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America that anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population every year. Many of us experience some form of stress throughout our day. Our schedules are packed, we are working hard at growing our careers, juggling expenses and (hopefully) maintaining some semblance of a personal or social life. Being stressed out does not only degrade our productivity, but that feeling of being weighed down is carried throughout our day, forcing us out of the moment while adversely affecting our health and wellness. It is a challenge, to say the least, to try and mitigate. Maybe that is why so many people are turning to yoga and mindful meditation to find calm and reconnect with our bodies in the moment. But yoga isn’t the only practice that can help us cope with our daily lives. While many people are turning to CBD as a viable medicine to treat medical ailments, there are many who are receiving value from incorporating cannabidiol as a tool to help fight stress and anxiety. The best part? There’s actual medical evidence of how CBD, when paired with Yoga, can help with stress and improve emotional well-being. YOGA AND CBD FOR STRESS So, what happens when you pair Yoga with CBD? The natural compounds found in cannabis which naturally help your overall well-being and take your yoga practice to the next level. As many yogis are discovering, CBD products and yoga practice go together like bolsters and blocks. Using CBD doesn’t get you high, so it is entirely safe and acceptable to use during your yoga practice. The real science behind the positive effects of CBD has to do with terpenes. Cannabis and other natural healing plants such as lavender, lemongrass, thyme, cloves, rosemary, basil, and pine all have terpenes. But CBD has higher concentrations of terpenes such as Linalool (stress reduction & discomfort), Myrcene (reduce muscle tension & normal inflammation), and Pinene (alertness & memory retention) to help make your yoga practice even more effective. BENEFITS OF YOGA WITH CBD CBD is a natural fit for a restorative-style or gentle yoga class. Because CBD can help with whole body discomfort, improve vitality, decrease normal inflammation, and is associated with increased mood, it is only natural to add it to a yoga regiment. It all really comes down to how CBD, a cannabinoid compound derived from the cannabis plant, interacts with our endocannabinoid system (ECS). FEEL MORE CONNECTED WITH YOGA AND CBD CBD products, such as the kind we produce at Papa & Barkley Essentials, can easily be applied to your body or ingested via tinctures or capsules. We recommend checking out our quick start dosing guide if you have any questions. Consistency is key, because CBD works best with a regular regimen.
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