CBD Health

Who they are: Not that Hemp Crate Co. likes to brag…but they are the “#1 CBD subscription service today.”

The company’s three pillars are transparency, organic is better, and education. They stick to third-party testing as a rule. Certificates of analysis can be found via links on the site. Educational information is also available. Established and reputable companies like Lazarus Naturals, BlueBird Botanicals, and CBDistillery form the whole of each box.

Hemp Crate Co. houses brand ambassadors and accepts new partners pending live product trial.

Why they’re unique: Hemp Crate Co. defends its title as a leading CBD subscription service with a wide variety of tested products from well-known companies. Their commitment to quality and transparency is a big deal. Plus, they have subscriptions for pets!

What products they have: Hemp Crate Co. plans to “add new themed boxes,” but in the meantime, there are three styles: Hempa the Explorer, Health & Wellness, and Furry Friends. All are available as either a Starter or Pro package. The Starter boxes are slightly smaller (4-6 products) compared to the Pro boxes (5-8 products).

Hempa the Explorer is for trying “any and everything CBD”–think CBD cotton candy, hand sanitizer, and peach-honey sparkling water alongside a tincture and lip balm. Basically, a CBD free-for-all! Who doesn’t like CBD surprise parties?

On the other hand, Health & Wellness centers on relaxation and natural beauty. This might look more like tinctures, pain creams, bath bombs, sleep spray and infused tea. There are lots of possibilities (and growing) but you get the drift.

Last but certainly not least…Furry Friends! These crates feature topicals, treats, and tinctures for pets. Plus, a few bonus items are thrown in for us humans!

With a little recon, we noticed that a few recipients complained of product repetition or undesirable flavors. The element of surprise can work for better or worse.

 Bonus: Save on shipping with the 3- or 6-month subscriptions!

Use coupon code NEWFRIEND for 15% off any first time subscription or store order

Who they are:  Soular Alchemy is not your typical CBD company. Based in Madison, Wisconsin, the founders, Kristopher Grove and Trevor Polinsky, bring expertise from sound/energy therapy and alchemy. That’s right–Soular is built on an “extensive background in alchemical formulations.”

The spagyric process involves burning leftover hemp biomass, forming crystal salts, and adding the salts back into the extract. Soular’s goal is to bestow new compounds and go “beyond full spectrum” for the most complete tincture possible. Or, more creatively, to give products “their own consciousness” with the “Soul, Spirit, and Body of the plant.”

If this sounds cryptic, rest assured that complete lab testing is a click away. The packaging also reveals terpene and flavonoid counts to direct the user experience.

Several re-brands and product change-ups make the company seem new. While they are not new to the space, personal reviews are lacking. That said, Soular boasts two trade awards for excellence.

Why they’re unique: Spagyric CBD extracts are crafted with contemporary alchemy.

What products they have: Soular Alchemy offers a lineup of tinctures with bonus ingredients to target specific conditions. The Classic comes in 5,000 mg–no more, no less. Like the other tinctures, it comes in organic coconut oil.

The other tinctures pack 1,500 mg CBD. Added terpenes characterize flavors, aromas, and effects. For example, Cleanse turns to frankincense extract for pinene, Copaiba for caryophyllene, Blue Mallee for cineol, Bavarian hops for humulene, lime for limonene, and basil for linalool and terpinolene. These are “believed to eliminate harmful bacteria.”

Euphoria is all about the exhilarating blend of cineol, limonene, and linalool. Relief emphasizes terpenes “believed to minimize pain,” namely myrcene from American hops and borneol from Moroccan thyme.

And then there’s Passion (see photo). This must be the most unique tincture with cacao, turmeric, black pepper, and pink pepper extracts. For one, there are natural alkaloids from pepper, including guineensine and piperine. The cacao confers theobromine, another alkaloid. Curcumin from turmeric tops it off with a host of potential benefits. Ultimately, it’s a blend to stimulate the senses. Oh, and with intense pink/purple branding.

Don’t miss the appropriately named Kush with loads of hemp terpenes. There’s also Calm, Soothe, and Rest, with blends designed relax or sedate.

Note that there is no shipping to Idaho, Nebraska, or South Dakota and definitely nothing international; also, no refunds after opening.

 A site testimonial from Logan explains: “I used Soular Alchemy oil this AM and felt all of my stress melt away. I was relaxed and in control of my mind.”

Bonus: If you dig Soular’s vibe, check out their Instagram page: “Mind, Body, & Soular.”

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of more than 140 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. CBD is not the cannabinoid that has the psychoactive effect; that’s THC.

Although it delivers a cannabis experience without a high, CBD has been gaining its own ground lately, especially when it comes to creating a buzz in the bedroom. There’s a wealth of anecdotal evidence from enthusiastic users across the world that CBD lubricants and other intimacy products can be game-changing when it comes to women’s sexual pleasure, and their sexual health.

Revitalising women’s wisdom

Over the past decade, cannabis prohibitions have been easing across the world, including South Africa. What is steadily coming to light is just how the plant and its uses have been systemically distorted and stigmatised to justify its criminalisation in the 20th century.

There are records dating back to antiquity detailing the use of the cannabis plant as a treatment for illness and a tonic to maintain wellness. Cannabis was the medicine woman’s go-to herb for women’s sexual and reproductive health. With its effectiveness in reducing stress and anxiety, inflammation and pain, it was part of gynaecological remedies over a lifetime, from menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding to painful sex; through childbirth to postnatal care; from treating sexually transmitted infections to easing menopausal conditions.

These were historic uses of the cannabis plant, and it is important to note that CBD as a cannabis derivative is not yet regarded as sufficiently scientifically tested for efficacy in treating these ailments today. CBD is not recommended for use by pregnant and breastfeeding moms.

Reclaiming women’s sexual wellness

Physiotherapist and pelvic health specialist Candice Langford, the social media innovator of Nurture Your Vagina, points out that when it comes to women’s sexuality, society remains shadowed by pervasive negative sex messages.

There is, too often, an arid gulf between women’s own presentation of their oh-so-bold 21st century sexiness and the hushed reality of their actual sexual experiences. Langford says, “I created Nurture Your Vagina as a safe space, curated with an intention to enlighten, empower and educate followers about topics relating to pelvic and sexual health – topics that are all too often considered taboo or brushed under the carpet.”

Lube

Langford says: “Lubrication is wonderful, there is no shame in reaching for lube! We know that lube has the potential to enhance sexual pleasure and satisfaction. Lube not only provides a reduction in friction but also an opportunity to connect with your genitalia through different sensations, explore new senses, play, reduce inhibitions and enjoy sexually relevant stimuli. Lubricants also play an important role in managing discomfort or making up for a lack of natural lubrication. In my opinion, lube should be an essential on your shopping list.”

It’s a match made in sexual heaven. The buzz that CBD brings to the lube party is healthy relaxation, heightened pleasure and a boost of genuine sexual wellness that lasts a lot longer than just a single sexy session. Being well-informed about choosing a quality CBD lube product also brings peace of mind that what you’re silkily applying down there is good for you in more ways than one.

The US pioneer of world-leading CBD lube Foria is steadfast in maintaining that broad-spectrum CBD trumps CBD isolate. Broad-spectrum CBD excludes psychoactive THC but maintains the integrity of the many other natural components of the health-giving cannabis plant such as terpenes and flavonoids. By contrast, the processing of CBD isolate strips away everything else.

What you need to know about choosing your lube:

Langford advises, “Take a moment to read the ingredient list. Consider the source of your product of choice and be mindful of harsh ingredients that may cause irritation.

The WHO (World Health Organization) recommends selecting a lubrication that has a pH 4.5 for vaginal use and less than pH 7 for rectal use. These factors will aid in helping you maintain natural vaginal pH and tissue integrity.”

Lubes are either:

Water based – readily available, toy compatible but require repeated applications and contain additives

Oil based (avoid petroleum based) – not latex compatible, last longer than water based, typically natural and/or organic, can be hydrating..

Silicone based – more expensive, not compatible with silicone toys, lasts the longest, can be used in water, not absorbed and typically pure.

“When purchasing any new item we need to be mindful that we are all different and have different sensitivities to ingredients,” says Langford. “Before using a new lube do a patch test on your inner arm, and then on your inner thigh if you are particularly sensitive. Rub it in for at least 2 minutes and monitor to see if you have any adverse effects.”

Original Article: https://www.iol.co.za/lifestyle/health/so-whats-the-buzz-with-cbd-in-lube-b9ffe31c-800e-4834-a9dc-ef4c239b38f0

Who they are: Hailing from Conifer, Colorado, a group of self-described nerds founded Crappy’s because, quite simply, “Life’s too short to feel Crappy.” To be fair, they are actually chemists. Oh, and they boast 75 combined years of know-how in safety testing and quality assurance. Feel better?

You should–Crappy’s is all about “Feeling Good and Doing Good.” The site mentions charitable efforts and includes certificates of analysis (CoAs). However, the CoAs only cover cannabinoids in the chewable tablets. Then there is the claim that CBD is not psychoactive, which is not technically true (“non-intoxicating” is more accurate). The “nerdy technology” used to design products is also not explained.

But the retro theme is impossible to resist. Want proof? Check out the company’s Instagram page with 10,000+ followers. The company never breaks character, from the site copy to the packaging. The products even have cool names like “Premium Hangover Helper.” Fun vintage vibes? Check.

Why they’re unique: Crappy’s does something that’s still fairly unique in the space. Drum roll please…it’s cannabigerol, aka CBG! And cannabinol, CBN! And what’s this? Terpene blends! That’s right–this is not a one-woman CBD show. At least not in the chewable tablets.

What products they have: Chewable tablets, soothing salve, joint rub, an oral tablet, and assorted lip balms. Diehard fans can check out the branded hat and water bottle.

The chewable tablets exude magnetism. Fade Fighter packs 10 mg CBG and 3 mg CBD per piece (25 per pack); Party Prep is similar. Then there’s Hangover Helper, which fits 15 mg CBG, 5 mg CBD, and 1 mg CBN into a single serving. The goal here, presumably, is disaster management–or maybe just an average day (ahem). The company’s oral tablet is similar to Hangover Helper but is not chewable.

Terpene blends are included in each–which terpenes, you ask? Good question. They are proprietary. In other news, small trial packs (three pieces) are on tap. Yippee!

Crappy’s lip balms are great for SPF 15 but even better for fun flavors. We’re talking Meemaw’s Mints, Dr. Hemper Cola, and Cherry Limeade. For bodily aches and pains, the Muscle and Joint Liniment seats 750 mg CBD in organic cocoa seed butter and coconut oil. Soothe and Repair Salve also contains 750 mg CBD but is designed for skin issues with aloe leaf juice.

An anonymous reviewer had this to say about the chewable tablets: “It’s pretty hard to put into words how much I love these products…There’s nothing better on an afternoon when you need to get some work done. No caffeine jitters, no crash, just an uplifted mood and the focus and drive to get stuff done!!”

Bonus: Free shipping for orders over $25? Yes, please.

Who they are:  South Florida resident Laura Fuentes had worked in pharmaceutical compounding for 20 years. In 2013, her dear friend Arby Barroso asked her about CBD. They experimented a little and noticed major improvements in well-being. Although “determined to bring its potential to more people,” the industry was young. There were obstacles at every turn. But the duo persisted. Today, Green Roads is among the most reputed CBD companies in the nation with thousands of verified reviews.

Third-party laboratory tests are a QR scan away. The reports are comprehensive and easy to read. In the words of Fuentes, “As a pharmacist, I look at our end users as ‘patients’ not customers.” The relatively large company considers customer service its “heart and soul.” That’s a comforting thought.

Why they’re unique: Green Roads is a legacy brand in the CBD industry. They didn’t jump on the bandwagon–they helped start it. Adherence to high quality and customer service has preserved the company’s popularity for years.

What products they have: Oils, various topicals, capsules and softgels, edibles, coffee, and bath bombs. Products are rated as mild, moderate, or mighty depending on CBD dose. Easy peasy!

The hot-selling Original Blend tincture is offered as broad or full spectrum in the three dose ratings: 300 mg (mild), 750 mg (moderate), and 1500 mg (mighty). The broad spectrum version comes with the option for mint or apple-kiwi flavors. Glycerin and oils–MCT, hemp seed, and sunflower–form the base. The pet tinctures nix the glycerin and add “love” to the formula. No animal testing and vegan options!

Other big sellers and staff favorites are the capsules and softgels. Sound plain? Think again: Relax comes with GABA and 5-HTP, superstar supplements in their own right. Sleep replaces those with another proven favorite–melatonin. That’s in addition to 25 mg CBD isolate per capsule/gel.

The most unique product at Green Roads is probably the hemp flower coffee, which combines Colombian beans and American hemp. Coffee connoisseurs, brace yourselves for Founder’s Blend, French Vanilla, and Hazelnut. If that’s not tantalizing enough, consider that Green Roads uses a “closely guarded method to create a CBD coffee experience unlike any other.”

Amy H. was quite pleased with the broad-spectrum oil: “This has worked very well for me. The dosing syringe is easy to use. The third-party verification that it has no detectable THC is essential to me.”

Allison E. left this feedback on the Founder’s Blend coffee: “This coffee tastes great and reduces the jittery feeling I get from normal coffee. Everyone who has tried it asks me for some when they come over.”

Bonus: The company’s rewards program may be the most robust in the industry, with points awarded for purchases, social media, and referrals.

Acne is the most common skin condition; factors causing or worsening it include stress, hormonal imbalances, genetics, medications, diet, and high stress levels, to name a few. Most people get acne at differing degrees, including mild, moderate, or severe. Acne commonly grows where oil glands can be found–the neck, face, chest, and back–and treatments can involve antibacterial creams, oral antibiotics, and cleansers.

CBD & Acne Management

Cannabidiol (CBD) is widely used in skin care products as a natural way to clear acne. CBD, or cannabidiol, is an active component of hemp plants. If you are worried about getting “high” from CBD oil, you can put your mind at ease. CBD is non-intoxicating and allows you to reap benefits of the hemp plant.

Our skin has its own endocannabinoid system (ECS).[1] CBD helps reduce inflammation, which can greatly help alleviate this major symptom of acne. Clinical studies have also shown that CBD molecules reduce the formation of sebum.[2] Excess sebum is one of the causes of acne. Aside from that, CBD oil also has antibacterial properties, which reduce the risk of getting or aggravating acne.

CBD & Other Skin Problems

Psoriasis. Aside from acne, CBD, as a tincture, also helps alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease where your skin cells have an accelerated growth cycle. This presents itself as reddish eczema, and can be found in the elbows, knees, and the edges of your scalp. Sometimes, it can be found in nails and palms. CBD may help relieve psoriasis flare-ups.

Due to CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties, it can help calm swelling during a psoriasis flare up. It also inhibits the growth of keratinocytes, the primary cells found in our epidermis, or the skin’s outermost layer.[3] Fewer keratinocytes means a more muted skin cell growth cycle.

Dermatitis. CBD also may help with some types of dermatitis. By lowering the production of sebum, tied with its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it can help keep flare ups manageable and relieve dermatitis symptoms. CBD also helps moisturize the skin by forming a barrier to prevent moisture loss. This helps keep dryness and irritation at bay.

Conclusion

Unlike prescription medication and some over-the-counter medications, CBD oil has little-to-no serious side effects, though further research is needed. You can use it as a preventive measure, to alleviate itching, pain, redness, and swelling of your skin.

If you combine CBD with a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle, and a good skin care regimen (of which CBD could even play a big part), you may be able to keep some skin conditions at bay. Just make sure that you procure your CBD oil from a reliable source. As always, speak to your dermatologist before starting any new treatment, including CBD.

Heather Smith is the Communications Manager at Sunday Scaries. She’s a composed copywriter and content strategist. She’s also a CBD advocate, promoting a healthy lifestyle free of stress and scaries.

 Image Credit: Erin Stone

Image Source: https://pixabay.com/users/erin_hinterland-17114308/

References

1. Bíró T, et al. The endocannabinoid system of the skin in health and disease: novel perspectives and therapeutic opportunities. Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2009;30(8):411-420.
2. Scheau C, Badarau IA, Mihai LG, et al. Cannabinoids in the pathophysiology of skin inflammation. Molecules. 2020;25(3):652.
3. Wilkinson JD, Williamson EM. Cannabinoids inhibit human keratinocyte proliferation through a non-CB1/CB2 mechanism and have a potential therapeutic value in the treatment of psoriasis. J Dermatol Sci. 2007;45(2):87-92.