CBD News UK
Be the first to know about new CBD products in the UK.
PainLower Back Pain When Running: 5 Tips to Get Back in the RaceAfter looking forward to running during the week, the last thing you want is lower back pain. Unfortunately, it’s an issue that many runners battle with, and for various reasons. Running is good for building cardiopulmonary endurance so you don’t fatigue easily, but it takes a toll on your spine.
Lower back pain when running may be due to improper technique, poor footwear, muscle strain, repetitive stress, structural malalignment causing pelvic drop or hip extension, and several other causes. Without proper management, it can send you off track and keep you away from what you love doing.
Whatever the cause, there are easy ways you can alleviate lower back pain when running. Here are 5 tips to get you back in the race pain-free.
» Read more: Using CBD for Back Pain
1. Take Time to Warm Up
A warm-up routine involves low-intensity exercises done to ready your muscles, raise your metabolism, improve your cardio, improve joint load distribution, and reduce the risk of injury. Always include a warm-up program before your race.
To warm up before running, you should target the same muscle groups you will use during the race. You can do this through dynamic stretches, taking a brisk walk, and walking lunges. You can also stretch your muscles or jog at a slow pace to prime them for greater action.
Again, once you are done running, ensure you cool down. The cool-down phase allows you to transition smoothly from the running state to a state of res It and reduces your risk of injury.
2. Improve Your Core Strength
There is more to strengthening your core than building six-pack abs. Strong abdominal muscles can prevent back pain as they help you maintain a good posture, balance, and limit awkward movements. They also aid in force transmission through the muscles instead of the spine, reducing the risk of tension in the lower back that can lead to pain.
Before running and at regular sessions throughout the week, you can focus your exercises on the abs and lower trunk muscles. Examples of exercises for the abdominals include elbow plank, abdominal crunch, push-up, Russian twist, and panther.
» Discover the best menopause-friendly exercises for joint pain
3. Adjust Your Running Form
Do everything to run with a proper technique. A bad running technique can also contribute to lower back pain. Ideally, you should consider the following when running:
While you run, keep your eyes and chest forward. Avoid staring at your shoes; instead, keep your eyes about 10-20 feet forward.Keep your shoulders level and avoid slouching.Keep your arms free at your side, using a relaxed arm swing.While you run, avoid striking the floor with your heels. Instead, aim to strike the floor with your midfoot.Use the appropriate running shoe for your running terrain. Poor support can throw you off balance and affect how force is transmitted through your spine, predisposing you to back pain and injury.
4. Avoid Overtraining and Build Up Slowly
No matter your running level, ensure you stay within your limits and avoid overtraining. Pushing yourself beyond your limits can cause strain on your ligaments and muscles, leading to adverse forces that cause severe lower back pain when running.
A practical way to do this is to space your running, going no more than four times a week. Ensure you rest adequately in between your running days. Also, you should avoid overexerting your muscles; do not increase your speed and distance simultaneously, as this can place undue pressure on you. Instead, aim for progressive overload where you improve your running performance slowly over time.
5. Try Supplements
Several supplements can help prevent or relieve lower back pain so you can run without pain. These supplements provide a natural alternative to treating back pain with analgesics and often contain the following elements: Omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin D, collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, CBD Oil, and others.
» Learn more with our posts about treating chronic pain bain at home with CBD oil and medicinal mushrooms
Lower Back Pain When Running Should Not Persist
Exercise may be effective at treating lower back pain, but be careful before you start any exercise regimen as you open yourself up to injury without the proper preparation. While some muscle soreness is normal when you go from long periods of being sedentary to exercising, it shouldn't incapacitate you or persist for more than a few days. Ensure you consult a doctor or physiotherapist before attempting any stretches or exercises if you experience lower back pain when running.
PainFit and Free: Overcoming Lower Back Pain With 5 Physio ExercisesLower back pain is a leading cause of discomfort in people of all ages. Its causes range from specific (trauma, degeneration, disc herniation, or arthritis of the spine) to non-specific (such as poor postural). Whatever the case, it is important that you manage lower back pain before it becomes chronic and difficult to manage.
Naturally, avoidance of the painful area is the response of most people to pain. With back pain, you may feel like getting off your back or bending in a particular way will help, but this could actually lead to muscle spasms and more pain.
Instead of resting, keeping the back moving boasts great therapeutic benefits. You may also strengthen the muscles of the back and abdomen which work together to keep you erect and stable. That said, here are our top five exercises you can perform on your own to help relieve lower back pain.
» Struggling with menopause joint pain? See our top menopause-friendly exercises and natural remedies
1. Child’s Pose
This is a forward bending pose that can relax the lower back muscles and bring comfort. To perform the stretch:
Take a kneeling postureKeep your knees apart and lower your butt back onto your heelsLower your upper body between your knees, stretching your arms forward along the floor with your palms facing downwardYou can also take your arms back alongside your thighs, turning your palms upwardsContinue till your forehead is on or near the floor and hold the position for 20 to 30 secondsRest and repeat several times
2. Cat-Cow
The cat-cow is an auto-mobilization exercise for the lower back that aims to restore normal movement to the spine and pelvis. To perform this exercise:
Begin on all foursKeep your palms flat and facing forwards and your knees aligned to your hipsSlowly lower your head by tucking your chest in and raising your back towards the ceiling—this should take 3-4 secondsHold the position for a few seconds and relax your back, sticking out your chest and looking upwardRepeat between 8 and 10 times before rounding up the set
» Read more: Using CBD for Back Pain
3. Double Knee-to-Chest Stretch
The double knee-to-chest exercise provides quick lower back pain relief by reducing pressure on the lumbar spine and stretching the back muscles. To perform the exercise:
Lie on your back with both legs bent, keeping your feet flat on the floorLift your feet off the ground, directing your knees towards your chestClasp your hands just below your knees and use the hands to pull both knees to your chest Hold the position for 20-30 secondsRelease and repeat at least five times for one set
4. Supine Bridge
The supine bridge strengthens the hip extensors and trunk muscles, promoting trunk stability and relieving lower back pain. To perform the exercise:
Lie on your back with your arms on the floor at your sides, your knees bent, and your feet flat on the floorSlowly lift your hips off the floor by tightening your glutes and core abdominal musclesEnsure you keep your back straightHold the position for 20-30 seconds and then lower your hips to the floorRepeat 10 times for one set
5. Lower Back Rotation
Otherwise known as lumbar rotation, this exercise targets the lower trunk area. To perform the exercise:
Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floorKeeping your back rooted to the floor, bring your knees together and roll them to the left side of your bodyPause for 5-10 seconds in the new position before returning to the starting positionRepeat the same motion on the right sideAlternate between both sides 5-10 times for one set
» Discover the benefits of treating back pain at home with CBD
Conclusion
While exercising with back pain can be tough, these exercises should not add to your pain. Pay attention to your body and stop any exercise that proves hurtful. Additionally, you should consider implementing additional natural remedies that may bring some relief to your chronic lower back pain, such as medicinal mushrooms.
If your back pain persists, be sure to consult a doctor as it may be an indication of something more severe.
PainMorning Misery: 5 Hidden Causes of Lower Back Pain When WakingGenerally, lower back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal symptoms and a leading cause of hospital visits and absence from work. It manifests at varying intensities and may present with different aggravating and relieving factors. In some people, the back pain is worse in the morning upon waking and improves as the activities of the day go on.
Morning back pain may be due to activities performed before you sleep, the kind of mattress you sleep on, and how you sleep. Understanding these possible cases can help you limit the risk of morning lower back pain and walk with optimal spine health.
» Read more: Using CBD for Back Pain
1. Poor Sleeping Posture
If you notice back pain in the morning when you wake, it may be because of your posture. A poor sleeping posture places pressure on the spine, causing the natural lumbar curvature to flatten out, and leading to pain. This is most common in people who sleep on their stomachs but may also happen in people who sleep on their backs and sides without proper support.
How to Fix Your Sleeping Posture
You should take note of your body position when you go to bed, wake up at night, or wake in the morning to get an idea of how you sleep and to make corrections where necessary. Ideally, you should place a pillow under your lower abdomen if you want to sleep on your stomach—though you really shouldn't. If you're sleeping on your back, you should place a pillow under your knees for support. While you can place a pillow between your knees and under your chest if you sleep on your side.
» Struggling with sleep issues? Read our tips for better sleep
2. Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain in the muscles all over the body, including the back. It can also cause anxiety, fatigue, memory and mood issues, restless sleep, and tension headaches. Fibromyalgia is common around age 45, and more prevalent in women than men. When it occurs, fibromyalgia can also cause lower back pain that worsens in the morning.
3. Mattress Quality
The mattress quality, thickness, and firmness can influence the quality of your sleep and also predispose you to back pain. Also, mattresses degrade with time and shouldn't be kept longer than about 10 years. Any mattress quality that affects the normal curvature of your spine can predispose you to low back pain.
Aim for Better Quality Mattresses
Generally, the best mattresses are those that promote a neutral spine. While no consensus on the quality of mattresses can do this, medium-firm mattress surfaces are believed to relieve lower back pain. Additionally, you should get rid of any mattress that is more than 10 years old.
4. Spinal Stenosis
Lumbar spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back, leading to a compression of the nerves that exit through the canal. The compression causes pain and numbness that can radiate from the back to the leg. Spinal stenosis can be aggravated by the way you sleep, causing more pressure to be placed on the nerves during the night and leading to severe pain in the morning.
5. Degenerative Disc Disease
Disc degeneration occurs when the intervertebral discs begin deteriorating as a result of ageing and natural wear and tear from prolonged and repeated use. DDD causes intense pain which is worse in the morning and may radiate to the legs; it typically improves with movement.
How to Relieve Morning Back Pain
If you suffer from morning back pain, you can do the following to find some relief, even if you're unsure of the cause:
Exercises
A combination of stretching and strengthening exercises can help you maintain optimal spine health, reduce any pain due to compression, and improve your flexibility. There are a variety of stretches that can be done, with the most common being the knee-to-chest flexion exercise, cat pose, child’s pose, etc.
» See our top menopause-friendly exercises for joint pain
Medications
Low-grade inflammation during the night may cause or exacerbate pain, so using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications around your bedtime can significantly affect the rate of inflammation and reduce morning back pain.
Natural Remedies
Consider supplementing your diet with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving components, like those in our Unwind Drops for muscle relaxation and Unwind Muscle Rub to relieve sore muscles with the help of a massage.
Consult Your Doctor
Though there are many hidden causes of lower back pain in the morning, many of them are difficult to diagnose without proper medical intervention. If you experience painful symptoms even after trying the tips listed here, or if your pain worsens over time, consult your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan so that you can live pain-free.
PainTreating Chronic Back Pain at Home With CBD Oil: Benefits, Products, and How to Use ThemChronic pain of all types negatively impacts work productivity, daily life activities (like cleaning, preparing food, dressing, intimacy), and leisure activities. For some people, chronic pain is severely limiting, causing them to curtail most non-essential activities. For others, work becomes impossible, leading to a loss of income and lower standard of living.
Many are treated with pain medication that is addictive and offers diminishing returns over time, requiring increasingly larger doses to get the same effect. As a result, chronic pain sufferers are seeking to manage their pain with natural remedies like CBD oil, but how effective are these? Keep reading to find out.
» Read more: Menopause Joint Pain Natural Remedies
What Causes Back Pain?
Back pain can be caused by a medical condition that affects the joints and/or connective tissues, like psoriatic arthritis, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and rheumatoid arthritis. It can also be caused by aging-related changes to the spine or damage from accidents or strenuous activities like heavy lifting.
With diseases of the joints and connective tissues, inflammation can be a primary cause of pain. though it can also be due to mechanical causes such as the compression of a nerve root, the compression of the disc material between the vertebrae (or the loss of the disc), and the loss of cartilage around and between joints.
Additionally, neuropathic pain (pain caused by issues in the nervous system) may also be a cause.
4 Benefits of CBD for Chronic Back Pain
The specialists working with the Arthritis Foundation point out that CBD remedies are suitable for symptom relief only (1). Though there is much anecdotal evidence for relieving chronic back pain, there is not enough research to justify the efficacy of using CBD to treat underlying inflammatory conditions. That being said, there are a few ways that you may find relief from chronic back pain by using CBD.
» Need some extra support? See our products for pain relief
1. Pain-Relieving Properties
There is a history of cannabis being used to treat pain for centuries, at least (2). The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a system of receptors in the brain and the nervous system that are responsible for modulating many of the body's functions. Cannabinoids, including CBD, bind to these receptors and may positively impact their functioning.
There are studies that suggest the efficacy of using CBD not just for chronic pain in general, but even for chronic back pain specifically (3)(4).
Product Recommendation: Unwind Muscle Rub
Relaxes and alleviates tired and tense musclesContains unique M2CBD formulaPacked with pharmaceutical-grade CBD and medicinal mushroom blend
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
CBD oil has been demonstrated in some studies to decrease inflammation (5), which can relieve swelling and pressure against nerve endings and, thus, pain.
Product recommendation: Bliss Oil
Fights inflammation by relieving tired musclesContains unique M2CBD formulaPacked with pharmaceutical-grade CBD and medicinal mushroom blend
3. Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Perception of pain has been reported to lessen when people have lower levels of stress and anxiety, as the body reacts by releasing cortisol, the stress hormone, which increases heart rate, adrenalin output, and pain perception.
A number of studies have found a decrease in anxiety with various doses of CBD, which is a promising result, though more research is needed (6)(7).
Product Recommendation: Relax Drops
Promotes feelings of relaxation and calmnessContains unique M2CBD formulaPacked with pharmaceutical-grade CBD and medicinal mushroom blend
4. Improved Sleep
Poor sleep, a potential side effect of chronic pain, can actually increase an individual's perception of pain (8)(9). It stands to reason that improving the quality of sleep will not only allow the body more time to heal but actually reduce an individual's experienced pain.
Research suggests that CBD may help to improve sleep, allowing for the regeneration of tissue via an increase in nerve growth factor (10)(11).
Product Recommendation: Beauty Sleep Drops
Improves sleep quality and shortens sleep latencyContains unique M2CBD formulaPacked with pharmaceutical-grade CBD and medicinal mushroom blend
How to Use CBD for Back Pain
There are several methods of using CBD for chronic back pain, each with its own pros and cons.
Sublingually: Tinctures or oils applied sublingually are widely regarded as the best form of CBD due to their comparatively high bioavailability (the amount of a substance your body can absorb), ease of use, and duration of effect.Topically: Topical oils, creams, and lotions have the advantage of being able to be spread over a wide area while also assisting other treatments more locally. However, this method has the lowest bioavailability.Ingestion: Some practitioners recommend taking CBD internally in the form of capsules or drops as more research is needed into the effectiveness of using topical treatments, and there are many individuals who prefer swallowing capsules to using tinctures and oils.
DisclaimerIt is essential to consult a medical practitioner prior to taking any new medications or supplements—be they conventional or alternative. It is also important to tell any medical practitioner about all the medications (conventional, prescribed, over-the-counter, natural, and alternative) that you are taking to make sure that there are no problematic interactions between them and CBD.
Why Wait?
Chronic back pain negatively impacts all areas of people's lives, and many of them react negatively to addictive pharmaceuticals, making the existence of natural alternatives a necessity.
CBD preparations may prove effective in helping alleviate chronic back pain without an impact on mental status and thereby lowering the negative impact on the person's life, and even this can be combined with other therapeutic components like various medicinal mushroom species. To learn more, take a look at our M2CBD formula.
Pain4 Oestrogen-Boosting Lifestyle Tips for Menopause Joint PainDuring menopause, there is a drop in the female sex hormone, oestrogen, which triggers numerous menopausal symptoms (1). Oestrogen is important for maintaining bone and joint health in women, while low oestrogen reduces natural bone density, muscle strength, and tendon health. Joint lubrication is also affected, resulting in joint pain and inflammation.
Increasing your oestrogen levels may help overcome some menopausal symptoms, such as joint pain. That being said, here are our top 4 ways to boost oestrogen naturally.
» Read more: Menopause Joint Pain Natural Remedies
1. Consume Phytoestrogen-Rich Foods
Consuming phytoestrogen-rich foods helps reduce the severity and frequency of menopause side effects such as hot flashes, mood swings, and joint pain.
Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring compounds found in plants that have estrogen-like effects on the body (2). They mimic the function of estrogen and can provide relief from menopausal discomforts.
Foods that are high in phytoestrogen include the following:
Flax seeds
These are the highest in phytoestrogen.Soy foods
Try foods such as tofu, tempeh, miso, and soymilk.Fruits
Some great fruit choices include oranges, cherries, or blueberries.Vegetables
Our top vegetable picks are carrots and broccoli.Legumes
Healthy all round, incorporate some lentils, alfalfa sprouts, or mung beans into your diet.Nuts
The best choices are pistachios, cashews, and almonds.
2. Ensure You Are Getting the Right Vitamins and Minerals
Certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies can lower oestrogen. Supplementing with the right vitamins and minerals should improve estrogen levels. Consider the following vitamins and minerals and where you can find them:
Vitamin D
Found in oily fish, red meat, and egg yolks, vitamin D is essential for bone and muscle function. It has potent anti-inflammatory properties that help in relieving joint pain and inflammation.Vitamin B complex
Found in broccoli, Brussels sprouts, chickpeas, and leafy green vegetables like cabbage, kale, and spinach, vitamins B2, B6, folate, and B12 are important for bone health. They help in maintaining bone structure, quality, and bone mass, while reducing pain and the risk of fractures. Boron
Found in milk, apples, beans, and potatoes, this mineral helps in vitamin D metabolism, which, in turn, helps maintain bone health. Boron also helps in calcium and magnesium absorption, which are crucial in joint and bone formation. Boron influences estrogen receptors and allows the body to use estrogen better (3).Omega-3
Found primarily in fish and nuts, omega-3 can help reduce inflammation and provide relief to joint pain. In fact, it is as efficient as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in reducing inflammatory pain (4).DHEA
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone that is naturally produced by the body that can easily convert into estrogen and testosterone (5). DHEA can be obtained over the counter in capsule or tablet form, and the recommended dose is 25-50 mg per day. Additionally, there are herbal supplements and teas that will naturally help increase your DHEA levels, though it can also be obtained from certain vegetables like wild yams.
3. Take an Herbal Supplement
Herbal supplements have been used for centuries to treat hormone imbalances. Popular herbs for increasing oestrogen include:
Ashwagandha
This is commonly used in traditional Indian medicines. It can increase oestrogen levels and help provide relief from menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, depression, and joint pain.Chasteberry and Red Clover
Chasteberry and Red Clover contain isoflavones that mimic oestrogen and help reduce menopausal symptoms such as joint pain. Dong Quai
This has been in use for centuries in China and Korea due to its medicinal benefits related to women's health issues. It contains phytoestrogens that act similarly to oestrogen in the human body. Pueraria Mirifica
This is a herb endogenous to Thailand that contains phytoestrogens which support bone health during menopause.Black Cohosh
Black Cohosh contains a compound called fukinolic acid that works like oestrogen and can thus ease menopause symptoms.
You can take these herbs in supplement form as pills, herbal teas, or even mixed into food as you cook.
£149
4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Though cultivating a healthy lifestyle is easier said than done, here are some basic ways you can start.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise for at least half an hour helps boost oestrogen levels in the body, though anaerobic exercise (short bursts of high intensity) is more effective than aerobic exercise (continuous movement).
Anaerobic exercise for 12 weeks was found to be greatly effective in increasing estradiol levels in postmenopausal osteoporotic women (6).
Improve Your Sleeping Schedule
A poor sleep schedule can increase cortisol levels, which, in turn, disrupts the delicate balance between oestrogen and progesterone in the body. By improving your sleep schedule, you can increase your estrogen levels.
Our Beauty Sleep Drops contain CBD oil, medicinal mushrooms, botanical ingredients, and amino acids that raise your serotonin levels, soothe nerves, and calm the mind, improving your sleep cycle.
Practice Stress Management and Reduction
Stress at any age can lead to the depletion of oestrogen stores in the body (7), and this effect is enhanced during menopause as the ovaries stop producing oestrogen.
Practicing yoga, meditation, connecting with friends, listening to music, and taking time to unwind can help reduce stress and maintain healthy oestrogen levels.
The Bottom Line
The side effects associated with menopause may be reduced by boosting oestrogen levels in your body, and there are many natural ways to do so. Adaptogens such as medicinal mushrooms can help reduce stress and pain, while herbs such as lemon balm and chamomile may help you relax and sleep better. There's no need to keep dealing with uncomfortable symptoms as much as you do while there are simple lifestyle changes you can make at home.
PainEase Sacroiliac Joint Pain With Our Top 6 Menopause-Friendly ExercisesMenopause is the inevitable physiologic consequence of the ageing process for women. At some point, your menstrual cycle ceases, marking the end of an era of fertility. Usually, the menstrual period must have stopped for at least twelve months before you can reach a definitive diagnosis.
While the age of onset varies in most women and across races, the symptoms of menopause are similar, usually consisting of hot flashes and mood disorders. Additionally, 40% of women in a recent study reported joint pain as a symptom of menopause (1). This is not surprising since menopause is characterised by decreased oestrogen levels which leads to less joint protection and, eventually, joint pain and stiffness.
Of the joint pain commonly reported, sacroiliac joint pain is perhaps the most common. It occurs when the sacroiliac joint (located where the pelvis connects with your spine at the lower back) becomes inflamed. It can cause pain in the lower back and buttocks and may radiate to the legs. Sacroiliac joint pain can be functionally limiting, hence the need to equip yourself with enough easy-to-do exercises that you can perform at home to relieve some pain, and here are our top 5.
» Read more: Menopause Joint Pain Natural Remedies
1. Lower Trunk Rotation
Lower trunk rotation improves flexibility in the hips and lower back, relieving pressure and pain in the sacroiliac joints.
Lie on your back with your knees bent slightly and your feet flat on the floorKeeping your knees together, gently rotate them to one side as much as you can without experiencing painKeep both shoulders and back flat on the groundHold this position for 5-10 secondsRepeat on the alternate sideRepeat up to 10 times on each side
2. Knee-to-Chest Stretch
As a physiotherapist, the knee-to-chest stretch is a favourite of mine due to its simplicity and effectiveness. You can perform it with either one or both legs, following the descriptions below.
Single Knee-To-Chest Stretch
Start with your legs fully extended or one leg bent at the knee with the foot flat on the ground (depending on the severity of the back pain)Proceed to draw one of your knees towards the chest while clasping your hands on your legHold the position for 10 seconds before releasing the leg and repeating it on the alternate limbRepeat the entire cycle ten times
Double Knee-To-Chest Stretch
While lying on your back, pull both knees to your chestHold the position for 5-10 secondsSlowly lower the legs and repeat up to ten times
3. Cobra Pose
Sometimes, sacroiliac joint pain is due to hypermobile joints in menopausal women. In such a case, strengthening exercises help improve stability and reduce pain. Yoga poses are particularly useful in this regard, provided care is taken not to overdo them, and the cobra pose readily comes to mind.
Lie flat on your stomach with your palms flat on the floor beside your chestKeep your hands beneath your shouldersExtend the arms slowly until your upper body is off the groundEnsure you do not raise the pelvis or legs with the upper bodyKeep the lower back and buttocks relaxedHold the stretch for 15-30 secondsSlowly return to the starting position on the floorRepeat as many times as needed
4. Walking
Walking is easier on the sacroiliac joint than running or jogging and can be easily incorporated into your schedule. For example, you can stop one block from your destination and walk the rest of the way, walk to lunch, or simply take a light 20-minute walk around your neighbourhood at the end of your day.
For all its simplicity, walking offers significant benefits when it comes to easing different kinds of joint and back pain. Plan to take a walk for about 20-30 minutes. Ensure you maintain a slow pace and use comfortable, low-heeled footwear that properly support your foot arches and keep your feet neutrally aligned.
Stop if you notice any pain. If you are pain-free, you can increase the pace or the time you spend walking.
5. Bridging
Bridging focuses on strengthening the gluteal muscles, helping to stabilize the pelvis and relieve sacroiliac joint pain.
Begin by lying on your back with your hands by your side and your palms flat on the floorBend your kneesSqueeze your buttocks and lift your hips you form a straight line from shoulder to kneeHold the position for 5 seconds using the muscles of the lower abdomen, lower back, and hipsSlowly lower your bodyRepeat the stretch 8 to 10 times, provided there is no painIf you have the strength and don't experience any pain, you can increase the intensity by only bending one knee at the start
6. Bird Dog Pose
The bird dog pose is an advanced yoga move that strengthens the lower back and core abdominal muscles supporting the pelvis.
Get on all foursKeep your shoulders square and your face looking towards the ground in order to ensure that your spine and neck are in a neutral positionSimultaneously extend a leg backwards and an alternate arm forwardFor example, extend your right leg while reaching forward with your left armAvoid arching the back to compensate for the movementHold the position for 5 seconds before lowering your leg and armAlternate the limbs and continue for 6-10 reps on each sideIf the exercise is too difficult or elicits pain, modify the activity by only extending your legs
You Can Be Pain Free
You don’t have to live with sacroiliac joint pain just because menopause has set in, and there things you can do to relieve this pain without pumping yourself full of pharmaceutical drugs. By performing these exercises, you not only achieve pain relief but also strengthen and stretch muscles that can improve your posture and keep you free of joint pain.
PainThe Natural Path to Menopause Joint Pain Relief—Our Top 5 RemediesMenopause is the period of cessation of a woman’s menstrual cycle, usually diagnosed after you have missed your menstrual cycle for about 12 months. Menopause comes with many symptoms, including vaginal dryness, itching, anxiety, depression, and joint pain.
Changes in levels of hormones like oestrogen results in joint pain and discomfort that can occur in any joint, including the lower back, knees, feet, shoulders, and hands, significantly impacting your quality of life. Pain can worsen if not treated early enough, and you can do so either conservatively using natural means or with drugs (pharmacological means).
Menopause Joint Pain—Our Top 5 Natural Remedies
We have compiled a list of 5 natural remedies that can help you relieve your menopause joint pain from the comfort of your own home.
1. Try Natural And Herbal Remedies for Joint Pain in Menopause
CBD oil, medicinal mushrooms, and herbal remedies are helpful in managing menopausal joint pain. CBD has anti-inflammatory properties, pain-relieving effects, and may even reduce anxiety and promote sleep (3)(4)(5)(6). Medicinal mushrooms appear to have similar effects on inflammation (7).
Best Supplements for Menopause Joint Pain—Our Recommendations
Unwind Muscle RubUnwind TabletsUnwind Drops
All of our products contain our unique M2CBD blend that contains pharmaceutical-grade CBD, various medicinal mushroom extracts, and other therapeutic compounds that can help relieve pain, promote sleep and recovery, and reduce anxiety, all of which are conditions of menopause.
2. De-Stress to Alleviate Menopause Joint Pain Symptoms
Menopause increases the risk of inflammation due to lower oestrogen levels. Stress leads to additional inflammation in the joints because it causes an increase in cortisol levels (1). To relieve pain, learning how to de-stress is essential.
You can manage stress by making lifestyle adjustments such as reducing screen time, taking naps between work, practising solitude through mindfulness and meditation, and avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and sugary food/drinks.
Supplement Support: Relax Drops
Part of the My Being Triple System
Packed with pharmaceutical-grade CBDContains a unique medicinal mushroom and herbal mixReduces anxiety and stressControls emotions and clears the mind
3. Try Magnesium and Other Supplements for Menopause Muscle and Joint Pain
Magnesium also helps with stiffness, joint pain, and muscle pain since it has effects on bone strength and inflammation (2). With reduced oestrogen levels, baseline magnesium levels reduce as well, leading to conditions like osteoporosis, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, and possibly depression.
As such, increasing the uptake of magnesium will keep bones strong and inflammation levels low, helping to calm the nervous system. It also positively affects heart health, especially when taken with calcium or vitamin B6.
You can get more magnesium by altering your diet and consuming more foods like pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, almonds, and spinach. Great sources of calcium include milk and other dairies, as well as leafy greens. Vitamin B6 is found in poultry, fish like tuna and salmon, and chickpeas.
Additional Supplement Support: Fortify Tablets
Rich in calcium, pairs well with magnesiumHelps protect bones and jointsPacked with pharmaceutical-grade CBDContains a unique medicinal mushroom formula
4. Regular Exercise as Menopause Joint Pain Relief
Some of the best exercises to alleviate menopause joint pain include the following:
WalkingYogaPilatesStretching exercisesStrengthening exercises
Several studies have shown that exercise has a positive effect on menopause joint pain in most women. Consider, for example, that weight gain is a symptom of menopause, and extra weight can put more pressure on your joints and muscles, leading to more pain. Stretching and strengthening exercises can help shed excess weight while also strengthening your joints, muscles, and bones.
Supplement Support: Bliss Massage Oil
Packed with pharmaceutical-grade CBDContains a unique medicinal mushroom and herbal mixRelaxes tired and tensed musclesSuitable for any physical activity
5. Follow an Anti-Inflammatory Diet to Ease Menopause Joint Pain Symptoms
A good place to start is to track what you eat by keeping a food diary. Some specific examples of food that can ease inflammation include:
Fatty fishBroccoliWalnutsSpinachBerries
It may also be helpful to incorporate an anti-inflammatory diet to counteract the rising inflammation levels. From taking less refined sugar to reducing salt intake, eating more plant-based meals and less meat, you must pay attention to your meals.
Supplement Support: Reverse Tablets
Eases and prevents further inflammationPromotes normal liver functionPacked with pharmaceutical-grade CBDContains a unique medicinal mushroom formula
Check With Your Medical Provider
Menopause joint pain may be inevitable but it can be controlled. Natural remedies like exercise, lifestyle and dietary changes, destressing, and intake of magnesium can all help control menopausal joint pain.
Due to the nature of some of these natural remedies like CBD oils, you should consult a doctor before combining any medication with CBD. Though they are widely considered low risk, there's no guarantee how you will personally react to new supplements.
Medicinal mushroomsHow to Take Cordyceps: Products, Dosage, and Best Time of DayWith the rising popularity of medicinal mushrooms in Western medicine, more and more companies are developing different ways of consuming them. Currently, you can purchase medicinal mushrooms fresh, powdered, in capsule form, in tinctures, and more. So, which form is the best, and how should you take it?
Different Ways to Consume Cordyceps Mushrooms and Their Dosages
Despite the fact that there are various forms of Cordyceps mushrooms that you can utilise, the dosages don't really vary between them. This isn't to say that they shouldn't, it is simply an analysis of the fact that there have not been any studies specifically on the effects of Cordyceps at different dosages.
The only evidence on this topic is that most scientific studies done on Cordyceps and its extracts used dosages of between 1,000mg and 3,000mg/day, though they have been tested at up to 6,000mg as well.
Cordyceps Extracts
As for the recommended dosages of refined Cordyceps extracts, they should be listed on the product, and they can come in any of the following forms:
1. Cordyceps drops
To extract beneficial compounds from cordyceps mushrooms, hot water and alcohol are commonly used to create a concentrated liquid. This method preserves and concentrates active compounds like cordycepin and adenosine, which can be added to drinks or taken directly for health benefits.
Boost Drops by Cannabotech combine CBD with cordyceps extract to enhance respiratory function, energy, endurance, and immune system function. Made for maximum bioavailability, enjoy daily for overall wellness.
Key product features:
3000mg functional mushroom blend including Cordyceps MilitarisInfused with pharmaceutical-grade CBD oilRecommended dosage: 10 sublingual drops, twice a day
2. Cordyceps supplements
To make powder extract from cordyceps mushrooms, they are first dried and ground into powder. The powder is soaked in hot water or alcohol to extract beneficial compounds, then filtered and concentrated into a powdered extract. Purification steps like CO2 extraction or enzyme-assisted extraction may also be used. The resulting extract can be used in various products.
Immunity Support Tablets by Cannabotech are a daily supplement formulated to boost immune function and overall health. They contain a blend of natural ingredients, including Cordyceps extract and Vitamin C.
Key product features:
54,000g functional mushroom mix including Cordyceps MilitarisInfused with pharmaceutical-grade CBD oilRecommended dosage: 1 tablet, twice a day
Raw and Fresh Cordyceps
Although more difficult to find than extracts you are still able to purchase whole fruiting bodies of this fungus. No matter how you choose to prepare them, it's important to remember that in order to get the benefits of mushrooms, you need to break down the outer layer of chitin first using heat.
As such, here are the popular ways of using fresh Cordyceps:
1. Steeped in tea
The benefits and simplicity of Cordyceps tea have been widely utilised by many traditional medical practitioners throughout history. Simply boil a dosage of Cordyceps in water for a few minutes, then lower temperature to simmering and continue steeping for another 15 minutes. Extract the fruiting bodies, save them for cooking or dispose of them, add honey and other tea spices to taste, and then enjoy.
2. Cooked in food
Like regular mushrooms, Cordyceps can be enjoyed cooked into a meal of your choice. Some popular options are pastas and soups.
What Is the Best Time of Day to Take Cordyceps?
Although Cordyceps can be taken at night, there is much debate over the efficacy of taking it then instead of in the morning. One of the major benefits that this mushroom offers is a boost to athletic performance, essentially improving your daytime functioning. This suggests that Cordyceps is better taken in the morning for an energizing boost to your day.
How Long Does It Take To Feel the Effect of Cordyceps
There isn't a concrete answer as to how long it takes for Cordyceps to work since everyone is different.
It's important to understand that these mushrooms are fundamentally different from many pharmaceutical drugs. Take analgesics (painkillers), like paracetamol, for example. After ingestion, the drug takes less than an hour to travel through your bloodstream to directly block pain receptors in your brain. The same is true for many anti-inflammatory drugs, sleeping tablets, stimulants (like caffeine), and more.
Medicinal mushrooms do not operate in the same manner. While many mushrooms offer a surprising number of benefits, they need to accumulate over time. If you're looking for a fast solution to your insomnia problem, popping a few Cordyceps supplements at night before bed won't help. This means that, although it's advised by many to take Cordyceps in the morning, perhaps with a cup of coffee, it won't matter much in the long term. Even though Cordyceps can seemingly improve the efficiency of your blood carrying oxygen to your muscles, it doesn't mean there's necessarily an optimum time to take it before a workout.
How Often Should You Take Cordyceps?
Since the benefits of Cordyceps compound over time, it's advised that you take it regularly (once a day) in order to get the most out of it. However, it's important that you understand the lack of research on the safety of these mushrooms for an extended period of time. There are many studies that show their benefits after regular use for a few weeks, but there are currently no studies that look at the safety of taking Cordyceps for over a year.
The most there is to go on, by deduction of the existing research, is that regular dosing of Cordyceps appears to be safe up to a year of consumption.
Can You Take Cordyceps Together With Other Mushrooms?
Unfortunately, there is much debate surrounding this topic. Some researchers claim that taking different medicinal mushrooms together can be risky or potentially reduce the efficacy of each of them.
However, others claim that taking them together can compound the benefits and potentially alleviate the adverse reactions.
Here at Cannabotech, our research has shown as that you can take Cordyceps together with other mushrooms, as long as the quantities are aligned. Most of our products contain a unique blend of several functional mushrooms and CBD oil, also known as our M²CBD formula.
An Introduction To Cannabotech's Products
Our unique M²CBD formula has been adapted to provide you with different levels of support to different parts of your body. For example, should you be an athlete who wants to relax after a workout, our Unwind Drops contain a blend of functional mushrooms - including Cordyceps - and CBD oil to help support your muscles.
If you wish for a stronger dosage, we have Unwind Tablets that can be taken alone, or alongside the Unwind Drops to help your body really unwind, ready for the next training session.
Plus, you can even use the Unwind Muscle Rub to help your muscles relax from the outside-in.
Each of our Unwind products contain a similar formula, but each one comes in different forms (a tincture, tablet, and liquid). Furthermore, they come in different strengths. In general, tablets contain a double-strength dosage of our M²CBD formula compared to the tinctures.
Explore our website to discover the wonders of functional mushrooms and CBD oil when combined together.
Cbd discussionsThe Endocannabinoid System: How Does Cannabidiol (CBD) Work In The Body?Cannabis, with its fibrous and active compounds, has been part of human history for millennia. Used as herbal medicine, in a spiritual ceremony, eaten as food, and weaved into paper and linen, the versatility of this fast-growing plant is impressive. Yet, its ability to create a mind-altering high led to a blanket ban. As a consequence, research halted. We still have much to learn but what we do know is impressive and meaningful.
There are an estimated 483 different chemical constituents. Of these, 66 fall into the category of cannabinoids; compounds not found except in the cannabis plant. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two important cannabinoids that have, in recent times, captured the imagination of scientists, health experts and the public alike.
It’s about time! The scientific journey began decades ago.
Israeli organic chemist and professor, Raphael Mechoulam, uncovered the structure of CBD and THC in 1963 and 1964. In 1980, he and his team published a study in the journal, Pharmacology. They found that CBD had potential as an anti-epileptic drug. The results were staggering, yet the knowledge remained all but hidden; cannabis and its health-giving compounds remained illegal in most countries.
Wonderfully this is changing. The CBD cat has pounced out of the medical bag.
How CBD works in the body?
This begs the question of exactly how CBD works in the body?
For the body to remain in balance (homeostasis), our cells must be able to “talk”. They do this via signalling. Instead of engaging in oral communication, each cell contains biological locks. When a key (a chemical or hormone, for example) meets the right lock, magic happens; a process is unlocked, a signal can be sent. This allows a message to be amplified and passed along. Thus, a response can occur.
In some ways, it is like a computer operating system designed to make you ‘run smoothly’. Each step triggers the next.
Cannabidiol (a “key”) affects the cell’s cannabinoid receptors (the “lock”). In this way, this compound can trigger beneficial responses.
But how can a plant compound change the way the body works?
This is the perfect question and where things really become interesting! To understand, we must look at the endocannabinoid system or ECS.
The endocannabinoid system: What is the ECS and how does it work?
While the term endocannabinoid system sounds complex, it simply refers to the cannabinoid system within us. Yes, the human body is organised to respond to cannabinoids. It also produces them!
The endocannabinoid system regulates the nervous system. Part of its role is to help the body respond to internal and external insults; it is inseparably tied to your physical and psychological responses. It does this via the lock and key mechanism mentioned above.
What makes up the endocannabinoid system?
The endocannabinoid system has four parts including:
Cannabinoid receptors called CB1 and CB2.Cannabinoids produced by the body (endocannabinoids)Enzymes that either make or break down cannabinoids.Cannabinoid antagonists; chemicals that block these molecules from connecting with their receptors like a basketball player blocking the hoop.
Because the receptors and the body’s own cannabinoids offer possible therapeutic effects, let’s look at these two in more detail.
The lock: cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2)
The receptors of the endocannabinoid system are just like any other: incredibly specific. The key must fit the lock to trigger an action.
Cannabinoid receptor one (CB1) is mostly found in the central nervous system; that is, the brain and the spinal cord. It is involved in appetite, coordination, memory, mood, movement, pain, and other functions.
Cannabinoid receptor two (CB2) is mostly found in the peripheral nervous system; that is, areas other than the brain and the spinal cord, especially in immune cells. Because of this CB2 may influence the immune system, inflammation, and pain.
The key: cannabinoids naturally produced in the body
The incredible human body produces two “keys” that fit the cannabinoid “locks”: anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
Anandamide, dubbed the bliss molecule, acts as a neurotransmitter; a chemical that enables nerve cells to communicate with each other or tissues like glands or muscles.
2-AG, while being identified, remains somewhat of an enigma. This endocannabinoid appears to regulate the nervous system, protect cells in the brain, and play a role in immune function.
Nature’s locksmith: The role of enzymes
The body is designed to maintain equilibrium. Too little of one compound and it will work to raise your level. Too much of another and it will work to aid decline. A finely tuned balance is the aim. Enzymes, then, are biochemical catalysts; they enable chemical reactions to occur at a rate designed to support life.
Imagine a bath. If it’s too hot, you’ll burn as you slide into the water. If it’s too cold, you’ll begin to shiver. We can think of enzymes as taking control of the taps to ensure the temperature is just right.
In terms of cannabinoids, enzymes help to maintain perfect function and balance.
What is the role of plant cannabinoids?
Humans have, for aeons, believed that Mother Nature provides medicine. Science is finally beginning to investigate, understand and support this notion.
The phytocannabinoids — literally “plant” cannabinoids — include cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Where the latter alters psychological state, it appears CBD can ease discomfort, enhance mood, and modulate nerve and brain function, without the psychoactive effects of THC.
Whether from inside the body (endogenous) or outside (exogenous sources like cannabis), cannabinoids provide the key that opens the lock in the form of CB1 and CB2 receptors. This initiates physiological change. This means that external cannabinoids can deliver therapeutic benefits. You can support your body through appropriate supplementation.
The Takeaway on the Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system is complex and important. There is still much to learn but what we already know is astounding. This widespread biological network helps to moderate homeostasis so we can remain well.
And, nature provides a plant-based mimic. CBD is legal and able to connect with the same receptors that endocannabinoids can. It provides the right key to unbolt the cannabinoid lock. The result? Consuming an appropriate natural compound may benefit your health. It doesn’t get much better than that!