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Functional mushroomsBenefits of Reishi Mushrooms for Hair Health and Hair LossEven though your hair is not necessarily alive, science has found that it is made up of many different minerals and nutrients, the absence or excess of which can be detrimental to the overall health of your hair. Eating a balanced and healthy diet and drinking enough water are two essential practices in maintaining healthy hair. Still, sometimes there are underlying conditions that can't simply be fixed with proper hair habits. There are some existing treatments for a few of the conditions that negatively affect hair that might share similarities with the functional mushroom known as Reishi. But how effective are Reishi mushrooms for hair health and hair loss? This article looks at this question, what causes hair loss, and the links between Reishi mushrooms and existing hair treatments. » Find the perfect mushroom blend for your condition - take our free quiz What Causes Hair Loss? Although a poor diet can affect the health of your hair, there are also several conditions that can cause hair loss. Male pattern baldness is the most common reason for hair loss, which is caused by the reduction of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that binds to hair follicles in your head and kills them in a process called miniaturisation. Some conditions and diseases can cause hair loss, such as chemotherapy in cancer treatment and conditions such as alopecia areata. Existing Treatments for Hair Loss Eating a healthy and balanced diet can help improve the health of your hair, but it won't necessarily reverse or prevent the effects of other conditions that can cause hair loss. For male pattern baldness, oral DHT blockers can inhibit 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that synthesises DHT, which can prevent or even reverse miniaturisation. Unfortunately, hair loss resulting from chemotherapy or alopecia areata can only be managed, at best, and not cured. These treatments include vitamin supplements and corticosteroid injections. How Reishi Benefits Hair Health According to Research The benefits of Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) are seemingly endless, mainly owing to their extensive nutritional profile that is packed with essential vitamins and other nutrients. As such, there are many ways that Reishi mushrooms can benefit hair health, such as the following: DHT-Blocking Properties Probably the most prominent reason that red Reishi mushrooms can benefit hair health, research has found this particular fungus to inhibit the activity of 5-alpha reductase in the same way that pharmaceutical DHT blockers can. This suggests that Reishi mushrooms not only improve the health of your hair but may also reverse the effects of male pattern baldness. Anti-inflammatory Properties Research has often documented the anti-inflammatory effects of the polysaccharides and peptidoglycans found in Reishi mushrooms, which can help reduce the symptoms of many inflammatory skin conditions. This can reduce scalp inflammation and promote blood flow to the area, increasing the presence of nutrients needed for healthy hair. Antioxidant Properties Studies have found that Reishi mushrooms also possess potent antioxidant properties that can reduce free radical damage and the harmful effects of environmental hazards. It is common for the health of your hair to diminish as you age, which is a primary effect of oxidative stress and free radicle damage, and Reishi can counteract this effect somewhat. Nutrient Profile Mushrooms are often hailed by science as excellent sources of many different vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients, and Reishi is no different. As such, supplementing your diet with this mushroom can help you meet the requirements for a healthy and balanced diet. How to Use Reishi Mushroom for Hair Loss Some hair products and shampoos contain certain Reishi mushroom extracts that may benefit hair health, but not quite to the same degree as more concentrated oral methods. Reishi mushroom extracts exist in the form of tinctures that can be taken sublingually, as powders that can be added to beverages or foods, or as easy-to-brew teas that offer the same benefits. As for dosage, there is, unfortunately, no recommended dosage of Reishi mushrooms for any condition as it depends on various physiological factors, and no studies have explicitly looked at the effects of different doses. Thankfully, reputable brands that sell Reishi mushroom products will include dosing guidelines. This is true for our unique M2CBD-formula products that combine extracts of Reishi and other functional mushrooms with pharmaceutical-grade CBD ad other beneficial ingredients. Browse our store for more info. Is Reishi Mushroom an Effective Treatment for Healthy Hair? Pharmaceutical DHT-blockers can be easily obtained in many countries with a prescription, and their benefits to hair loss are well-understood by science. Since Reishi mushrooms have the same properties as pharmaceutical DHT-blockers, they can be an easily-implemented hair loss remedy for male pattern baldness, in addition to their host of other benefits.
Natural Turkey Tail mushrooms growing on the side of a tree in nature
Functional mushroomsCan Turkey Tail Mushroom Cure Cancer?With the rise of alternative medicine in western culture, many more people are turning to functional mushrooms to treat a variety of illnesses. One of these mushrooms is Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor), and it seems to present a number of immune-boosting health benefits. But, how effective are these benefits, and can they cure cancer? » Find the perfect mushroom blend for your condition - take this short quiz Does Turkey Tail Kill Cancer Cells? As to whether Turkey Tail can directly inhibit or kill cancer cells, the research we have on the topic turns out to be quite promising. Inhibit Cancer Cell Growth This study found that Turkey Tail mushroom extracts contain a number of polysaccharides and their derivatives that were effective at inhibiting cancer cell growth in vitro by stimulating cytokine response in the immune system, as well as exhibiting direct anti-tumour activity outside of its effect on the immune system. The study makes note that these mushrooms (and many others) could be effective in assisting with other cancer treatments. Stimulated the Cytokine Response Additionally, this study notes that Turkey Tail mushrooms stimulated the cytokine response against breast cancer cells in vitro, as well as activating and increasing the lymphocyte count, natural killer cells, and specific T cells against breast cancer in vivo. The same study also found that patients with stage 2 colorectal cancer that were administered Turkey Tail mushroom extracts in conjunction with pharmaceutical cancer medication had a 26.7% higher survival rate than the control group who received only traditional cancer treatments. How Else Can Turkey Tail Mushrooms Help Cancer? Aside from the direct effect on cancer cells, Turkey Tail mushrooms may be able to assist cancer patients in other ways to contribute to a more holistic treatment. Boost the Immune System As referenced above, it appears that one of the health benefits of Turkey Tail mushrooms is a boost to the immune system by stimulating cytokine modulation in response to various cancer cells. However, these mushrooms are also good for promoting healthy gut bacteria that inevitably leads to a stronger immune system overall, since most of the body's immune response capabilities are located in the gut. Benefit From Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties Studies have shown that Turkey Tail mushrooms can also offer a certain degree of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Though there is debate over whether these properties actually help prevent, or potentially aggravate, the spread of cancer, they are important for reducing the risk for a number of other diseases. Without the risk of other disease formations, individuals who are at risk of cancer can hopefully have less to worry about. How Much Turkey Tail Should You Take for Cancer? Turkey Tail mushrooms, like all functional mushrooms, are adaptogenic and don't exhibit a host of benefits immediately. Instead, these benefits need to accumulate over time, which makes the proper dosage of Turkey Tail mushroom for cancer difficult to calculate. Take Capsules or Turkey Tail Extracts However, some studies have used between 1-3g daily in the form of capsules or extracts when looking specifically at cancer treatment and in conjunction with chemotherapy and had successful results with minimal reported side effects. Drink Turkey Tail Tea Additionally, you can also steep chopped turkey tail mushrooms in tea if you are averse to capsules. There isn't really a "best Turkey Tail supplement for cancer," so long as whatever you decide to choose is properly manufactured and high quality. These numbers are only a basic suggestion formulated from past research and not a guide or recommendation. Truthfully, it's impossible to know how much Turkey Tail you should take as everyone's body is different and will react to the substance differently. However, even over the long term, Turkey Tail mushroom doesn't appear harmful and likely won't cause liver toxicity, so you have some experimental room to figure out your optimal dose. What Other Mushrooms Are Good For Cancer? There is a growing body of evidence that suggests the efficacy of using functional mushrooms to assist in the treatment of various cancers. Each mushroom has its own list of benefits and potential risks that you will have to weigh up for yourself before deciding which to settle on. Additionally, some people suggest that you might be able to combine multiple types of functional mushrooms together and have benefits similar to CBD's entourage effect, but there isn't conclusive evidence to confirm or deny this. You might very well experience the functional benefits of Turkey Tail mushroom with little to no side effects, but if you're ever unsure, then it's recommended that you consult with a doctor to get a more accurate recommendation depending on your personal situation and any potential risk factors (such as a mushroom allergy) that you may have.
Hands holding black bowl made of clay containing Shiitake mushrooms
Functional mushroomsShiitake Mushrooms: Risk Factors and 3 Possible Side EffectsTwo of the most commonly eaten mushrooms in classic cuisine are white button mushrooms and Shiitake mushrooms. As such, many people don't realise the potential functional benefits or the risk of side effects that they present. What, if any, are the potential side effects of fresh, wild Shiitake mushrooms and Shiitake mushroom extracts? Potential Side Effects From Shiitake Mushrooms 1. Shiitake Mushrooms May Cause Digestive Problems If you are a perfectly healthy individual, then the chance of experiencing digestive stress from eating Shiitake mushrooms is relatively low unless you consume them in excessive amounts. Like most other food substances, consuming too many Shiitake mushrooms in a single sitting can make it difficult for your body to handle, potentially causing the following symptoms: Stomach crampsBloatingNausea and vomitingDiarrhoea 2. Shiitake Mushrooms May Affect Blood Components Our bodies possess a type of disease-fighting white blood cell known as an eosinophil. Once our immune systems deal with the invading pathogens, eosinophils are supposed to disperse as they are no longer needed. However, in some circumstances, the concentration of eosinophils remains the same or elevated in a condition called eosinophilia. Prolonged eosinophilia can cause chronic inflammation that damages tissues. Research has found that daily intake of Shiitake mushrooms can cause blood eosinophilia in some individuals. If you experience any of the related symptoms of eosinophilia (rash, itching, diarrhea, and asthma), stop consumption of Shiitake mushrooms immediately and consult a doctor. 3. Shiitake Mushrooms May Cause Skin Rashes Shiitake mushrooms are often revered for their benefits to skin health, but they can also cause skin-related problems in some instances. Although rare, a condition known as Shiitake flagellate dermatitis can manifest in otherwise healthy individuals, which means that it is not an allergic reaction to Shiitake mushrooms. Instead, it is believed to be a toxic reaction to a substance called lentinan. This side effect usually only occurs when the mushrooms are eaten uncooked as application of heat breaks down lentinan. Symptoms of Shiitake dermatitis include: Formation of itchy erythematous (skin redness).Localised swelling.Fever.Malaise.Gastrointestinal problems. Additionally, some individuals that suffer from mushroom or mould allergies might develop many of the same symptoms when consuming Shiitake mushrooms. Are Shiitake Mushrooms Psychedelic? Traditional functional mushrooms are often associated with illicit psilocybin mushrooms that cause hallucinations, but this is incorrect. All legal functional mushroom species are more closely related to harmless white button mushrooms than psychoactive drugs. So no, Shiitake mushrooms do not get you high. Who Is at Risk for Shiitake Mushroom Side Effects? Most of the potential side effects of Shiitake mushrooms occur only in certain people, which is especially true when they are cooked first or taken as refined Shiitake mushroom extracts and supplements. Regular individuals rarely experience side effects from these mushrooms, and so it is widely understood that certain people are more at risk than others. As such, people that should exercise extreme caution when consuming Shiitake mushrooms are: People with existing mushroom or mould allergies.People with blood/bleeding disorders.People expecting surgery in the next few weeks. There is also limited research on the safety of using Shiitake mushrooms while pregnant or breastfeeding, and so new or expecting mothers should refrain from consuming this fungus in order to stay on the safe side. Functional Mushrooms and Autoimmune Diseases Additionally, there is much debate surrounding the safety of using functional mushrooms with autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and others. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system wrongly identifies healthy cells as dangerous and attacks them. Common treatments for autoimmune diseases involve suppressing the effectiveness of the immune system. Since one of the benefits of Shiitake mushrooms is a boosted immune system, there might be a risk of aggravating the symptoms of autoimmune disorders. However, emerging research suggests that functional mushrooms may actually be immunomodulatory instead of immunostimulatory, which means that they may help balance out overactive immune systems as much as weakened immune systems. However, more research is needed, and caution should still be exercised. Can You Eat Too Many Shiitake Mushrooms? Even though Shiitake intolerance only exists in some of the population, you should always exercise caution when deciding on your dietary intake. As listed above, consuming too much of anything, including Shiitake fungus, can lead to health complications and unpleasant side effects. Additionally, extra caution should be observed by those who are more at risk than others. If you are unsure, you should consult a doctor to better assess your personal risk when consuming Shiitake mushrooms.
Woman sleeping peacefully in bed at night after taking Lion's Mane mushroom
Functional mushroomsWill Taking Lion’s Mane Before Bed Help You Sleep?Functional mushrooms and other traditional Eastern medicines are a rising topic of conversation in the west among avid supporters of alternative medicine and pharmaceuticals. As the frequency of discussions surrounding these mushrooms has increased, so too has the abundance of different mushroom types, all promising slightly different benefits to various degrees. This article looks at whether taking Lion's Mane mushroom (Hericium Erinaceus) before bed can treat insomnia and help you get better sleep. Effects of Lion's Mane Mushrooms on Sleep Currently, few studies have looked into the effects of Lion's Mane mushrooms on the brain and cognitive health. However, they are not totally absent. One such study found that Lion's Mane mushrooms had a positive effect on mood-related disorders such as anxiety, stress, and sleep issues. Another study found the same effects but noted that Lion's Mane mushrooms were effective at lessening the degree of sleep apnea symptoms in obese patients with high blood pressure. Sleep apnea is a disruptive condition that causes sufferers to stop breathing during sleep, significantly impacting the quality of their rest, particularly during the deep phase of sleep called REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. This suggests that Lion's Mane mushrooms may be beneficial for the phase of the normal sleep cycle that helps with neurological rejuvenation. Will Lion's Mane Mushrooms Make You Sleepy? People often fall victim to the fallacy of believing that cause and effect follow a linear pattern. Sleeping tablets make you sleepy, regardless of when you take them; therefore, taking Lion's Mane mushrooms should make you sleepy since they positively affect sleep, right? Wrong. The reason why functional mushrooms can sometimes help you sleep better is totally different from pharmaceutical sleeping tablets. The benefits of Lion's Mane mushrooms for sleep come from their supposed adaptogenic properties that lead to stress and anxiety relief, and stimulate neuronal and cognitive health, which indirectly aids sleep in a different way to knocking you out with a sleeping pill. Taking them in the middle of the day won't make you sleepy, nor will taking them at night keep you awake. How Quickly Does Lion’s Mane Work? A popular question on the topic of functional mushrooms, many people wonder whether the results of Lion's Mane may be felt immediately or only after a few hours. Unfortunately, it's not that simple. The benefits of adaptogenic Lion's Mane mushrooms are accumulative, unlike pharmaceutical sleeping pills. This means that you likely won't feel the benefits until after you've been taking them for a few days to over a month. While this may be discouraging for some, it has the advantage of not needing an optimal time of day to take them. What matters more than precision is consistency, taking them every day until they begin to work for you. Are There Side Effects to Taking Lion's Mane for Insomnia? Unfortunately, no studies have looked directly at the risks and side effects of Lion's Mane mushrooms. However, from the body of evidence we have, they appear to be relatively safe. But, individuals who have mushroom allergies will likely have allergic reactions to all types of mushrooms, including Lion's Mane, which could lead to difficulty breathing, skin rashes, or gastrointestinal issues. No research has found Lions Mane mushrooms, or any mushrooms for that matter, to have addictive properties. How to Take Lion's Mane for Insomnia Since these functional mushrooms can be beneficial for sleep issues, it might seem like the best time to take them would be at night. However, since these benefits come from overall stress relief and improved cognitive functioning throughout the day, the best time to take them varies from individual to individual, as does the recommended dosage. There are various ways to consume Lions Mane mushrooms, such as: Add a Scoop to Your Drink For maximum benefit, some researchers suggest adding a scoop of dried and powdered Lion's Mane mushroom to a cup of coffee or making Lion's Mane mushroom tea and drinking it in the morning for an energizing boost and reset to your circadian rhythm. Lion's Mane is neither a stimulant nor contains caffeine, making it a great accompaniment to your morning wake-up beverage. Take Extracts and Supplements You can also consider taking Lion's Mane mushroom extracts or supplements in the form of capsules. As with other supplements, it's best to consume Lion's Mane alongside food instead of on an empty stomach. However, it's unlikely that you'd experience adverse reactions if you are a healthy individual and don't adhere strictly to this rule. Cook With Dry or Fresh Lion’s Mane Additionally, the dried or fresh mushrooms can be cooked into food for a tasty health boost. For more info about the nutritional benefits of Lions Mane mushrooms, read Is Lion’s Mane Mushroom a Nutritious Superfood? Take Lion's Mane With CBD and Other Mushrooms Adaptogenic mushrooms can often be taken together with other beneficial mushrooms to maximise their benefits. Furthermore, functional mushrooms work well with pharmaceutical-grade non-psychoactive cannabidiol (CBD), which forms the basis of our unique M2CBD formula that combines these therapeutic ingredients with other natural compounds in easy-to-use tinctures, sprays, and topical creams. Lion's Mane works well with CBD oil and other mushrooms in order to help you fall asleep easier and stay asleep throughout the night, both improving your sleep quality and reducing the symptoms of sleep deprivation. For more info on this topic, read CBD and Functional Mushrooms for Sleep: Benefits, Side Effects, Usage, and More. Who Should Not Take Lion’s Mane? As a final thought, it's important to note that, even though these adaptogenic mushrooms appear to have several positive health benefits, there are still those who should be wary of incorporating them into their lives. Namely, if you either: Have a mushroom allergy.Are pregnant or breastfeeding.Have bleeding disorders. If you have further concerns, a registered doctor won't hesitate to give you more insight as to whether this particular mushroom is safe for you or not.
A white bowl featuring a granulated substance, on a table along with some leaves from a tree.
Functional mushroomsLion's Mane vs. Chaga for Stress & Anxiety—Which Is the Best MushroomThere are many choices of mushroom available to help with stress and anxiety, and so it can be difficult to figure out which mushroom will give you the best results. Lion's Mane and Chaga have both been shown to help with stress and anxiety. Ordinary western medicine for anxiety carries significant side effects including feeling high, feeling drowsy, and many are known to cause dependence. Mushroom medicines, on the other hand, seem to have comparatively lower risks. That being said, read on to discover the benefits of two of the most popular functional mushrooms, Lion's Mane and Chaga. Lion's Mane Lion's mane is known for a variety of positive impacts, including stress and anxiety reduction, decreased depression symptoms, better regulation of circadian rhythm, and a reduction in inflammation. » Learn more: The beginner's guide to Lion's Mane mushrooms Benefits of Lion's Mane for Stress & Anxiety Improved neurogenesisImproved functioning of the hippocampusImproved sleep qualityReduced inflammation Research on Lion's Mane suggests that it may help regenerate brain cells and improve the functioning of the hippocampus, the region of the brain associated with learning and memory (1), which is believed to reduce symptoms of anxiety. Additionally, a study conducted on menopausal women demonstrated a reduction in irritation and anxiety from consuming Lion's Mane before bed (2). Sleep deprivation is also a feature of stress and anxiety, and Lion's mane has been shown to help regulate circadian rhythm and promote quality sleep. » Interested in natural alternatives? Take a look at our stress relief products » Want to learn more about Lion's Mane? Discover its effect on sleep quality How to Take Lion's Mane Lion's mane can be taken cooked, raw, dried, or steeped in tea. Additionally, there are a variety of supplements and extracts. Unlike many other functional mushrooms, Lion's Mane is reported to have a great taste that makes it suitable for many recipes. However, if this is not to your liking, then consider opting for a tincture taken sublingually—just be sure to stick to the right dosage. Chaga Chaga is an adaptogen that helps to naturally calm the nervous system. Benefits of Chaga for Stress & Anxiety Reduced inflammationImproved adrenal health and fatigueSupports homeostasis Under stress, your body releases stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, making it difficult for the body to return to homeostasis—especially with the increasing chronic stress of modern life. Research suggests that Chaga may help reduce inflammation and anxiety, while also improving the health of the adrenal glands, which may potentially decrease fatigue. » Want to learn more about Chaga? Discover its benefits and potential side effects How to Take Chaga Unfortunately, Chaga isn't suitable for cooking due to its rough, woody texture. The best results with Chaga are when taken in hot water as a tea, or by mixing some powdered Chaga extract into a hot beverage. Chaga cannot simply be eaten as it is not bioavailable that way. Additionally, tinctures containing Chaga exist as well. Which Mushroom Should You Take? Deciding which mushroom to take can feel complex, which is why it is essential to consult your doctor. However, you aren't limited to choosing one of the other, and many people advocate for combining the two to maximise results. Chaga has a larger impact in terms of overall physical health, while Lion's Mane is seen to have a larger impact on mood, focus, emotions, and cognition. In fact, these two mushrooms are believed to work well together. The combination of nootropic properties (restoring/building neurons, increasing cognitive function, and decreased inflammation) of Lion's Mane and the truly adaptogenic properties (helping the body to return to homeostasis/balance when stressed) of Chaga provide support to the whole person during times of stress. Regular use promotes a decrease in fatigue, support of the adrenal glands, and an increase in memory and focus. » Ready to get started? Browse our mood-boosting products
Lion's Mane mushrooms harvested and dried in the form of capsules to be taken as a nutritious superfood
Functional mushroomsIs Lion’s Mane Mushroom a Nutritious Superfood?Aside from the impressive list of therapeutic benefits promised by Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) mushrooms, such as improved cognitive function and immune support, they might also be a highly nutritious and healthy superfood. This article breaks down the nutritional profile of Lion's Mane mushrooms and discusses their most important nutrition facts. Nutritional Profile of Lion's Mane Mushrooms One of the popular ways of consuming Lion's Mane mushrooms is to cook the whole mushrooms (or add the dried and powdered extract) into food. Let's assume you intend to make a healthy Asian soup with Lion's Mane mushrooms as the primary ingredient, then, assuming that you'll add about 100 grams Lion's Mane mushrooms to your soup (which is about 1.5 cups of chopped mushroom), you will be attaining the following nutritional value: 35 Calories0g fat, saturated and trans included0mg cholesterol2g dietary fibre2g carbohydrate sugars2g protein304mg potassium10mg sodium2mg calcium0.41mg iron It's important to note that these values are per 100 grams of fresh Lion's Mane mushrooms, which is well over 80% water. This means that you could essentially use 5-10 grams of dried mushrooms in your cooking and get the same nutritional content, if not more. Most Important Nutritional Facts About Lion’s Mane Mushrooms What might not be immediately clear about the nutritional profile listed above is how healthy it actually is. The breakdown of components is strikingly similar to broccoli, with only minor differences between the two. Considering the therapeutic benefits of these mushrooms, they hold up nutritionally is a major plus. Lion’s Mane Is High in Protein 2 grams of protein might not seem like a lot at first glance, but it actually makes up 4% of the recommended daily protein intake, all from only 100 grams of fresh mushroom. This protein contains around 45% essential amino acids, closely compared to high-quality egg protein that is around 50%. Amino acids are vital to the body's regular functioning, aiding in many processes like creating and repairing muscles, connecting tissue, and skin, among many others. Lion's Mane Has Many Essential Vitamins and Minerals Mushrooms are well known for their high micronutrient content, and Lion's Mane is great for the following: Potassium is great for maintaining electrolyte balance in the body, necessary for proper nerve and muscle functioning.Iron is needed for the circulatory system to maintain haemoglobin content in the blood and synthesis of amino acids.The B-vitamin content in Lion's Mane is essential for proper energy release. Lion’s Mane Is Low in Calories, Fat, and Cholesterol With basically no fat, calories, or cholesterol, Lion's Mane mushrooms scream health similar to many other superfoods like spirulina. Lion's Mane is a Good Source of Fibre With the majority of the carbohydrate content coming from dietary fibre, it makes up 7% of the recommended fiber intake. This is essential for your body to have a regular and well-operating digestive system. They contain almost no other carbohydrates and so will not affect blood-glucose levels in any big way. Is Lion's Mane Good for Weight Loss? After hearing all the nutritional information of Lion's Mane mushrooms, you might be wondering if they can potentially benefit you on your weight loss journey. With such low calories and minor amounts of sugar and fat, it's clear that these adaptogenic mushrooms are great for a healthy diet. Additionally, as a final note, studies have shown that Lion's Mane can improve fat metabolism and lower triglyceride levels in the body, even further contributing to lower cholesterol in the blood and less fat storage.
CBD cannabis buds next to concentrated CBD oils and extracts in jars
BeginnersFor Beginners: Which CBD Products and Doses May Help With OCDObsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a disease that causes consistent unwanted thoughts and sensations, or the urge to repeat an action over and over again. It's important that you understand OCD to be a serious mental illness, and that normal habits such as biting your nails do not classify as obsessive-compulsive behaviour. An obsessive thought might be that certain days of the month are particularly bad and is associated with severe anxiety, while a compulsive habit might be the urge to flick a light switch on and off seven times every time you enter or exit a room. Obsessive-compulsive habits can be so powerful and detrimental that they are completely beyond your control, not enjoyable, and take up multiple hours of your day. Though doctors aren't exactly sure what causes it, they theorise that symptoms can be triggered or exacerbated by stress, trauma, depression, or anxiety. OCD is currently incurable, but symptoms can be managed to varying degrees of success in different individuals. Common treatments for OCD include psychotherapy, relaxation practices like meditation, medications that are also used as antidepressants, and, in extreme cases, the use of devices that alter the electrical energy of your brain in certain areas through a process called neuromodulation. Since many individuals are advocating for the use of CBD in the treatment of depression and anxiety, it begs the question of whether CBD oil could be used to calm your OCD. This article looks at the efficacy of using CBD oil as a treatment for OCD thoughts, as well as a guide as to how you should go about doing this. Does CBD Really Help With OCD? As it turns out, there is some scientific evidence to support the belief that CBD can help calm your OCD. It seems to exhibit anti-compulsive effects in various animal models, and there is a growing body of anecdotal evidence to suggest many people are finding some relief in using CBD oil for OCD thoughts. More studies are emerging that support the belief in the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) playing a role in anxiety, fear, and repetitive behaviours. Cannabinoids (CBD included) may influence the ECS by binding to specific cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) and assisting it in modulating mood, fear response, and repetitive behaviour, which is the believed reason for CBD's seemingly positive effects on the symptoms of various anxiety and mood-related disorders. One study found that patients who smoked cannabis (that contains CBD) had improvements to their anxiety conditions and OCD behaviours, while also making note of further case reports that found notable improvements to OCD patients treated with various cannabinoids. What is the Best CBD Oil for OCD? There have been instances that cannabis has either triggered or exacerbate mental disorders, though this is commonly understood to be attributed to THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, and not CBD. In fact, researchers have found that higher concentrations of CBD seem to prevent or even counter these potentially negative effects of THC. Though no legal CBD products will contain any more than 0.2% THC, there have been occurrences of unreputable companies getting away with falsified reports of what their products contain. For that reason, to be on the safe side, you'll want to steer clear of full-spectrum products as these contain the highest allowed concentrations of THC. That being said, researchers have found that the beneficial effects of CBD may work better when combined with other cannabinoids and terpenes in something called the entourage effect. For this reason, your first choice of product should be broad-spectrum as these contain CBD and a number of other compounds found in hemp, just not THC. If, on the other hand, you find yourself being too sensitive to these other components, you do have the choice of CBD isolates as these contain nothing other than CBD. CBD Products That May Relieve OCD Symptoms The type of CBD product can come in many forms, such as topical CBD oils, creams, and lotions that you rub onto your skin, e-juices inhaled through vapes, edibles in the form of gummies or baked goods, and oils and tinctures that you take sublingually. For calming your OCD, you might have the most luck with a combination of oils and tinctures taken sublingually in order for the ease of use and fast-acting effects, as well as edible gummies to give you a slow release of CBD throughout the day. For sublingual application, simply hold a few drops of the CBD oil or tincture for at least 30 seconds before swallowing. Additionally, some individuals with OCD suffer from excessive scratching or picking of their skin, which can lead to scars and inflamed skin conditions. In this instance, you might have some luck using CBD topicals to assist your body in reducing the inflammation in those areas and helping yourself heal. For specific products, any of the following Cannabotech items may be of some use to you: Stress and Sleep Support Relax DropsBeauty Sleep Drops Mood Support Uplift Drops How To Find the Right CBD Dose for OCD Unfortunately, there is no "correct dose" for CBD products. One individual may experience completely different effects to another at similar doses, and so it's really a process of trial and error until you can figure out what works best for you. Luckily, CBD has a relatively low risk attached to it. The golden rule is to start small and work your way up, giving yourself at least a week before deciding if you need to up the dosage. Always increase your dose incrementally and allow the necessary time for an accurate assessment. Conclusion Although you might have some luck using CBD to calm your OCD thoughts and behaviours, you should always exercise caution when trying to treat mental disorders on your own. You should always consult a doctor before doing so as CBD may interact negatively with prescription medication, including SSRIs that are commonly prescribed to OCD patients.
THC Vs CBD: How To Avoid A Positive Drug Test?
LegalityTHC Vs CBD: How To Avoid A Positive Drug Test?You’ve done your research and you love the idea of supplementing with cannabidiol (CBD). Congratulations! This decision could be one of the best you’ve made. But there is a worrying niggle bubbling in the back of your mind… Could taking a CBD product cause you to fail a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) drug test? To understand the answer, we need to talk about THC vs CBD. When it comes to the word marijuana, there are many misconceptions. Like any substance that has long remained taboo, certain images form in the mind. With now frequent drug tests at work and on the road, false assumptions have escalated. But not all compounds associated with cannabis deliver psychoactive outcomes and so not all are illegal. THC vs. CBD: Can you fail a THC drug test by using CBD? We need to consider the compound that a THC drug test looks for: tetrahydrocannabinol. As the name suggests, cannabidiol is different. It’s the THC vs CBD discussion that offers insights that will ease your mind. Let’s take a look… What is CBD? Cannabidiol is one compound contained within the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, it does not contain psychoactive properties. This natural powerhouse has been shown to ease pain, reduce inflammation and the diseases it triggers or worsens, and provide protective benefits for the nervous system. What does CBD have to do with hemp? Cannabis, marijuana and hemp are often uttered interchangeably. But, as these terms do not mean the same thing it is important to understand the correct usage. This way you can make an informed decision. So, what is hemp? Defining Hemp: A Fact Sheet offers a succinct definition: Hemp and marijuana are from the same species of plant, Cannabis sativa, but from different varieties or cultivars… While marijuana generally refers to the cultivated plant used as a psychotropic drug, hemp is cultivated for use in the production of a wide range of products, including foods and beverages, personal care products, nutritional supplements, fabrics and textiles, paper, construction materials, and other manufactured and industrial goods. As this statement implies, CBD comes from hemp. To fit the hemp classification in the UK, a cannabis plant must not contain more than 0.2% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The 3 types of available cannabidiol (CBD) There are three types of CBD available: full-spectrum CBD, CBD isolate, and broad-spectrum CBD. What is the difference? Full-spectrum CBD: Full-spectrum CBD contains a wide variety of cannabis plant chemicals including cannabinoids, essential oils, terpenes, and THC. Because it contains THC, it may trigger a positive THC drug test. This would depend on the quantity you consume, your metabolism and your luck, but it is a theoretically possible consequence.CBD isolate: As the definition implies, CBD isolate refers to the presence of CBD alone. During manufacture, other cannabinoids, flavonoids and terpenes are removed. As CBD is not psychoactive, its isolate is free from mind-altering effects.Broad-spectrum CBD: Broad-spectrum CBD can be thought of as the middle ground between full-spectrum and isolate. Involving the removal of THC, yet retaining important compounds including CBD. The mix of compounds is thought to harness synergistic effects without the risk of a failed THC drug test. How to choose a legal CBD product The CBD market has exploded in recent times. With the massive, rapid uptick, regulation and its enforcement are struggling to catch up. The result is products on the shelves that contain no CBD and yet others that may contain more THC than the law allows; levels that may trigger a positive drug test. So, carefully choosing the right company to supply your CBD is essential. For the sake of your health, licenses, and job; you must make the correct decision. This does not make CBD a risky choice, quite the contrary. CBD products have been scientifically proven to be profoundly beneficial. You merely need the right facts to ensure that you have chosen CBD that is both trustworthy and appropriate for your needs. We comply with local laws for CBD hemp extract, which dictates that legal CBD can only contain negligible trace amounts of THC up to 0.2%. We rigidly adhere to the recommendations of the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Association (MHRA)Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Perfumery Association (CTPA) Food Standards Agency (FSA) (including registration for novel food ingredients) Yes, CBD must be registered as a novel food since it has not been known as a ‘food’ up until now in the UK. In short, you don’t need to stress about THC vs CBD, or worry about the potential for inadvertent exposure to tetrahydrocannabinol. You can simply know your products are safe and effective. How do cannabis drug tests work? As THC is the compound banned by law, this is what a cannabis drug test aims to detect. If THC is detected, a test is deemed positive. If not, a test is deemed negative. While simplistic, imagine studying a WordFind puzzle in search of the term, tetrahydrocannabinol. If you see it, tick; that’s a positive result! If not, the result is negative. The level of detection for a positive THC test is given as 50ng/mL. Types of THC drug tests There are a range of ways to detect the presence of THC. Four common tests include urine, hair, blood and saliva. Urine: A THC urine test is a popular option because they are affordable, quick and easy to administer. A few drops of urine placed on a testing strip will provide a result within minutes.Hair: Because a THC hair test requires that a sample be sent to a laboratory, this test is often reserved for legal matters and evidence. Results take longer; around three days depending on the lab.Blood (plasma): As blood tests are minimally invasive and also take days to determine an outcome these, too, are often reserved for legal matters. The result, again depending on the lab, will take around three days.Saliva: As with urine testing, saliva testing delivers fast and convenient results, at affordable rates. As such, they are a popular choice. The reasons you could fail a cannabis drug test when using a CBD product As mentioned, a cannabis drug test detects THC, not CBD. That means if only CBD is present (as is the case with products that contain only CBD isolate), it is impossible to fail at THC test. Why Again, we come back to the THC vs CBD discussion; that THC and CBD are different compounds. But, as mentioned, regulation and understanding within the UK is still catching up. This makes it vital to understand where and how it’s possible to run foul of the law. The risk list includes: Too much THC: Using a product that contains a significant amount of THC (whether accidental or intentional) The minimal legal THC limit in CBD is 0.2%, virtually indetectable. Metabolism, weight, frequency of consumption, and other biological factors can contribute to failing a THC-drug test, although quite rare in this case.Cross-contamination: A mislabeled product could cause cross-contamination with THC Inhaling or ingesting THC: Exposure to first or secondhand use of a product containing THC like marijuana flowers or oil. Our products are safe and will not cause you to fail a THC drug test. But you should know how to make effective, legal decisions that benefit your life. Topical versus internal use: Is there a difference in risk? Because of the way that the body processes cannabinoid compounds, there is a difference between products applied topically, to the skin, and those ingested or injected. Ingestion delivers a compound into the depths of your body, where it can gain access to your bloodstream and so the vast vessel superhighway of your body.Topicals are local (on the surface of the skin). This results in negligible risk. NOTE: Both our topical non-transdermal products and internal products use CBD isolate only. The Takeaway When it comes to a cannabis drug test, the question is always one of THC vs CBD. If a product contains tetrahydrocannabinol, you will likely fail. This is what the drug test is designed to detect. When you consume or apply a cannabidiol product, the CBD will not trigger a positive result. It is cross-contamination or the addition of THC that may cause a problem. To protect yourself opt for only high-quality, pure products that contain CBD isolate from a reputable company. Then you can enjoy the many benefits of cannabidiol without the fear of failing a THC drug test.
Closeup of cannabis CBD buds next to concentrated CBD oil used for allergies
Cbd discussionsCan You Take CBD For Histamine Intolerance?Histamine Intolerance is a condition in which your body produces more histamine and inflammation than it should or has difficulty breaking it down, leading to increasing build-up over time. This causes a number of uncomfortable symptoms, both allergenic in nature and also relating to the digestive system. It would seem that CBD, being derived from cannabis (a pollinating plant that could be allergenic in nature), should therefore aggravate these symptoms. But is it as simple as that? How CBD and Mast Cells Interact With Each Other Mast cells, also known as mastocytes, are cells located in connective tissue that have high levels of histamine and are important to your body's immune system. In short, when a pathogen (allergenic or not) activates a mast cell, it releases inflammatory histamines to aid in the immune system's fight against the pathogen that activated it. Those with histamine intolerance tend to have overactive mast cells that release more inflammatory histamines than they should. It would stand to reason that consumption of pollinating flowers would cause an even more excessive release of histamines. However, studies show that CBD actually inhibits the release of histamines by mast cells. Thus, CBD would therefore be beneficial to those who suffer from histamine intolerance. That being said, it's not quite as simple. Final Thought: Counter-Intuitive CBD Use It's important to understand that the way you use CBD when dealing with something allergenic in nature should be carefully considered. Any method involving inhalation (be it through vaping or smoking dry herb) might give you the benefits of inhibiting histamine release by mast cells but will also still aggravate the lungs and airways. This could result in a counter-productive increase in inflammation. A better method of CBD usage would be the ingestion of oils or capsules. That way, you won't aggravate the airways and still reap all the benefits of CBD's anti-inflammatory properties.