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  • The Truth About Taking CBD for Stress Relief

    Stressed woman sitting on floor holding head.

    Let’s talk about stress. 

    Just about everyone deals with stress from time to time. Lots of people even feel stressed out by their busy schedules on a daily basis.

    In general, feeling stressed from time to time is to be expected. Getting anxious before a big event, worrying about your finances, or feeling awkward in some social situations is completely normal. 

    Regardless of how often you feel stressed, you may want to consider trying out different methods or strategies to find some relief. Things like exercise, sleep, making time for your hobbies, and eating healthier can all help. In addition to those suggestions, you may want to also try taking CBD for stress.

    Many people benefit from taking CBD (cannabidiol) regularly. CBD has the potential to help ease feelings of stress thanks to its relaxing effects. Since CBD is an all-natural, non-psychoactive, and non-addictive compound, many have started using it for a variety of different reasons. From improving their sleep to reducing pain and inflammation, CBD has been shown to have many potential benefits on the human body.  

    However, note that not enough research has been done on CBD for scientists to know how effective it is at managing or treating different issues. It is not FDA-approved, and although many studies have shown promising results, more studies are needed. 

    To learn more about the truth behind taking CBD for stress relief, keep reading!

    Image of FDA sign in front of FDA building.

    What does the FDA say about using CBD?

    Before we talk about how CBD works and whether it can help you feel less stressed, we need to get some important information out of the way. 

    CBD is not approved by the FDA for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease. There is currently only one CBD-based medication that has FDA approval – Epidiolex, which is used to treat and manage epileptic seizures.

    Although many research studies have been completed on CBD and its effect on various health issues, many more human clinical trials need to be done. We need more information before anyone has a clear picture of how effective CBD is and what health issues CBD may help manage. 

    At this time, we cannot make any claims that our CBD products will cure any diseases or reduce symptoms that you experience. We can, however, share with you some of the research that has been done on CBD, and mention some of the common experiences CBD users have. Then, (after you get the go-ahead to use CBD by chatting with your doctor first) you can make an educated decision about whether you think CBD might benefit you. 

    It’s just a little stress. What’s the big deal?

    Like we mentioned earlier, everyone experiences stress in some form on occasion. Life seems to move a million miles per hour with tightly packed schedules, family and work pressures, and more. 

    But there is a difference between being stressed out every so often and experiencing stress daily. If you constantly feel stressed out, you may be dealing with chronic stress. 

    If you just feel stressed on occasion, that’s very normal. A few examples of everyday stress may include:

    • Stressing about paying your bills
    • Worrying about issues in your relationship
    • Getting panicked about an upcoming job interview
    • Feeling awkward when talking to new people at a party

    Whether you only experience stress every once in a while, or you’re dealing with chronic stress, it’s important to have a plan for dealing with that stress so that you can be more productive and happy.

    You should also note that stress can have long-term negative effects on the body. It can lead to digestive issues, sleep disorders, headaches, and other issues. 

    Stress isn’t just in your head. It physically impacts the body! Stress affects you by releasing hormones that increase your heart rate and breathing, and by restricting your blood flow. This is called the “fight-or-flight” response. 

    It’s best to find a way to manage your stress now before it causes more severe health problems in the future. 

    Can CBD help manage my stress?

    CBD is the main non-psychoactive compound in cannabis. It works with your body’s endocannabinoid (ECS) system to provide health benefits by promoting balance among your systems. Many people report experiencing a sense of calm and relaxation after taking CBD. This allows some to experience better sleep and a more tranquil mindset.

    All in all, CBD may be an effective and natural option to consider in addition to other lifestyle changes. A few other ways to manage your stress include:

    • Getting regular exercise
    • Eating a healthy diet
    • Making time for enjoyable hobbies
    • Getting more restful sleep
    • Talking with a trusted person about your day
    • Setting attainable goals
    • Organizing a realistic to-do list
    Researchers studying cannabis plants to learn more about CBD for stress.

    Current Research on CBD and Stress

    A few studies have been done on how CBD affects anxiety. Keep in mind that stress and anxiety are two different conditions and they have different effects on the body, but they are similar in some ways, including the long-term effects they may cause. Because of this, it may be helpful to look into some of the research done on CBD and anxiety to get a decent idea about how CBD may affect stress. 

    One study used CBD as a treatment for patients with sleep disorders and anxiety. The results were that on average, anxiety and sleep improved for most patients. The study also noted that a lot of the patients appreciated trying a natural remedy as they wanted to avoid using prescription medication. 

    So far, the results of recent research studies are looking very promising! Lots of research points to the fact that CBD can help the body manage stress and occasional anxiety by directly affecting the brain and serotonin receptors, and inspiring a feeling of calm and relaxation. 

    How much CBD should I take?

    Before you start using CBD, you should talk with your doctor. Although CBD isn’t known to have many serious side effects, CBD may negatively interact with certain medications. This makes it very important to talk with your primary healthcare provider to make sure that you aren’t taking any drugs that don’t pair well with CBD.

    After you’ve gotten the all-clear from your doctor, next you need to determine how much CBD to take. The exact dosage of CBD you should take varies based on a few different factors. Your weight, the concentration of the CBD, the type of product, and the way your body personally processes CBD will all affect the amount you need.

    Because of this, it’s best to start with the smallest amount advised on the product (usually one dropperful of oil, one gummy, etc.) and then increase the dosage slightly until you achieve your desired effects. Also, note that you may need to take CBD consistently over a few weeks or longer to get the best results. Although taking a dose of CBD when you’re starting to feel stressed out may help you to relax, taking CBD daily is most effective. 

    Keep in mind that CBD can affect everyone differently. While some people need very little CBD to experience the benefits, others may need a slightly larger dose. Also, while most do not experience any side effects, there are a few side effects to be aware of. A few of the most common side effects include:

    • Drowsiness
    • Changes in appetite/weight
    • Diarrhea
    • Interactions with certain medications

    Also, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s advised that you do not take CBD. 

    Taking CBD for stress relief. CBD oil tincture.

    So, is taking CBD a good idea?

    Dealing with stress, whether it is chronic or occasional stress, can be very difficult. If you find yourself stressed out often, you may also be experiencing sleeplessness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and/or muscle tension. 

    If stress is affecting your life, it’s best to speak with your doctor to see if CBD is a good option to explore. Of course, CBD is most effective when taken in addition to regular exercise, a healthy diet, and getting more sleep. Making those changes to your lifestyle can make a huge difference in the stress you experience. If you do want to give CBD a try, check out our high-quality CBD products.

  • Need A Better Night’s Sleep?

    Need A Better Night’s Sleep?

    Try CBD with Melatonin

    Do you find yourself lying in bed, wide awake, longing to fall asleep? Maybe your mind is racing, thinking about all of the things you need to accomplish the following day. Or perhaps you’re replaying a stressful situation over and over in your head… 

    Does your body ache, making it difficult to drift off to sleep? Or maybe you just have kids, so a restful night’s sleep is honestly not even a thing anymore. 

    Both CBD and melatonin may be able to help with all of that!

    Well, they can’t keep your kids from waking you up over and over again. (How many glasses of water do they need? And how many monsters do you have to check for under the bed?) But they may be able to help you fall asleep faster and get better quality sleep.

    Interested? Keep reading to learn all about how CBD and melatonin work, and why taking a CBD and melatonin supplement may help you sleep better!

    What is CBD?

    Cannabidiol, often called CBD, is a cannabinoid found in hemp plants. 

    To keep it simple, a cannabinoid is a natural compound in hemp.

    Cannabinoids interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system is responsible for maintaining homeostasis in the body. The ECS regulates body processes like mood, appetite, pain response, and sleep quality. When CBD interacts with receptors in this system, it helps your body to naturally balance everything.

    Although CBD is a cousin to THC (the main psychoactive component in marijuana) CBD does not cause any psychoactive effects. You don’t have to worry about experiencing any type of head “high” from using CBD. 

    Research shows that CBD may also help by treating different conditions and symptoms. CBD naturally induces feelings of sleepiness and calmness. This makes it a great option for potentially helping insomnia and other sleep issues.

    How CBD Helps You Sleep

    CBD’s effect on sleep is a hot topic in the research world. One clinical study published in 2019 researched whether CBD could help improve sleep and reduce anxiety levels. In just the first month, 79% of patients reported decreased anxiety, and 67% reported better sleep.

    Another study found that CBD can have a direct effect on the sleep-wake cycle. The study showed that it often increases the amount of sleep people get after taking it.

    Ulitmately, the science behind CBD’s effect on sleep is still being researched. Many scientists believe that there are several factors that cause CBD to improve sleep. These factors include both CBD’s interaction with serotonin receptors and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors in the brain and CBD’s ability to reduce pain and anxiety.

    Serotonin levels

    CBD works with serotonin and GABA receptors to help people feel more relaxed and calmer. Serotonin is responsible for controlling mood and anxiety levels. This earns it the nickname the “hormone of happiness.” The GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps to calm any excessive activity in the brain and promotes relaxation. 

    For example, studies have shown that CBD may help by naturally increasing the effectiveness of serotonin receptors in your body. This may allow you to process and utilize serotonin more efficiently, which may reduce anxiety and improve mood. 

    Anxiety relief

    Some sleeping disorders such as insomnia are often (although not always) caused by anxiety or anxious thoughts. CBD may also have anti-anxiety effects. Its calming effects may help people fall asleep faster instead of staying up late due to racing thoughts. The anti-anxiety part of CBD is one of the biggest reasons why it helps many insomniacs.

    Pain relief

    Chronic pain is another factor that causes many people to have sleep problems. It can be very difficult to sleep if you are suffering from constant pain. CBD’s ability to soothe pain could be another reason why it helps improve sleep.

    What is melatonin?

    Have you ever heard of melatonin?

    Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by your brain that aids in your body’s process to fall asleep. It’s produced in response to darkness and it helps the timing of your internal clock – also called your circadian rhythm. Everyone naturally produces melatonin, but some people produce less than others. 

    Taking a melatonin supplement may help you to fall asleep if you don’t naturally make enough on your own. 

    How Melatonin Helps You Sleep

    Melatonin has been studied a lot for its effect on sleep. This 2013 study performed on shift workers found that melatonin acts on receptors in the hypothalamus area of the brain. The hypothalmus is where your main circadian regulator is found. Melatonin works to resynchronize a disordered circadian rhythm, which helps you get better sleep.

    If your circadian rhythm is disordered, you are not going to sleep well. Because melatonin can restore balance to your body’s circadian rhythm, it can help you to naturally experience better sleep.

    Can CBD and melatonin treat insomnia?

    Insomnia is a sleep disorder that consists of difficulty falling asleep and/or staying asleep. If you suffer from insomnia, you know that getting a full night’s rest is very difficult to come by. You may also experience symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating, moodiness, and decreased performance at school or work as a result of your insomnia.

    Some people have chronic insomnia, which means that they have disrupted sleep at least three nights a week and it has been going on for at least three months. Others have acute insomnia, which is brief and usually happens thanks to stress.

    Regardless of how often you experience sleeping issues, it can be very difficult to deal with. Sleep is essential to your physical and emotional health and well-being. If you are unable to get enough quality rest each night, you may end up suffering from additional health problems.

    Although there is no shortage of different sleeping pills on the market, many of them have side effects that need to be considered. If you are interested in a more natural method to help you fall asleep and stay asleep longer, you may want to consider CBD and melatonin. 

    How do CBD and melatonin work together?

    While CBD can be very effective in helping you get some sleep on its own, when it’s paired with melatonin, it can be even more efficient!

    CBD works with your ECS to both reduce anxiety levels and potentially ease the pain as well. Plus, it can help you experience an overall sense of calmness and relaxation. The anxiety relief, pain reduction, and relaxed feeling may help you fall asleep faster and sleep better throughout the night. 

    Melatonin helps to regulate your circadian rhythm, which can help you to drift off to sleep with ease. Consider trying a supplement with both CBD and melatonin if you’re dealing with sleep issues. 

    Best CBD and Melatonin Products

    If you’re looking for a high-quality CBD and melatonin product, these CBD Melatonin Softgels are a fantastic option. Each soft gel contains phytocannabinoid-rich hemp extract and melatonin. They absorb quickly, are completely THC-free, and have been tested by an independent third-party lab for quality and efficacy. 

    These soft gels can help you achieve a restful night’s sleep when taken regularly. They’re a great all-natural option for helping you to unwind and drift off to sleep easier.

    Another great product that can help you relax before bed are these Premium CBD Bath Bombs with Lavender. There’s nothing more relaxing than a warm bath infused with calming CBD and lavender ess ential oils. 

    Do you struggle with insomnia? Or you simply find it difficult to unwind after a particularly stressful day? Either way, you may want to consider trying a combination of both melatonin and CBD. They may work together to help you drift off faster so you can feel well-rested in the morning!

  • How Your Tongue Can Help With CBD!

    How Your Tongue Can Help With CBD!

    With CBD becoming even more popular by the day, there seems to be educational information coming out regarding how cannabidiol interacts with your body to help balance and optimize your health. Considering all of the great studies and research, there has never been a better time to learn about CBD than right now.

    The best way for CBD to impact your body, it first needs to be adequately absorbed. That said, it’s important to know the best ways to consume CBD so that it can be efficiently absorbed into the bloodstream. By having CBD enter your bloodstream your cell receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) will be able to start the process.

    One the most common and easiest ways to consume CBD is orally. Because of this, there is a massive market for CBD infused drinks and food products hitting the markets. There are many people out there who actually add CBD drops to any of their favorite beverages. However, drinking CBD might not be the most efficient way of obtaining all of the health benefits. There are a few reasons for this:

    The Bloodstream Is A Long Ways Away

    Because of how our internal operating systems are set up, when CBD is ingested orally, it’s absorbed and broken down by the digestive system. From there is makes the journey from the stomach, to the liver. The liver breaks down everything through enzymes where it then passes the remains into the bloodstream. Ingesting CBD orally may be one of the easiest methods, but it isn’t necessarily the most efficient due to the liver.

    The Sublingual Method (A Fancy Way to Say Putting it Under Your Tongue)

    Your tongue can be a very powerful tool! When CBD oil is held under the tongue for 60 to 90 seconds before being swallowed, the mucus membranes in the mouth absorb the compounds. This sublingual method allows CBD to completely bypass the digestive system and liver metabolism, so the compounds can avoid being broken down by enzymes and reach the bloodstream more quickly.

    study performed with rabbits compared the bioavailability (absorption) of oral and sublingual CBD solutions. The results of this study showed that the CBD delivered sublingually showed significantly higher bioavailability than the CBD delivered orally.

  • National Margarita Day…. with CBD!

    National Margarita Day…. with CBD!

    After a long week of work, you’re probably thinking about how you should unwind this weekend. One thing to consider, February 22nd is National Margarita Day! Start your weekend off by impressing your friends with a CBD-infused margarita.

    Cocktails may be the most common way that people relax and enjoy time off.

    Adding CBD into your cocktail is simply taking your beverage a step further. Bars nationwide have recently been adding CBD-infused beverages onto their menus. This is the beginning of a new era that allows everyone to enjoy time with friends as well as treating your anxiety.

    “I think the drinks industry will soon transition into a holistic responsible-intoxication industry that incorporates alcohol and cannabis,” says Spiros Malandrakis, industry manager – alcoholic drinks, at market researcher Euromonitor, and co-owner of London bar Behind This Wall in The Spirits Business.

    CBD is a compound found in hemp plants, one of 200 substances that can be extracted from the cannabis plant. Although derived from a psychoactive drug, the compound itself is non-psychoactive, but is highly regarded for its reported effects in aiding those suffering from anxiety, insomnia and certain types of chronic pain. The benefits of CBD will soon be the reason why a patron with anxiety or chronic pain will walk into a bar.

    **Make sure your guests are aware that you are providing CBD infused drinks and allow them a choice.

    Join the festivities and celebrate with these simple and delicious recipes:

    Lemon Lime CBD Margarita

    • 1 1/2 ounces tequila of your choice
    • 1 1/2 ounces triple sec
    • 1 to 1 1/2 ounces lime juice
    • 1 dropper of Lemon flavored CBD oil
    • Lime wedges
    • Lemon wedges

    Orange CBD Margarita

    • 1 1/2 ounces tequila of your choice
    • 1 1/2 ounces orange liqueur 
    • 1 to 1 1/2 ounce fresh orange juice
    • 1 dropper of Orange flavored CBD oil 
    • Squeeze of lime juice
    • Orange wedges

    Spicy CBD Margarita 

    • 1 1/2 ounces tequila of your choice
    • 1 1/2 ounces triple sec
    • 1 to 1 1/2 ounces lime juice
    • 1 dropper of Tranquil Mint CBD oil 
    • 1-2 sliced jalapeño peppers
    • Lime wedges
    • Orange wedges

    Drink responsibly. Happy Margarita Day!

  • THE BENEFITS OF AN ANTI-AGING CBD FACE MASK

    THE BENEFITS OF AN ANTI-AGING CBD FACE MASK

    OUT OF STOCK

    Consumers are finding new ways to add CBD into their daily routine, from using CBD face masks to tinctures as a topical solution, to CBD teas that can help calm, soothe, and support your mind, body, and spirit.

    Also known as one of the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, CBD is separate from the THC psychoactive component of the plant, which means users can enjoy painless benefits that won’t alter their mental state.

    That’s probably why research shows that sales in the CBD industry will climb to $23.7 Billion in the year 2023 alone. Why use chemical drugs and synthetic skin care products when you can get your benefits directly from Mother Nature?

    Wondering what CBD can do to the delicate skin on your face? Here are a few benefits of a CBD face mask.

    Rich in Antioxidants

    Antioxidants are substances that inhibit oxidation hence reducing oxidative stress. Oxidation is the process by which waste is generated during body reactions which also leads to the creation of free radicals. Since CBD contains a potent antioxidant effect, it can help counteract the signs of aging caused by free radicals in your face. This will aid your body in the flushing and removal of toxins and chemicals that can flood your blood stream and pores. 

    Less Acne

    Yes, CBD face masks help support the skin’s natural healing process, which shortens the lifespan of breakouts and eczema flare-ups. If you are someone that typically suffers from sensitive skin breakouts and other forms of acne, CBD face masks may be your miracle solution. This 2014 study found that CBD helps suppress breakouts by regulating oil production of the sebaceous glands.

    Natural Hydration

    As we age, our bodies become less efficient in creating moisture within our skin. This dryness is what can exacerbate the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Well, CBD works to balance and stimulate oil production in your skin, helping it to look more hydrated – and therefore, less wrinkly.

  • CBD: The Ultimate Fitness Recovery

    CBD: The Ultimate Fitness Recovery

    People believe that the only way to lose weight is by exercising at high-impact, when low-intensity training can also be very beneficial.

    High-intensity training burns the most calories in the least amount of time but causes major stress to your body.

    Common parts of the body that are usually affected are the elbows, hips, knees, and shoulders. Harsh repetitive force can cause damage to these joints and muscles, especially as we grow older. An easier way to recover would be to use CBD after these 5 low-impact workouts.

    If you’re still struggling to find a new method of working out this year while being mindful of your body, consider getting into some very effective low-intensity workouts which you can start today.

    Elliptical

    The elliptical is a great workout that puts a minimal amount of stress onto your arms and legs. Compliment the elliptical with a 20-minute interval workout and prepare to work up a sweat and burn a great amount of calories as your body becomes stronger.

    Walking

    Whether on a treadmill, around the block, or on the trails, walking is a stress-free way to get moving as well as get some fresh air. If you find your walk to be too easy and not exerting enough, walk up hills or increase the incline of the treadmill. You can also use ankle weights or even speed up to add extra difficulty.

    StairMaster

    Utilizing the StairMaster at your gym is one of the most effective ways to burn calories while being the least hard on your body. Ever take the stairs instead of the elevator and be surprised by how winded you were? That is why climbing stairs is one of the best cardio workouts you can do. Climbing stairs outdoors, in your home, or in the gym will get you to burn a lot of calories very quickly while simultaneously strengthen your leg muscles.

    Yoga

    There’s a reason Yoga has been one of the most popular workouts going back thousands of years and currently used among people of all cultures and demographics. It works. Feel the burn without feeling the pain. Using your muscles to hold your own body weight in positions that stretch muscles and relieve pain while burning calories is an all-encompassing workout that can be done from the comfort of your own home with the help of online videos, or of course, any number of Yoga studios around your local area.

    Swimming

    Ever wonder why swimmers are always in incredible shape? Swimming laps is one of the best low-impact exercises for your body. It may not seem like a tough workout at first but you will be surprised how few laps it takes to really get your heart rate up and get winded. You will burn a lot of calories while getting a full-body workout strengthening your core, legs, arms, and back.

    Here at A1 CBD we recommended using any of our CBD products after these 5 low-intensity workouts. This way you can experience great relief during your post workout recovery!

  • Common Misunderstandings of CBD

    Common Misunderstandings of CBD

    The answer is yes, you keep hearing about CBD. You’re not alone, there’s buzz about CBD everywhere – from natural food stores to search engines to newspapers and legislative chambers. People are drinking it in tea, swallowing it in capsules and putting it by the dropperful under their tongues.

    Prequel: What is CBD Oil?

    CBD stands for Cannabidiol, which is a compound extracted from the hemp plant. It is one of more than 100 unique compounds found in hemp, known as cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are known to promote health and to keep people resilient to changes in their environment. And while CBD is an incredibly safe and therapeutic component of cannabis, as its popularity grows, so do the many misconceptions associated with it. Here are a few of the top myths about CBD.

    1. Does CBD Gets You High?

    CBD is non-intoxicating (it doesn’t make you feel euphoric) and is considered extremely safe. In fact, CBD can actually counteract the psychoactivity of THC, the component of marijuana that makes you feel “high.” 

    2. All CBD Comes from Marijuana

    While CBD is present in Marijuana, when utilized as a legal health supplement, it is extracted from industrial hemp. Hemp has been cultivated by humans for over 10,000 years and is grown in many parts of the world with multiple uses. It is also an earth-friendly plant that is highly sustainable and renewable.

    3. Hemp and Marijuana are the Same

    Hemp and marijuana come from the same plant family, but are completely different in function, cultivation and application. Marijuana generally has a high level of THC (a psychoactive compound that makes you feel “high”) and is used for medicinal or recreational purposes. Hemp contains a negligible amount of THC (but is high in CBD) and is used in dietary supplements, skin products, clothing and paper. 

    4. You Can Use CBD as a Sedative

    Technically, CBD is not a sedative. While some people find CBD “relaxing,” the misconception that CBD is a sedative may have come about because some products containing CBD extracted from marijuana can also have high concentrations of THC, which can have a sedating effect. In addition, CBD is currently being researched for its downgrading effect on disordered thinking (anxiety). But anxiety relief and sedation are not one and the same! 

    5. The More the Better

    When it comes to CBD, more isn’t necessarily better. Reports from clinicians and patients suggest that the therapeutic amount of CBD per serving varies for each individual, and in fact, the synergistic effect of full-spectrum CBD can be effective at low doses. Several factors, including frequency and length of use, as well as your body’s metabolism, weight and health status, can play a part in how much CBD is right for you.

    6. All CBD is Created Equal

    If you used CBD before and it worked great, you may think using another CBD product will give you the same results. Not necessarily true. In order for quality CBD to be yielded, it must be grown, extracted and manufactured using very high standards. It is extremely important to research and purchase products from a trusted company that is known for adhering to the highest quality standards. So, if you have experienced a low-quality CBD product that hasn’t worked for you in the past, don’t lose faith. Instead, look for a CBD product from a trustworthy company. 

    Not only are A1 CBD Products some of the highest quality available, they’re also economical. Because A1 CBD Products are made using the highest quality ingredients, you get amazing results with a smaller dose when compared to other products available.

  • Healthy CBD Peppermint Hot Chocolate

    Healthy CBD Peppermint Hot Chocolate

    The holidays are upon us. Although this time of year can be exciting and fun, for some it may also bring a bit of unwanted stress. To balance out the stress of holiday shopping and family visits, we’ve put together a recipe that is just as festive as it is healthy, a warm cup of CBD peppermint hot chocolate.

    This recipe takes only minutes to make but will leave you feeling more relaxed and less inflamed with each sip. 

    This CBD peppermint hot chocolate is packed with a ton of health benefits using A1’s tranquil mint CBD, which is a THC free CBD Oil. The tranquil mint tincture is one of the best CBD products to add to this recipe because it offers a great mint flavoring to the drink. A1’s THC free CBD Oil may help to alleviate pain, tension, and stress in the body.  Aside from CBD’s natural pain relieving qualities, the substance also offers benefits for your mental health by easing anxiety and the physical effects of stress on the body. 

    To make this recipe healthier, we’ve added cacao powder. Instead of using chocolate bars, cacao powder will give the drink its chocolate flavoring. Cacao is a superfood that is the most pure form of chocolate and is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and magnesium. 

    CBD Peppermint Hot Chocolate

    INGREDIENTS

    • 1 cup of milk – or alternative unsweetened milk (almond, oat, coconut, hemp, cashew etc.) 
    • 2 tablespoons of cacao powder 
    • 1/2 tsp of your favorite sweetener (stevia, monk fruit, xylitol, maple syrup, honey, sugar)
    • 1 milliliter (1 dropper) of A1’s tranquil mint CBD oil tincture
    • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • Pinch of sea salt
    • Optional garnish of candy canes, cinnamon stick, dairy/non-dairy whipped cream

    INSTRUCTIONS

    1. Combine all the ingredients into a saucepan over high heat. Use a whisk to break up any clumps. 
    2. Keep stirring until the ingredients are blended together and smooth.
    3. Pour your hot cocoa into a mug and enjoy warm.
    4. Top with garnishes, if desired.
  • THC FREE CBD OIL – Is it out there?

    THC FREE CBD OIL – Is it out there?

    Most importantly, is it any good?

    My journey started about a year and a half ago.  I was looking for a THC free CBD oil for stress and relaxation.

    First, I found that THC free CBD oil and products were not that easy to find locally.  The most important thing I found, all oils and especially THC free CBD oil are not all equal!  I’m pretty sure I have tried most of the ineffective products on the market myself.  But I was sure that with everything in the news, a great product had to be out there, and I was going to find it!

    Armed with very little knowledge and great desire to know more, I set out on my journey to find a great THC-FREE CBD OIL.  I tried all the THC Free oil that I could find.  The products I tried varied from bad to pretty good.  But still not good enough!

    I spent the next year doing extensive research.  Asking anyone in the industry that would talk to me a million questions.  I wanted to know everything.  I wanted to know how it was grown.  What measures were being taken to ensure a great product from the ground up to the finished product?  I wanted to know it all!

    I was so amazed how nature had given us this little hemp plant with so many uses.  I concluded that if there was going to be a great THC free oil out there, it was going to be because I brought it to the marketplace!  And so, I’m very proud to bring you a truly premium CBD oil and other great products!

    From our family to yours, enjoy our superior premium quality THC free products.

    It’s been a heartfelt journey and I couldn’t be prouder of my products

    Christina

  • CBD for Sleep – Does it Work?

    CBD for Sleep – Does it Work?

    Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is one of the main cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant and is mainly used in the form of CBD oil. Cannabinoids are compounds that interact with our endocannabinoid system – the system within our bodies responsible for maintaining a state of stability and balance.

    This state of stability and balance is also called homeostasis. When our body is in a state of homeostasis, it is able to function at optimal capacity. Another major compound found in the cannabis plant is known as THC. This is the psychoactive compound responsible for causing the sensation of becoming “high”.  It is also the primary reason for the infamy of cannabis.

    Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive. Instead, CBD can offer a range of health benefits, such as reducing the sensation of pain from various conditions and reducing seizures in people that have epilepsy as well as other neurological disorders.

    While the amount of research is limited, CBD has been known to help people get a good night’s sleep as well. Here is what you need to know about CBD oil and its effects on reducing insomnia.

    Here’s What Studies Have to Say about CBD and Insomnia

    A research paper published in January 2019 determined if CBD could help improve sleep and/or anxiety in a clinical population. The study involved the use of medicinally-administered CBD to over 100 subjects who were documented on a monthly basis in a retrospective chart.

    The results of the study were promising. The main measures of the test outcome were based on the effects CBD had on the anxiety and sleep of the patients – two factors closely linked to insomnia.

    Of the adults documented, anxiety scores for almost 80% of the subjects decreased within the first month of the study and decreased throughout the remainder of the study. As far as the sleep scores were concerned, they had improved for 66% of the patients within the first month, but the figures fluctuated throughout the course of the study.

    How does CBD Improve Sleep?

    While several studies suggest that CBD can improve sleep, most of these studies state that further research is required on CBD under proper clinical conditions to fully determine its effects.

    The Root Causes of Insomnia

    To understand how CBD could possibly work against the effects of insomnia and help us sleep better, it is important to look at the following factors that can cause poor sleep:

    • Mental health disorders like anxiety, PTSD and depression
    • Physical conditions like chronic pain
    • Caffeine consumed late in the day
    • Loud noises or other environmental factors.

    There are separate studies that suggest evidence of CBD helping to reduce anxiety and soothe pain.

    Using Best CBD for Sleep

    There are a number of ways CBD can be consumed to help you sleep better. It comes in a few different forms, including vape concentrates, pills and capsules, edibles and most commonly, as CBD oil.

    While vaping can help you absorb CBD faster than other methods, it can have potential adverse respiratory effects.  Ingesting CBD through organic CBD oil that has no THC in it can serve to be a more likely way to obtain sustained results.

    The study conducted in 2019 mentioned that it took a month to see the subjects notice the difference. That is what most of the research done on CBD oil has also suggested. Remember that using CBD oil might just help you get the results you are looking for, but you have to be patient to see its effects on improving your sleep quality.

    The Importance of Getting the Best CBD Oil

    In light of the recent developments, CBD products are widely understood to be highly beneficial. The industry is growing at a rapid pace. In a landscape with an ever increasing number of brands, it is important to understand that not all CBD products are made the same.

    With strict laws, a changing industry landscape and the need for better regulation on quality, it is important to get access to high quality CBD oil and other CBD products. In light of that, A1 CBD Products presents itself as a company upholding the highest standards in the manufacturing of CBD products.

    A1 CBD Products is a US-based company that utilizes the latest extraction methods to create CBD products, completely free of THC. A family-owned business, A1 CBD Products ensures consistency in all its products that are tested for quality.