For the past year or two I’ve heard buzzing about the benefits of CBD, but never thought much of it. To be honest, having very little information on the subject I assumed it was 1.) Illegal, 2.) Going to get me high, and 3.) A little shady and/or 4.) Another multi-level marketing scheme.

As many of you know, I’ve struggled in personal battles with postpartum depression and anxiety, and as such, in the past few years I’ve put lots of research into homeopathic methods to combat my anxiety and depression, as well as the day to day stressors that come with life these days. Along with essential oils, massage, and meditation (which I completely suck at, by the way,) many resources led me to look more into CBD.

Women experience anxiety, depression and PTSD at twice the rate of men. A 2005 NSF study revealed that women are more likely than men to have a difficult time falling and staying asleep, resulting in numerous health issues.

–Winged

After experimenting with a handful of different brands and types of CBD, speaking with specialists in the field, as well as first hand experience on it’s benefits, I’m so excited to share some of my findings with you! *Since I’m not a scientist, nor expert in the field, I’ve sited people who are 🙂

What is CBD?

CBD stands for cannabidiol and is a type of compound, found naturally in hemp plants. Cannabinoids work with a series of receptors in your body known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is involved in a lot of important jobs. These jobs include regulating your anti-inflammatory response, immune system, appetite, mood, anxiety levels, sleep schedule and more. Basically, the ECS helps keep your body in homeostasis. – Greenroads

What Should I Look For When Buying CBD?

This article, referenced here, is a great resource (and is one of those I used) when deciding what type or brand of CBD to purchase. In it, you’ll find the top 10 things to look for when buying CBD, like:

• Has the Product Been Tested by a 3rd Party Lab?
• Does the Product Contain 0.3% THC or Less?
• Where was the hemp sourced from and how was it cultivated?
• What type of CBD is being used in the product?
• What is the amount of CBD in Each Dosage?

In the article, you can read about the three types of CBD that can be used in a product (CBD Isolate, Full Spectrum, and Broad Spectrum). I personally have chosen to use Full Spectrum CBD based on my research. “There is compelling evidence that CBD works best in combination with THC and the full spectrum of other cannabis components.” –Project CBD In speaking with a CBD expert, she likened CBD and THC as a lock and key system, where both need to be present in order for the compound to be most effective. THC acts as the translator between your body and the CBD. As with all of the information, I suggest you do your homework as well, but this is just the decision I’ve made for me 🙂

Some Of My Favorites

Equilibria

I’m low-key obsessed with Equilibria for a handful of reasons. For one, the oil is SO good. Like, settle my super anxious flier energy on a 14-hour to Singapore, good. When I used to be white knuckling the armrests, with one dropper full of their golden delight…this time I was chill. I’ve also found by dosing daily with the brand’s soft gels, my overall temperament is far less anxious (even after two cups of coffee and toddlers begging to watch “Melmo”).

I love that their products checked all of my boxes in terms of quality, they’re affordable, and they work! They also offer subscription boxes so that you never have to be without the magic. As a bonus, all purchases include a free call with a dosage specialist, to answer any questions you may have and/or ensure you’re taking the proper dosage for best efficacy.

Use code ‘REFALWAYSUS‘ for $20 off your first order!

Sweet Reason

If ‘Love at First Sip’ wasn’t a thing before, it totally is for me, and my Sweet Reason CBD infused sparkling beverages. As the brand explains “there is a dosage for every occasion” and I have been truly loving their Sparkling Water with 10mg of broad spectrum hemp for those days where I’m just a littttle too on edge, and their Evening Blend with 30mg as an evening wind down alternative to a glass of wine.

The AM to PM kit is great if you want to try out the variety of flavors they offer, as well as both the Sparkling Waters and Evening Blends, however if you’re looking for a solid recommendation, my favorites are the strawberry lavender and lemon rhubarb sparkling waters, and the peach jasmine and plum blush evening blends!

Receive 15% off your first Sweet Reason purchase with this link and code: ALEXOATES

Winged

I think I can speak for all new Mom’s when I say quality sleep is rare, for pretty much the first year. When I started taking Winged’s CBD Gummies, I noticed a very real shift in the quality of my sleep. It was easier to fall asleep and stay asleep, while still being able to hear my little ones if (*cough* when) they wake up.

Winged is another great company, run by women, for women, and their mission is SO empowering! “The women of today’s world are adapting to new forms that break all molds. New age moms. Nurturing leaders. Powerful entrepreneurs. Community builders. At the end of every day, she belongs to herself and needs the tools to reel it all in. Winged is for the woman who harnesses the power of cannabinoids so she can catch her breath, stand up tall, and take flight.”

I fell in love with OLEO right away, primarily for the non-overwhelming fruity iced tea taste, but also for the effects I felt before I even finished my glass. OLEO is a CBD-infused dietary supplement drink mix that almost instantly dissolves into water (and doesn’t clump up…because ew.). Although I’ve been drinking OLEO to combat anxiety, it’s actually designed with athletes and active lifestyles in mind as a post-activity recovery aid. After trying all the flavors they offer, my favorites were the Passion Fruit (non-caffeinated) and the Raspberry (caffeinated). Try OLEO products for yourself with 20% off your first order using promo code ‘thankyou20’!