Three months ago, after experiencing sharp pain in my wrists/arms, I was diagnosed with tendinitis. My doctor claims my tendinitis is essentially a repetitive stress injury stemming from long hours of using the computer, aka my entire livelihood. It was a literal pain to do basic things like cook, drive, and use my phone. I even contemplated quitting my new job of only two weeks*insert crying emoji *. Fast forward to now, I’m happy to report I’m doing much better and it’s all thanks to the magical powers of CBD. I’m sure you’ve heard of CBD, but if not continue reading to find out what CBD actually is, the benefits, products I swear by, and how I use them for all my pain relief needs.
WHAT IS CBD ?
Cannabinol a.k.a CBD is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. It’s closely related to the THC compound, which causes the “high” cannabis is known for. However, CBD is a safe non-addictive, non-psychoactive substance that does NOT make a person feel “stoned” or intoxicated. This makes CBD a great non toxic remedy for numerous ailments.
BENEFITS
CBD gained popularity after treating treatment-resistant forms of childhood epilepsy. According to Leafly, studies show CBD has powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Ongoing research on the miracle compound suggests CBD has potential to treat:
Autoimmune diseases (inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis)
Neurological conditions (Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Huntington’s chorea, stroke, traumatic brain injury)
Neuropsychiatric illness (autism, ADHD, PTSD, alcoholism)
Gut disorders (colitis, Crohn’s)
Cardiovascular dysfunction (atherosclerosis, arrhythmia)
Skin disease (acne, dermatitis, psoriasis)
CBD is also known for treating “motivational” disorders such as depression, anxiety and addiction. The CBD company, Feals perfectly explains the science behind CBD claiming, “The human body's endocannabinoid system consists of tiny receptors that play a key role in regulating mood, pain and everyday experience. CBD helps these receptors do what's needed in order to stimulate all kinds of beneficial changes throughout the body.”
MY CBD JOURNEY/PRODUCTS I USE
As i mentioned earlier, I started using CBD products after developing tendonitis in my wrists. My doctor simply gave me a prescription for extra strength ibuprofen,told me to take a break from typing, stretch, and soak my hands in epsom salt. If none of that worked surgery would be an option. I knew I couldn’t take a break from working and the word surgery scared me. I needed something that would help me heal, while also maintaining my lifestyle.
I did some research on Instagram and came across a company called Plant People. I'm a sucker for clever names, minimalist branding, and good reviews. I purchased a jar of their high potency pain relief “Plant Balm” and a bottle of their CBD oil "Drops" and they’ve been a major blessing on my healing journey.
The balm is effective and affordable, compared to other brand name CBD products on the market. My first jar lasted a little over a month, which is awesome since I use it multiple times a day. Throughout my work day, I massage a pea sized amount into my problem areas whenever I feel aches and pains. Honestly, it’s the only way I’ve been able to get thru long hours of computer work. The balm works so well, My boyfriend started using it after the gym for sore muscles. Did I mention it's made using simple all-natural ingredients! I’m not fond of putting toxic chemicals on my skin, so the short ingredient list was a huge plus for me.
I’ve since repurchased the balm, but my first bottle of CBD Oil is still going strong. I bought the drops to help with anxiety, stress, brain fog, trouble focusing, and pain relief. When I first started taking the oil, I didn’t think it was working. However, I continued to take it daily whenever I felt stressed. I started to feel the amazing calming effects after about 5 days of consistent use.
Since CBD is non- psychoactive, you don’t necessarily feel anything until whatever is bothering you suddenly..isn't. Drew Todd, co-founder of CBD brand Feals, notes “The way we describe taking CBD is that it’s not about what you feel, but it’s more about what you don’t feel,” he says. “If you have pain or anxiety, once the effects of CBD start setting in, it’s almost like it’s whisked away and it’s not there anymore.”
HOW I USE CBD
I use the Plant Balm as a muscle rub and massage a pea sized amount into my problem areas as needed. For the CBD Oil I take .50 ml under the tongue and hold the oil there for 30 seconds to increase absorption. Sometimes I add it to smoothies, homemade salad dressings, or a cup of chamomile tea for extra relaxation.
FINAL THOUGHTS
CBD products make a subtle yet impactful difference in my life. I work in a high stress environment so it helps me stay cool and comfortable--while maintaining productivity. CBD oil supports the “go with the flow” person I envision myself to be. It helps me sleep, aids in pain relief, and increases my chill factor. CBD brings me a sense of calm, so I'm able to focus on the bigger picture. Although I plan to continue testing different brands, I can guarantee you I’ll always keep CBD products in my medicine cabinet.