Welcome to The Golden Girl–a real girl approach to living your best life! (Because the internet needed a happy medium between real life and the highlight reel.)

learn more >

currently loving

shop all favorites

What is CBD Oil and How Can It Help You…[in Quarantine]

Apr 29, 2020

What is CBD Oil and How Can It Help You?

It’s been a while since I’ve posted about the role of CBD in my life. And I thought this post was due for an update, because Equilibria is probably the *single* most helpful tool that has helped me cope with all the madness that is this new quarantine life. Loaded statement, I know, but it’s true. 

You guys know me — when I am obsessed with a brand, I shout it from the rooftops! Well, Equilibria is my CBD equivalent of Everlane, Eataly, and Beautycounter. (I think they nicely round out my obsession roster, don’t you? ????)

If you’re new around here (welcome!) I will catch you up to speed: 

Equilibria is a Chicago-based, women-owned CBD company (full of the SMARTEST women I know) that makes products specifically geared toward improving the lives of women everywhere. (Something I’ve experienced firsthand as a customer, and now as a team member behind the scenes!)

I was so smitten with them as a customer and an affiliate partner, that last summer I got involved in a bigger way, joining the company as their Director of Influencer as well as an investor, so I help with EQ marketing strategy. (Though blogging is still largely my full-time gig, it’s pretty easy to find more hours to work on something you’re so passionate about!) When you see other influencers posting about Equilibria on Instagram stories–that’s the team I work on behind that. ????

How this all began: 

I was first introduced to the company via my friend Meg (you know her — MegMade! Speaking of obsessions…) Her friend Bonnie (now my friend Bonnie, haha!) was working at a new CBD company and she offered to send me some samples. 

Last year, Neal and I began trying out various hemp and CBD oils to help us with sleep and stress. We definitely noticed a subtle difference when taking the products we tried, and we were happy with the results, but we still didn’t really know anything about CBD/hemp/all that stuff or that there was a big difference from one brand to another. I figured they were all the same. (Little did I know none of it was true high quality CBD oil, haha!) 

Anyway, after Meg made the intro, I agreed to test out some Equilibria products and received a little package containing various forms of CBD to test out: their oil, capsules, and CBD cream, but I really wasn’t expecting anything crazy out of the ordinary. We had happened to run out of our other oil, so we decided to give this a try. (That and I had just noticed Liz started posting about it, so that made me more excited to try it. #Influenced.)

First impressions of Equilibria:  

The first night Neal and I took the drops, we woke up the next morning like WOAH. The Equilibria drops were SO MUCH more effective than the hemp oil we ordered randomly off Amazon. Not only did it help us fall asleep, but we just felt better overall waking up in the morning. 

The next day, Neal decided to try some of the relief cream — he often has a lot of pain in his hands and shoulder (from lifting weights and two decades worth of football injuries) and it is like magic on his muscle aches! I then tried it for my period cramps, and the effect was immediate. 

Ever since, Equilibria has become an absolute game-changer for me AND Neal in terms of being able to manage stress, sleep, aches and pains, and more. 

A couple weeks later, I grabbed coffee with Bonnie, and we completely hit it off! So much so, that we decided to do another coffee date the following week with Coco, their co-founder. All the women who work at Equilibria are the kind of people you meet, and you IMMEDIATELY just want to be in their orbit. Basically, we all became fast friends (after I basically inserted myself and lurked around the office enough, and they kindly let me. ????) They’ve both become incredible mentors, and I fell in love with the company they were building, AND the badass team of women behind all the magic. 

(And no, they did not pay me to write this blog post, but I do receive a small commission if you purchase products through my link, full disclosure!) 

The first time I shared about Equilibria on stories a year or so ago, I got SO many questions–so, being that I am not an expert in this field, I compiled all of them and had the Equilibria team help me out with them, so you could have ALLLL the answers in one place. (Thus, why this post is so long–but it’s all worth reading, I promise!)

So, if you’re new to this post, you’ll probably want to set aside some time to go through it, or bookmark it to come back to– but if you’re just interested in my one-year update and how I’ve adjusted my CBD routine to help cope with quarantine, read on to the next section!

Updated thoughts on CBD, one year later: 

I’ve been using Equilibria for almost a year now, which is kind of crazy! I don’t remember it ever not being part of my life, and it has become such an important part of my daily and nightly routines, even back where life was normal. ????

Now, it’s importance has definitely been elevated as it’s become absolutely essential in maintaining my calm and managing anxious thoughts and feelings in quarantine. I truly do not know how I would be managing without it.

I thought it would be helpful to share what I’ve been taking, and how I’ve adjusted my dosage during quarantine, so you can see my updated “quarantine regimen” below! Reminder: Your dosage specialist is always available to answer questions via email or to arrange a quick phone-call to fine-tune your dose! 

[ggheading style=”light” size=”2″ text=”My Quarantine EQ:”]

It’s important to note that CBD is most effective when taken every day as part of your routine, like you would a vitamin! It can take some people up to 30 days of daily use to start seeing full results. But everyone is different! I have a subscription of the Balance Box. (It contains both softgels and daily drops, which I think work in tandem for best results!)

[ggheading style=”light” size=”4″ text=”Morning”]

On an “I’m feeling good day”: I take a 10 mg softgel with breakfast. The softgels are absorbed through your digestive system, and are slow release. The effect of these is more subtle. You won’t notice when you DO take them, but you’ll definitely notice when you DON’T. Think of these like an “insurance policy” to help you combat stressors when you encounter them throughout the day. You will feel like yourself, but notice things that might typically rile you up don’t affect you as much, or at all. It’s the difference in seeing a news notification pop up on your phone and thinking, “Oh, there’s a news notification!” and not, “The news again. The world is a horrible dark place, I want to go back to bed.” 

On an “emotions running high” day: I take a 25mg softgel with breakfast, this is just a higher/more concentrated amount in the same size softgel. (I subscribe to the 10mg softgel capsules but Neal has the 25mg so I’ll take one of his if I’m feeling extra anxious). 

A note if you don’t eat breakfast: The softgels are fat soluble, which means they’re far more effective when taken with food. If you typically fast in the morning, wait until lunch, or just flip your dose, and take the oil in the morning, and the softgels after dinner. 

[ggheading style=”light” size=”4″ text=”Afternoon”]

Afternoon microdose:

For whatever reason, on some days, around 3pm/4pm is usually when I’ll get a burst of anxiousness or stress. Not always, but sometimes. My dosage specialist (and now friend), Maia, calls this the “witching hour”–you know when you’re like “omg it has GOT to be 5pm by now” and it’s ALWAYS only 3:45pm? Yep. That’s when you reach for this!

If that happens, I’ll take a “microdose” of the daily drops–half a dropper. Place the oil under your tongue and hold it there as long as possible–at least 60 seconds. Because it absorbs through the blood-stream, the drops work quickly. In a few minutes. Equilibria members who struggle with panic attacks have reported the Daily Drops as a very effective tool because of their immediate relief. 

[ggheading style=”light” size=”4″ text=”Evening”]

CBD Wind-Down Bath: 

I have never been a bath person, but since they released their limited edition Mother’s Day bath and body box. (I’ve been testing them out behind the scenes now for a few weeks!) I’ve started taking baths to de-stress and I CANNOT recommend them enough! Yes, yes I know it’s technically a “Mother’s Day” box, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a mother to enjoy them! 

I’ve created a little mini ritual of taking a micro-dose of the Daily Drops before getting in the tub for extra relaxation. I love the mineral soak for sore muscles (great post-workout!) and the bath bomb just for fun–both make your skin gloriously soft, smell absolutely divine and turn your bathroom into an aromatherapy session.

The set also comes with two aromatherapy rollers, and the energizing scent is my favorite. I love rolling it on my temples before getting in the bath, and during the day I wear it like perfume! Getting a whiff of it throughout the day is such a spirit lifter! 

Before bed: 

I will typically take a full dropper of the drops when I get into bed, before reading for a half hour or so. They don’t make you inherently sleepy, they just allow your mind to slow down/shut off, so racing thoughts don’t keep you awake. I don’t have issues staying asleep, but if you have issues staying asleep, you would want to take the softgels at night, because those are slow release. 

CBD Wind-Down Bath

Some testimonials from YOU GUYS: 

CBD testimonials CBD testimonials CBD testimonials CBD testimonials CBD testimonials

Equilibria
Why CBD may also be a game-changer for you: 

We’ll get into a larger laundry list of things CBD can help, but honestly, here’s my take: I don’t know one woman that is immune to stress–no matter how old she is, where she lives, or what her life looks like. It’s one of the really hard parts of being a woman–we have so many balls in the air at all times.

Stress can permeate every area of your life and affect everything from your happiness, your sleep, and in turn, have a huge impact on your health–causing disease, pain, and more. For me, CBD is basically a very helpful tool that I use to manage stress on a day to day basis, and it has really, really had a positive impact. 

I also know it’s not just me–for almost a year now, ever since I first posted about Equilibria, the DM’s have started rolling in about how much it’s helped you too, and honestly, this is why I’ve become so passionate about this brand–because their products truly can change your life for the better! 

That being said, as I learned, not all CBD is the same–(not even close!!) which brings us to my next point…

My Honest Equilibria Review–Why I’m shouting it from the rooftops:

For a variety of reasons, but these three being the main ones: 

For women, by women:

This is Equilibria’s motto, and one I am obviously obsessed with.

Equilibria was created by two friends (whom I admire an enormous amount) Marcy Capron Vermillion and Coco Meers, who describe themselves as “Two professional women with full plates and their share of chronic pain, inflammation and everyday anxieties.” Both describe their experience with CBD as life-changing, and they knew more women needed this in their daily lives–thus Equilibria was born! 

Equilibria is built upon the understanding that female bodies are different, from cyclical changes to the very real challenges of childbirth and menopause and everything in between. They built a company that could help women through all of these stages of life, with high-quality products, and personalized service that no other CBD brand can offer. (But also, again, important to note: men can use their products too…and they will likely steal them. Hehe.)  

Equilibria’s Quality and safety: 

Not all CBD is grown and processed equally, and Equilibria is rare in that they are a “farm to home” company, so to speak. They have their own 1,100 acre organic farm in Colorado, where everything is in their hands from start to finish. No middlemen. They also adhere to medical grade production standards (even though this is not required of them by law). All of their products are lab-tested with results available. 

Their bioscience team also has 30+ years of experience in agriculture, and their products feature significantly more cannabinoids and terpenes versus the average, mainstream over-the-counter CBD product, with hemp oil carefully extracted from flowers only, which is the purest source of cannabinoids. 

Since CBD is not regulated by the FDA (although it has been deemed safe by the World Health Organization), it’s really important to do your research to ensure the brand you’re using is high quality. (More on that in a section below!) 

Put simply: Equilibria is safe, it’s high-quality, and it’s effective! 

Individualized CBD dosage plans, with ongoing support: 

From anxiety to arthritis to autoimmune, insomnia to period pain–everyone uses CBD a little differently, (and your dose and needs can change as your life changes!) Equilibria has a team of dosage experts whose WHOLE JOB is to help Equilibria customers figure out the best CBD routines for them–how cool is that?!

Equilibria’s dosage team is one of the biggest factors that set them apart from other brands, and consists of cannabis consultants with a variety of backgrounds in health and wellness, including psychology, pharmacology, and clinical education. Everyone on the team is a cannabis educator with extensive training and works closely with Equilibria’s medical advisory board to stay up to date on the latest science in the field.

You get to jump on a quick phone call (or exchange via email) about your personal CBD routine and the right dosage for your daily needs based on what you’re looking to improve. You get as much ongoing support as you need, forever. 

Equilibria

What is CBD oil anyway?

Let’s back up! If you need a quick refresher…

CBD is a natural ingredient found within industrial hemp flowers that has been clinically proven to improve mental and physical wellbeing when taken properly and consistently. CBD is completely safe and legal. It is a powerful health agent, but there is NO discernible impairment (no high!).

Industrial hemp is a cannabis sativa plant grown specifically to express 0.3% THC content or less — this is why there’s no discernible intoxicating effect, and also why it’s legal. Any industrial hemp plant that crosses the 0.3% line in the sand becomes a marijuana plant, federally illegal, and psychoactive/intoxicating (after approximately the 10% THC mark).

With industrial hemp-grown CBD, you get a huge portion of the clinically-observed benefit of medical cannabis plants, without any of the illegality or impairment.  One thing I learned but did not know, is that CBD with a small amount of THC is actually what you want–that littttle percentage of THC makes it far more effective, but it’s not remotely enough to make you high! 

Why is CBD so helpful — especially for women? 

CBD works within your Endocannabinoid System (ECS) to create balance in your body. Our bodies create their own “endo”cannabinoids for the ECS, and “phyto”cannabinoids like CBD further regulate and/or augment this same system of receptors.

Full-spectrum hemp oil reduces inflammation, the root cause of nearly all disease, over time, and relieves acute discomfort like heightened anxiety, nerve, and muscle pain.

Let’s talk more about the Endocannabinoid system, because I think it’s really important to have a grasp on the ECS to fully understand what CBD does. (This part I totally geeked out over!) 

Humans have a series of receptors in their body called the Endocannabinoid System (or ECS for short). Our bodies naturally create molecular compounds called endocannabinoids that interact with these receptors by turning them on or off to help manage things like sleep, mood, pain regulation, and inflammation. The ECS directly affects the female reproductive system and its entire job is to maintain balance in our body by constantly regulating these receptors. 

As we get older, and we experience stress, our bodies stop creating as many of these endocannabinoids, which means our system stops functioning as well. 

That’s where CBD comes in and why it is thought to be so effective in so many areas. CBD is a phytocannabinoid, (along with THC and many others found in the cannabis plant) that also interacts with our own Endocannabinoid system. 

When we use CBD, we are replicating what our body already naturally creates with a plant substance that does a similar job. Our bodies are already built to accept these phytocannabinoids as though they were made in our own bodies! 

Are there different types of CBD? What should I look for on the label? 

Overall, it’s the safest bet to talk to your doctor to figure out which type of CBD is best for you if you have specific health concerns, but below will give you a brief overview of the different types of products you can purchase. 

It’s important to note that CBD is just one part of the whole plant. There are many parts, including cannabinoids (such as CBD and THC) and terpenes (think essential oils of the plant) that all play their own part to increase the efficacy of a product. CBD on its own is not only less effective, but harder to dose properly. The same goes for THC and the other cannabinoids. Understanding this is key to understanding the different types of CBD products you can buy: 

Isolate:

This is JUST CBD in its purest form–without other cannabinoids and terpenes or THC. They have no other active ingredient and just aim to deliver therapeutic doses of CBD, isolated from the other cannabinoids and terpenes. This is generally good for targeting very specific cases (or in the instance that you should not be using THC for other medical reasons) but overall not as effective as other forms. 

Broad Spectrum 

It means it has a combination of cannabinoids and terpenes, minus THC. While this is certainly better than isolate, it’s still thought to not be AS effective as full spectrum in a variety of areas. 

Full Spectrum.

Broad spectrum plus THC. (This is what Equilibria is). This is because THC is the cannabinoid that talks to your receptors and tells them how to receive the other cannabinoids. Without it, your body has to work harder to understand how to use it. This now makes sense to me why Equilibria has been so much more effective than the other CBD products I had tried in the past. 

How can you identify a trustworthy, high-quality CBD product from the bad stuff? 

Because there is no FDA regulation on CBD, it’s really easy to get your hands on low-grade, inaccurately labeled product that either just doesn’t work or can potentially be harmful (such as, contaminated with heavy metals, for example.) Here’s how you avoid that: 

1. Look for Full Spectrum for the best results (for all the aforementioned reasons–unless directed differently by your doctor). 

2. Always make sure you see third-party lab results! Cannabis naturally absorbs toxins in the ground and because CBD isn’t regulated by the FDA, most of the products out there are either poorly grown and processed, which means they often have way less CBD than they claim; and/or they have pesticides and heavy metals in them. 

3. Make sure it’s all coming from the same farm. Think about it like this: you wouldn’t take medicine that was a different strength every time. Same goes for CBD — don’t use a company that combines products from multiple farms! 

What do CBD drops taste like?

Ummm I’ll be honest, they taste like the plant–but it’s not bad! It took a little bit of getting used to but I don’t really notice the taste anymore. Equilibria tastes far less offensive than the other brands I’ve tried though!

For those who don’t love the taste of the oil, they also offer capsules. 

Pro Tip that the EQ team told me: If your CBD doesn’t taste like a plant, it’s most likely not great quality.  

CBD Oil Uses

CBD Oil Uses: 

People are using CBD for so many reasons! Before I get into those, I think it is important to note that CBD is not regulated by the FDA, so no claims can be made saying CBD (Equilibria or otherwise) can treat, cure or prevent any disease or ailment. Every person is very different and these are certainly not guarantees. 

That being said, however–there is a reason that CBD is gaining so much traction! People are most commonly using CBD to help with sleep, manage anxiety, reduce inflammation (the root cause of so many problems), improve their mood, or generally keep their system regulating the way it was always meant to.

Here’s a quick overview of what CBD may help based on the existing information currently available: 

Anxiety and stress

From soothing everyday stresses to managing more serious anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, CBD can be an effective tool to combat anxiety, stress, and worry. 

Hormone regulation

Common symptoms of hormonal imbalance include menstrual irregularity, sweaty skin, weight gain, mood swings, and hair loss. If you have a hormonal imbalance, CBD may provide symptom relief and help regulate hormones and is thought to be particularly helpful in postpartum recovery and menopause. 

Skin conditions, such as certain kinds of acne or psoriasis 

Because acne is a sign of inflammation in the body, CBD may help alleviate the root cause of the issue. Most of the research about CBD and acne focuses on CBD’s ability to combat the cause of acne, rather than eliminating current acne. Researchers have found CBD prevents excess oil buildup and has anti-inflammatory effects on oil-producing glands. Also, because of CBD’s effect on hormone regulation, it could also address the cause of hormonal acne. 

There have also been promising studies that reveal CBD can help other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and itchy skin. 

Autoimmune diseases

CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties can help people with autoimmune conditions, such as arthritis and lupus. 

Blood pressure

CBD can lower high blood pressure through the same process that it decreases stress and anxiety. 

Bone strengthener

From healing bone fractures to preventing osteoporosis and improving bone strength, studies show CBD can enhance bone health. This is especially important for women, because of the estimated 10 million Americans with osteoporosis, 80% are women. 

Improved focus

CBD can improve your focus for the same reasons it lessens anxiety — as that is often the cause for a lack of focus. It can even help people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). 

Mood improvement

CBD can be a useful tool for treating depression due to the way CBD interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, balancing serotonin levels. These levels have a huge impact on a person’s emotional state and overall wellbeing. 

Neuroprotectant

CBD is both an antioxidant and neuroprotectant, an effect that preserves neuronal structure and function. CBD helps reduce damage to the brain and nervous system and supports neuron growth and development. This is especially helpful for brain or spinal cord injuries, stroke patients and limiting the progression of neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, and epilepsy. 

Pain management

CBD gels have revealed exciting results for people with aches and pains. Researchers believe CBD interacts with receptors in your brain and immune system, creating anti-inflammatory and painkilling effects that help with pain management. CBD can help a variety of pain, from sore muscles to chronic pain.

Period cramps

CBD can help you manage different degrees of period pain symptoms — from cramps and aches to fatigue and mood swings. I like to apply their topic relief cream for cramps and it really helps!! 

Regulate digestion

In addition to regulating digestion, CBD can alleviate symptoms of common digestive issues such as bloating, cramping, inflammation, and nausea.

Sleep 

According to the National Institutes of Health, CBD taken at least an hour before bed can improve insomnia, help you fall asleep, and support a restful night’s sleep.

How do the different forms of CBD work? 

I can only speak to what I have used personally, but essentially, any broad spectrum CBD product works within your own body’s system to target problem areas and help maintain balance within your body. Here are the three that I use: 

Equilibria’s Daily Drops (the actual oil):

The strongest product EQ offers and the one I probably reach for the most. The oil is held under your tongue for 30-60 seconds before swallowing, which allows it to bypass the digestive system; so it hits you harder and faster; but it also leaves your system sooner.

The Daily Drops are great for immediate relief and are recommend if you’re struggling with anxiety, chronic pain, or falling asleep; among other things. The Daily Drops are also great for microdosing. The Equilibria dosage team often starts people on the drops while they work out their personal doses. 

Equilibria’s Daily Softgels:

Taken like a vitamin, so you do lose some strength to your digestive system. But it also acts as a slow release. The softgels are easy to add into your daily routine. And are great for anyone who doesn’t like the flavor of the drops. The softgels are recommended for anyone who has trouble staying asleep; using it in tandem with the oil to maintain a consistent base; or anyone with stomach troubles as it can act as an “internal” topical.

Equilibria’s Relief Cream:

It is a topical cream great for targeted relief. Made with arnica, menthol, and 500mg of CBD, this powerful cream helps deliver relief right where you need it! Apply the cream where you’re experiencing pain and inflammation for immediate relief. 

Typically, Equilibria customers end up needing a combination of these products. Everyone’s body chemistry is different, as is their dose. That’s why it’s important to work with a dosage concierge to figure the right, personalized, combination! 

How do the different forms of CBD work? 

How can you actually tell it’s working? 

For me, they were very obvious, but the effects can be very subtle too, and vary wildly since it’s helping your body return to functioning the way it was always supposed to. That said the main (first) effects people report noticing are an overall sense of wellbeing and optimism, improved sleep, and general relaxation. The Equilibria team encourages journaling to help you recognize subtle differences and record your own before and after!  

How long does it take to feel effects? 

Everyone is different and it really depends on what you’re using it for. I noticed them immediately the first time I took the drops — it helps level me out in times of stress and calm my mind in order to fall asleep quickly. The pain relief from the cream is instant. But if you’re dealing with something like chronic anxiety, chronic pain, etc., it will probably take a little bit longer to feel the effects in full swing. This is why it’s so helpful that Equilibria has a dosage expert to help make sure you’re getting the right dose for your exact needs! 

Best type for evening vs day? 

This is actually a common misconception! It’s far less about evening vs daytime and far more about specific health goals. CBD doesn’t inherently make a person sleepy or alert; it does however address the root cause of why they’re having trouble sleeping, or feeling stress, etc. Essentially, take the same product day and night, and it will address different things at different times. Because again, it’s just helping your body return to functioning the way it normally should. 

Where can I find CBD medical studies and resources? 

If you’re new to CBD and would like to do some research, check out: https://www.projectcbd.org/ and www.leafly.com.

For anyone wanting to read some studies, check out: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/?term=cannabidiol and http://www.icrs.co/. 

There are also a lot of really interesting articles out there, here are a couple that are worth a read:

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2019/05/14/magazine/cbd-cannabis-cure.html

https://www.sciencenews.org/article/cbd-product-boom-science-research-hemp-marijuana

How to use CBD oil: 

In terms of dosage, how much should I start out taking?

For the first five days, the Equilibria dosage team recommends the following: 

1. 1 or 2 full droppers at night.

2. 1 softgel in AM with breakfast.

3. Relief cream as needed.

* By Day 5 – after consistent use, make a dosage appointment. It’s helpful to keep a journal to jot down how you’re feeling each day so you can really assess whether the current dose is working for you! 

This helps establish a starting point, to which you can adjust from there! Equilibria has their own free dosage specialist, who will consult with you and recommend a dosage amount for you to start with based on the issues you’re trying to address. You can speak with her as many times as you like in order to get your dosage just right and adjust as necessary based on your lifestyle and needs at any given time. Sometimes it does take a little adjusting! 

How often should you be taking it? 

Equilibria suggests that CBD be taken daily and consistently, just like you would a medication or vitamin. Like working out or eating healthy in a consistent manner for optimal health, the same is true for your CBD routine.

Can you talk more about CBD for sleep? Is there a different dosage/type of product you should take for falling asleep vs staying asleep? 

Yes! The drops will help provide instant calm and really aid in helping you fall asleep as they absorb into the bloodstream quickly to quiet your mind and level out stress (which is why so many people, myself included, may have trouble FALLING asleep). 

I would equate it to the feeling you get after drinking a couple sips of wine–even, but in control of your emotions.

For staying asleep, they recommend the capsules, because they’re released over a more extended period of time. 

CBD concerns? 

CBD concerns? 

Can pregnant/nursing women use CBD? Anybody who shouldn’t use it? 

You should always ask your doctor. Always always. Seeing as CBD is so new, there isn’t any information out there on how CBD may affect a fetus. Whether you’re pregnant, nursing, or you have a specific health condition, you should work with your doctor to learn what is best for you. 

If your doctor isn’t familiar with CBD (which, again, is very common, because it is so new), it may be helpful to seek out the advice of a functional medicine doctor who has more experience with it, working together to figure out the best solution for you. There is no one size fits all answer. 

Can it be used to complement current medications? Could it interact negatively with certain medications? 

Again, you should ALWAYS ask your doctor and/or pharmacist to make sure it won’t interfere with anything you’re currently taking. Equilibria also has a quick-reference page here that may help with this. 

Equilibria cofounders, Marcy and Coco, have successfully used CBD with Paxil, Wellbutrin, Klonopin, Xanax, Propranolol, and Enbrel, and found that they worked quite well together and that they were both ultimately happier and healthier with an altered/lowered pharmaceutical routine and more CBD. 

Ultimately, its up to you and your doctor to decide whether or not CBD is right for you! (Read Equilibria’s article on How to talk to your doctor about CBD.) 

Are there any other risks?

Most people tolerate CBD very well. The few side effects people complain about are typically associated with a deregulated ECS balancing back out, i.e. drowsiness and stomach issues. You can not overdose on CBD! The main risks come into play with contraindications. However, always talk to your doctor about medications you are taking. 

Can you become addicted to the products? Is CBD safe to take longterm? 

CBD does in fact work best if taken longterm. Also, unlike Marijuana, we don’t build a tolerance to CBD. meaning, we do not need more and more of it to remain effective. More on that in this report by the World Health Organization

Are you nervous about using CBD products because of the Marijuana stigma? 

Me personally? No. First, other people’s opinions aren’t really my concern. ???? Second, I haven’t really run into anyone who has a negative stigma around CBD. But of course, I know there are plenty of people out there who do!

Here’s the thing: CBD is not weed, marijuana, etc. It does not make you high — CBD is a completely legal and WONDERFUL thing that can help (and does help) SO many people. I view CBD as alternative medicine (just like I view food and a healthy lifestyle as preventative medicine!) 

If you run into someone who views it negatively, it’s because they are uneducated about it. So that’s a great time to educate them!

Is CBD legal everywhere? What are the airport regulations?

So, yes, this is a confusing issue. Even the government can’t figure out what to do here. The gist is this: Hemp-derived CBD (less than .3% of THC) is federally legal, however some states have their own, more stringent, laws. To find out more about CBD in your state, reach out to Equilibria directly and they’ll be happy to help you. 

That said, the TSA recently updated their rules to publicly state you can fly domestically (not that we’re doing that any time soon ????) with hemp-derived CBD! 

Does CBD show up in a drug test? 

Every woman’s body chemistry is different, so this is kind of a grey area. It’s highly unlikely, but it’s possible, especially if you’re taking a high dose.  If you’re not sure, you can definitely pick up a drug test at your local pharmacy to see how it affects your body. 

what is CBD oil

Parting thoughts and buying tips: get 20% off with my discount! 

Get 20% your first order with my link or code JESSKEYS at checkout! 

Should you buy one-off or subscription? 

EQ offers two purchase models–one-off purchase, or you can choose an auto-renew model where your product is automatically shipped. This gives you a significantly discounted monthly price. And it’s definitely the best way to get the most bang for your buck. You can cancel ANYTIME–they don’t lock you into anything.

Tip:

Even if you don’t want to continue with a subscription, I’d recommend buying subscription on your first order, so you can get the deepest discount (my 20% off code only works for first purchase, so you’ll save the most $$ if you go with the lower subscription price and get 20% off that!) If you try it for a couple of weeks and don’t want to renew–you can totally cancel. No questions asked, and you still got the best deal! 

However, I would highly recommend keeping the subscription, because you will get the best results taking CBD daily, like you would with a vitamin, and the subscription model definitely makes the most sense and will save you money in the long run. (I have the Balance Box subscription, and I buy the cream one-off as needed because that’s not something I’m applying daily). 

Of course, there are many other respectable CBD brands out there. And again, this post is definitely not sponsored by Equilibria, but my passion for the company is unparalleled. You definitely have options when it comes to finding the CBD that works for you. But for ALLLLL the reasons listed above, I’m obsessed with this one, and I think you will be too!

I know this was a long, nerdy post full of a ton of information. But there is SO much to say on the subject of CBD, and I know this was only scratching the surface!

Again, this is not sponsored by Equilibria, but I am affiliated with the company and I do receive a small affiliate commission if you purchase through my links!

Hope you enjoyed geeking out over CBD with me as much as I did! If you have more questions, feel free to DM me @JessKeys_ or Equilibria @EquilibriaWomen!

Keep reading...