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CBD GUMMIES FOR SLEEP

Today, CBD has become one of the most popular wellness ingredients in the UK and further afield. In fact, consumers from every continent are now turning to cannabidiol for its potential health benefits, particularly for sleep and anxiety. CBD oils, capsules, and increasingly, edibles like CBD gummies are becoming a common fixture in the lives of people of all ages as they seek to improve their general health and wellness. But when it comes to using CBD for sleep, how many should you be taking?

We’re going to take a look at some of the evidence for CBD’s sleep-improving properties and offer a rough guide to how many CBD gummies you should be taking to achieve the best results. 

CBD FOR SLEEP - IS THERE ANY EVIDENCE?

As is the case for most things CBD, clinical evidence of the cannabinoid’s sleep-inducing potential is still in its infancy; however, the evidence that is available is promising. Studies that have focused primarily on CBD for sleep have yielded some impressive results. For example, a 2022 study assessed 29 individuals with self-reported clinical insomnia who were randomly allocated either CBD-dominant cannabis oil or a placebo. The researchers found that CBD treatment was both well tolerated and effective at improving sleep with participants experiencing an improvement in sleep quality of up to 80%.

Another study which assessed CBD alone found that treatment with cannabidiol was associated with improvements in both anxiety and sleep. Of 72 participants, 48 (66.7%) experienced an improvement in sleep after a month. Furthermore, of the 41 participants who continued treatment for a second month, over half (56.1%) again reported improvements in sleep. Participants also reported the benefits of CBD for anxiety, with 79.2% experiencing improvements after the first month of use.

Growing anecdotal evidence supports these findings, with a growing consumer base adopting CBD products specifically to help improve their sleep. A survey of CBD users in the UK found that sleep problems were the second most common reason for CBD use, behind anxiety. This included consumers who reported using CBD for improving sleep (125/387; 32.3%) and self-perceived insomnia (95/387; 24.5%). 

WHAT CBD DOSE IS BEST FOR SLEEP?

When it comes to dosing CBD, there isn’t an exact science to getting it right. We find that everyone is different in this regard, meaning that what may work for one person may not be effective for another. However, it is important to remember that more isn’t always more. Sure, it’s easy to think that upping your CBD dose will mean better results, but this isn’t always the case. In fact, some consumers find that a lower dose is more effective.

For this reason, we recommend starting at a low dose when aiming to identify the correct dose for you. Our range of CBD gummies comes in a strength of 25mg. This means that each single gummy will provide you with a 25mg dose of high-quality cannabidiol.

We find that many consumers are able to achieve the desired results with one CBD gummy per day; however, there is no harm whatsoever in taking two per day. As the World Health Organisation has concluded, “cannabidiol does not appear to have abuse potential or cause harm.” So, you can rest easy when using our CBD gummies, or any of our other premium quality CBD products. Still, we recommend that you don’t exceed 70mg of CBD in one day.

Many of our customers choose to take one of our CBD gummies (available in Raspberry, Strawberry, Lemon & Lime, and Mango flavours) to unwind and set the mood for relaxation before bedtime. Each of our boxes of CBD gummies contains 30 units, giving you the ideal amount for between 2 weeks and 30 days. With millions of people worldwide now using CBD gummies for anxiety and to improve sleep, why not give them a go today and find out how Goodrays CBD Gummies could help you rest better at night?

GOODRAYS RASPBERRY CBD GUMMIES

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A GUIDE TO THE HUMAN ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM

The growing hype surrounding cannabidiol is certainly intriguing, but once you delve into the science behind its success it is hard to ignore the CBD buzz. It can all be attributed to the fascinating and mysterious workings of one vital biological system – the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

The ECS is an extremely complex network, interconnected with every other biological system in the body. Yet, few understand its importance in potentially every aspect of our health. We’re still in the midst of understanding the process – even scientists themselves aren’t entirely sure but Goodrays are here to clue you up on the basics. Here is our ECS 101: a brief guide to the human endocannabinoid system. The science behind the sip.  

What is the ECS – and what does it do?

The endocannabinoid system, or the ECS, is a vast and complex network of chemical signals and receptors. Every mammal has one, and it plays a vital role in our health and wellbeing. The ECS is what’s known as a cell-signalling system; it helps to send signals throughout various networks across the brain and body in order to maintain homeostasis – a state of biological balance. For this reason, the ECS is often referred to as our “universal regulator”.

It wasn’t until 1988, when researchers found cannabinoid receptors in the brain, that knowledge of the ECS came to be. These receptors, which soon became known as CB1 and CB2, span the brain and body; CB1 receptors are found in the central nervous system, and CB2 receptors are found in our immune system and peripheral organs. These receptors help to control the activity of other neurotransmitters, subsequently fine-tuning countless specific biological functions.

It was then discovered that the ECS plays its biological role through the signalling of endogenous – meaning “of internal origin” – cannabinoids, which are produced naturally by the human body. We have two key so-called “endocannabinoids”, most commonly known as AEA and 2-AG. The body produces these as and when they are needed, and they help to keep the ECS and all its related processes running smoothly.

Since the ECS only makes up a short part of the history of human biology, there is still lots yet to discover. Despite this, the cannabis plant has been used by humans for millennia, and its effects on the brain and body were being investigated long before the discovery of the ECS.

New research has shed light on the dynamic relationship between our ECS and cannabis compounds. Researchers have noted that the two major cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), can hijack our ECS, thereby having powerful knock-on effects on our mood, appetite, sleep, immune system, pain perception, movement control, memory, fertility, bone health, and many other critical bodily functions.

Where CBD comes in

THC often steals the spotlight when we hear about the power of cannabis. Famed for its characteristic, mind-altering properties, and its ability to reduce pain and stimulate our appetite, THC certainly has some impressive therapeutic credentials. But here at Goodrays, we think CBD is the unsung hero of the cannabis plant.  

This particular plant-derived cannabinoid works very differently from THC in the brain, so it won’t get you high. It can, however, have some powerful interactions with our ECS that could result in significant improvements to our health and wellbeing.

The ECS is inextricably linked to the immune system; the health of one is largely dependent on the other. Current research suggests that modulating the ECS with CBD could have a profound effect on levels of inflammation in the body. For this reason, many people are choosing to incorporate a dose of this cannabinoid into their daily routine to help fight aches and pains.  

CBD appears to benefit the brain as well as the body, perhaps being most celebrated for its positive effects on stress and anxiety. Surveys suggest that 31% of users currently use CBD to unwind after a stressful day, and there is even accumulating clinical evidence for its use in the treatment of anxiety disorders.

Though, fascinatingly, scientific experts aren’t entirely sure how CBD interacts with our ECS. They know it doesn’t directly bind to cannabinoid receptors in the same way THC does and, instead, has a more indirect mechanism of action. The prevailing theory is that CBD prevents our endocannabinoids from being broken down, making them more widely available in the body. CBD may, therefore, act as a little ECS “boost”, which could be why it appears to have such widespread benefits for the health and wellbeing of those who use it.

Why Goodrays?

CBD is now a hugely popular supplement in the world of wellness. There are countless types of CBD products available to try, but due to their skyrocketing popularity, many products out there aren’t all they’re hyped up to be.

At Goodrays, we cannot overstate the importance of buying your CBD from brands that use trustworthy manufacturers. Each of CBD our products is third-party tested and contains all-natural, Colorado-grown CBD – and they’re all THC-free. It’s CBD that you can trust.

Our refreshing CBD drinks offer a hearty 30 milligrams (mg) of CBD per can. Plus, they contain your daily dose of Vitamin D, which helps to support our immune system and bone health. For those after CBD that packs a punch, try a pack of our mixed CBD gummies. With 30 doses of 25 mg each, taking 2 or 3 CBD gummies per day could work wonders for your mental and physical wellbeing. Or, if you’re after something a little more traditional, CBD oil could be for you. Our Night drops and Zen drops each contain 1000 mg of CBD per 30ml, so you can choose exactly how much CBD you take.

If you’re keen to uncover the mysterious relationship between CBD and the ECS for yourself, visit the shop here.

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The Many Benefits of Hemp as a Fabric

The Many Benefits of Hemp as a Fabric If you find yourself shopping for a more eco friendly loved one, a strong contender for success can be found in hemp fabric. The uses for hemp fabric are as varied as they are beneficial to both the environment and the user. 

 Hemp has long been used in seed oils, well-being products, paper, bioplastics and much more. The fibres found in the plant are perfect for weaving fabrics, with many natural benefits to be found.

 Hemp, as a sustainable fabric, offers many benefits both in its use as a fabric, but also in its cultivation. Hemp has been grown for thousands of years, but only in more recent times have its glowing references as an eco-superhero come to light. 

 With the relaxing of laws around the cannabis plant across many parts of the globe, laboratories, scientists and students alike have been able to study the plant in depth.

 More Durable than Cotton 

As a fabric, hemp is stronger than cotton. It is more coarse, more durable and therefore longer lasting. It has much more absorption than cotton too, so colouring hemp fabric results in longer lasting colour in your clothes.

 The fibre from hemp is also naturally antimicrobial, this means it keeps bacteria from replicating. One of the main advantages of this is a reduction in bodily odours. Odours are caused by bacteria, as your day progresses, the bacteria replicates and the smell grows stronger.

 The antimicrobial properties of hemp reduce and restrict these microbes, and in turn reduce the odour. 

 Hot? Cold? Old? 

 Hemp fibre is also a great insulator. Keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer, hemp clothing is great for regulating heat. 

 When it comes to the glorious sunshine, 100% hemp can also provide between 5.8-50% natural UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). Blocking out harmful rays, whilst also regulating temperatures. Is there anything this fabric cannot do? 

 As the plant grows from the earth, at the end of its lifecycle it can be returned to the earth. Hemp is both biodegradable and recyclable so from a waste perspective, there is very little. 

 Good for the Ground 

Whilst the plants are reaching new heights up top, the roots of the hemp plant are working wonders underground. The cannabis and hemp plant have been shown to remove toxins such as metals from the soil as they grow. For regenerative agriculture, hemp plants are a dream. 

 Another benefit is the lack of pesticides and herbicides needed. Almost every variety of hemp is naturally resistant to pests and predators. This makes hemp a great cover crop, as it both regenerates soil, but also keeps weeds and bugs at bay. 

 The Good Stuff 

At Goodrays, they use sustainably grown sources for their CBD. With 0% THC, their CBD products offer a simple solution to getting your daily dose of the good stuff. They offer a wide range of products including CBD Gummies & CBD Drinks. Working to promote relaxation, with anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties, CBD as part of a daily routine can benefit as many areas of your life. Almost as many as the tee shirts the rest of the plants go off to make.

 Why not try CBD out as part of a new routine in your life? You can check out Goodrays full range of goodies here.

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Cooking With Cannabis – A Guide to CBD Infused Food & Drink

With the relaxing (puns always intended) of laws around the cannabis plant, CBD has become a popular supplement for many. Its benefits hit triple-fold, with a calming effect on the mind, relaxing the body and cleansing the soul.

As more and more people jump on the bandwagon, more creative ways for getting your daily dose pop up. Tinctures have long been a popular method, due to their high concentration and relatively easy method for dosing (just a drip on the tongue). With quite a bitter taste though, many prefer to find other ways to get their fix.

 Adding CBD to Food and Drink

When adding CBD to food or drink, it is not recommended that you use a tincture. Instead, oils such as coconut or olive oil compliment the CBD. As a fat-soluble compound, it is best absorbed with fatty foods. Combining the CBD with oil therefore produces the best results.

As heat can negatively affect the properties of CBD, it is always recommended that you add the oils after you have finished cooking or baking. With CBD oils, any temptation to use them as cooking oil would only reduce the effects. Drizzle some oil onto precooked food for the best results.

With drinks, a drop of tincture in any hot or cold beverage should work a treat. Again, remember the adverse effect heat can have and if adding to a hot chocolate, allow the drink to cool a little first.

https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/cannabis-recipes?

 How CBD Impacts The Brain

The medicinal benefits of the cannabis plant stretch back eons and throughout various civilisations. With changes in global consciousness towards the plant, more and more scientific studies are being carried out into the benefits of the cannabis plant and its compounds. The results of these studies have shown interesting conclusions that support the medicinal and relaxing benefits of the compound.

What is it?

Found in industrial hemp, CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound. In 2018 a study by the World Health Organisation (WHO) found that CBD has no case reports of abuse, dependence or negative effects on health.

How Does it Work?

Interacting with the human body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), CBD interacts with receptors within this system. The ECS is like a bridge between mind and body, the receptors react to hormones and the production of these hormones is encouraged by CBD. As hormones control your mood, having the right balance can have a significant effect on your mental health and well-being.

How Does it Impact Thoughts?

As well as helping the balance of hormones, studies have shown that CBD can change the flow of blood in your brain. By stemming the flow of blood to the area of the brain responsible for anxiety, your sense of anxiety is reduced.

 Stress causes swelling in the brain. When your body experiences systemic inflammation through stress, more cortisol is released into the body. As a natural anti-inflammatory, CBD helps reduce the swelling, reducing the stress and in turn reducing the levels of cortisol your body produces.

The exhilarating sensations felt by runners, extreme sports enthusiasts and endurance athletes comes from a dopamine boost.

Exercise, bright light, sleep, massages and a balanced diet will all help to raise your serotonin and dopamine levels. Keeping this balance just right will help with libido, appetite, memory, sleeping patterns and many more positive attributes.

In finding a balance, your brain is free to operate as it should. A high functioning brain is an essential part to a productive day. With functionality high, you are likely to suffer less stress, and so you become a self-feeding machine of positivity and happiness.

Working away whilst you sleep, other studies have found that CBD reduces nightmares and other sleep disturbances. Again, feeding into your production of serotonin and dopamine the addition of CBD to regular routine can be the building blocks the balance your body needs.

Anti-Inflammatory

As an anti-inflammatory, CBD also reduces minor swelling which can occur in the brain. Known to be associated with Alzheimer’s and even strokes, swelling in the brain can be reduced and regulated with a routine CBD intake.

Keeping the brain functioning healthily with its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD also helps assist your brain's shelf-life. As an antioxidant, it reduces the oxidative damage that our brains are all susceptible to.

As we get older, oxygen has a damaging effect on the brain, this can lead to Parkinson’s disease and can also alter essential proteins.  

For a more detailed look into CBD products, CBD Oils the specifics of CBD and its many other benefits, you can check out the Goodrays website

and also check out some of our other blogs by clicking here.