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Here’s What Happened When I Used CBD Before & After a Workout
As a moderately dedicated fitness buff, I tend to stick to the basics when it comes to working out: I warm up and cool down, stay hydrated and pay attention to the signals my body sends me. But while I’d read a little bit about the uses of CBD before—primarily how it might contribute to general wellness—I hadn’t really thought about adding it to my self-care and exercise regimen. In today’s post, I’ll share a little about my experience using CBD before and after working out. The effects were subtle in some ways—and very noticeable in others. Here’s what I learned. CBD Before Workout: Supporting Your Routine I already knew that CBD is a cannabinoid, or a plant-based compound derived from either cannabis or its cousin, hemp. Because CBD isn’t intoxicating (that cannabinoid is THC), I knew that it wouldn’t make me feel “high.” But I wondered if I would notice any difference using it as part of my exercise preparation. I tried both a CBD topical and a CBD oil ingestible. My sense was that they both contributed to a gentle sense of calm and preparedness. It wasn’t a huge revelation or a dramatic shift, but I found it quietly grounding. This sense of inner relaxation helped set me up for deeper and more focused workouts. By the same token, I preferred that the effects were subtle. Some products—such as “heat rubs”—can at times feel distracting during workouts. With CBD, I noticed a gentle support rather than an overpowering sensation. CBD After Workout: Incorporating Into Post-Exercise Care CBD supported my overall routine both before and after exercising. I’m familiar with what some personal trainers call "Delayed onset muscle soreness," or “DOMs.” It’s the usual stiffness that can appear after physical exertion, and while I know it’s not anything to really worry about, it can be noticeable. Whether I used CBD topically or as an oil after a workout, I noticed an increased sense of comfort with my muscles post-exercise. My muscles felt supported, and I found it easier to prepare for my next workout. This became a welcome part of my fitness routine. Later, I considered whether this overall benefit was related to other factors, such as my improved sense of relaxation or a better evening routine. Research on CBD is ongoing and suggests a possible role in supporting a balanced lifestyle and overall wellness. For me, it contributed to a feeling of relaxation and confidence as I approached each post-workout day. Do you have other questions about using CBD as part of your wellness or fitness routine? Just ask! We’re here to provide information.
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CBD For Sleep: A Plant-Derived Sleep Aid
Many people experience challenges with sleep that can affect their quality of life. Some turn to over-the-counter products and other approaches in pursuit of a restful night. Plant-based options are also gaining attention for those interested in supporting their wellness and relaxation in the evening. CBD is one such option that has become part of nighttime wellness routines for some individuals. The Problem With the Pharmacy Over-the-counter products for sleep can sometimes be associated with unwanted side effects. One common comment is that these products may contribute to feelings of drowsiness the next day, which can impact daily activities. Some people who use prescription solutions for sleep have also reported concerns such as potential long-term dependency. Because of these concerns, some individuals explore alternative approaches, including all-natural options. Supplements like valerian root and lavender are often chosen as relaxing additions to an evening routine. Another plant-derived compound that has garnered attention for its role in nighttime routines is CBD. CBD: A Plant-Derived Option Some people are turning to CBD as a supportive element in their nighttime routine. A recent survey found that 11% of people who use CBD products do so in hopes of supporting sleep. Another survey found that rest and relaxation were among the most common reasons cited by a group of more than 300 people. For some, CBD may be included in evening rituals to promote a sense of calm and relaxation. Everyone’s experience is unique, and the intention is to create a soothing environment at bedtime. CBD: Dosing and Side Effects What’s the best CBD dosage? This can vary between individuals. A common approach is to start with a low amount and gradually adjust as needed. For those new to CBD, 5–10 mg is a typical starting point. Each person may have their own preference based on experience and comfort. CBD is generally well-tolerated, but as with any supplement, some users have reported mild side effects, including headache, upset stomach, dry mouth, or drowsiness. If you experience any discomfort, consider lowering your dosage or discontinuing use. CBD and Your Evening Routine CBD is one of many options that people consider for enhancing their evening rituals and supporting overall relaxation. Everyone’s needs and preferences are different, and what works for one person may not work for another. CBD is available in various forms, including capsules, oils, and edibles. Exploring different product types and approaches can help individuals find what suits them best. As with any wellness decision, it’s a personal journey to discover what aligns with your lifestyle and goals. If you’re interested in checking out CBD options, visit our shop to browse our selection of CBD products.
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CBD vs. CBN for Sleep: What You Need to Know
If you know Papa & Barkley, you know we’re passionate about cannabinoids. If you’re already familiar with the cannabinoids CBD and THC, you’re in the perfect place to learn about a cannabinoid that hasn’t gotten as much attention (though we have a feeling that might soon change). It’s called CBN, and we’re excited to showcase it in our forthcoming CBN gummies. But this presents a question: If you’re already a fan of our products designed for evening routines, what’s the difference: CBD or CBN? In today’s post, we’ll answer that question and others, including: What is CBN? What is the difference between CBD and CBN? What’s the best way to use CBN? Ready? Let’s learn more! What Is CBN? As regular readers of our CBD Blog know, CBD is part of a family of compounds called cannabinoids, natural compounds found in hemp, that are being studied for their various properties. CBN—short for cannabinol—is another cannabinoid, and like CBD it interacts with our bodies through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a regulatory network involved in maintaining balance in the body. What Is the Difference Between CBD and CBN? As “cannabinoid cousins,” CBD and CBN share similarities and differences. As referenced above, neither imparts a psychoactive euphoria or intoxication. CBD is often associated with relaxation and calm experiences. On the other hand, CBN is frequently chosen by those interested in incorporating a gentle option for their evening routine. Research is ongoing as academics study CBN’s qualities and its unique interactions in the body. Some people choose to combine CBD and CBN in their routines. The “entourage effect” is a phenomenon in which cannabinoids and other cannabis compounds may work together to create a broader range of experiences than they do individually. CBN and Evening Routines CBN is created by the breakdown of the cannabinoid THC, and some researchers believe this explains their overlaps in some properties. But CBN exhibits different characteristics from its “big sibling.” Many people find it complements relaxation and is popular in evening product formulas. CBN Products: What’s the Best CBN Option? Our solventless CBD extraction techniques produce a pure oil that’s naturally rich in cannabinoids and terpenes. We believe that for our products to be good for you, they have to be good for everyone: Our customers, our workers, our neighbors and the planet. The commitments we’ve made to providing chemical-free gentle extractions that preserve the integrity of the hemp plant are what makes our products among the most clean and potent available, offering you a high-quality experience. CBN Gummies: A New Way to Unwind We’re excited to announce the launch of CBN gummies. Like our CBD Releaf Gummies, our new CBD CBN Gummies are vegan, gluten-free, soy-free and handcrafted in small batches. By combining CBD with CBN, these gummies are designed to support your evening routine and help set the tone for a refreshed start to your day. CBD and CBN: Elevating Your Nighttime Routine At Papa & Barkley, we’re committed to harnessing the power of plants as simply and safely as possible so that our whole-plant infusions contain the full spectrum of terpenes and cannabinoids present in each plant we harvest. CBN is an emerging option for those seeking a natural addition to their nighttime wellness practices. We’d love for you to try our new CBN gummies and find out how they fit into your lifestyle! Do you have other questions about our CBN products? Just ask! We’re here to chat.
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How Going Solventless Better Protects Our Planet
If you’ve ever tried any of Papa & Barkley’s CBD and other wellness products, you already know that we’re big believers in the value of all-natural ingredients. If you look at what’s in our award-winning CBD Releaf Balm, for instance, you’ll see it contains things like beeswax, coconut oil, and tea tree oil. You’ll also see what it doesn’t contain: chemical solvents. What are solvents? In this context, solvents are chemicals commonly used to extract CBD from plants. While they’re effective at separating CBD and other compounds from cannabis, solvents can present environmental and production drawbacks as well. There’s a cleaner, more environmentally friendly way to achieve the same goal by relying on relatively simple solventless infusion equipment instead. This begs a question: Why would you use solvents in the first place? In today’s post, we’ll explore that topic and more. As you’ll learn, solvent-free CBD infusion may support environmental goals and is at the leading edge of functional extraction, allowing us to access more of the natural qualities of the cannabis plant without the use of added chemicals. Are you ready? Let’s dive in! Solvent Free CBD Extraction: Why It Matters If you’ve spent any time on our CBD 101 Blog, you know that CBD is a cannabinoid, or what you might think of as an innate “active ingredient” of the cannabis plant. CBD and other cannabinoids are commonly extracted and used in a wide range of products. But not all CBD is created equal. As a growing number of us are realizing, how it’s extracted from the cannabis plant makes a difference, both in relation to its purity and to its impact on the environment. CBD can be extracted from plant matter in one of two basic ways: Through the use of solvents or without them. Solvent-based extractions use chemicals such as butane, CO2, or propane to remove the CBD and other compounds from the plant matter. Then the solvent is purged so that the resulting concentrate can be used in products. By contrast, solventless infusion equipment relies on gentle heat and pressure to remove the CBD from the plants. It’s an inherently simple process with notable environmental advantages, which we’ll explore in greater detail in just a moment. One of the major issues with solvent-based extraction methods is that producers who use them must safely dispose of those chemicals once they’ve been purged. This requires the use and upkeep of sophisticated and costly waste-management systems to ensure proper handling during production and within the broader ecosystem. What’s more, many of those solvents give off high levels of volatile organic compounds, otherwise known as VOCs. According to the American Lung Association, VOCs can contribute to air quality concerns. We’re not willing to take that risk with our team. As we mentioned earlier, a properly made solvent-based product should be free of any solvent residues. But here’s our point: At Papa & Barkley, it’s our stance that any given product should be assessed not only for its quality to the end user, but to everyone who comes in contact with that product. In other words, focusing solely on end product quality isn’t the whole story. From the impact on workers who must handle such chemicals to those who live in the vicinity of production facilities, we feel that solvent-based extraction is an unnatural method for a natural product. Why Are Solventless Products Preferred? A Holistic Approach That said, we’d prefer to focus on the positive, and at P&B we believe solvent free CBD infusion is only one part of a more balanced approach to CBD-based products. Here are just a few of the ways we use this technique to produce our thoughtfully made wellness offerings. Outdoor Growing Some cannabis cultivators prefer to grow their plants indoors, arguing that this allows greater control over light, moisture, and other environmental factors. However, this approach requires significant amounts of electricity to maintain a temperature- and humidity-controlled environment. That’s one reason we prefer to let Mother Nature do the work, growing our vibrant cannabis plants outdoors instead. Organic Growing Methods When your goal is producing exceptional all-natural products, it makes sense to refrain from adding anything you wouldn’t want in your body or on your skin. This includes synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and other questionable products. Instead, we source our sungrown cannabis from farmers who cultivate using organic and regenerative principles, and chemical-free inputs for healthier soil and a more natural product. Solvent-Free CBD Infusion As we referenced earlier, our solventless infusion equipment uses gentle heat and pressure—really, that’s all!—to extract the purest CBD possible from our 100% USA-grown plants. That means our partners and employees aren’t exposed to the VOCs present in most solvents, and there’s no need for complex waste management systems to dispose of such solvents, either. Renewable Ingredients Finally, we go out of our way to use renewable ingredients such as beeswax and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT), a coconut-derived oil that is valued for its versatility in food and wellness products. For more information about MCT oil, see these resources. Solvent-Free CBD Infusion: Why It Matters to Us At Papa & Barkley, we’re committed to harnessing the full value of plants. That’s why all of our products are made with solventless, whole-plant infusions that contain the full spectrum of terpenes and cannabinoids present in each plant we harvest. From our award-winning topicals to our edibles and our tinctures, you’re experiencing these plants in a thoughtfully crafted way with each and every one of our products. Do you have other questions about solventless extraction? Just ask! We’re always here to share information.
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Why Your Mental Health Can't Be Ignored: CBD for Sustainable Support
With stress on the rise in recent years, maintaining emotional balance and a healthy mindset has become a focus for many people seeking wellness and longevity. The challenge is often finding a gentle and sustainable approach that fits individual preferences. This is a major reason why so many people are interested in exploring CBD and other cannabinoids as part of their wellness routines. Whether in the form of CBD oil or other CBD ingestibles, this all-natural plant-based option is currently being studied for its possible effects on general mood and overall wellbeing. If you’re considering trying CBD as part of your wellness approach, here’s what the current science tells us. CBD and Cannabinoids: An Overview When it comes to using cannabis or hemp products, it’s important to understand the concept of cannabinoids and how they interact with the body. Cannabinoids are a family of compounds occurring naturally in plants, including THC and CBD, which are among the most prominent found in the cannabis plant. THC is the cannabinoid associated with the plant’s characteristic “high,” while CBD is known for its more subtle effects and does not cause intoxicating effects. CBD may offer a mild sense of calm, sometimes described as a gentle cerebral feeling. Mood and general wellness are topics gaining more attention as research into cannabinoids continues to evolve. Some people may think CBD is simply a “medical” version of THC, but in fact, the two major cannabinoids interact with our bodies in different ways. The oil used in our line of CBD Releaf products is made using CBD harvested from USA-grown hemp flowers. While it’s a close cousin of the cannabis plant, hemp contains only very small amounts of THC. That’s one reason our CBD products can be shipped nationwide. If you’ve found in the past that THC’s intoxicating effects are less aligned with your preferences, you may be interested in the milder characteristics of CBD for your personal wellness routine.
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Separating Fact from Fiction: CBD and the Placebo Effect
If you know Papa & Barkley, you know that we’re passionate about CBD news and exploring the potential of this all-natural plant for general wellness, supporting recovery from exercise, and fostering a natural state of calm and wellbeing. Today, we’re especially excited to share recent CBD research that offers new and fascinating insights into the placebo effect and how it may influence our perception of physical experiences. If you’re interested in understanding how to incorporate cannabis as part of your wellness routines, this post is for you. The Experience of Sensation and Discomfort Sensations and discomfort are a part of life. While sometimes bothersome, these feelings can be important signals related to our overall wellbeing. There are many approaches for general comfort, including practices such as massage or other lifestyle choices. Here at Papa & Barkley, our best-in-class topical Releaf Balm has a special place in our history as part of the wellness journey of our founder's family. Our products are crafted to support your approach to general well-being, and we emphasize the importance of quality by making our products from 100% USA-grown hemp plants and triple-testing for purity and safety. What Is the Placebo Effect? How Placebo and CBD Relate A moment ago, we mentioned the placebo effect. What is the placebo effect? Simply put, it’s a phenomenon whereby a pharmacologically inert substance—such as a sugar pill—can create perceived effects simply because the subject believes it will improve their health. It’s a fascinating aspect of physiology, and it’s been studied extensively in clinical research. So, what does this have to do with CBD? As highlighted in recent CBD research from Syracuse University, part of CBD’s influence within wellness routines may reflect both its own properties and the power of the placebo effect. Let us explain. The experience of sensation—such as discomfort—varies for each individual and can include both the intensity and the quality of what’s felt. As Martin De Vita, one of the authors of the study, explained in an interview: “If you think of pain as the noxious noise coming from a radio, the volume can represent the intensity of the pain, while the station can represent the quality.” In other words, how the sensation feels on a qualitative level is different from how severe it is. The study suggests that both CBD and the placebo effect can influence this experience, affecting both the intensity and quality of discomfort perceptions. Echoing the findings of other clinicians, De Vita points out that it’s important to know where your CBD actually comes from. At Papa & Barkley, we make our award-winning CBD products from 100% USA-grown hemp plants, then triple test it for purity and safety. Our complete line of Releaf products—including topicals, capsules, and drops—are thoughtfully formulated to support your general wellness routine. In Conclusion: Evidence Supports Ongoing Research in Cannabinoids and Wellness The role hemp and cannabis play in the experience of comfort and wellness is complex, and research is currently underway to illuminate how cannabis terpenes (the aromatic “essential oils” that give hemp and cannabis plants their unique aromas and flavors) and other active compounds in the plants might be impacting its efficacy. This latest study adds to a growing body of knowledge about how CBD might be integrated into wellness routines in complementary ways. Do you have other questions about the placebo effect or incorporating CBD into your wellness routine? Reach out anytime; we’re always here to help!
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How CBD Supports a More Balanced Outlook
With 2021 behind us, it’s time to breathe a sigh of relief and look for ways to get a fresh start. If you’re seeking new strategies to enhance your wellbeing and support a positive state of mind, there are a variety of approaches you can consider, including cannabinoids like CBD as a part of your wellness routine. If you’ve tried our CBD topicals in the past, you may have experienced how these products can be incorporated into your self-care practices. CBD is increasingly recognized for its versatility and the range of ways people are interested in adding it to their routines for general wellbeing. Here’s what recent research has revealed about this gentle and natural plant compound within wellness-focused lifestyles. CBD and the Endocannabinoid System: A Supportive Partnership Most people experience the effects of stress from time to time. According to one survey, over three quarters of us feel stressed at least one day in a typical week. Many people are exploring new ways to support their emotional balance and overall wellbeing as part of their daily routines. CBD—short for cannabidiol—is a plant compound found in cannabis and hemp. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a regulatory network in the body that plays a role in several important processes, including memory, sleep, immune response, and more. Scientists continue to study how CBD and the ECS interact and what this means for wellness. The endocannabinoid system and cannabinoids like CBD may communicate in ways that support a balanced lifestyle. Unlike THC, CBD is non-intoxicating, and many people describe its effects as subtle and gentle. As always, individual experiences may vary, and it’s important to find products and routines that work best for your lifestyle. Our products, including Subscribe and Save packages, are available nationwide for your convenience. If you’re considering how to incorporate CBD into your wellness routine, here’s a look at some of the current research. CBD and Wellness: A Look at the Research There has been ongoing research into the ways CBD can be included in routines to support general wellbeing. Recent studies have explored how CBD may interact with the body and mood, including studies investigating its effects on behavior and emotional experiences in both animal models and humans. For example, research is ongoing to better understand the potential applications and mechanisms of CBD. It is important to note that findings in animal studies do not always translate directly to humans, and additional research is needed to confirm these effects. CBD and Wellbeing: In Conclusion We hope this information provides inspiration as you consider ways to maintain a positive outlook and support a balanced approach to wellness. Our line of CBD ingestibles is designed to complement your general health and wellness goals. If you have questions about how to integrate CBD into your routine for overall wellbeing, please ask. We’re here to support your journey!
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Cannabis and the Gender Gap: How Men and Women Use It Differently
Even as research into cannabis unlocks a number of potential uses for cannabinoids such as CBD, there's one little-noticed detail: Men and women tend to use it for different reasons. Let's explore the statistics to see how different genders use it and how these patterns may offer insight into plant-based wellness routines. Cannabis Use: Gender Differences in Use and Experience In previous posts, we’ve focused on some of the many reasons people incorporate cannabis into their daily habits, including general mood and supporting a sense of calm as part of nightly routines. Research into plant-based compounds such as CBD continues to explore a variety of potential applications, from lifestyle support to promoting overall well-being, supporting routines after activity, and contributing to mental wellness. Research also suggests there are differences in how men and women approach cannabinoid products. Here are a few examples of how—and why—this might be the case. When it comes to stress support, some studies indicate that women may absorb certain cannabinoids differently than men. One study done at Yale’s School of Medicine suggested that women may show higher levels of CBD in the body than men, though further research is needed. The researchers hypothesize that these differences may influence experiences, and more studies are underway. This idea finds support in a cross sectional study that found, in general, women more commonly cite wellness routines related to sleep and stress for their use of CBD, while men more often report incorporating it after physical activity. Additionally, that study suggested that women may be more likely to report subjective effects, a trend generally supported by the Yale research. Research is ongoing to determine whether there may be differences in how various amounts of CBD affect people of different genders. According to Dr. Sarah Lichtenstein, who headed the Yale study: “If there is a point at which higher doses trigger a neurobiological mechanism that blocks some effects of CBD, that could very likely lead to different experiences for women and men.” This line of inquiry may help guide future personal approaches. As we’ve shared previously, while CBD is reported as well-tolerated, it’s important for individuals to determine their optimal routine for their preferences. When considering CBD for men, trends indicate men are more likely to seek out products for use after physical activity or for specific goals within their wellness routines. An animal study also suggests that CBD may play a role in how certain hormones are metabolized, though more research is needed to interpret how this might be relevant to human experiences. Other animal research has examined how cannabinoids may interact with different body systems, but the impact on overall wellness in humans continues to be an area for further study. Shopping Trends: Gender Differences in Product Selection The differences between men and women extend beyond how cannabinoids interact with the body: Men and women also tend to purchase different product types. While historically there have been more male than female cannabis consumers, more women are now seeking cannabis for wellness. When shopping, women purchase topicals, tinctures and edibles more frequently than men, while men purchase more traditional flower and concentrates. Cannabis for Wellness: In Conclusion We’re passionate about our customers’ wellness and the potential of this all-natural plant. Do you have other questions about incorporating CBD into your routine? Reach out anytime; we’re always happy to provide information and resources!
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The Best CBD Products for Muscle Recovery and How to Use Them
Wintertime may make you want to curl up by the warm fire, but for us, wellness is a year-round passion. Especially during the colder months, post-workout muscles often need extra care. That’s why a growing number of fitness enthusiasts are exploring the all-natural plant power of CBD as part of their routine. If you’re interested in caring for your body this season, today’s post is for you. Take a look at why muscles can feel sore after working out, how cold weather may change your workout routine, and some general ways to support your post-exercise wellness. Muscle Recovery: Why Do We Get Sore After a Workout? No matter what kind of exercise or wellness routine you subscribe to—yoga, cycling, or tennis, to name just a few—you’ve probably noticed that certain muscles can feel strained afterward, especially if it’s been a little while since your last workout. The reason for this, typically, is something called delayed onset muscle soreness, or DOMs. DOMs are a normal response to exercise and reflect the natural breakdown and rebuilding of muscle fibers as they adapt to new levels of activity. Unless you’re experiencing severe discomfort—in which case you should take a break from your workout routine until the sensation subsides—exercise and the mild achiness that follows can be a common part of muscle adaptation. If your muscles are sore, many experts recommend gentle exercise to build endurance and post-workout stretching to support comfort. Other approaches for post-workout care include topicals or oils, such as the popular Releaf options. You may have used topical “heat rub” products such as Mentholatum or Bengay, which produce a characteristic sensation of heat or prickliness on the skin. Some fitness experts aren’t so keen on them, noting that they may numb or distract from sensations. The Endocannabinoid System and Recovery Cannabinoids such as CBD interact with our bodies through a network called the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS is believed to be one of the body’s principal regulatory systems and plays a role in maintaining balance. The ECS works with natural chemicals known as cannabinoids. Some, called endocannabinoids, are produced within the body. Others are found in the cannabis plant or its cousin, hemp—such as CBD. Researchers continue to study how plant cannabinoids may influence responses related to exercise and overall well-being. Many people include CBD in their post-workout routine to complement their wellness goals. Supporting Your Workout in Colder Temperatures If you live in a warm climate, you may find that winter doesn’t have much of an impact on how your muscles feel after exercise. But for the rest of us, cold temperatures may influence feelings of tightness and sensitivity post-workout. According to some fitness experts, it’s not uncommon to feel extra tightness and discomfort around working out during colder months. If that’s the case, spending a little extra time warming up before an intense workout may help, and some people adjust their routine or supplement choices accordingly for seasonal changes. Do you have other questions about incorporating CBD into your routine? Just ask! We’re here to help.
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