When you picture a middle schooler, or tween, what do you see? A lanky kid with braces on an iPad? Awkward middle school years? What if you pictured a kid dirty with mud and emerging from the forest instead?
The book, published on May 1, can be found on Amazon. Photo credit: Green Writers Press
Research tells us that kids who spend time in nature suffer less anxiety, have better health, longer attention spans and the ability to cope with the challenges of the middle school years. Yet, we often associate the early adolescence with decreases in time outside and less interaction with nature.
In my new book for middle school readers, The Order of the Trees, the characters discover their friendship and the power of the forest in their lives. The book will be published on May 15 (preorders are available now) by Green Writers Press, this book is one way to excite and inspire middle school students to think about their local natural areas and how they can experience them with friends.
The main character, Cedar, was found as a baby deep in the Vermont woods. We flash forward to her sixth grade year and she couldn’t be more different than the other kids. She finds her first true friend and shares her forest home with him. He quickly discovers her secret and has to race to find a plan to save their sacred woods.
It is my hope that middle school students and their parents will find this book inspiring to use their passions, interests and creativity to seek out and preserve the magic found in our local woodlands, ponds, streams and habitats. Tweens can be and do so much more than the stereotype allows. Put down that iPad, smart phone or tablet and head into the woods or your neighborhood park. You never know what you might find there.
Do you have a child in grades 4-8 in your life? The Order of the Trees was written just for this age group. Starting on May 1 and running through May 7, I’m giving away three copies of the book on Goodreads, so be sure to enter to win a copy. The Vermont-based publisher, Green Writers Press, focuses on giving voice to writers who want to make the world a better place. Ask for it at your local, independent bookstore or you can find it on Amazon.
Katy Farber is a teacher, author and founder of the blog, Non-Toxic Kids. She is also the author of two other books about education: Why Great Teachers Quit and How We Might Stop the Exodus and Change the World with Service Learning.
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Eating lots of fruits and vegetables will boost the immune system. Stevens Fremont / The Image Bank / Getty Images
By Grayson Jaggers
The connection between the pandemic and our dietary habits is undeniable. The stress of isolation coupled with a struggling economy has caused many of us to seek comfort with our old friends: Big Mac, Tom Collins, Ben and Jerry. But overindulging in this kind of food and drink might not just be affecting your waistline, but could potentially put you at greater risk of illness by hindering your immune system.
<p>Hear the word "nutrition," and often what comes to mind are fad diets, juice "cleanses" and supplements. Americans certainly seem concerned with their weight; 45 million of us spend <a href="https://www.bmc.org/nutrition-and-weight-management/weight-management" target="_blank">US$33 billion</a> annually on weight loss products. But <a href="https://nccd.cdc.gov/dnpao_dtm/rdPage.aspx?rdReport=DNPAO_DTM.ExploreByLocation&rdRequestForwarding=Form" target="_blank">one in five Americans</a> consumes nearly no vegetables – less than one serving per day.</p><p>When the emphasis is on weight loss products, and not healthy day-to-day eating, the essential role that nutrition plays in keeping us well never gets communicated. Among the many things I teach students in my <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=o_1CmfkAAAAJ&hl=en" target="_blank">nutritional biochemistry course</a> is the clear relationship between a balanced diet and a <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nutres.2020.07.005" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">strong, well-regulated immune system</a>.</p><p>Along with social distancing measures and effective vaccines, a healthy immune system is our best defense against coronavirus infection. To keep it that way, proper nutrition is an absolute must. Although not a replacement for medicine, good nutrition can work synergistically with medicine to improve vaccine effectiveness, reduce the prevalence of chronic disease and lower the burden on the health care system.</p>
<h3>The Impact of the Western Diet</h3><p>Scientists know that people with <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html?" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">preexisting health conditions</a> are at greater risk for severe COVID-19 infections. That includes those with diabetes, obesity, and kidney, lung or cardiovascular disease. Many of these conditions are linked to a <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dsx.2020.05.025" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">dysfunctional immune system</a>.</p><p>Patients with cardiovascular or metabolic disease have a delayed immune response, giving viral invaders a head start. When that happens, the body reacts with a more intense inflammatory response, and healthy tissues are damaged along with the virus. It's not yet clear how much this damage factors into the increased mortality rate, but it is a factor.</p><p>What does this have to do with nutrition? The Western diet typically has a high proportion of red meat, saturated fat and what's known as "<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41538-018-0020-x" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">bliss point foods</a>" rich in sugar and salt. Adequate fruit and vegetable consumption is missing. Despite the abundance of calories that often accompanies the Western diet, many Americans <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12061735" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">don't consume nearly enough</a> of the essential nutrients our bodies need to function properly, including vitamins A, C and D, and the minerals iron and potassium. And that, at least in part, causes a dysfunctional immune system: too few vitamins and minerals, and too many empty calories.</p><p>A healthy immune system responds quickly to limit or prevent infection, but it also promptly "turns down the dial" to avoid damaging the cells of the body. Sugar disrupts this balance. A high proportion of refined sugar in the diet can cause <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pcad.2017.12.001" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">chronic, low-grade inflammation</a> in addition to diabetes and obesity. Essentially, that "dial" is never turned all the way off.</p><p>While inflammation is a natural part of the immune response, it can be harmful when it's constantly active. Indeed, obesity is itself characterized by chronic, low-grade inflammation and a dysregulated immune response.</p><p>And <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2019.01071" target="_blank">research shows</a> that vaccines may be less effective in obese people. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4590616/" target="_blank">The same applies</a> to those who regularly drink too much alcohol.</p>
<h3>How Nutrients Help</h3><p>Nutrients, essential substances that help us grow properly and remain healthy, help maintain the immune system. In contrast to the delayed responses associated with malnutrition, <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm7090258" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">vitamin A</a> fights against multiple infectious diseases, including measles. Along with <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7043011" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">vitamin D</a>, it regulates the immune system and helps to prevent its overactivation. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9111211" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Vitamin C</a>, an antioxidant, protects us from the injury caused by free radicals.</p><p>Polyphenols, a wide-ranging group of molecules found in all plants, also have anti-inflammatory properties. There's plenty of evidence to show a diet rich in <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11040751" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">plant polyphenols</a> can lower the risk of chronic conditions, like hypertension, insulin insensitivity and cardiovascular disease.</p><p>Why don't we Americans eat more of these plant-based foods and fewer of the bliss-based foods? It's complicated. People are swayed by advertising and influenced by hectic schedules. One starting place would be to teach people how to eat better from an early age. Nutrition education should be emphasized, from kindergarten through high school to medical schools.</p><p>Millions of Americans live in <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2017/16_0408.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">food deserts</a>, having limited access to healthy foods. In these circumstances, education must be paired with increased access. These long-term goals could bring profound returns with a relatively small investment.</p><p>Meantime, all of us can take small steps to incrementally improve our own dietary habits. I'm not suggesting we stop eating cake, french fries and soda completely. But we as a society have yet to realize the food that actually makes us feel good and healthy is not comfort food.</p><p>The COVID-19 pandemic won't be the last we face, so it's vital that we use every preventive tool we as a society have. Think of good nutrition as a seat belt for your health; it doesn't guarantee you won't get sick, but it helps to ensure the best outcomes.</p>
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<em>Grayson Jaggers is an assistant professor at the University of Southern California – Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences.</em><br/>
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<em>Disclosure statement: </em><em>Grayson Jaggers does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond his academic appointment.</em>
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<em>Reposted with permission from <a href="https://theconversation.com/good-nutrition-can-contribute-to-keeping-covid-19-and-other-diseases-away-145086" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>.</em>
</p><script async="async" data-counter="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/145086/count?distributor=republish-lightbox-advanced" id="theconversation_tracker_hook" src="https://theconversation.com/javascripts/lib/content_tracker_hook.js" type="text/javascript"></script>From Your Site Articles
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Affordable, Self-Administered COVID-19 Tests Could Use Your Cell Phone
25 September
Health + Wellness
A graphic shows how Rhoel Dinglasan's smartphone-based saliva test works. University of Florida
As the world continues to navigate the line between reopening and maintaining safety protocols to slow the spread of the coronavirus, rapid and accurate diagnostic screening remains critical to control the outbreak. New mobile-phone-based, self-administered COVID-19 tests being developed independently around the world could be a key breakthrough in making testing more widely available, especially in developing nations.
<p>Point-of-care testing (POCT) involves the use of easily portable devices to carry out analytical testing outside of a central laboratory, in places like long-term care facilities, local clinics and patients' homes, a new study by the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7288261/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">National Center for Biomedical Information</a> said. POCT provides early and fast diagnostic results; when combined with microfluidic systems that can measure traces of diseases and infections based on small amounts of fluids with daily high sensitivity and speed, POCT can result in faster, more cost-effective diagnostic instruments that do not require any trained healthcare workers to administer them, the study reported. Smartphone-based microfluidic POCT uses personal mobile devices to carry out the whole analytical process using bodily fluids like saliva. Critically, this also will result in earlier diagnoses that can help slow the spread of diseases like COVID-19.</p>
<p>Recently, Rhoel Dinglasan, a University of Florida infectious diseases professor and his industry collaborators won second place in a national technology competition sponsored by the National Institutes of Health for a smartphone-based, rapid saliva test they developed that can be used to diagnose COVID-19, along with two other diseases of major global importance, malaria and anemia. The test adapted the team's existing mobile-based test for malaria to also test for anemia and COVID-19, explained Dinglasan in a <a href="https://ufhealth.org/news/2020/smartphone-based-saliva-test-can-detect-covid-19-earns-uf-professor-honors-national" target="_blank">University of Florida Health news release</a>.</p><p>"This test will leverage existing technology to fill a pressing and unmet need in global public health by allowing us to differentiate between three diseases that can present similarly in terms of symptoms," Dinglasan said in the release. "As treatment and containment protocols differ for each disease, the proper diagnosis delivered in literally minutes could save lives."</p>
<p>Their solution is the CLIP-CAM, an adapter that attaches to a smartphone that fits a detection cassette, the release detailed. A saliva sample is self-collected and activated, and a droplet is put into the cassette. The camera flash is used to excite the detection system in the cassette, which can then be read by a smartphone app. Results are available in 15 minutes or less, Dinglasan said, the release reported.</p><p>He further explained the importance of quick diagnoses to the <a href="https://www.gainesville.com/story/news/coronavirus/2020/09/18/uf-professor-earns-national-honors-smartphone-base-saliva-test-covid-19/3486844001/" target="_blank">Gainesville Sun</a>: "When we go out to work in these different countries, we need to differentiate when a person comes in, we need to know if it is COVID-19, malaria or anemia. Without that ability, how would we know if we should send this person home to quarantine because we think he has COVID-19? What if it is malaria? You need to give that child or adult anti-malaria drugs or they will die."</p>
<p>Similar prototyping is underway around the world. At the University of Utah, electrical and computer engineering professor Massood Tabib-Azar adapted the platform he used to detect the Zika virus to now detect COVID-19, reported <a href="https://www.biospace.com/article/nsf-funded-smartphone-covid-19-dx-puts-testing-in-the-hands-of-the-public/" target="_blank">BioSpace</a>. His sensor can also test for the presence of the virus on surfaces like door handles or desks by brushing a swab on a surface and then onto the sensor, the news report said. Tabib-Azar is also exploring the potential of detecting COVID-19 in floating microscopic particles in enclosed spaces like an elevator.</p><p>The Utah sensor is reusable, because samples can be destroyed using a small electrical current to disintegrate viruses or saliva can be placed on a disposable sheet like a piece of paper put on top of the sensor, Tabib-Azar told BioSpace. His test is also designed to upload the results to a central server that can map out positive results in an area to give public health experts a better idea of where outbreak hotspots are, the report said.</p>
<p>"Mobile-based epidemic monitoring is nothing but a logical next step, because only the mobile devices that move with people can keep up with the contacts they make," Tabib-Azar said, speaking of related research in <a href="https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8626091" target="_blank">IEEE Access</a>.</p><p>In Ontario, Canada, a third diagnostic prototype called Atlas hopes to use the same saliva-to-mobile-phone testing concept to make testing more widely available, from remote communities to front-line screening, reported <a href="https://www.hospimedica.com/covid-19/articles/294783026/smartphone-powered-saliva-based-covid-19-diagnostic-test-delivers-lab-quality-results-to-app-in-20-minutes.html" target="_blank">HospiMedica.com</a>. Atlas is designed as a single-use, disposable device that could deliver results in 20 minutes.</p><p>All three tests have received enough funding to get through the prototype phase. Additional support will help to quickly transform the design concepts into mass-produced products for global health.</p>
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A meteorologist monitors weather in NOAA's Center for Weather and Climate Prediction on July 2, 2013 in Riverdale, Maryland. Mark Wilson / Getty Images
The Trump White House is now set to appoint two climate deniers to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in one month.
<p>First, <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/david-legates-noaa-2647660690.html" target="_self">David Legates</a>, a University of Delaware professor who has questioned the scientific consensus that human activity drives the <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/climate-change/" target="_self">climate crisis</a> and has argued carbon dioxide emissions are actually beneficial, was named deputy assistant secretary of commerce for environmental observation. Now, the Trump administration is in the process of appointing meteorologist Ryan Maue to serve as the agency's chief scientist, two NOAA officials confirmed to <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/weather/2020/09/21/noaa-chief-scientist-maue/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Washington Post Monday</a>. Maue, who runs the site <a href="http://weathermodels.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">weathermodels.com</a>, does accept that the burning of greenhouse gases is impacting the global climate. However, he has spoken out against worst-case-scenario climate predictions and criticized activists for using <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/extreme-weather" target="_self">extreme weather</a> events to argue for reducing the burning of <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/fossil-fuels" target="_self">fossil fuels</a>.</p>
<p>"For the second time this month, a person who misrepresents, distorts, and disagrees with climate science is being placed in a science position at NOAA," professor <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/katharine-hayhoe-climate-change-2550366098.html" target="_self">Katharine Hayhoe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KHayhoe/status/1308235952381362178" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">tweeted</a> in response to the news.</p><p>Maue previously served as an adjunct scholar with the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank that questioned mainstream climate science, The Washington Post pointed out. He co-wrote an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal challenging the climate predictions of NASA scientist James Hansen, which have been supported by peer-reviewed studies. Most recently, he has lashed out against California Gov. Gavin Newsom and his supporters for linking the climate crisis to the state's <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/wildfires-california-washington-oregon-photos-2647585008.html" target="_self">record-breaking wildfire season</a>.</p><p>"Seems the Democrats have coordinated their efforts to use the devastating California fires as an opportunity to score political points in the upcoming election by blaming them solely on climate change (and Trump)," he wrote in a deleted tweet recovered by The Washington Post.</p>
<p>However, a number of studies have shown that changes to the climate are making the state's fires more frequent and more intense.</p><p>As chief scientist, Maue would influence NOAA's research agenda for oceanic and atmospheric science, as well as its scientific integrity policy. He still has to pass ethics and security reviews, but would not require Senate confirmation.</p><p>Other scientists questioned whether Maue had the credentials for the role.</p><p>"Normally, when people are chosen for high-profile positions relating to climate change, I've heard of them. I have no idea who this person is, other than I've seen him saying things about climate that are wrong on social media and in op-eds. I suspect that he has the one and only necessary qualification for the job: a willingness to advance the agenda of climate deniers," Texas A&M climate scientist Andrew Dessler <a href="https://twitter.com/AndrewDessler/status/1308241184234631168" target="_blank">tweeted</a> in reaction to Maue's likely appointment. "To me, this emphasizes how thin the climate deniers' bench is. I'm sure they'd prefer to have someone with actual credentials take the job, but this shows that credentialized experts who dispute mainstream climate science simply don't exist."</p>
<p>Maue told <a href="https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2020/09/climate-science-critic-be-chief-scientist-key-us-climate-research-agency" target="_blank">E&E News</a> he believes in "lukewarming."</p><p>"Lukewarming is not climate denial," Maue said. "Most of us on this side of the issue believe in lower climate sensitivity. We don't believe there's going to be 5° of warming; we figure it's at the lower end of 1.5°."</p><p>However, most scientists think the world could hit 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels within the next two decades and then continue to heat up.</p>
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A plastic bag caught in a tree in New Jersey's Palisades Park. James Leynse / Stone / Getty Images
New Jersey is one step closer to passing what environmental advocates say is the strongest anti-plastic legislation in the nation.
<p>The state Legislature passed a sweeping measure Thursday that would ban <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/plastic-bags" target="_self">plastic bags</a> from stores and restaurants and single-use food and drink containers made from polystyrene foam, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/25/nyregion/nj-paper-plastic-bag-ban.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The New York Times reported</a>. The ban is noteworthy for being the first in the country to include supermarket paper bags as well as plastic ones.</p>
<p>"This is the single most comprehensive plastics and paper reduction bill in the nation," former U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regional Administrator and <a href="https://beyondplastics.org/" target="_blank">Beyond Plastics</a> President Judith Enck said in a <a href="https://www.insidernj.com/press-release/environmental-leaders-cheer-nj-legislative-votes-pass-single-use-waste-ban-bill-legislation-now-strongest-country/" target="_blank">statement published by Insider NJ</a>. "Building on the success of local laws adopted throughout New Jersey to reduce plastic pollution, the NJ State Legislature listened to the people and not the polluters and embraced a sensible environmental strategy."</p><p>The bill now passes to Gov. Philip Murphy, who intends to sign it, a spokesperson told The New York Times. The bans on bags and containers will go into effect 18 months after he does so, <a href="https://www.northjersey.com/story/news/environment/2020/09/24/nj-plastic-bag-ban-2020-nj-one-step-away-nations-toughest-ban/3506419001/" target="_blank">NorthJersey.com reported</a>.</p>
<p>In addition to banning plastic and paper bags and plastic food containers, the bill will also limit <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/plastic-straws" target="_self">plastic straws</a> in restaurants so that they will only be available upon request. There are exemptions for newspaper bags; bags used for loose produce, fish or meat; dry-cleaning bags and prescription drug bags.</p><p>The measure effectively settles a long-running debate about whether plastic or paper bags are worse for the environment by banning both. Plastic bags account for about 12 percent of U.S. <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/plastic-pollution" target="_self">plastic pollution</a>, according to The New York Times. But paper bags need more energy, and therefore more <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/climate-change/" target="_self">climate</a> pollution, to make. <a href="https://www.sierraclub.org/new-jersey" target="_blank">New Jersey Sierra Club</a> Director Jeff Tittle said the new legislation would encourage people to use more sustainable, reusable shopping bags.</p>
<p>However, the ban on paper bags was also the key to getting an important supermarket trade group to support the bill, NorthJersey.com reported. The organization argued that it would cost stores too much to supply customers with only paper bags.</p><p>"The ban on paper bags is critically important to the success of this legislation," New Jersey Food Council President Linda Doherty said ahead of Thursday's vote. "Without a ban, consumers will simply move to paper single-use bags and we will not address the underlying goal of reducing our reliance on single-use products."</p><p>However, the food council originally opposed any sort of statewide bag ban, <a href="https://www.njspotlight.com/2020/09/sweeping-nj-bag-ban-plastic-paper-restricting-polystyrene-foam-food-containers/" target="_blank">NJ Spotlight News reported</a>. It changed its position after as many as 57 communities passed their own separate bans and it decided it would be easier to deal with a single, statewide law than a patchwork of local ones.</p>
<p>Not everyone has been persuaded, however. American Forest and Paper Association President and Chief Executive Heidi Brock said the bill unfairly targeted her industry.</p><p>"The New Jersey Legislature has undermined an environmentally responsible option for consumers," she said in a statement reported by The New York Times. "Furthermore, the ban on paper bags sends an alarming message in devaluing family wage jobs, which are often union labor, in addition to the indirect jobs supported by the paper and wood products industry in the state."</p>
<p>Republican Assemblywoman Holly Schepisi, meanwhile, argued that the bill would put an additional burden on a restaurant industry already struggling because of the <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/coronavirus" target="_self">coronavirus</a> pandemic.</p><p>"We're essentially kicking them in the head,'' she said, as NJ Spotlight News reported.</p><p>On the other hand, environmental advocates argued that plastic has long polluted New Jersey waterways. In recent years, more than 80 percent of the litter gathered on beaches by <a href="https://www.cleanoceanaction.org/index.php?id=334" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Clean Ocean Action</a> from Cape May to Sandy Hook has been plastic, NorthJersey.com reported. The material has even been found in some of the state's most pristine rivers and creeks.</p><p>"Now, we can all look forward to picking up less trash on our beaches," Clean Ocean Action executive director Cindy Zipf told NorthJersey.com. "There will be less plastics in the <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/ocean" target="_self">ocean</a> to cause harm and death to <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/marine-life" target="_self">marine life</a>."</p>
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Did you know that nearly 30% of adults do, or will, suffer from a sleep condition at some point in their life? Anyone who has experienced disruptions in their sleep is familiar with the havoc that it can wreak on your body and mind. Lack of sleep, for one, can lead to anxiety and lethargy in the short-term. In the long-term, sleep deprivation can lead to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Fortunately, there are proven natural supplements that can reduce insomnia and improve quality sleep for the better. CBD oil, in particular, has been scientifically proven to promote relaxing and fulfilling sleep. Best of all, CBD is non-addictive, widely available, and affordable for just about everyone to enjoy. For these very reasons, we have put together a comprehensive guide on the best CBD oil for sleep. Our goal is to provide objective, transparent information about CBD products so you are an informed buyer.
<h2>Overview of Top CBD Oils for Sleep</h2><p>Through our rigorous vetting process, we were able to narrow our choices down to 5 top picks:</p><ol><li><strong><a href="http://md.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">CBDMD</a> </strong>- Top Pick & Best Value</li><li><strong><a href="http://fx.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">CBDFX</a> </strong>- Best Full Spectrum</li><li><a href="http://nu.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow"><strong>Nuleaf Naturals</strong></a> - Best Organic</li><li><strong><a href="http://jy.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Joy Organics</a> </strong>- Best Taste</li><li><a href="http://dm.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow"><strong>Diamond CBD</strong></a> - Most Variety</li></ol><p>Each of these products has been handpicked by our editorial team after extensive research. </p><h2>How Did We Make This List?</h2><p>Many reviews of CBD products fail to take an objective approach. </p><p>To make this list, we <strong>examined over 5,000 reviews </strong>on both brand websites and consumer reports. In addition, we <strong>personally tested more than 15 brands of CBD oils </strong>and vetted the integrity of each company, including their track record, histories, and practices. </p><p>It is our goal to make sure you have the most objective information possible.</p><h2>CBD for Sleep: 5 Top Rated Brands</h2><h2>1. <a href="http://md.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">CBDMD</a> - Best Value</h2>
<a href="http://md.trkclkss.online" target="_blank"><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDQzOTU4My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwOTk0NTM0N30.0xzUAjqrallHYgr3HzW2I5y-wIB1pX_ee6fvfU7V3pE/img.jpg?width=980" id="9d35f" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="c409cf9c3a42635048879f261a032647" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a><p>First on our list is the best value CBD oil, CBDmd. Founded in 2016 by Martin Sumichrast and Scott Coffman, CBDmd is based out of North Carolina. CBDmd has won our pick for the best overall brand for CBD oil for sleep due to its unique blends suited for relaxation and affordable prices.</p><p>CBDmd currently has 11 different products that can be used to promote better sleep. Nine are tincture blends and the other two are soft gel blends. Tinctures can be bought in 300 mg - 7500 mg bottles and soft gels can be bought in 500 mg and 1000 mg quantities. All products are vegan-friendly and made from non-GMO hemp. Their products are also free from THC. </p><p>The bottles come in many refreshing flavors with eye droppers included. All CBD products are made through a sophisticated ethanol extraction method called "flash chromatography." Aside from CBD, CBDmd's products contain a wide range of essential oils such as lemon balm extract and chamomile flower extract.</p><p>Lastly, all CBDmd products go through extensive third-party testing for quality. They also have a generous 60-day 100% money-back guarantee. </p><p><strong>Product and Brand Highlights</strong></p><ul><li>Organic Broad Spectrum CBD</li><li>High-tech ethanol extraction leaves very little residue</li><li>Fair prices</li><li>Locally sourced hemp</li><li>Refreshing flavors for sleep aid products</li><li>Oil tincture and soft gel blends available</li></ul><p><strong>Hemp Source</strong></p><ul><li>USA</li></ul><p><strong>Extraction Method</strong></p><ul><li>Flash chromatography hydrocarbon extraction</li></ul><p><strong>Ingredients</strong></p><ul><li>Hemp Extract (Cannabidiol, Cannabigerol, Cannabinol), MCT Oil, Flavoring</li></ul><p><strong>Size</strong></p><ul><li>300 mg</li><li>750 mg</li><li>1500 mg</li><li>3000 mg</li><li>5000 mg</li><li>7500 mg</li></ul><p><strong>Flavors</strong></p><ul><li>Natural, Orange, Mint, Berry</li></ul><p><strong>Lab Results</strong></p><ul><li>50 mg CBD per mL (1500 mg tincture)</li><li>No THC (<0.0 mg/mL)</li></ul><p><strong>Shipping Policy</strong></p><ul><li>Free shipping to all US states for orders greater than $80. $4.95 flat shipping on all other orders. </li></ul><p><strong>Refund Policies</strong></p><ul><li>100% 60-day money-back guarantee.</li></ul><p><strong>Coupons</strong></p><ul><li>BLISS (20% off all online purchases)</li></ul><p><strong>Price</strong></p><ul><li>CBDmd has very affordable prices. Their CBD sleep products cost $0.09 per mg.</li></ul><p><strong>Overview:</strong></p><p>CBDmd has some of the best CBD products for sleep that you can find. They use an extremely sophisticated extraction process that creates high-quality blends but they still manage to have competitive prices. They also offer soft gel blends which are a nice change of pace from oil blends. Lastly, their sleep aids contain natural melatonin which makes them even more effective.</p><p><a href="http://md.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow"><strong>Visit CBDMD to buy their CBD Oil</strong></a></p><h2>2. <a href="http://fx.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">CBDFX</a> - Best Full Spectrum</h2>
<a href="http://fx.trkclkss.online" target="_blank"><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDQzOTU5Mi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MTAyODg0MX0.Kco0oU7SyRNXO84kXZAcYzskXEAeQj12jREvMtPdRfM/img.jpg?width=980" id="eb700" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="51f195b6a60ca91c6a8c087f28691bbe" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a><p>Up next on our list is CBDfx, which has won our bid for the best Full Spectrum CBD oil for sleep. CBDfx stands out due to its wide range of products which include tincture, edibles, and vaping products. CBDfx also makes isolate blends along with Full Spectrum blends.</p><p>CBDfx was founded in 2014 by Ali Esmaili and Jameson Rodgers. The goal of the company is to deliver the finest, purest, and most effective CBD products to both new and experienced users. CBDfx is based out of San Fernando Valley and is currently the 5th largest privately held CBD company in the world.</p><p>All of CBDfx's products are made using organically grown hemp sourced from local farms. All oil blends are vegan and made without synthetic chemicals or preservatives. Further, they offer a generous 30-day money-back guarantee for unused and unopened products.</p><p>CBDfx makes all of its products with supercritical CO2 extraction, meaning that their products are high quality. Also, they have very positive customer reviews and an A+ rating on the BBB. They are a transparent and reliable company. </p><p><strong>Product and Brand Highlights</strong></p><ul><li>They have Full Spectrum and Broad Spectrum blends</li><li>All products are 100% vegan and made using locally sourced hemp</li><li>They use high-quality supercritical CO2 extraction</li><li>Very reasonable and competitive pricing</li></ul><p><strong>Hemp Source</strong></p><ul><li>USA</li></ul><p><strong>Extraction Method</strong></p><ul><li>Supercritical CO2 extraction</li></ul><p><strong>Ingredients</strong></p><ul><li>Organic Full Spectrum CBD with a coconut oil matrix</li></ul><p><strong>Size</strong></p><ul><li>500 mg</li><li>1000 mg</li><li>1500 mg</li></ul><p><strong>Flavors</strong></p><ul><li>Natural</li></ul><p><strong>Lab Results</strong></p><ul><li>33.33 mg CBD per mL (1000 mg tincture)</li><li>No THC (<0.01mg/mL)</li></ul><p><strong>Shipping Policy</strong></p><ul><li>Free shipping to all 50 states</li></ul><p><strong>Refund Policies</strong></p><ul><li>30-day refund policy for unopened and unused products. Products can be returned via the company website. </li></ul><p><strong>Coupons</strong></p><ul><li>BLISS20 (20% off sitewide)</li></ul><p><strong>Price</strong></p><ul><li>CBDfx's products are very reasonably priced and fall within the $0.15-$0,20 per mg.</li></ul><p><strong>Overview:</strong></p><p>CBDfx is one of the highest-quality CBD manufacturers in the country. They use an extremely sophisticated method of CBD extraction and each product is tested for quality.</p><p><a href="http://fx.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow"><strong>Buy this CBD Oil at CBDFX</strong></a></p><h2>3. <a href="http://nu.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Nuleaf Naturals</a> - Best Organic</h2>
<a href="http://nu.trkclkss.online" target="_blank"><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDQzOTU5NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzNTQzNTUyOX0.-3-ggT-hiz006tds7TXFqVdgyXN1-wPPKHCEsBPDUh8/img.jpg?width=980" id="b4718" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="faf197ccc27aac0633a3ec7601d3b9ea" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a><p>At the halfway point of our roundup is Nuleaf Naturals. Nuleaf Naturals is based out of Colorado and was founded back in 2014. Nuleaf's main stores are on their online storefront but they also have partner locations across all 50 states. The company specializes in CBD tinctures and oils but also makes other products such as gummies.</p><p>All of Nuleaf Naturals Oils are characterized by their diverse cannabinoid profile and potencies. There are 2 main CBD oils blends and capsules you can buy. As we said, Nuleaf Naturals makes very highly concentrated products. Each blend contains a wide spectrum of cannabinoids. The mixture of cannabinoids reinforces and improves each others' effects. </p><p>All blends are made using a thorough CO2 extraction process. In fact, Nuleaf uses a two-stage extraction process, first using subcritical then next supercritical CO2. This double process ensures the mixture is purer. </p><p>All Nuleaf products are made in the US using hemp sourced from Colorado. They do not use any synthetic chemicals in their blends and they source their materials from farms that use sustainable green techniques. They also third-party test all of their products for quality and purity. They offer free shipping to all states in the US and have a standard 30-day money-back guarantee for unused and unopened products. </p><p><strong>Product and Brand Highlights</strong></p><ul><li>All blends are Full Spectrum and contain a mixture of CBDs and cannabinoids</li><li>The company uses an extremely efficient two-stage extraction method to make high-quality oils</li><li>Hemp used is locally spruced in Colorado and is not grown with pesticides and synthetic chemicals</li><li>Very high potency blends</li><li>Free shipping for all orders in the US</li></ul><p><strong>Hemp Source</strong></p><ul><li>Colorado, USA</li></ul><p><strong>Extraction Method</strong></p><ul><li>2-stage CO2 extraction</li></ul><p><strong>Ingredients</strong></p><ul><li>Full Spectrum Hemp Extract, Organic Virgin Hemp Seed Oil</li></ul><p><strong>Size</strong></p><ul><li>300-6000 mg</li></ul><p><strong>Flavors</strong></p><ul><li>Natural</li></ul><p><strong>Lab Results</strong></p><ul><li>30 mg CBD per mL (900 mg tincture)</li><li>0.14% THC</li></ul><p><strong>Shipping Policy</strong></p><ul><li>Nuleaf Naturals offers free shipping to all 50 US states. They ship their products through USPS. </li></ul><p><strong>Refund Policies</strong></p><ul><li>Nuleaf Naturals offers a 20-day money-back guarantee for unused and unopened products. Customers do have to pay shipping on returns</li></ul><p><strong>Coupons</strong></p><ul><li>BLISS20 (20% off all online purchases)</li></ul><p><strong>Price</strong></p><ul><li>Nuleaf Naturals are all competitively priced. The cost for their 900mg CBD oil blend is $0.11 per mg. Even though their prices are affordable, they are very potent and high-quality.</li></ul><p><strong>Overview:</strong></p><p>Nuleaf Naturals is one of the best CBD manufacturers in the country. Their blends are made using a high-tech extraction process and are not made with any synthetic chemicals. All products are third party tested and they also have a very generous free shipping policy for all of their products, no matter the price.</p><p><a href="http://nu.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow"><strong>Visit Nuleaf Naturals & Get 20% discount using BLISS20</strong></a></p><h2>4. <a href="http://jy.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Joy Organics</a> - Best Taste</h2>
<a href="http://jy.trkclkss.online" target="_blank"><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDQzOTU5OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2MzA4Mzc1MX0.h6FQKruUEtYB3Asq6m7Fo0OUgRFknEz1yNext45znr0/img.jpg?width=980" id="57c82" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a8377527108a388345541cf3a3da46ed" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a><p>4th on our roundup is Joy Organics. Joy Organics was founded in 2017 by current CEO Joy Smith. Smith was inspired to make Joy Organics after her own experiences with CBD. Joy Organics is based out of Colorado and currently has branches in Texas and Kansas. The company is dedicated to creating premium CBD products that will help people live happily and healthily.</p><p>All of Joy Organics products are made with a high-grade proprietary supercritical CO2 extraction process. This process ensures that the plant's phytocannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids are intact, resulting in a high-quality Broad Spectrum blend. </p><p>Joy Organics offsets a wide range of CBD products including oils, gummies, soft gels, and tinctures. They also have salves to apply directly to the skin and energy drink mixtures. </p><p>Joy Organics offers free shipping to all 50 US states and also has a generous 30-day money-back guarantee for unused and unopened products. </p><p><strong>Product and Brand Highlights</strong></p><ul><li>Broad Spectrum cbd oil blends</li><li>Uses proprietary extraction and emulsification processes to make their products</li><li>All products are THC-free</li><li>CBD products go through in-house and third-party testing</li><li>Creation process creates small particles that are absorbed more quickly by the body</li><li>Free shipping and money-back policy</li></ul><p><strong>Hemp Source</strong></p><ul><li>Colorado, USA</li></ul><p><strong>Extraction Method</strong></p><ul><li>Supercritical CO2 extraction</li></ul><p><strong>Ingredients</strong></p><ul><li>Organic Extra-Virgin Olive Oil and Phytocannabinoid-Rich Hemp Extract</li></ul><p><strong>Size</strong></p><ul><li>225 mg</li><li>450 mg</li><li>900 mg</li><li>1350 mg</li></ul><p><strong>Flavors</strong></p><ul><li>Tranquil Mint, Natural, Summer Lemon, Orange Bliss</li></ul><p><strong>Lab Results</strong></p><ul><li>30 mg CBD per mL (900 mg tincture)</li><li>0 THC (<0.01 mg/mL)</li></ul><p><strong>Shipping Policy</strong></p><ul><li>Free shipping on all orders</li></ul><p><strong>Refund Policies</strong></p><ul><li>30-day money-back guarantee for unused and unopened products</li></ul><p><strong>Coupons</strong></p><ul><li>BLISS15 (15% off sitewide)</li></ul><p><strong>Price</strong></p><ul><li>Joy Organics falls in the middle of the price spectrum. Their products cost about $0.12 per mg.</li></ul><p><strong>Overview:</strong></p><p>Overall, Joy organics is a fantastic CBD company that makes high-quality organic products. Their CBD products are made using a unique technique that creates very small particles that are absorbed faster in the bloodstream. All products are THC-free and also go through in-house and third-party testing.</p><p><a href="http://jy.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow"><strong>Check Joy Organic's CBD Oil here</strong></a></p><h2>5. <a href="http://dm.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Diamond CBD</a> - Best Variety</h2>
<a href="http://dm.trkclkss.online" target="_blank"><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDQzOTYwMS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NjM3MzY3NH0.HES9WlJmUvtlI6wc6uswn6rxmSVZos0CpcXo35Ao2sI/img.jpg?width=980" id="b8af3" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="39450ce6a3de5fe51b4092680ad9f269" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a><p>Last on our list is Diamond CBD. Diamond CBD offers an extremely wide selection of products including oils, gummies, and vape liquids. Diamond CBD is owned by Potnetwork Holdings who own several other CBD companies. The company is based out of Colorado and uses hemp sourced from both Colorado and Kentucky. </p><p>Diamond CBD uses a sophisticated CO2 extraction process to make its products and third-party tests everything. Diamond CBD has been through a lot of changes in the past few years. <br><br></p><p>One thing that makes Diamond CBD stand out is its enormous array of products. They have hundreds of products. There are over 3 product pages just for their selection of oils. You can also scroll to the bottom of the screen to get access to lab reports on hundreds of products. </p><p>Diamond CBD's Relax line are CBD products made specifically for sleep aid. Relax oils and gummies include a Full Spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes. You can buy sizes ranging from 100 mg to over 3500 mg. </p><p>Diamond CBD also includes a wide range of flavors, including honey, watermelon, and blueberry. They have the most flavor options and products out of most of the CBD companies we have seen. This flexibility is great when you are looking for something for a specific ailment. </p><p><strong>Product and Brand Highlights</strong></p><ul><li>Enormous range of products</li><li>Relax line is meant specifically for sleep</li><li>Supercritical CO2 extraction</li><li>Wide range of sizes for products (100 mg - 3500 mg)</li><li>Locally sourced hemp</li></ul><p><strong>Hemp Source</strong></p><ul><li>Colorado and Kentucky</li></ul><p><strong>Extraction Method</strong></p><ul><li>Supercritical CO2 extraction</li></ul><p><strong>Ingredients</strong></p><ul><li>Full Spectrum CBD, Vegetable Glycerin, Propylene Glycol</li></ul><p><strong>Size</strong></p><ul><li>25-3500 mg</li></ul><p><strong>Flavors</strong></p><ul><li>Extremely broad range of flavors</li></ul><p><strong>Lab Results</strong></p><ul><li>68.1 mg CBD per mL (1500 mg Relax Blend)</li></ul><p><strong>Shipping Policy</strong></p><ul><li>Free shipping in the US on orders more than $100. $10 on smaller orders. </li></ul><p><strong>Refund Policies</strong></p><ul><li>90-day money-back guarantee for unused and unopened products</li></ul><p><strong>Price</strong></p><ul><li>Diamond CBD products range from $0.05-$0.12 per mg</li></ul><p><strong>Overview:</strong></p><p>They have a huge list of products and an entire line created specifically for relaxation and sleep. Diamond CBD also has a very generous 90-day money-back guarantee on all its products.</p><p><strong><a href="http://dm.trkclkss.online" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Visit Diamond CBD to buy their CBD Oil</a></strong></p>
<h2>Factors that Help Us Determine the Best CBD Oils for Sleep</h2><p><strong>Hemp source: </strong>We only look for products that are made with quality organically sourced hemp. We also analyze the supply chain process to ensure their products are ethically sourced with sustainable green technologies. We also study cultivation practices to determine that no synthetic pesticides of growth hormones have been used throughout the growing process. </p>
<p><strong>Extraction Methods:</strong> There are three main procedures to manufacture CBD oil. The first is the simplest and just involves grinding the seeds and stems and removing the material from the ensuing mixture. Manual extraction is the method that has been used historically. Anyone can make hemp oil in their own kitchen by grinding plant material and filtering out the excess. </p>
<p>The second way is solvent extraction. Solvent extraction involves compressing the hemp in some solvent (most often ethanol or butane) and then boiling off the excess solvent. Solvent extraction is more efficient than manual extraction and yields a more pure product. However, improper extraction can leave solvent residue in the oil. </p>
<p>The last method of extraction is called supercritical carbon extraction. Supercritical carbon extraction uses a highly pressurized liquid carbon dioxide as a solvent. Supercritical carbon extraction is considered the gold standard of CBD extraction and makes the highest quality products. However, carbon dioxide extraction is an intricate process so carbon-extracted oils are usually more expensive than other types. </p>
<p><strong>Extract Types: </strong>CBD oils can be Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, and isolate. Full spectrum and Broad Spectrum oils contain CBD, along with other cannabinoids including THC, cannabinol (CBN), and cannabigerol (CBG). The main difference between Full Spectrum and Broad Spectrum is that Broad Spectrum blends normally do not contain THC while Full Spectrum blends do. Full Spectrum and Broad Spectrum CBD oils may also contain other chemicals such as terpenes. Isolates, in contrast, only contain CBD. </p>
<p>Full Spectrum and Broad Spectrum blends contain many different types of cannabinoids because they work together and enhance each others' properties. The synergistic interaction of cannabinoids is known as the <em>entourage effect</em>. </p>
<p><strong>Potency:</strong> The potency of a specific blend is determined by the amount of CBD in the bottle (measured in mg) and the volume of the bottle. Some CBD manufacturers will make this easy for you and list the concentration per mL of oil. If they do not provide it, you can figure out the potency with a simple calculation:</p>
<p>CBD in mg ÷ bottle volume in ml = CBD in mg/ml</p><p>So for example, if you have 900 mg in a 1 oz. (30 mL) bottle, then the potency would be:</p><p>900mg/30mL = 30 mg/mL</p>
<p>Most of the time, the bottle dropper has measurements in mL so it is easy to see how much oil you are administering. </p>
<p><strong>Lab Results: </strong>CBD oil has exploded in popularity in recent years, thus a rise in competition. Unfortunately, the sale of CBD is not regulated by the FDA. As a result, there are varying levels of quality in manufacturing. We often come across CBD products that have been inaccurately labeled, or even worse, do not contain CBD at all. </p>
<p>To combat this problem, we require companies to meet strict third-party testing criteria. All products we have chosen have been tested by independent organizations for content and purity. Any brand that does not test its products is automatically excluded from our lists. </p>
<p><strong>Size Variation: </strong>CBD oils vary in size, ranging from 100 mg to over 1000 mg per 1 oz (30mL). In general larger bottles tend to have higher potencies, but this is not always true. We make sure to choose brands that include various sizes for their CBD products.</p>
<p><strong>Flavors:</strong> Unflavored CBD typically has a very earthy taste. For those of you who prefer a little more excitement, manufacturers often make blends that have flavorings, such as cherry, lemon, or lavender. However, flavors do not change potency. At the end of the day, CBD is CBD regardless of its taste.</p>
<p><strong>Price: </strong>Price can vary greatly. Concentrations and the size of the bottle all need to be taken into consideration. In general supercritical carbon extracted CBD oils cost more than their counterparts. </p>
<p>We estimate CBD oils on the lower end of the spectrum fall anywhere between $0.10-$0.15 per mg. Middle-grade blends fall somewhere between $0.15-$0.25 per mg and high-quality blends generally cost $0.25+ per mg. </p>
<p>So for example, a low, medium, and high-grade 500 mg blend would cost around $50, $90, and $125, respectively. In general, isolates and pure blends are more expensive because it takes longer to filter out the other molecules. </p>
<p><strong>Brand Transparency: </strong>Reputable companies are transparent about their policies and provide customers with supporting documentation and clear labeling. Good companies will also have good reputations online. </p>
<p>Other aspects of brand transparency include return and shipping policies. We make sure that all chosen products are from companies that are transparent about their practices and business relations. </p>
<p><strong>Website Experience:</strong> We also make sure to consider the overall experience of shopping on the company's website. We look at whether pages are laid out in a logical and consistent manner and have a streamlined purchase process. A bad web design can ruin a shopping experience and turn someone away from a brand.</p>
<h2>How Does CBD Oil Help You Sleep Better?</h2><p>First off, let's talk about what, exactly, CBD is. CBD (<em>cannabidiol</em>) is an organic molecule that falls under a family of chemicals called <em>cannabinoids. </em>Hundreds of varieties of cannabinoids exist in the cannabis plant, also called the marijuana plant. CBD is just one kind of cannabinoid, THC being another. </p>
<p>Cannabinoids interact with <em>cannabinoid receptors</em> in our brains and central nervous systems. This interaction is what explains CBD's therapeutic effects. Although CBD has a similar chemical formula and profile as THC, it interacts with cannabinoid receptors differently than THC and so has different effects. There <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2503660/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">are studies</a> that suggest ingesting CBD as an effective method of managing pain, stimulating the appetite, lessening anxiety, and lowering inflammation.<strong> CBD also does not cause any psychoactive or intoxicating effects, unlike THC.</strong></p><p>As CBD has increased in popularity, more people are using it as a sleep aid. It is well known that CBDs close pharmaceutical cousin, THC, can induce sleepiness and can be a powerful sleep aid, but THC also comes with intoxicating effects. </p><h3>The Endocannabinoid System and Sleep</h3><p>CBD and other cannabinoids regulate bodily functions through their interaction with the body's endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is the name given to the network of cannabinoid receptors linked through our brains and nervous systems. The endocannabinoid system is composed primarily of 2 kinds of receptors: CB1 and CB2 receptors. Interacting with these receptors is how cannabinoids exert their effects on the human body. </p>
<p>The study of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is still relatively new. However, there is a growing <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877694/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">body of evidence</a> that the endocannabinoid system plays some role in mediating homeostatic mechanisms in the body. The ECS seems to be implicated in processes that regulate digestion, appetite, mood, memory, and pain sensation, among others. </p>
<p>As such, many medical researchers have theorized that seemingly disparate chronic conditions might be linked by being caused by an endocannabinoid deficiency. The ECS is also implicated in sleep patterns/waking cycles by regulating the circadian rhythm, so it is reasonable to suspect the CBD has an effect on sleep cycles by acting through the body's endocannabinoid system.</p>
<h4>What does the research say, though?</h4><p>Studies focused specifically on the connection between CBD and sleep are sparse. However, there are a few key studies we can mention that hint at a connection between cannabinoid use and sleep. </p>
<p>One study published in the journal <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6164964/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Medicines</a> involved trials on 402 people with insomnia symptoms. The study divided this sample into smaller groups and followed their sleep habits over the course of 2 years to determine if cannabis consumption affected sleep patterns positively or negatively. At the beginning, participants rated their insomnia severity as an average of 6.6 out of 10, where 1 is no problem at all, and 10 is incredibly severe. </p>
<p>Participants in each group were treated with cannabis using various methods of ingestion. The average THC potency of cannabis was around 20% and the average CBD potency was 5.7%. After 2 years of continual cannabis use, the participants had an average insomnia symptom rating of 2.2. Thus, this study highly suggests that ingesting cannabis<strong> is an extremely effective form of reducing insomnia and improving sleep.</strong></p>
<p>We found another study published in the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6326553/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Permanente Journal</a> that studied 72 adults with anxiety and poor sleep habits. The participants first completed a sleep and anxiety assessment at the beginning and at a one-month follow-up. Each study participant was given 25 mg capsules of CBD to take in the evening for sleep disturbances and in the morning for anxiety problems. </p>
<p>At the end of the first month, over 80% of participants had reduced anxiety scores and 66& of participants say their sleep improved. <strong>This study highly suggests that CBD specifically is effective at improving sleep and reducing anxiety.</strong> </p>
<p>Aside from these clinical studies, there are several smaller studies and individual case studies suggesting that CBD is an effective method of improving sleep. </p>
<h3>CBD Sources</h3><p>CBD is extracted from the cannabis plant, but the whole story is a bit more complicated than that.</p>
<p>First, let's talk about how cannabis plants are classified. Despite what many think, "cannabis" is not the name of an individual plant species, but the name for a genus of plants. There are two main species of the cannabis plant, <em>C. sativa</em> and <em>C. indica</em> (Some botanists include a third species <em>C. rubella</em>.). </p>
<p>Most cannabis products are made from the <em>C. sativa</em> plant. Specifically, there are two varieties of <em>C. sativa </em>used: marijuana and hemp. Marijuana contains higher concentrations of THC and may or may not contain high concentrations of CBD. Hemp, in contrast, comes from the seeds and stalks of the plant and has a low THC content. Cannabis with less than 0.2% THC composition is normally considered hemp. CBD oils can be made from both marijuana and hemp. </p>
<p>CBD oils made from marijuana usually contain a non-negligible amount of THC while CBD oils made from hemp usually have low THC content. Because cannabis oils can have different concentrations of THC and laws surrounding THC differ from state to state, different states might have different legislation regarding CBD oils. Generally, CBD oils that contain less than 0.3% THC are legal to create, cultivate, and sell in the US. </p>
<p>CBD is ingested in a number of ways. Most commonly:</p>
<ul><li>Edibles: Edibles are food items that are made with quantities of CBD oils. Cookies, cakes, and gummy bears are some popular CBD edibles. </li><li>Tinctures: Oil tinctures containing CBD and other cannabinoids are also fairly common. CBD tinctures can be added to food and drink with an eyedropper. </li><li>Vaporizing: CBD extract can be used with a vaporizer or vape pen. Vaporization is normally considered the most potent form of ingesting. </li></ul>
<p>We should mention that CBD <em>is not </em>medicine and is not meant to be a substitute for any medicine or medical treatment. CBD-based treatments are not approved for medical use by the FDA, with 2 major exceptions. Sativex and Epidolex are two oral CBD-based sprays that are used for pain management and epilepsy. To date, Sativex and Epidolex are the only CBD-based treatments that are approved by the US FDA.</p>
<h3>How to Use CBD Oil</h3><p>The way to use CBD depends on the kind of CBD product that you buy. Edibles, for example, can just be eaten like normal food. The CBD will be absorbed by the intestines. It takes about 45 minutes-1 hour to feel the effects of an edible. </p>
<p>Tinctures and oils are likewise easy to ingest. You can either place oil drops directly on your tongue or you can mix a few drops of oil in with your food or drink. Generally, tinctures come with an eyedropper for serving. It takes about 20-40 minutes to feel the effects of ingesting oil. </p>
<p>Lastly is vaporization. To vaporize CBD you will need a special set up. THC vape usually uses a removable cartridge of CBD suspended in some matrix, most commonly vegetable glycerin. The onset of effects is almost immediate as the vapor in your lungs is absorbed in the bloodstream very rapidly. Vaporizing CBD oils is the most potent form of ingesting so it is only recommended for experienced users. </p>
<p><strong>Dosage: </strong>Various studies have shown that CBD is safe to consume, even in very large doses. Studies in animals show that CBD has an extremely high lethal dosage and even large doses do not cause long-term lasting impairments. </p>
<p>For example, one <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/24734306.2018.1434470" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">2018 study</a> found that the LD50 (the quantity it takes to kill 50% of subjects) or CBD for mice is 50 mg per kg of body weight. For larger mammals, the LD50 is even higher. The LD50 for dogs is over 250 mg per kg of body weight and the LD50 for monkeys is above 200 mg per kg of body weight. </p>
<p>To put these numbers in perspective, assuming you weigh about 160 lbs. It would take about 18g of CBD oil ingested very quickly to kill you. A normal bottle of CBD oil contains only about 500mg. So, CBD is incredibly safe to take. </p>
<p>As far as specific dosages go, it's better to start small then increase to get the desired effects. The general rule of thumb is you should take about 5 mg per 30 lbs. Of body weight. So if you weigh 150 lbs, then an appropriate dose should be about 25mg per day. It is recommended to start small and then increase the dosage by 5mg for each week until you achieve the desired effects. </p>
<h3>CBD Side Effects</h3><p>Compared to other supplements, CBD has very few mild side effects. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce psychoactive or intoxicating effects. This is because CBD molecules alter the shape of CB1 receptors. The most common reported side effects of taking CBD include:</p>
<ul><li>Dry mouth</li><li>Lightheadedness</li><li>Drowsiness</li><li>Low blood pressure</li></ul>
<p>In some cases, CBD can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea. In most cases, these side effects are mild and will subside as you get used to taking the product. </p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>So there you have it, 5 of the best CBD oils for sleep. Insomnia is a real downer and can wreak havoc on the body and mind but CBD supplements can help. Just a drop or two before you go to bed can help you get the restful sleep that you deserve. These top 5 CBD companies have been chosen as the best of the best due to their high quality products and brand transparency. So, if you are looking for the best CBD for sleep, then this guide is a handy place to start. </p>
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