The CBD trend is still booming, but shopping for it can feel overwhelming. There are tinctures, softgels, topicals, gummies, and even fizzy drinks. So, if you’re looking to dive into CBD (or boost your CBD experience), it can be helpful to have a specific goal in mind. That way, you can tailor your product choice accordingly.
ICYMI: CBD is a cannabinoid found in the hemp plant that’s been shown in early-stage research to have balancing effects in the body. To boost your CBD experience further, some products combine the cannabinoid with other complementary ingredients in order to support specific health goals.
While the research on CBD itself is still young, there are many studies on the effectiveness of some of these added ingredients, says The Vitamin Shoppe dietitian Rebekah Blakely, R.D.N. Here are five to know about.
1. Melatonin
One of the most pervasive issues of our time—especially given the current work-from-your-kitchen-table and school-from-the-couch situation—is getting proper sleep.
While the calming effects of CBD may very well help promote relaxation, research has repeatedly suggested that melatonin is one of the safest ways to address poor sleep cycles.
Read More: Try These Tactics To Get A Decent Night’s Sleep During Times Of Stress
Melatonin works on your circadian rhythm, which is a human’s natural 24-hour sleep-wake cycle, explains The Vitamin Shoppe dietitian Brittany Michels, M.S., R.D.N., L.D.N. Basically, the body produces melatonin as the day gets darker, making you sleepier. However, in the modern world, this process is interrupted by artificial light.
So, given what we know so far about CBD and melatonin, the two might just make the ideal combination for a good night’s sleep.
Try: Charlotte’s Web Sleep Hemp Extract-Infused Gummies
2. L-Theanine
Both CBD and the amino acid l-theanine are thought to have a relaxing effect, which can be especially helpful for those who experience stress throughout the day. L-theanine is a favorite amino acid for biohackers trying to optimize their brains and bodies. In fact, it’s often touted for its ability to balance and smooth out the effects of caffeine, says Michels.
“Taking the two together may have a synergistic impact that could support both a focused sense of calm or a good night’s sleep,” says Michels.
Try: Garden of Life’s Dr. Formulated CBD+ Relax Whole Hemp Extract Softgels with Saffron and L-Theanine
3. Ashwagandha
The herb ashwagandha has been everywhere lately, from smoothies to coffees to gummies. “Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that supports a healthy stress response in the body, which can result in benefits to anxiety, sleep, energy levels, and more,” says Blakely.
That’s where CBD comes in: “The two can work towards the same results from different perspectives,” Blakely says. “Ashwagandha helps manage stress by supporting the adrenal glands, while CBD supports balance in the endocannabinoid system.”
Try: Irwin Naturals CBD + Ashwagandha Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract Liquid Softgels
4. Chamomile
Chamomile has been a major source of stress support via chamomile tea for years. So, utilizing chamomile to boost CBD feels like a no-brainer.
There are some specific chamomile-CBD products, but you can always take your CBD alongside a warm mug of chamomile tea.
Try: Winged Relaxation Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract Gummies
5. Lemon Balm
Let’s give another shout out to relaxation, minimizing stress, and getting on top of regularly programmed good nights of sleep. You already know CBD is thought to be especially apt at this, and lemon balm is another sneaky ingredient that could up your chill time.
Lemon balm is an herb (related to mint), believed to help reduce stress. If you’ve ever had a nighttime tea or taken a relaxation supplement, chances are you’ve already put this herb to work. It is often used with other elements, like chamomile and l-theanine, for ultimate relaxation, hence why you’ll find it used to boost CBD in many sleep support products.
Try: Garden of Life Dr. Formulated CBD+ Sleep Whole Hemp Extract Gummies with Lemon Balm and Valerian
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