CBD isolate is a crystalline solid or powder comprising pure CBD. It is different from full-spectrum CBD products, which can contain minimal amounts of THC.

CBD isolate contains no psychoactive properties and will not intoxicate users.

To produce CBD isolate, manufacturers use various processes to extract all the compounds and other substances from the cannabis plant, including THC. The process leaves behind pure CBD in crystal form.

Potential effects of CBD include:

• boosting the immune system (immune-modulating)
• counteracting the formation of tumors (anti-tumorigenic)
• fighting inflammation (anti-inflammatory)
• preventing vomiting (antiemetic)
• recovery or regeneration of the nervous system (neuroprotective)
• reducing or preventing anxiety (anti-anxiety)
• reducing or preventing seizures (anticonvulsant)
• relieving pain (analgesic)

Studies indicate that CBD can also influence non-cannabinoid receptors, such as the 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) serotonin receptor. Serotonin is a chemical that affects levels of depression, anxiety, and sleeplessness, among others. This may help explain why CBD eases anxiety and pain in some people.

CBD also enhances anandamide signaling. A critical component of the endocannabinoid system, anandamide is a powerful neurotransmitter, known as the bliss molecule, which influences feelings of well-being and uplifting moods. Anandamide is also associated with the regulation of pain, which explains why CBD is also anecdotally reported to ease chronic pain.

Research published in 2019 looked at whether CBD could improve sleep and or reduce anxiety. The study involved 72 subjects, with 47 experiencing anxiety and 25 experiencing poor sleep. The subjects were each given 25 milligrams (mg) of CBD in capsule form each day. In the first month, 79.2 percent of the patients reported lower anxiety levels and 66.7 percent reported better sleep.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) has been called the mushroom of immortality; in Chinese this mushroom is known as Ling Zhi. Native to Europe, Asia and North America, Reishi has been revered in China for thousands of years. It is depicted in many Chinese works of art and is utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

The fruiting bodies of this mushroom contain polysaccharides, specifically a type called beta-glucans, which have been studied to support immune health and overall wellness, as well as normal, healthy cell growth and turnover. Modern uses of Reishi include cardiovascular support, a healthy stress response, healthy energy/stamina, overall wellness and immune health.

Reishi helps you to relax, however it is not a sedative. When consumed in continuous, small doses, reishi may help to support the body’s sleep cycles. Researchers found that fatigue was reduced and well-being was improved after 8 weeks of taking Reishi as a supplement.

Reishi can also alleviate insomnia, particularly when the trouble sleeping comes from an active mind that won’t turn off.  The same mental agitation that interferes with sleep at night triggers anxiety during waking hours, making reishi helpful around the clock.

Reishi also appears to work on the HPA by improving the function of the adrenal glands themselves. Stress is perceived by the nervous system and the signal is transmitted to the command centre of the brain (the hypothalamus), which in turn relays the message to the adrenal glands stimulating the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine (a.k.a. adrenaline).  Targets for modulating the stress response, therefore, include the nervous system as well as the HPA or Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis.

This makes reishi an excellent herb choice for calming the mind, easing anxiety, promoting sleep, grounding and centering us, and fostering greater resilience to stress over time.