Category Archives: Anxiety, Stress, and Sleep
4 Essential Features to Look for in a CBD Supplement
With all the publicity surrounding the advent of cannabidiol, or CBD, it’s only natural to ask yourself, “What’s all the excitement about, and why should I add this to my daily regimen?”
I’ve been paying close attention to CBD’s growing popularity, but before we introduced our own brand of CBD products, I wanted to make sure we could provide you with the highest quality offerings available anywhere.
As our team went through the process of determining precisely how we would formulate our products, we were laser-focused on a list of 4 must-have features. Please check them out below, but let’s first look at some reasons why so many people today view CBD supplements as a valuable tool for achieving optimum health.
CBD: An Ever-Evolving Story
As reported in Harvard Medical School’s Harvard Health Blog, “the strongest evidence for (CBD’s) effectiveness is in treating some of the cruelest childhood epilepsy syndromes.” This was confirmed in 2018 when “the FDA approved the first ever cannabis-derived medicine for these conditions.”1
In addition, perhaps recognizing the perceived value many consumers place on hemp-based supplements, “… states have legalized the sale of CBD oil, which is being used and studied for a range of health problems including: stress, anxiety, joint pain, post-traumatic stress disorder, menstrual cramps, nausea, insomnia, addiction, autism, multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune disorders, as well as schizophrenia. The oil may also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.”2
CBD is still relatively new, and our knowledge of its effectiveness for the conditions mentioned above is an ever-evolving story. But it’s hard to ignore the increasing number of people across the U.S. and around the world that are citing positive results.
What CBD Users Are Saying
Generally, CBD users report feeling calmer and more at ease. Their blood pressure normalizes. Pain subsides. Sleep, digestion and circulation improve. People’s immune systems get stronger, and they feel happier and more content. More specifically, here are some favorable reviews posted by CBD users on WebMD3:
“I take CBD oil to help with chronic pain and it has changed my life! If I forget to take it for a day I can really feel how much worse my pain is.”
“For me, CBD simply takes away my anxiety completely. It is incredible. It doesn’t necessarily make you feel relaxed, and certainly doesn’t make you high or anything, it just makes you not anxious anymore.”
“I have been using this for pain from arthritis and have had amazing results.”
“I can’t say enough about CBD. After going to several different neurologists who kept prescribing anti-seizure meds which did not work, we began using CBD oil which provided almost instant relief.”
“I use CBD oil to help relieve pain from neuropathy.”
Our 4 Essential Product Features
Here’s the list of features I referred to earlier, along with reasons why you should insist on them as you navigate the maze of CBD products on the market today:
Full Spectrum CBD Hemp Oil Extract – CBD is just one of many cannabinoids, and “full spectrum hemp extract” means the product contains a complete array of both cannabinoids and terpenes, compounds that work together to produce an “entourage effect” that helps bring our bodies’ systems into balance.
Subcritical CO2 Extraction – This unique manufacturing process makes the entourage effect possible. Subcritical means there’s no heat used during extraction, which enables all the powerful compounds – CBD, other cannabinoids and terpenes – to survive and have a positive impact on your health. Contrast that with the other popular method, supercritical CO2 extraction, which preserves only the CBD.
Grown in the USA – Specific standards as set forth in the 2014 and 2018 Farm Bills passed by Congress are required for legally growing, cultivating and producing industrial hemp plants. To ensure that these standards are met, it’s best to use CBD-based products from manufacturers located in the USA.
Independent Lab-Tested – A 2017 study from the University of Pennsylvania found that nearly 70% of CBD products sold online did not contain the concentration of CBD oil listed on the label. The team also reported that several products analyzed contained significant amounts of THC.4 That’s why it’s important to choose CBD products that are tested by a third-party lab to verify that what’s stated on the label is accurate.
3 CBD Products with All These Features
I insist that any CBD product that carries the Baar logo have all of these important features. To learn more about our current offerings, click on any of the links below. Each product listing contains additional information on how plant-based cannabinoids and terpenes work together to help regulate the body’s homeostasis, or general state of balance. And please contact us with any additional questions.
Full Spectrum Hemp Extract Oil, Peppermint Flavor, 1500 mg
Hemp Extract Muscle & Joint Relief Cream
References:
1 “Cannabidiol (CBD) – What We Know and What We Don’t,” Peter Grinspoon, M.D., Harvard Medical School, Harvard Health Blog, Health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-don’t (downloaded April 24, 2019).
2 “Using CBD Oil for Pain Relief?,” Ask Dr. Weil, Andrew Weil, M.D., Oct. 19, 2018, Drweil.com/vitamins-supplements-herbs/herbs/using-cbd- oil-for-pain-relief/ (downloaded April 24, 2019).
3 “User Reviews & Ratings – Cannabidiol,” WebMD, webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientreview-1439-CANNABIDIOL.aspx?drugid=1439&drugname=CANNABIDIOL&pageIndex=1&sortby=3&conditionFilter=-500 (downloaded April 30, 2019).
4 “Penn Study Shows Nearly 70 Percent of Cannabidiol Extracts Sold Online Are Mislabeled,” press release, Penn Medicine News (Nov. 7, 2017).
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Liquid Herbal Extracts Benefits
Herbal extracts have been traditionally used to maintain, restore and improve health. But which is the best way to experience the medicinal benefits of an herb – capsules, teas or liquid extracts? Capsules may be convenient and teas may be easy to make but a liquid herbal extract offers benefits that these do not.
Tablets and capsules lose the potency of many of their active ingredients both in production and storage. Herbal tablets are prepared with fillers, binders and other materials necessary to compress the ground herbs into a tablet form. Herbal capsules tend to be better than tablets because they dissolve more easily in the stomach and do not contain the extra binding materials, however, if the body is not digesting and assimilating well, the potential therapeutic benefits of an herbal extract are diminished. Herbs in a capsule and tablet form also loose potency faster as they are exposed to oxygen.
Liquid Herbal Extracts tend to be more potent and offer a greater concentration of the plant’s medicinal properties. Their absorption occurs more quickly allowing the herbal properties to enter the bloodstream with minimal digestive effort.
Benefits of Taking a Liquid Herbal Extract:
1.They are absorbed more easily.
2. They are easy to take.
3. They have a longer shelf-life.
4. They offer a greater concentration of the plant constituents.
5. They can be mixed in water, juice, or tea.
6. They allow the aroma and taste of an herb to be experienced.
7. May provide quicker benefits.
Alcohol Extraction:
Some herbs will not release their innate healing properties without a strong solvent such as Alcohol to extract its medicinal benefits. Alcohol has proven to work better than water for the extraction process of the plant’s active herbal constituents (parts of the plant that have an action on the body). It also protects the extract from bacterial growth, enhances the potency of the herb, preserves without refrigeration, extends shelf-life and brings out the aroma and flavor of the herbs.
Suggested Use:
Most liquid herbal extracts can have a shelf life of up to 2 to 4 years. Store the liquid extract in a cool, dark place and shake well before each use. Always mix the dose in water, juice or tea to avoid irritating the mouth. Sip slowly and savor the flavor and aroma – an integral part of the plant’s therapeutic benefits. And don’t forget to check with your doctor – some herbs are contra-indicated when taking prescription drugs.
10 Easy Ways to Stay Healthy During the Cold & Flu Season
1. Eat a Balanced Diet.
Fruits and vegetables are loaded with phytochemicals, “phyto-” meaning plant, which are essentially supercharged immune-boosting vitamins and minerals. Your body will be stronger, healthier and less susceptible to bacteria and viruses. Having trouble getting enough servings of fruits and veggies each day? Try juicing. This is an easy and tasty way to get your necessary vitamins from plants with the added bonus of getting a serving of water as well.
2. Avoid Excessive Alcohol and Sweets.
When alcohol, starchy carbohydrates, and sweets make their way through the digestive tract, they produce acid in the body throwing off the pH balance. An overly acidic body can result in a suppressed immune system. This can break down your body’s resistance to the cold and flu virus.
3. Wash your Hands Often.
Germs can last for hours on surfaces that have come in contact with someone who is sick. Items that you touch every day such as, keyboards, shopping carts, elevator buttons, gym equipment, gas pumps, writing utensils, restaurant condiments, eating utensils and more can harbor bacteria long after a sick person has used them. Every sneeze or cough releases small droplets of bacteria-filled fluid that can land on these commonly-used surfaces. Wash your hands often, especially before cooking, eating, or touching your face. If you are not near a sink, make sure to use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content. It is also important to clean and disinfect frequently used surfaces at home, work or school.
4. Drink Plenty of Water Each Day.
Every day you lose water through your breath, perspiration, urine and bowel movements. Keep it replenished; your body is approximately 65% water. Water is necessary for your body to function properly, stay hydrated and flush out toxins. It is recommended that the average person consume 6 to 8 glasses of water per day.
5. Get Plenty of Rest and Avoid Stress and Anger.
Studies indicate that avoiding stress and anger helps you to avoid getting run down. This in turn can protect you from catching a cold or the flu. Try taking the time to meditate or practice your breathing exercises.
6. Get a Massage.
A massage can help improve the lymphatic circulation in the body and reduce stress. Your lymphatic system is a vital part of your immune system. Your lymph nodes contain white blood cells which aid in trapping, attacking and destroying bacteria and other microbes which are picked up by the lymphatic fluid. Massages not only help boost the immune system, they also promote a general sense of well-being.
7. Exercise Regularly.
Physical exercise helps fuel the body and enhance immune function. If you are already feeling sick and want to exercise, the rule is that if the sickness is above the neck (i.e. stuffy nose, congestion, etc), light exercise is okay. If you have a fever and body aches, take the day off and rest.
8. Supplement with Vitamin C.
Vitamin C helps protect the body’s cells from damage by free radicals. Many plants and animals do not need to consume foods high in ascorbic acid to meet their need for Vitamin C because they are genetically programmed to produce enzymes that convert glucose into ascorbic acid. Unfortunately humans have only 3 of the 4 enzymes necessary for internal production of ascorbic acid, therefore we must satisfy our physical needs for this important vitamin through our intake of foods rich in Vitamin C and/or take a good supplement.
9. Supplement with Vitamin D3.
It is known as the “Sunshine Vitamin” because it is produced by the body during exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays (UVB). As the weather gets colder, sun exposure becomes limited. Vitamin D3 helps boost the immune system and is vital for overall health. This vitamin is essential for the body to function properly.
10. Carry a Cold Coin in your Pocket.
The Cold Coin, carried in the front pocket, is essential for reinforcing the body during cold and allergy season. The front pocket is right by the groin, which is a major lymphatic area. Made of a specialized carbon steel, the Cold Coin works by ionizing the body, making it more resistant to colds and congestion.
Bruce Baar, MS, ND | © Baar Products, Inc., 2015
Vitamin D-3: The Sunshine Vitamin
Why do I need Vitamin D-3?
Doctors found many years ago that children exposed to sunlight or those who took a Cod Liver Oil supplement were less likely to suffer from a bone condition called Rickets. Sunlight allows the body to produce Vitamin D-3, and Cod Liver Oil supplements naturally contain Vitamin D-3.
Since then, years of research has shown that Vitamin D-3 benefits the body in more ways than one. Vitamin D-3 is crucial for the metabolism of Calcium and Phosphorous, for the support of healthy bones and teeth, for providing added protection for immune challenges, for reinforcing healthy brain function, enhancing mood and cognitive function and much more.
Where does Vitamin D-3 come from?
Many know Vitamin D-3 as the “Sunshine Vitamin”. The body produces it during exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. When sunlight hits the skin it synthesizes to form D-3, which then circulates into the blood stream. Certain foods contain limited amounts of it. However, it may be difficult to get enough to supplement the body’s requirements from these sources alone.
Different skin tones absorb different amounts of vitamin D-3. Lighter, fair skinned people will need less sun exposure to absorb a sufficient amount whereas darker skinned people may require as much as double the amount of sun exposure. This can present a problem during the colder months of the year as well as during the work week when sun exposure is often limited. Because absorption of it differs among individuals, regular testing will reveal your body’s needs. It may be helpful to ask your health care practitioner to test for its levels: once at the end of winter and again at the end of summer. This determines how much your body manufactures through summer sun exposure, and quantifies the need of it during the winter months to maintain healthy levels.
New High Potency Vitamin D-3 Softgels
As more people avoid sun exposure and because it is not abundant in food, supplementation becomes essential to ensure that your body receives an adequate supply. Nature’s Blessing’s New High Potency Vitamin D-3 supplies this key nutrient in a higher potency, absorbable liquid softgel. Take 1 softgel every two days to supply the body with 5,000 IU. Optimizing your levels can give your immune system a boost, improve muscle function, and support bone, brain and cardiovascular health. Experience the many benefits and keep your system running strong.
© Baar Products, Inc., 2015
Time to get that Deep, Restful Sleep you Deserve with Dozy-Doze
Lack of sleep is a common issue for many people in today’s fast-paced, high stress world. There 
are a few different factors which contribute to the constant tossing and turning every night. Sleeplessness can be attributed to stress, anxiety, eating too close to bedtime, exercising too late, and much more. While many may opt to take prescription medications with a long list of side effects, there are various natural ways to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Dozy-Doze™ is a relaxing combination of Valerian Root Extract, Hops Extract, Passion Flower and GABA. This combination of ingredients is formulated to help quiet your mind and relax your body so you can drift naturally into a restful sleep. This non-habit forming supplement will help you stay asleep and wake up refreshed with renewed energy that lasts throughout the day.
Valerian Root Extract
Valerian Root is a calming herb which helps to relieve stress and anxiety, often acting as a mild sedative to aid falling asleep. This herb has been historically used since the 1800’s as a natural sleep aid and relaxant. Valerian not only helps you fall asleep faster, it may help you stay asleep longer, so you wake up feeling refreshed.
Hops Extract
The dried, flowering part of the Hops plant is often used in making medicine. Hops Extract is used to ease restlessness, tension, anxiety, inability to sleep and other types of nervous disorders. Research shows that Hops Extract and Valerian Root Extract are a powerful combination which may decrease the time it takes to fall asleep, supporting a rejuvenating sleep.
Passion Flower
Passion Flower Extract has been considered a non-habit forming sedative. It is nature’s sleeping pill and produces no narcotic hangover. It is also considered to be an antispasmodic, as it eases muscle tension, anxiety and nervousness. Passion Flower may decrease the amount of times that one awakens during the night, leading to a more refreshed feeling upon waking.
GABA
GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) is a chemical that is made naturally in the brain and is known as the brain’s own calming agent. Unbalanced levels of GABA can result in higher levels of anxiety, nervousness and excitation. Supplementing with GABA helps to balance the level of brain stimulation which promotes relaxation and eases nervous tension.
It’s time to finally get that deep, restful sleep you deserve. Relax your body and calm your mind with the powerful combination of natural sleep-inducing ingredients in Dozy-Doze. Rise and Shine.
© Baar Products, Inc., 2015