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Seeds of Wellness LLC

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33501 Lake Rd., Suite H, Avon Lake, Ohio 44012

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The Different Types of CBD Products: Full-Spectrum, Broad Spectrum and Isolate

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When purchasing Cannabidiol (CBD), it helps to know about the different types of CBD products and which one works best for you. The three types of CBD made from hemp (the Cannabis Sativa plant) – CBD isolate, full-spectrum CBD and broad spectrum CBD – offer different benefits.

Hemp-Cannabis Sativa Plant
CBD products from the hemp plant (Cannabis Sativa)

Full-Spectrum CBD

Full-spectrum CBD (also called whole plant CBD) contains all of the properties, phytochemicals, and a nearly identical cannabinoid profile to the hemp plant. “The hemp plant naturally contains over 100 cannabinoids that, similar to CBD, provide their own unique benefit. …Scientists have found that plant components interact with one another to create an enhanced effect (compared to the component alone).”*

The different types of cannabinoids in the hemp plant include CBD, CBN, CBG, CBC, and more than 100 others. This includes a detectable amount of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that is less than 0.3% as stated by the law. The small amount of THC doesn’t cause a high, but if you use this product regularly, THC may be detected in a drug test.

Because full-spectrum CBD contains almost all the nutrients of the hemp plant, you receive the full benefits of the plant. This also means you avoid the bell-shaped dose-response curve. It “is a visual representation of how certain stimuli—in this case pure CBD—are least effective when taken in very small and very high doses. Because of this effect, CBD isolate requires precise dosages to achieve the maximum therapeutic benefits, whereas full-spectrum CBD extracts offer health benefits even at very low doses.”**

“Most full-spectrum CBD oils will contain vitamins A, C, and E along with complex B vitamins such as niacin, riboflavin, and thiamine. An increasing number of people don’t consume beta-carotene, but it is abundant in full-spectrum oil. Essential minerals contained in full spectrum hemp extract include zinc, potassium, iron, calcium, and phosphorus.”***

Since these products contain the whole CBD plant, they are the least processed type of CBD products. They may also taste and smell like the hemp plant. The smell and taste can vary from batch to batch due to the changes in the hemp plant’s environment, weather, temperature, etc. Many full-spectrum CBD products contain other natural or artificial flavors to reduce the hemp plant taste. Despite the aroma and taste, full-spectrum CBD may be more effective than the other types of CBD for some people’s symptoms.

Broad Spectrum CBD

When a product contains several of the different cannabinoids, terpenes, and other phytochemicals in the hemp plant, but no detectable THC, this product is called broad spectrum CBD. The number of cannabinoids, terpenes and other nutrients varies in each brand. Some broad spectrum CBD products start with a CBD isolate and then terpenes, other cannabinoids, and phytochemicals get added back in to make the final product.

Less research on the benefits of broad spectrum CBD has been done compared to full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolates. However, if you are concerned about THC, broad spectrum CBD may be the product for you. Because it contains many of the properties of the hemp plant, you may receive more benefits from these products than those made from a CBD isolate.

CBD Isolate

CBD isolate powder looks similar to sugar
CBD isolate powder looks similar to fine sugar

Hemp processed in a way that nearly 100% CBD remains is the last of the different types of CBD products called a CBD isolate. The products made from a CBD Isolate contain no terpenes, additional cannabinoids, and other plant components found in the hemp plant. Therefore, these products also contain no detectable THC. Since these products contain only CBD, people have fewer sensitivity problems like allergic reactions, interaction with medications, etc. If you need to take a high dosage of CBD, many experts recommend a CBD isolate over the other types of CBD.

“With CBD isolate, there is no guesswork. You know exactly what you’re getting: cannabidiol and nothing else. Some brands will add terpenes back into the mix to provide natural hemp flavor but for the most part, isolates are made with CBD alone. For that reason, CBD isolate can make it easier to achieve the exact dosage that works for you without having to guess if there are other ingredients diluting your dose.“**

Because the CBD isolate has no flavor or odor, it works well in edibles and topical products. When using a topical CBD product, many people get good results from the CBD isolate products because it helps reduce inflammation and pain.

“One of the most important studies relating to full-spectrum CBD oil took place at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in 2015. It compared the performance of a full-spectrum cannabis extract with one that contained CBD only. The study concluded that, in mice, the full spectrum extract was more effective for pain and inflammation. In fact, scientists claimed that the whole plant cannabis extract was “ideal for clinical uses” as compared to isolated CBD.”*** For some people CBD isolates products work very well, while others get better results from the other types of CBD products containing more components of the hemp plant including THC.

Final Thoughts on the CBD Types

Always refer to the manufacturer’s Certificates of Analysis (COA) from an independent lab to find out how much CBD, additional cannabinoids and THC are detectable in the product before purchasing it. Some manufacturers claim to be a particular type of CBD. However, the COA results show you if the product is a CBD isolate, containing only CBD, broad spectrum with no THC or full-spectrum with less than 0.3% THC. Also, check the COA to ensure it is organic – not containing contaminants like mold, heavy metals, or pesticides.

It is best to talk with your physician before using CBD. “Again, it is important to have a conversation with your primary physician because while generally well tolerated, CBD oil can interact with popular medications like certain antidepressants and antibiotics.”** Also, some of the carrier oils can interfere with prescription medications like safflower and grape seed oil.

Because everyone reacts differently to CBD, please give yourself time to experiment with doses and the different types of CBD products.

Want more information about CBD? Come into Seeds of Wellness to learn about our products and their benefits. Also, check out our other blog posts about CBD:

Cannabidiol (CBD) Hemp Oil – What Are the Benefits?
Cannabidiol: from Abusive Drug to Potential Cure
What Is a Tincture, and How Do I Use It?

Sources:

* “Whole Plant Hemp and CBD Isolate: What Is the Difference?” on Made By Hemp

** “What’s the Difference? CBD Isolate vs. Full-Spectrum CBD Oil” on CBD Oil Review

*** “What Actually Is Full-Spectrum CBD Oil?” by Jeff Yauck on MarijuanaBreak

“Full Spectrum vs Broad Spectrum vs CBD Isolate: Difference Explained” on Royal CBD

Aromatherapy Benefits of Jasmine

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Originating in Asia, the sweet and strong scented jasmine flowers release their unique fragrance at night. Pharmaceutical companies utilize jasmine flowers for various treatments. On the other hand, cosmetic companies use the flower in perfumes because jasmine is considered romantic. Jasmine is also consumed in teas, food, alcohol as well as used for decorative purposes.

“In aromatherapy, inhaling jasmine oil molecules (or absorbing jasmine oil through the skin) is said to transmit messages to a brain region involved in controlling emotions. Known as the limbic system, this brain region also influences the nervous system.” *

Image from Pixabay

Aromatherapy Benefits

The following list contains the aromatherapy benefits only. However, there are other benefits jasmine offers.

  • Relieves depression – “The aromatic effect of jasmine oil stimulates the release of certain hormones in the body, including serotonin, which results in the boost of energy and the uplifted mood.” **
  • Improves relaxation and sleep – By diffusing the oil in the bedroom, the fragrance calms the body and mind and also helps induce sleep.
  • Increases libido – Used as an aphrodisiac in the Middle East and India to increase passion and sexual desire.
  • Boosts self-confidence – can give a euphoric feeling while reducing anxiety and fear.
  • Effects the physical body – heart rate, blood pressure, breathing and body temperature.

Ways to Use for Aromatherapy

Note: How you use jasmine oil depends on the brand and purity of the essential oil. Dilution may be necessary based on the potency and purity of the oil. Please read the packaging before using it.

  • Direct from the bottle – hold the bottle near your nose and inhale the scent without touching the top of the bottle to your skin to prevent contamination of the oil.
  • Diffuse – put hot water and a few drops of the jasmine essential oil into a glass bowl to create aromatic steam or use a diffuser.
  • Topical – mix the jasmine oil with a carrier oil and apply to your skin.
  • Bath – add 3 – 5 drops of the essential oil to your warm bath water.
  • Palm or cloth – put 1 to 2 drops of jasmine essential oil on your palm or cloth and inhale the aroma. Also, put a few drops on your pillow to help you sleep.
  • Candle – burn a candle containing jasmine oil, either alone or combined with other aromas.
  • Natural perfume – “In a dark glass bottle add 2 Tbsp. of carrier oil, 2-4 Tbsp. of vodka and a total of 30-40 drops of essential oil. Shake together for 2-5 minutes. After 48 hours, add 2 Tbsp. of distilled water. Shake again for the final product.” ***

To dilute jasmine essential oil, use a carrier oil like coconut, almond, grape seed, and jojoba oil by using the following ratio – 2 to 3 drops of pure jasmine oil to 1 oz of the carrier oil. However, if you use a synthetic jasmine oil, you may need to use 3 to 5 drops.

Precautions

  • Do not use during the first four months of pregnancy
  • In a small group of people, headaches, nausea and skin reactions occurred when they used jasmine oil
  • Only use topically and as aromatherapy because jasmine essential oil can be harmful if swallowed.
  • Test small amount at full strength on your skin for an allergic reaction
  • Keep away from eyes, nose, and ears
  • Avoid using in heavy doses due to its relaxing and sedating effects

Pure jasmine essential oil can be very expensive due to the number of flowers needed to make a small amount of essential oil. Synthetic jasmine costs less but does not have the same benefits as pure jasmine oil.

Seeds of Wellness sells hand poured jasmine votive candles which contain no chemical scent holders. Stop in and smell these candles as well as the other candles made by Sacred Path Candles.

Sources:

*** “Jasmine Essential Oil – Uses, Benefits & Where to Buy” on The North American Essential Oil and Aromatherapy Experts

“Jasmine Oil – Mood Booster and Stress Buster” by Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS on Dr. Axe – Food Is Medicine

Apache Tears Metaphysical Properties

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When hot lava spews into the air and solidifies before hitting the ground, the nodules are nicknamed Apache Tears. These stones originate in desert-like parts of the United States, especially Arizona and Nevada, as well as other countries. Apache Tears, a type of Black Obsidian, name comes from an American Indian Legend:

“In the 1870s, a small group of Apache warriors met the American Cavalry in a battle. They were sorely outnumbered and it became clear that they could not win the battle. Instead of conceding defeat and being captured and murdered, they decided to ride their horses off the side of a mountain to their deaths.

According to the story, when the wives and children of these warriors heard this story, their tears turned to gemstones when they touched the ground where their warriors fell.”*

Apache Tears Gemstone

Aids with Grief and Negative Feelings

Apache Tears aid and bring comfort to grief and emotional trauma as well as bring peace and calm energy. These gemstones help soothe negative feelings and old hurts. Apache Tears can also help you forgive yourself and others.

If you would like Apache Tears to help you emotionally, wearing them near your heart places the gemstone closest to your emotions. You can place them near to you on a table, desk, etc., however, they are more effective the closer they are to you.

Dispels Negativity

Like gemstones in the Obsidian family, Apache Tears dispel negativity, but in a gentler way compared to the other gemstones in the same family. “This stone seems to have a more intuitive grasp of when it should do it job and when it should give you a rest!”*

They also help you heal from past traumatic experiences by removing the negative energy left by the event. This gemstone is wonderful for people in the medical and healing professions. Apache Tears keep you “psychically safe through the frequently traumatic experiences of working with the sick and dying.”*

Apache Tears absorb negative energy, drawing it into them. Therefore, you do need to cleanse this gemstone on a regular basis. This is especially necessary when you experience very negative people, environments and/or events.

Provides Protection and Grounding

Apache Tears improve your ability to recognize dangerous situations before they happen. These gemstones protect and cleanse your aura from negative energy by absorbing it. Apache Tears also protect you from psychic attacks and psychic vampires.

If you need grounding, Apache Tears are associated with the Root Chakra so carry them in your pant’s back pocket. You want the gemstone close to the base of your spine.

Helps with Physical Healing

Known to strengthen the immune system, Apache Tears help remove toxins in the body. They also help calm muscle spasms and increase blood circulation. By removing energy blocks within your body, your body’s ability to heal improves.

Cleansing Apache Tears

You need to cleanse Apache Tears regularly because their efficiency will wane as they absorb negativity. Start by holding your Apache Tears under cool/lukewarm running water while visualizing the negative energy going done the drain. After drying the gemstone, place it in direct sunlight or moonlight for several hours.

Combining with Other Stones

You can combine Apache Tears with other gemstones to increase positivity and happy energy*:

  • Turquoise – helps improve mood and “opening lines of communication”
  • Other chakra gemstones – helps balance your chakras and ease the energy of these chakras
  • Citrine – helps cleanse Apache Tear’s negativity and bring a joyful energy

Seeds of Wellness carries a variety of gemstones including Apache Tears. Come in or call 440-933-7733 for more information.

Disclaimer: The healing and metaphysical properties written on this website are for reference and inspiration. The information is gathered from writings and other sources. It is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professional. If you suspect you have a disease or health-related condition of any kind, you should contact your health care professional immediately.

Sources:

* “Apache Tears: Meaning, Properties and Powers” on Crystals and Jewelry.com

“Apache Tears…” by Liz Oaks on Healing Crystals for You

“The Legend of the Apache Tear” on CrystalWind.ca

Healing Your Body by Healing Your Etheric Energy

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All of us have an etheric energy body that is our physical body’s twin and consists of three major components – aura, chakras and nadis. “The etheric energy system delivers energy to your physical body so that it can do everything that it does to enable you to generate your life experiences. The etheric energy system is connected to the emotional energy system and the mental energy system. The energy bodies are integrated and they speak to one another all the time.”

The etheric energy body possesses negative and positive charged particles that are luminous in nature. “Any given shift in the quality of your etheric energy field reflects as shifts in your body, consciousness, and feelings.”

Aura around a woman meditating

Aura

The energy field surrounding the entire outside of your physical body is call the aura. It consists of several layers that connect us with the outside world. Astral light, coronas and other names also refer to the aura in different cultures and religions.

A variety of “theories have revealed the aura to have a fluid or flowing state; to be comprised of different colors, therefore frequencies; to be permeable and penetrable; and to be magnetic in nature, although it also has electromagnetic properties… As for the aura’s job, science has determined that this magnetic field conveys information about events taking place inside the body, rather than on the skin. Its purpose is therefore vitally linked to our internal health.”

Chakras

Seven major chakras

“The ancient tradition of Chakras originated in India, and the word translates to ‘wheel’ or ‘circle’.” What we know about Chakras today comes from the practice of yoga. Chakras refer to the universal life force (energy) that circulates through us, and each chakra transmits and stores the universal energy as it spins.

The seven major chakras correspond to different areas of your spine, major organs, emotions and spiritual being. Many believe that blocked chakra energy leads to illness and imbalance because the energy cannot flow freely. How the blockage affects you depends on which Chakra(s) are not in balance.

Nadis

Divine energy, life and consciousness flows through energy channels called Nadis and distributes the energy throughout your body. We feel healthy when all the Nadis are functioning correctly. Physical or psychic problems show signs of Nadis being out of balance or not working properly.

The 72,000 Nadis intersect with the Chakras creating a subtle nervous system throughout your body. Each Nadi carries “energy from the Chakras into the brain, the nerves, endocrine and organ systems, the skeletal structure, and finally to the cell level.”

There is a debate on whether Nadis and Meridians are the same. However, Holistic healing like acupressure, acupuncture, massage and yoga help remove energy blockages of these channels, which improves the body’s ability to heal itself.

Etheric Energy Healing

Several holistic healers help restore balance to your etheric energy field including Reiki, Prana, crystal healing and massage. Meditation, yoga, visualization, aromatherapy and flower essences can also cleanse your etheric body. By cleansing and restoring balance to your etheric energy body, you help your physical body heal.

Seeds of Wellness offers Crystal Healing, Massage and Reiki. Donna Bell, our Crystal Healer, uses crystals and gemstones to help her remove energy blockages, shortages in your energy and other issues in your etheric energy body, which stop the flow of energy throughout and around your physical body. Visit our Healers web page to learn more about Donna Bell and our Events & Classes web page to learn when she will be offering Crystal Healing at Seeds of Wellness. The sessions last 45 to 55 minutes.

How Sleep Can Keep You Looking and Feeling Young

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One of the best things we can do for ourselves is to get a good night’s rest each and every night. Sleep improves how we feel physically, emotionally, and mentally. Not surprisingly, if you want to look and feel younger, sleep is your best answer.

How Sleep Helps

Man sleeping at his desk
Image courtasy of Stock Unlimited

About a quarter of Americans suffer from chronic sleep loss. Yet, getting eight hours of sleep a night is imperative for maintaining good health. We lower our likelihood of severe illness when we sleep well, which includes heart disease and diabetes. Those aren’t the only benefits, however, as sleeping well can help skin stay firmer and younger while keeping weight down. When you don’t get the right amount of slumber, you’re more likely to experience stress. This stress creates cortisol, which packs on the pounds. It also inhibits metabolism and makes our memory worse. Overall, to keep feeling youthful, we need to improve how we sleep.

Comfort Is Key

To ensure you get a perfect night of rest, you need a high-quality mattress. If your mattress is on the older side, it may interfere with how well you sleep. Should you feel lumps, springs, or notice that you wake up feeling tired or achy, it’s time to replace it. The type of mattress you get largely depends on the way you sleep. Sleeping on your back, which is the best style to avoid wrinkles, needs a medium firm bed. Side sleepers need something soft to uplift their joints, whereas stomach sleepers benefit most from firm mattresses that support the lower back. Unfortunately, most of us sleep in a combination of styles. A memory foam mattress is the best overall choice, for every position. Because they can be expensive, you should always check reviews to compare warranties and purchase choices before making a decision.

Stick to Your Schedule

When we have a schedule for slumber, we tend to sleep better. That may mean resetting our sleep clock, so to speak. If you wake up often or don’t get tired at regular hours, try doing a 16-hour fast. This can help our bodies re-establish our circadian rhythm. Go to bed and wake at the same hour each day; routine will make it easier to rest regularly. Start by adjusting your schedule by 30 minutes a day for optimum efficiency. Devote time each evening to relaxation without technology. Don’t use your phone or watch TV, as the light and stimulation can keep us up. These small adjustments may lead to large change down the line.

Eat for Sleep

Woman sleeping
Image courtesy of Pixabay

What you eat and when can have a direct impact on the quality of your sleep. Make sure your meals are spread throughout the day. This should keep you from feeling overly hungry at night and, as a result, eating a heavy meal or snacking before bed. Avoid any foods or drinks that can cause an upset stomach, as this can interrupt your sleep. Reduce your sugar, caffeine, and alcohol. If you do need a nibble before turning in, have a complex carb to boost sleepiness. Milk and a bite full of B vitamins can also help us feel ready for bed.

Reduce Your Stress

Our stress levels can keep us up at all hours of the night. Your mind may run over the same things again and again. Your heart may pound without warning, or your muscles might be tense. These are all indications you need to let go of stress. This is easier said than done, but it helps to incorporate relaxation into your nightly routine. Take a hot shower or a long bath, drink herbal tea, and read a good novel before bed. If you can, write in a journal to get negative thoughts out of your head. It can be anything, as long as it makes you feel relieved and relaxed.

We all want to keep our looks youthful and be energetic each day. Although we might hate to admit it, so-called “beauty sleep” is necessary for both. Thankfully, with a few tweaks, a new mattress, and stress reduction, we can sleep like a baby every night.

Article by Sheila Olson

New Year’s Resolution? Let’s Try Something New – Intention

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If you are like me, you have given up on making a New Year’s resolution because you never kept it beyond a few weeks. If you start it at all. Why is this true for many of us?

New Year's Eve clock

Most of the New Year’s resolutions I’ve made and heard go something like this:

  • I am going to lose 40 lbs.
  • Reducing my sugar intake
  • Starting January 1, I will quit smoking
  • I’m exercising at least three times a week

The resolutions usually focus on an aspect of ourselves we feel we need to change (fix). Usually something negative and in the past.

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a resolution is “the act of finding an answer or solution to a conflict, problem, etc. : the act of resolving something; an answer or solution to something.”

My resolutions never included a plan or a solution. They felt more like a test that I either passed or failed. I guess that is why they never happened. Isn’t there a better word than resolution that could help us focus on the future and be positive?

How about intention? After all intentions are the things you “plan to do or achieve : an aim or purpose,” as per the definition by Merriam-Webster. I think this fits much better and includes a purpose!

 

Morning sun through the treesIntentions also allow for flexibility, are ongoing, can change as needed and focus on positive results. For example, I could intend to view exercise as a fun activity instead of a chore, look for something positive about each day and reduce my sugar intake by paying more attention to what I eat. Intentions are more about the journey instead of the destination.

However, you need to believe you can achieve your New Year’s intention, or it is as worthless as a New Year’s resolution. By keeping it simple and focusing on the bigger picture instead of a finite goal, you are more likely to get in touch with your feelings and desires. Remember intentions are not about failure or success, but the striving to be a better you.