When I tear open a pouch of cannabis-infused Epsom salt, I anticipate the earthy scent of marijuana. Instead, I am welcomed by the soothing aroma of lavender. There’s no hint of the distinct smell of cannabis — and that’s a relief. My goal is not to get high or draw attention, but to unwind and ease my anxious mind into a restful slumber. I pour the shimmering crystals into the warm bath and settle in.
Cannabis-infused self-care products have gained popularity in states like California, Washington, Oregon, and Colorado, where medical marijuana has been legalized for some time. Despite residing in one of these states, I only recently became aware of cannabis-infused lotions and bath products as a busy mom of three.
The more I explore the world of cannabis, the more I realize it offers benefits beyond just getting high. While that experience is not inherently negative, my priority lies in finding ways to relax rather than escape. Fortunately, there’s a cannabis-infused bath bomb designed specifically for that purpose. Additionally, you can find body lotion, massage oils, bath soaks, and even CBD-based edibles for sleep.
These products primarily feature cannabidiol (CBD), which is celebrated for its therapeutic properties and doesn’t produce the psychoactive effects associated with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound in cannabis that alters mood. CBD interacts with our body’s endocannabinoid system, promoting balance in stress responses, making it an effective anti-inflammatory. Another significant advantage of CBD is its potential to alleviate insomnia, stress, and anxiety.
I’ve struggled with mild anxiety for much of my life. As a child, I often woke up with stomachaches, pleading to stay home from school. My middle school years were marked by shyness, and as a young adult, I would replay conversations in my head, worrying about my words. Now, as a mother, my anxiety often revolves around whether I’m doing the right things for my children and setting them up for success.
This constant worry leaves me feeling frazzled and sleepless. To cope with my anxiety, I engage in regular exercise, practice mindful breathing, and indulge in cheese. While I enjoy sipping wine in the evenings to unwind, I dislike the grogginess that lingers the next morning.
When I tried a CBD-melatonin sleep chew, it transformed my routine. This medicated chocolate caramel helped me achieve a deep, restful sleep — a vital aspect of self-care for any mom. Without quality sleep, it’s challenging to show up as our best selves.
Curious about other cannabis-infused self-care options, I turned to the internet and discovered various topical products, including Om Body Epsom Salt Soak. The idea of immersing myself in warm water for a full-body experience was enticing, especially since I rarely indulge in baths.
According to a review on The Cannifornian, these salts offer anti-anxiety benefits for the parasympathetic nervous system, making them perfect for individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, or insomnia. Who wouldn’t want to sleep soundly like a baby — especially one of those mythical babies that snooze through the night? I was intrigued, though not everyone shares my comfort in personal recommendations. Unfortunately, scientific studies on CBD’s anti-anxiety effects are limited due to marijuana’s classification as a Schedule 1 substance, alongside drugs like heroin and LSD.
In an interview with The Cut, Dr. Linda Roberts, a professor of Neurobiology and Psychiatry at a leading university, noted that while there are a few studies suggesting CBD could reduce anxiety, concrete comparisons to FDA-approved anxiolytics are scarce. Clearly, the medical field is lagging behind those experiencing the benefits firsthand. With marijuana still illegal federally and powerful pharmaceutical companies dominating the anti-anxiety market, change may be slow.
Anecdotally, many users vouch for cannabis as a means to ease anxiety. Two family members battling cancer swear by marijuana for relaxation and improved sleep. Close friends, dealing with varying degrees of anxiety, often rely on specific cannabis strains for relief.
After soaking in the cannabis-infused bath, I truly felt more relaxed, and my racing thoughts quieted to a manageable level. Best of all, I enjoyed a full night of sleep, making the next day’s challenges feel a bit more manageable.
Mission accomplished.
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Summary
Cannabis-infused self-care products, particularly those containing CBD, offer a relaxing alternative for managing anxiety and promoting better sleep. With a variety of options available, such as Epsom salts and edibles, many individuals are discovering the therapeutic benefits of cannabis beyond recreational use.