H Drop CBD : Sixty Moments

As the festive season gets underway, are you getting enough sleep? Perhaps you’re burning the candle at both ends.  Or maybe you’re lying awake feeling anxious about the spread of the new Covid variant. Well, at The Amazing Blog, we’d like to make a suggestion, to try these rather aptly named ‘Sixty Moments’ from one of our favourite and trusted CBD supplement brands, H DROP.

H Drop is a Dutch family business whose story began in the 19th-century when their great-grandfather Rochus Sliupas started his medical practice fighting cholera and tuberculosis outbreaks. Today, his great-grandson, also named Rochus, continues the family tradition of working in the wellbeing sector. Only this time, it’s with hemp-based full-spectrum THC-free CBD supplements. H Drop’s range currently comprises four CBD oils and two CBD capsules, and they conveniently have a CBD dosage calculator if you’re unsure of the amount to take. H Drop uses only 100% organic hemp, sourced from European fields and extracted in German/UK labs, with an ISO 9001 certification and manufactured under the HACCP  guidelines. This means that they comply with the strictest standards of processing raw materials, quality control, packaging and distribution of the products. Where they have perfected one of the most advanced extraction methods with CO2 chromatography technology. The CO2 extraction means that the CBD is a raw oil and not extracted at high temperatures, ensuring that the enhancing properties of the plant are not damaged. This method also allows them to detect and carefully remove 99.9% of THC molecules from the naturally extracted full-spectrum oil. The H Drop extract still contains all the beneficial cannabinoids (CBN, CBV, CBG, CBC), myrcene, limonene, pinene, humulene, flavonoids (apigenin, quercetin, cannaflavins) and other terpenes which are found in hemp leaves, except for the intoxicating THC. You can also see their laboratory results here. The range is deemed suitable for everyone (although not vegans/vegetarians, as the capsules are made from bovine gelatine!) The packaging is simple and made of recycled cardboard and filled with hemp fibre. There’s also a nice touch with Braille on the sides, translating their motto of Hemp (fully organic), Help (GMP certified) and Health (CO2 extracted).

Sixty Moments’ capsules are a little stronger at 25mg of full-spectrum CBD than the other 10mg Sixty Breath which we reviewed a while back.  Although with the same ingredients, these have been specifically “created for those seeking precise and stronger dosage.” We took these to help improve our sleep patterns – anything to stop those 4 am brain scrambles that poke us awake. These, of course, are made worse at this time of year, with the series of late nights, followed by super-early mornings at our desks. Striving for better quality sleep and balance, these offer a potential solution done by taking some ‘Sixty Moments’ - and mindful moments - stop, breathe and clear the mind. CBD interacts with the serotonin receptors (these play a role in regulating our mood) and is thought to help promote a more positive mental state and a healthy functioning nervous system. The organic hemp oil in each capsule has the bonus of omega 3, 6 and vitamin E. The hemp oil contains cannabinoids that ease anxiety and help to reduce the symptoms of depression. The essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, are also known to improve memory and work to protect the brain and the nervous system and can work as an immune-enhancing supplement if taken regularly. Therefore helping to improve mood and enhance sleep quality

They suggest dividing the dosage evenly with 1, 2 or even 3 times a day. Swallow don’t chew and gradually increase the dose if needed but never exceed 200mg of CBD per day. The bottle contains 60 capsules (1,500mg) which offer approximately a 30 days supply. As they say, the amount of CBD you take will depend on several factors such as body weight and chemistry, the condition you’re treating and the concentration of CBD. For us, it was trying to regulate our sleep patterns, so we took two capsules at night and two during the day (total of 100mg). As we’re old hands, it only took a few days to kick in. It gave us a sense of calm, and so far, to quote H Drop, “no more anxious days and restless nights.” They are a little pricey, but worth it for the quality of the ingredients. To purchase H Drop: Sixty Moments 60 capsules for €89, see here.

Clarity Blend - Mind Spa Bath & Body Oil

At this time of year, at The Amazing Blog, some of the favourite things we enjoy are aromatherapy based products - especially when we can add them into a long de-stressing hot soak. This is where this multi-tasking Mind Spa Body & Bath Oil from Clarity Blend’s comes to our aid. Also for Christmas gift ideas, we thought we’d kick off with Clarity Blend, and share a few more in the run-up to the big day.

Clarity Blend is a natural aromatherapy brand based in the heart of Berkshire, where they offer well-being and at-home spa products for a more balanced, positive, and healthier lifestyle. Bulgarian born Veronika and Dimitar Vasilev, founders of Clarity Blend, wanted to start a brand that shares their passion for aromatherapy. Their love for essential oils was founded when the couple wanted to reconnect with themselves and nature, helping to give them a calmer way of life. “With happy memories of growing up surrounded by the aromatic meadows of the Bulgarian countryside, we found ourselves craving the feeling of calm that time spent in nature had given us.” Their journey began after a long search for natural, non-toxic and sustainable products, that would fit their remit. So, they started with research combining nature’s best from woods, flowers, resins, and fruit essential oils to create quality products with the help of top clinical aromatherapists, and finally launching their two initial ranges with Sweet Dreams and Energy Boost. Clarity Blend values education and sharing the power of aromatherapy and its many benefits with its loyal customers. “The power of aromatherapy is a wonderful thing, and we’re passionate about sharing its benefits so you can enjoy a more balanced, positive, and healthier lifestyle. We like to call it ‘Nature in a bottle,” and they went on to say, “We source pure essential oils from all over the world and sprinkle a touch of our Bulgarian heritage into our blends. Our aim from the outset was to capture the essence of the meandering meadows and flowery scents of our childhoods and share their natural benefits.” All products are eco-friendly, 100% natural, vegan and free from artificial fragrances, parabens, sulphates, phthalates and SLSs. In addition, they are handmade in the UK under Good Manufacturing Practice using oils sourced from worldwide reliable suppliers. A core value of Clarity Blend is never harming endangered or vulnerable plant species. However, what makes this brand even more noteworthy is its sustainability efforts, where they use glass products, bamboo and rubber-capped glass, and metal roller balls to minimise the use of unnecessary plastic. Even their hampers and delivery boxes are made with kraft boxes, fully recyclable filling or biodegradable peanut pellets. They now have ten collections and within each of these are four different products with Body & Bath Oil, Bath Salts Roll-on and a Diffuser Blend.

The Mind Spa range focuses on relieving stress, anxiety, irritableness, and tension in daily life. Truly an at-home spa experience, filled with four key essential oils eucalyptus, patchouli, bergamot and lemongrass. Eucalyptus eases breathing, giving one a sense of fresh air and the feeling of a deep breath. This fresh and clean smell is one of our favourite oils of all time. Patchouli has antidepressant properties that help the nervous system and emotions become more balanced. It also gives this product a sweet and earthy scent. The Sicilian bergamot is fresh, citrusy with hints of floral, and exudes positive and happy vibes. Lastly, lemongrass helps reduce fatigue and lack of motivation by stimulating the mind and emotions. We’re focusing today on the Body & Bath Oil. This product is a good body oil that nourishes and moisturises the skin while also treating the mind and spirit, particularly when inhaling the aroma. In addition to the essential oils, this Body & Bath Oil also has the carrier oils of jojoba and almond. Both these oils treat dry skin while also reducing the appearance of stretch marks and scars. We were curious to try this product as it recently received the Bronze Award for Best 100% Natural product at the Global Green Beauty Awards 2021 and was a finalist for best body oil at the Natural Health Beauty Awards 2021. We put a few drops in our hands to warm it up. As directed, we applied it directly after shower or bath on warm, dry skin, then massaged it in gentle circular motions towards the heart. We also think that you could add a few drops of this oil to a warm bath for even greater relaxation. We liked how there was no oily greasy residue, and it absorbed quickly and thoroughly into the skin. It made us feel balanced, focused and boosted our end of the week self-care night. Whether you’re a beginner or avid lover of aromatherapy, the brand offers the opportunity to join their Wellness Club where you’ll receive valuable tips for healthy living. Plus, members get a free digital copy of our Wellness Pocket Companion and 10% off on all orders. To purchase Clarity Blend’s 100ml Mind Spa Body & Bath Oil, for £16, see here.

CBME : CBD infused dried fruit packs

We always try to find that unique little CBD 'something’; be it edible, topical or more recently, home fragrance. Well, today at The Amazing Blog, we’ve found these CBD infused dried fruits - which, as you can imagine, really piqued our interest! Created by CBME, a CBD wellness company, they’ve recently launched this range of three CBD infused dried fruits with Uplift, Relax, and Relieve.

CBME came to life thanks to Bhavin Morjaria, the founder and chief product creator. As a registered pharmacist with over ten years of health and wellness experience, Bhavin created CBME to provide his customers with everyday food products, for a ‘personalised CBD experience’. The primary mission of the brand is to try to redefine CBD to make it more adaptable. The CBME idea started when Bhavin noticed that he and his mother were using the same CBD products, but to relieve different issues. He was using the CBD to help reduce stress and improve his wellbeing, whereas his mother, Mina, was using the CBD to relieve her joint pain. Although Mina still takes other prescription medications, she has since taken a lower dose of her prescribed painkillers by using CBD.. This inspired him to develop products that are tailored to tackle specific issues more effectively. Bhavin said, “We saw that the same CBD products were being recommended no matter who you were. We are all not the same, so why should our wellness product be the same? So we went on our mission to create and personalise our CBD products.” He further harnesses this with a more holistic approach using CBD as the key ingredient. However, by adding other minerals and botanicals to enhance further the positive effects of the CBD, it offers more amplified effects of wellbeing. Using his pharmaceutical knowledge, he has combined CBD and Ayurvedic medicine to make these first CBD coated dried fruit packs. The three blends, Uplift, Relax and Relieve  (see our review below) are all made with organic broad-spectrum CBD distillate, CBG, and natural terpenes, to optimise the full plant energy. The dried fruit packs are vegan, have no allergens, and are THC-free. These Uplift and Relax dried fruit packs have added sugar or sweetener whereas the Relieve dried fruit pack is sugar and sweetener free. CBME want to offer consumers a natural and healthier alternative to the other high-calorie CBD infused edibles available. Apart from selling CBD edibles, they are also committed to educating people about the benefits of hemp and CBD through short informative videos, which can be found here, and have a CBD dosage calculator here to help the consumer determine how much they should take. All the hemp used is grown and sourced from Columbia, and 3rd party lab-tested in California.

We received all three CBD dried fruit packs, Uplift (pineapple), Relax (papaya), and Relieve (apricot). These CBD snacks are unique, where each pack contains a blend of different ingredients designed to target a variety of needs. These dried fruits are enhanced with other ingredients; so let’s start with the ones they all share. There is CBD broad spectrum distillate in each fruit, meaning it is THC-free and the whole plant is used to retain full-plant synergy. All the combined terpenes encourage the ‘entourage effect’, which allows the consumer to get the maximum benefits from the CBD. All the dried fruit are coated with CBD, which they claim will enable it to be absorbed faster, promoting its effectiveness. While they all include this kind of CBD, the fruits are also fortified with CBG, another cannabinoid found in hemp plants. This natural CBG cannabigerol has several extra enhanced health benefits known for reducing pain and inflammation and also acting as an anti-depressant. Many CBD products contain only a tiny quantity of CBG, so we were pleased to see a more substantial presence in all these dried fruits. Each pack has a different mix of natural flower derived terpenes, minerals and botanical elements, that when added with CBD, enhance overall wellbeing. 

In Uplift, there’s a combination of dried pineapple and ashwagandha root. Each piece has 35mg CBD and is designed to help regulate stress hormones and relieve anxiety. Ashwagandha is a revitalising herb that’s known to ease anxiety and promote calmness. It is an adaptogen, a substance known to help your body adapt to everyday physical and emotional stressors. This product is also infused with what they call ‘happy terpenes’, which are derived from a flower strain rich in limonene and myrcene. Limonene is a very energising terpene, and myrcene has antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. The organic stevia found in Uplift contributes to its sweetness giving this triangular pineapple slice an almost candied-like appearance. Another very important ingredient are the probiotics, which are here to help improve gut health and balance the natural microbiota. CBME recommends eating one of these rejuvenating pineapple slices to help get your day off to a good start!

Next, we tried the Relax pack, which also has 35mg of CBD, infused into each papaya piece. These are aimed to help inspire calm, with the infusion of botanicals and relaxing plant terpenes working together to recharge and aid sleep. The other addition is magnesium, an essential mineral that is crucial for keeping balanced levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that relaxes the brain and encourages restorative sleep. There are also hops that are closely related to cannabis sativa, and include xanthohumol, an antioxidant that helps induce a deep sleep.  Finally, the griffonia seeds, with natural 5-htp an element that increases serotonin which is known to improve mood and increase levels of calmness. And also raises melatonin production levels, the hormone that is connected to our sleep-cycle.  They also add back any of the natural terpenes that are lost during the extraction process, so in this pack they’ve put back the ‘relaxing terpenes’ high in linalool and terpinolene. Linalool has soothing and sedative properties, and terpinolene, can help treat insomnia. Again, like the pineapple pieces, these papaya slices look like candied fruits, although these have cane sugar instead of sweetener. The brand explained to use why they have the addition of either sweetener or sugar in both ‘Relax’ and ‘Uplift,’ “The sweetness in the pineapple and papaya is because without the added sugar they would become super sour when dried. So need a bit of sugar at curing, the ashwagandha and the other ingredients are very bitter so the added sweetness keeps them palatable.”. We like the idea of eating a piece or two to relax at the end of a busy day - but if taking before going to sleep, be sure you brush your teeth!

Lastly, Relieve, where each dried apricot has 50mg of CBD, and been infused to help ease aches and pains, or sore joints. To meet its purpose of naturally reducing inflammation or pain, the dried apricots are infused with turmeric, black pepper and soothing terpenes from ‘pain-relieving flower strains.’ Turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. The compound, curcumin, found within turmeric are known to aid conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and support anti-inflammatory issues. As for the black pepper, it increases the body’s absorption level of curcumin by up to 2000%.  The anti-inflammatory terpenes that the apricots contain are rich in beta-caryophyllene. Beta-caryophyllene has several health-benefits like decreasing cholesterol levels, reducing anxiety and pain, and bringing down inflammation. These are great for combatting the sore muscles after a workout, or for relieving any arthritic or joint pain, and were our favourite of the three. Mainly because they’re the only the natural fruit with no added sugar or sweetener, and also in this cold damp weather, we notice more joint pain and these have the more relevant benefits for us.

We think these dried fruit packs are perfect for each of their intended purposes. We know what you’re all dying to ask; how do they taste? Like dried fruit (or candied fruit) with a slight hemp tang as an after taste, which is probably why some have been sweetened. For us, as CBD aficionados they tasted delicious, but for the uninitiated, they might take a little bit of getting used to. If you are looking for a day with reduced stress, take an Uplift piece in the morning to kick off the day. And if you want to give your body a break and unwind for a good night's sleep, then the Relax papaya piece might do the trick. Or for those days when muscles are sore, or you’re suffering from the after-effects of a big gym workout, then try a Relieve dried fruit piece before sleep. NB: The FSA recommended dosage of CBD is 70mg per day - so bear that in mind if you are tempted to eat the whole packet in one go! We were sent the ‘Try Me’ packs which you can buy here which contain 5 pieces for £13 for the Uplift and Relax, and for £15 for the Relieve.

CBME are also happy to offer 30% off your first purchase exclusively to our readers, all you have to do is enter discount code AMAZING at the checkout. - valid until 31/02/22.

CBD Pure Oils: CALM – CBD Infused Scented Oil

Regular readers of The Amazing Blog will know that we can’t resist trying something new from the world of CBD, Today, think ‘room fragrance’. We couldn’t resist trying this CALM- CBD Infused Scented Oil, a CBD infused fragranced oil from CBD Pure Oils. A few drops in water either with an ultrasonic aroma diffuser (photo above) or burning in a traditional ceramic one; the combined effects of CBD with essential oils help to transform a room’s ambience.

The CBD Pure Oils story starts in August of 2017 with two friends discovering that they’ve both been using CBD products, on a regular basis for anxiety and pain relief.  This was the moment when Debbie Houghton and Julie Barrett decided to become the founders of a new CBD brand, This way they both could share their CBD experience with others. What started as an idea to provide high-quality CBD products has now turned into a successful and innovative brand.   They described CBD Pure OIls as a place for consumers to “easily access the products they desire and be assured that the CBD products they are buying are pure.”  With transparency at the forefront, the two founders want to ensure that the CBD products they offer are always reliable and pure. To emphasise this brand message, they use EU-approved hemp strains that have been extracted in the UK through a Co2 supercritical extraction process. They’ve also made information on their products available here with the laboratory results giving the strength and purity.  CBD Pure Oils sells a selection of full-spectrum but THC-free CBD products, ranging from oils and topicals to the slightly more unusual home products. Co-founder Denise pointed out, “Having the ability to provide a CBD oil that contains the whole plant, and is full-spectrum, increases ‘the entourage effect’ within our bodies, meaning our customers will get the maximum benefits from our CBD oil.” They’re also proud members of the Cannabis Trade Association, a trade body that aims to foster good work practice, raise standards, increase safety, and monitor the cannabis trade industry in Europe. All products are suitable for vegans, they’re mindful of their carbon footprint, and use recyclable packaging for their products.  

CALM- CBD Infused Scented Oil combines essential oils with 20mg of full-spectrum CBD oil, creating an aromatherapy-based room fragrance. This deep scented blend can be broken down into three main notes: the top note is bergamot, the middle note is patchouli, and the base note is amber. As mentioned earlier, this dark amber and bergamot essential oil is infused with full-spectrum CBD, this unusual addition helps to add another dimension raising a further sense of calm, which in turn reduces stress and promotes a feeling of relaxation. The full-spectrum CBD oil means that it retains many of the terpenes and natural plant compounds, like THC. However, the THC in all the products from CBD Pure Oils has been removed by using a Co2 supercritical extraction process. When these terpenes come together with other natural plant compounds, like those found in essential oils, they tend to create an even more amplified effect. The bergamot here is a popular citrus essential oil also known to relax the mind and relieve stress. Patchouli oil, made from the leaves of a patchouli plant, has its own beneficial properties like alleviating pain and easing anxiety, As for the amber oil, made from melted tree resin, it’s known to strengthen memory, soothe the mind, and improve sleep patterns. All these ingredients come together to form this unique CALM- CBD Infused Scented Oil. By harnessing the CBD benefits with these essential oils, this infusion creates a feeling of ‘calm’ which when either burnt or vapourised in a diffuser, offers a feeling of almost meditative tranquillity to the surroundings.

To use this CALM - CBD Infused Scented Oil, we simply added five or six drops together with water into our ultrasonic aroma diffuser, which dispersed plumes of fragranced vapour into the air, taking only moments to create a scent-filled room. The best way to describe this dark bergamot and amber aroma is a warm, earthy, sweet scent with a slight touch of citrusy spice - and no smell of hemp!  We found it very mellow and autumnal. Sadly, this little bottle didn’t last long as the scent proved very popular in the office, and became part of our daily home-time routine - stimulating the senses and calming our busy minds!. Yes, it’s another one of our #amazingfinds. The 10 ml CALM- CBD Infused Scented Oil (containing 20 mg of CBD oil) can be purchased here for £9.  

Makosh : EQUILIBRIUM Lavender & Neroli Room Mist

Regular readers of The Amazing Blog will know that apart from beauty and well-being products, we also love to feature home fragrances like candles, diffusers, and room mists. These Inspire us to be more positive on days when we’re feeling a little jaded or down. For us,  there’s nothing better than a wonderful fragrance that uplifts the spirits and offers aromatherapeutic benefits too. We first came across the Slovenian brand Makosh and their EQUILIBRIUM Room Mist in Lavender & Neroli, when they won an award with 2021 The Beauty Shortlist Awards, and it took us on an olfactory journey to the Mediterranean.

Makosh is a range of natural skincare and fragrances founded in 2020 by Nina Medved, an aromatherapist, botanical perfumer, and formulator. She discovered essential oils 20 years ago after travelling to New York when she began to use these essential oils to improve her overall well-being. Making the connection between aromatherapy and its benefits for mental and physical health. Nina said, “This is where I discovered a strong connection between smell, psyche, and skin and I realised the power of smell as a support in personal growth and treatment of both physical and mental problems.” It led her on to opening an aromatherapy school named Magnolia, where even today she trains others on the holistic and healing approach.  Since 2011, Nina has been teaching educational workshops in Perfumery, Aromatherapy, or Natural Cosmetics, and she’s also has written articles, and made regular local TV guest appearances. Through Makosh, Nina combines her knowledge, experience and her passion to help others. Makosh is named after the Slavic goddess of fertility, protector of women and motherhood. Like Makosh hereself, Nina hopes to inspire women to celebrate their mistakes and authenticity, with products that offer support and act as channels for emotional growth. Nina also believes that we must contribute to the health of the planet, and takes care to select environmentally friendly ingredients and packaging at every step of production. All products are 100% natural, and wherever possible, organic ingredients are used. Makosh is transparent about its formulas, listing ingredients clearly and creating Mediterranean-based fragrances made from 100% natural essential oils, absolutes, and using mainly CO2 extracts. Product packaging includes biodegradable Miron glass (a glass that blocks UVA/B light and protects fragile natural ingredients), and the outer packaging consists of partially recycled paper blended with hemp fibres. Nina also focuses on Makosh's emissions, using only local suppliers and focuses on ingredients from Europe with regional origin.

Makosh sent us this award-winning Room Mist with EQUILIBRIUM Lavender & Neroli to try. They believe that by spritzing one of their Room Mists can instantly transform the vibration and feel of a living space. The Room Mists are created to “build a bridge between aromatherapy and traditional perfumery, with a holistic approach.” Makosh harnesses the potent properties from each of the organic botanicals to create an individual fragrance for well-being, not just for yourself, but to be shared with others. These mists can be used to not only help to improve general mood, but also air quality, and to refresh and neutralise any unpleasant smells. EQUILIBRIUM Lavender & Neroli, is as the name suggests, for creating balance - it has the element of water. As one of the four elements, water has been used to communicate the sacred value of life; the spiritual dimension of purification, protection, and healing. The top notes of this mist are made with organic essential oils such as lavender, mandarin, and petitgrain bigard; the middle notes are neroli and roman chamomile, and the bottom notes of benzoin, copaiba, and vetiver. The key ingredients are lavender with it’s has anti-anxiety benefits, creating a relaxing sensation that can aid with sleep and insomnia. Neroli extracted from the blossom of the bitter orange tree, can lower blood pressure by reducing cortisol. It also promotes the release of serotonin, reducing stress, anxiety, and anxiety-induced depression. Roman chamomile helps to calm mood swings, and benzoin for centuries has been used in religious ceremonies and medical practices as it’s known to stabilise mood. When these botanicals are combined they give a fresh, citrus, and floral scent that offers a feeling of tranquillity. As Nina says, “The synergy of the essential oils of real lavender, neroli and mandarin creates a feeling of inner peace and mystical equilibrium. A ticket to an unforgettable journey of all the senses!” You can use this mist at any time, for us, the fragrance evoked memories of lemon groves, warm seas, and soft sand underfoot. We found that spritzing it at the end of the day – quietened our busy minds and led us into a state of relaxation. These natural ingredients work to balance the flow of energy around you and reduce negative ions. We think to get the maximum benefits, it needs to be sprayed around you like an aura. This can be done with eyes closed, taking slow deep breaths allowing you to take in and experience the moment. it could also be used not only as room spray but also for meditation or even as a pillow mist. Makosh also has another Room Mist VIRAGO Juniper & White Fir with properties to help ‘invigorate’ your space, this time with the element of air. Air symbolises communication, perception, creativity, and harmony. Whichever one you decide to choose, we think that either of these Room Mists will transport you into another more tranquil and harmonious space. If you'd like to try these Room Mists, you can purchase a 50ml bottle here for €29.00.