CBD Pure Calm
Stress affects everyone - whether it be physical or mental. It affects our work,
our relationships, and most chronically, our health, with many diseases having
well-established correlations to the presence of chronic stress. To manage,
some partake in self-care, such as making an appointment for a spa
treatment, while others take supplements, or use essential oils; others may
exercise or meditate, and the list goes on. At HCD Anti-Aging Laboratories,
Inc, researchers have tried to bring together the idea of self-care with
medicine, creating the CBD Pure Calm Mani/Pedi-Pod treatment
containing FDA/OTC approved, medical-grade CBD, along with lavender,
oatmeal, chamomile, and magnesium, all of which have literature to
support their use when it comes to stress-management and overall
health. Medicine doesn’t have to always be scary, or painful; this treatment
hopes to prove just that.
Hemp oil, the main source of CBD, is one of the few oils that contain about
80% polyunsaturated fats in an optimal ratio of omega-6s to omega-3s. In
combination with its high flavonoids, antioxidants, and tocopherols (Vitamin E
derivatives), it can potentially have numerous benefits for the human body,
especially for the skin (1). In regards to the omega content, research
supporting the topical application of hemp oil is in its early stages; however,
there is research supporting the use of other omega-rich oils for skin support.
In 2019, linseed oil, evening primrose oil, and olive oils were found in animal
studies to accelerate wound healing; much of this effect was attributed to
the formation of new microvasculature while modulating inflammatory and
anti-inflammatory pathways (2). Hemp oil, based on its content, should be no
different, hydrating, oxygenating, and reducing inflammation in the skin.
When it comes to direct clinical actions of topical cannabinoids, there is
building evidence pointing towards success when it comes to improving acne,
seborrhea, dermatitis, and overall skin barrier function. Interestingly, the skin
has an endocannabinoid system that is known to maintain skin homeostasis;
abnormalities in this system have been tied to these skin conditions, along
with problems in hair growth and pigmentation. Though more studies are
needed to validate early findings, many researchers are hypothesizing that
CBD, as something that can interact with this intrinsic endocannabinoid
system, holds a lot of therapeutic potential, especially when it comes to
treating dermatologic issues. (3)
Other than using CBD-containing hemp oil, the formulators of the CBD Pure
Calm Mani/PediPod also worked to incorporate traditional herbal modalities
supported by years of clinical use and research. Two of the botanicals -
lavender and chamomile, have benefits when it comes to skin health as well
as the ability to benefit psychological conditions, specifically stress. Topically,
lavender essential oil has been shown in multiple studies to support wound
healing. A review of current research by Samuelson et al in 2020 stated that
many of these studies found the daily application was able to improve healing
time, increase the expression of collagen thereby strengthening the skin,
and enhance the activity of proteins known to be involved in the skin/tissue
remodeling process (4). Chamomile, in one review, was found to reduce
transepithelial water loss, thereby hydrating the skin; this was evidenced by
diminished levels of skin roughness, scaliness, and wrinkles (5). These herbs
together not only calm the skin but also are quite respected when it comes to
calming the mind.
The CBD Pure Calm Mani/PediPod, due to the aromatherapy aspects of
lavender and chamomile, has a direct effect on stress levels. Lavender alone
is possibly the most well-respected and most-researched essential oil - studies
show benefits on stress, depression, and anxiety levels in a number of
situations including the postpartum period, in those recovering from
cardiovascular events, in individuals with job stress, and in patients recovering
from surgery. Chamomile, also well-studied, has been shown to alleviate
depressive symptoms, improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and even
modulate the diurnal cortisol pattern in a beneficial way. Citing these
benefits, Ebrahimi et al 2022 studied the effects of both lavender and
chamomile essential oil when inhaled nightly for over one month. They found
both were able to significantly decrease depression, anxiety, and stress levels
in the elderly population they studied.(6) By including both in the CBD Pure
Calm Mani/PediPod, the scent while experiencing treatment should
instill a sense of calm, helping promote self-care.
The last herb included in the CBD Pure Calm Mani/PediPod is Avena sativa,
commonly known as oatmeal. Traditionally, it has been used for centuries on
the skin to treat rashes, burns, eczematous conditions, itching, and redness
(7). Evidence now shows that its success in treating these conditions can be
attributed to avenanthramides, compounds with both anti-inflammatory
and antihistamine mechanisms. The avenanthramides directly inhibit the
release of pro-inflammatory molecules known as cytokines and
histamine. (8) By reducing inflammation and the allergic response, topical
chamomile has the ability to soothe the skin and keep it looking bright and
healthy.
Magnesium, an important mineral for whole-body vitality, has also been
included. It is used by healthcare professionals as an oral supplement for
various concerns but frequently is also used topically. Epsom salts, a
consumer product containing mainly magnesium salts, are touted to promote
relaxation, relieve muscle tension, and soften and exfoliate the skin.
Currently, research is limited, but physiologically it is well known that
magnesium plays an important role in maintaining the skin barrier,
immune modulation, and hydration (9). This has been seen in more
clinically relevant studies looking at mineral mixes, especially Dead Sea salts,
which are magnesium-rich. In 2005, Proksch et al showed that bathing in these
salts significantly improved skin barrier function as evidenced by improved
hydration, reduced skin roughness, and reduced signs of inflammation in
patients with atopic dry skin or dermatitis (10), which is consistent with the
known roles of magnesium in the body.
These natural and safe compounds are combined with benzalkonium
chloride, a potent FDA-approved antimicrobial that is known to be
minimally irritating to the skin. Researchers have worked diligently to combine
the traditional medicinal philosophies with modern medicine providing a new,
novel way to support patients suffering from various skin conditions. The CBD
Pure Calm Mani/PediPod formula, containing medical-grade FDA/OTC-
approved CBD, lavender, chamomile, oatmeal, and magnesium, truly
combines beauty, health, and self-care. It successfully provides a spa
treatment, while clinically reducing stress levels, and supporting the health
and vitality of the skin, while being supported by years of scientific research.

Dr. Mary Hall, ND, LAc
Medical Writer and Medical Advisory Board
References:
“Occhiuto, C., Aliberto, G., Ingegneri, M., Thrombetta, D., Circosta, C.,
Smeriglio, A. 2022. Comparative evaluation of the nutrients,
phytochemicals, and antioxidant activity of two hemp seed oils and their
byproducts after cold pressing. Molecules: 27(11): 3431.
Wan Ishak, W.M., Katas, H., Yuen, N.P., Abdullah, M.A., Zulfakar, M.H. 2019.
Topical application of omega-3-, omega-6-, and omega-9-rich oil emulsions
for cutaneous wound healing in rats. Drug Deliv Transl Res: 9(2): 418-433.
Baswan, S.M., Klosner, A.E., Glynn, K., Rajgopal, A., Malik, K., Yim, S., Stern,
N. 2020. Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) for skin health and
disorders. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol: 13: 927-942.
Samuelson, R., Lobl, M., Higgins, S., Clary, D., Wysong, A. 2020. The effects
of lavender essential oil on wound healing: a review of current evidence. J
Altern Complement Med: 26(8): 680-690.
Jadoon, S., Karim, S., Hassan Bin Assad, M.H., Akram, M.R., Khan, A.K.,
Malik, A., Chen, C., Murtaza, G. 2015. Anti-aging potential of phytoextract
loaded-pharmaceutical creams for human skin cell longevity. Oxid Med
Cell Longev: online publication.
Ebrahimi, H., Mardani, A., Basirinezhad, M.H., Hamidzadeh, A., Eskandari,
F. 2022. The effects of lavender and chamomile essential oil inhalation
aromatherapy on depression, anxiety, and stress in older community-
dwelling people: a randomized controlled trial. Explore: 18(3): 272-278.
Reynertson, K.A., Garay, M., Nebus, J., Chon, S., Kaur, S., Mahmood, K.,
Kizoulis, M., Southall, M.D. 2015. Anti-inflammatory activities of colloidal
oatmeal (Avena sativa) contribute to the effectiveness of oats in treatment
of itch associated with dry, irritated skin. JDD: 14(1): online.
Cerio, R., Dohill, M., Jeanine, D., Magina, S., Mahe, E., Stratigos, A.J. 2010.
Mechanism of action and clinical benefits of colloidal oatmeal for
dermatologic practice. J Drugs Dermatol: 9(9): 116-120.
Polefka, T.G., Bianchini, R.J., Shapiro, S. 2012. Interaction of mineral salts
with the skin: a literature survey. Int J Cosm Sci: 34(5): 416-423.
Proksch, E., Nissen, H.P., Bremgartner, M., Urquhart, C. 2005. Bathing in a
magnesium-rich Dead Sea salt solution improves skin barrier function,
enhances skin hydration, and reduces inflammation in atopic dry skin. Int J
Dermatol: 44(2): 151-157.
References: