Tag: Wellness

At Astrid, we’re not just about supporting patients on their natural therapy journeys, we also support the broader wellness benefits offered by plant-based skincare, natural supplements and lifestyle products. 

With skincare enriched with hemp seed oil, we’ve curated a collection that harmonises the ethos of health, wellness, and natural products.

Dive into our selection of gifts and skincare essentials, these products are designed to enhance your wellness journey and bring a touch of botanical bliss into your life.

The Magic of Hemp Seed Oil in Skincare Products 

Hemp seed oil is known to be a great natural moisturiser that doesn’t clog pores and is suitable for all types of skin – including dry, oily and combination skin. 

Hemp seed oil has become a popular remedy due to its essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including omega-3s and omega-6s which have anti-inflammatory properties and may be effective when treating skin conditions like irritated skin, eczema, and psoriasis. 

Our carefully selected range of hemp oil infused products are available both in-store at Astrid Byron Bay and Astrid South Yarra, and online for those who prefer the convenience of shopping from home. 

6 Hemp Seed Oil Skincare Products at Astrid 

HunterLab Healing Hand Cream

Soak your hands in the luxurious HunterLab Healing Hand Cream, a masterpiece crafted from the earth’s most nourishing botanicals. 

Infused with the potent blend of argan, grapeseed, and hemp seed oils, complemented by soothing aloe vera and the power of native extracts, this hand cream is an ultimate companion for deep hydration. Its non-greasy formula offers a sanctuary of moisture, softening the skin while diminishing dark spots and fine lines with grace.

The high performing formulation has a rich texture which absorbs rapidly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue behind. 

The fragrance is a refreshing mandarin, grapefruit, cedarwood, with hints of lavender and rosemary to invigorate the senses.

DIRECTIONS

With a small amount of cream in your palm, gently massage it over your hands until fully absorbed.

HunterLab Hand & Body Wash

Elevate your bathing ritual with HunterLab Hand & Body Wash, a moisturiser packed with nutrients. 

Powered by the hardworking hemp seed oil and the rejuvenating baobab protein, this hand or body wash is a testament to the healing power of natural extracts. It also contains native extracts such as aniseed myrtle, mountain pepper, and wild rosella flower, which provide intense hydration and nourishment to the skin.

This multi-purpose wash doesn’t just cleanse, it transforms your skin, leaving it refreshed and enriched over time. The scent is an intoxicating mix of tangerine and grapefruit, with a hint of rum, creating a scent of adventure for each day.

DIRECTIONS

Use in moments when you need a thorough and indulgent cleanse. Use 1-2 pumps of the wash, work into a lather on damp skin, then rinse clean to feel refreshed.

Alivio Hydrating Night Cream

Alivio Hydrating Night Cream is a lightweight and nourishing cream which helps skin to become moisturised and rejuvenated overnight.

Catering to all skin types, this hydrating cream was created to facilitate complete repair and reconstruction of skin internally. At its core, hemp seed oil works in harmony with bakuchiol, nature’s answer to retinol, alongside vitamin C and pro-collagen tripeptide-38, to focus on skin repair and renewal.

As you rest, this lightweight yet deeply nourishing cream works to:

• Shield against and repair from free radical damage
• Plump and hydrates skin
• Restore firmness and elasticity
• Nourishes and strengthens the skin barrier for enhanced resilience

Awaken to a morning of soft, supple skin that radiates health, thanks to the Alivio Hydrating Night Cream’s commitment to your skin’s overnight transformation.

DIRECTIONS

After nighttime face washing routine, use a small amount of Night Cream and rub into face with gentle upward strokes 

Alivio Facial Hydrator Serum

The Alivio Facial Hydrator Serum is focused on creating hydration and radiance for all skin types. Enriched with omega fatty acids and the star ingredient, hemp seed oil, this serum is a lightweight elixir designed for effortless absorption into your skincare ritual. 

Bakuchiol, a natural cell regenerator and collagen booster, works alongside antioxidants and Vitamin C to unveil a complexion that not only glows but thrives under protection and nourishment suitable for all skin types.

Experience the transformative benefits:

• Illuminates and balances skin tone
• Shields from free radicals and environmental pollutants
• Diminishes signs of ageing
• Deeply moisturises and revitalises

DIRECTIONS

Take a few drops of the Alivio Facial Hydrator Serum each day and softly massage your face to reveal luminous, hydrated skin.

Alivio Glycolic Facial Cleanser

Discover the gentle power of exfoliation with the Alivio Glycolic Facial Cleanser, a daily ritual for unveiling radiant, youthful skin. 

Infused with glycolic acid, this cleanser delicately removes lifeless skin cells, revealing the vibrant glow beneath. 

Far from the harshness of traditional cleansers, our formula is enriched with hemp seed oil, organic aloe juice, and a blend of cucumber and green tea extracts, offering a soothing, hydrating experience.

Embrace the benefits of this facial cleanser:

• Gentle exfoliation for a brighter, more even complexion
• Daily defence against environmental aggressors
• Reduction in fine lines and wrinkles
• Boost in collagen production for lasting youthfulness

DIRECTIONS

This cleanser’s gel formula lightly lathers, cleansing without stripping, ensuring your skin remains hydrated and calm. With Alivio Glycolic Facial Cleanser, step into a world where daily cleansing is not just a routine but a revitalising skin ritual.

Cannabella Hemp Jelly: The Ultimate Skin Saviour

Dive into the luxurious Cannabella Hemp Jelly, a versatile balm meticulously crafted to nurture, repair, and hydrate even the most troubled skin. 

This all-encompassing remedy includes nature’s finest ingredients, suitable for all skin types and particularly a boon for those with sensitivities, including eczema and dermatitis.

At the heart of this balm lies the potent, unfiltered hemp seed oil, renowned for its high chlorophyll content and essential fatty acids, offering unparalleled skin renewal benefits. Its natural prowess in reducing inflammation and inhibiting bacteria sets the stage for a truly transformative skin care experience.

Enriched with the moisture-sealing properties of shea butter and beeswax, Cannabella Hemp Jelly creates a sanctuary of hydration for your skin. Jojoba and avocado oils weave in an antioxidant-rich layer, while vitamins E and A accelerate healing, fend off breakouts, and bolster the skin’s defence mechanisms.

Directions and versatile uses for Cannabella Hemp Jelly during every part of your skincare routine:

• Lip Balm: A touch of balm on the lips keeps them soft and supple.
• Overnight Face Mask: An evening layer promises a morning of ultra-hydrated skin.
• Cleansing Balm: Transform your cleansing ritual, effortlessly lifting away makeup and impurities.
• Cuticle Balm: Nourish and protect your nail beds with a gentle massage.
• Fly-away Balm: Tame frizz and flyaways for sleek, smooth hair.
• Soothing Relief: Apply generously to areas affected by sunburn, rashes, or wind burn for calming relief.
• Nappy Rash & Chafing: Offer gentle, soothing care for the littlest ones in your life.

Cannabella Hemp Jelly is a multi-purpose marvel, ready to become the hero of your skincare routine. Embrace the healing power of hemp and let your skin experience the pure, nourishing love it deserves.

At Astrid, we’re on a mission to support everyday Australians with their overall health and wellbeing. 

Come visit us in Melbourne or Byron to view our products in person, or give us a call to discuss our products with the Astrid team.

An ancient practice, meditation offers profound benefits for both mind and body, promoting long-term wellness and enhancing quality of life.

A Brief History on Meditation

Meditation is a practice dating back thousands of years, and has been a cornerstone of Hindu and Buddhist traditions before spreading to China and Japan, becoming integral to Taoist and Zen practices. 

While meditating is one of the best free resources we all have access to, today just one in six Australians meditate. 

Today, meditation is practised worldwide in many different ways and is sometimes classified into different categories, including: 

• Open monitoring meditation or mindfulness involves observing experiences non-judgmentally e.g. witnessing how thoughts and feelings arise while deep breathing 
• Focused attention meditation is concentration on a specific object e.g. focusing on breath, feet on the floor or a mantra  
• Guided meditations or mantras can also offer structured sessions for beginners, or instrumental music and nature sounds can enhance a calming meditation experience.

5 Key Benefits to Meditation 

1. Increase Mental Wellbeing & Reduce Stress

Meditation is a powerful tool to reduce stress and improve wellbeing. Research indicates that regular meditation can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by promoting relaxation and increasing mindfulness. 

Meditation activates the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for allowing the body to rest, helping calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and foster a sense of inner peace. Reducing symptoms of stress and the stress hormone cortisol through meditation, can also reduce other health risks such as inflammation. 

2. Improve Focus & Creativity 

Meditation strengthens the “focus muscles” of the brain, enhancing concentration and reducing mind-wandering. Consistent meditation practice can improve attention span and creativity, increasing productivity with daily tasks as the mind is well rested and better prepared for problem solving.

3. Sleep Well 

Many people, including Astrid patients, struggle with sleep due to racing thoughts or stress. Meditation techniques can calm the mind and improve sleep quality. Because meditation promotes relaxation, it can lead to deeper, more restful sleep and can potentially reduce insomnia. 

Mindfulness meditations and deep breathing exercises are particularly effective in preparing the body for sleep.

4. Reduce Health Risks & Pain Management

Mindfulness meditation can help regulate pain perception, reducing its overall impact and empowering people with chronic pain to improve their quality of life. 

Research is still emerging about the long-term and wide ranging health benefits of meditation including how it can help reduce blood pressure and strengthen the immune system.

5. Increase Emotional Regulation

Meditation cultivates emotional awareness and emotional regulation, allowing us to respond in healthier ways when we inevitably find ourselves in difficult situations. 

By practising meditation, we can learn to observe our emotions without judgement, leading to more balanced and thoughtful reactions.

Start Meditating Today

The benefits of meditation for overall wellness are undeniable. From improving physical health to enhancing mental clarity, meditation is a valuable practice that can significantly contribute to our well-being. 

Practising meditation can be as simple as being still, closing your eyes and deep breathing for a few minutes. It’s called a meditation ‘practice’ for a reason – it takes patience and practice. 

Meditation is one of the best free, useful life-long wellbeing tools we can enjoy.  By integrating meditation into our daily routines, we can experience a greater sense of inner peace, reduced stress, and improved quality of life.

At Astrid, we are committed to supporting holistic wellness practices that promote long-term health and longevity. We encourage you to explore meditation and discover the profound impact it can have on your life. 

Contact the friendly Astrid team to discuss your wellness journey.

The consequences of poor sleep are far-reaching and there is an undeniable link between sleep and our physical, mental, and cognitive health. 

This blog aims to delve into the significant role of sleep in our lives and how alternative therapies can impact this essential bodily function. 

Join us in understanding how natural remedies can enhance well-being towards a healthier, more balanced life.

Sleep Cycles: What’s Happening When We Sleep

Think of sleep as a nightly mini-vacation for your brain and body, getting you ready for whatever the next day throws at you.

When we hit the sack, we don’t just switch off; we go through different phases, from light napping where someone nudging you could easily wake you up, to a deep snooze that’s all about healing and recharging. For the first half hour or so, you’re in a light sleep zone where your brain starts to chill and your muscles relax, but you’re still on the edge of waking up easily. After this warm-up, you dive into the really good stuff: deep sleep. This is the repair workshop of your sleep cycle, where your brain gets busy sorting memories, making sense of the day’s learning, and even sparking creativity through dreams.

Basically, every night’s sleep is like hitting the reset button, giving your brain and body the downtime they need to sort through emotions, lock in new info, and get you ready for a new day.

Lacking Sleep: What Sleep Deprivation Really Means 

Ever feel like no matter how much coffee you drink, you’re still dragging your feet? That bone-deep tiredness might be more about your z’s than your caffeine intake. From tossing and turning for just one night to the grind of never getting quite enough sleep, there’s a whole spectrum of sleep woes that can leave you feeling fried.

Our daily routines, the stress we carry, and yes, even binge-watching your favourite series late into the night, can all mess with our shut-eye. Recognising these sleep-stealers is step one in taking back your night.

But here’s the kicker: skimping on sleep does more than just make you yawn all day. It sets off a domino effect that can mess with both your body and brain in the short term and down the line. For starters, not getting enough sleep cranks up the odds of serious health issues like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even packing on extra pounds. It’s like your brain starts to get foggy, too, making it harder to remember things, focus, make decisions, or react quickly.

And it’s not just about feeling physically tired. The emotional hangover from poor sleep is real, leading to crankiness, anxiety, a drop in your body’s germ-fighting powers, and a heavier risk of feeling down in the dumps. Plus, your muscles aren’t as strong, and your coordination takes a hit, making everything from typing to tying your shoes feel like a challenge.

In short, getting enough quality sleep isn’t just about dodging yawns; it’s about keeping your mind sharp, your emotions in check, and your body feeling good.

Not so Restful Sleeping: Sleep Disorders and Insomnia

We’ve all been there – staring at the ceiling at 3 a.m., wondering why sleep seems like a distant dream. It turns out, a lot of us in Australia are in the same sleep-deprived boat. Nearly half of us are wrestling with sleep troubles, and about 1 in 10 Aussies are dealing with insomnia at any given moment. It seems to sneak up more on women and the older crowd.

Insomnia can look like a lot of things: maybe you can’t fall asleep, or you wake up and can’t drift back off, or you’re up way too early. And it’s not just a one-size-fits-all kind of deal; insomnia comes in two main types – the short-term and the long-haul version.

Short-term insomnia could pop up because of stress, travelling across time zones, or even if your bedroom’s too hot or too noisy. Then there’s chronic insomnia, which is when the sleep struggle lasts for months. This could be down to:

• Primary sleep disorders, including the big-name insomnia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or sleep apnea.
• Secondary insomnia, which is when another health issue, like asthma or depression, messes with your sleep.
• Idiopathic insomnia, a fancy way of saying, “We really don’t know why you can’t sleep.”

The world of sleep disorders is wide and complex, showing just how tricky it can be to figure out and fix our sleep troubles.

Natural Therapies, and Restful Sleep 

When it comes to natural remedies and sleep, CBD (cannabidiol) is a topic that’s catching some interest, but it’s important to approach it with a balanced view. The research on CBD’s effect on sleep is still in its early stages, and while there are some positive signs, a lot more investigation is needed to understand its full impact.

So far, early studies suggest CBD might help some people sleep better by reducing anxiety and stress. This could help quiet the mind and make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. There’s also some evidence that CBD could help with pain relief, which might be beneficial for those whose sleep is disrupted by discomfort, leading to potentially fewer wake-ups during the night. CBD seems to interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system, which has a role in managing our sleep patterns, among other things.

However, it’s crucial to note that these findings come from preliminary research, including a small study where 71% of participants felt their sleep improved with CBD use. Despite this, about 39% of them were able to reduce or stop their sleep medication, and only 21% experienced side effects that were not severe enough to make them stop using CBD.

But here’s the thing: CBD isn’t a cure-all for sleep problems. It should be seen as one option among many, not a replacement for traditional sleep treatments. The need for more research can’t be overstated, as can the importance of talking to healthcare professionals to find the right approach for you.

Pharmacists play a vital role in guiding the use of CBD for sleep, ensuring that it’s used safely and effectively, especially in conjunction with other treatments. This includes monitoring for any potential interactions and helping manage dosages.

Sleep Hygiene: Getting a Good Night’s Rest 

Most people know the basics to getting a good night’s sleep, but it’s good to be reminded that there are things we can do to encourage a restful sleep. 

• Bedtime routines: Crafting a relaxing bedtime routine that works to support the nervous system to relax. For some people, that involves relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, reading a book, writing in a journal, a skincare routine, or gratitude practice. 
• Environment: Surroundings have a big impact on feelings so aim to create an environment that encourages sleep – ideally dark, quiet, cool, and free from any overwhelming clutter. 
• Go tech free: To further promote restful sleep, limit screen time for at least an hour before bed. Regular physical activity is beneficial, but it’s important to avoid strenuous exercise close to bedtime. 
• Relaxation: Managing stress through relaxation techniques and addressing any underlying stressors can help ensure a more peaceful night’s sleep.

Sleep is an important practice for every person so if you know someone struggling with getting restful sleep, encourage them to speak to a health professional to receive dedicated care tailored to your specific needs.

Understanding and compassionately addressing our patients’ wellbeing, which can include sleep disorders, is at the core of our mission at Astrid. We recognise the profound impact these conditions can have on daily life.

At Astrid, we’re dedicated to enhancing our patient’s wellbeing. We believe in the power of education, access, and advocacy in navigating the world of natural therapies. 

Contact the Astrid team for an elevated patient experience through telehealth and discuss the transformative power of natural therapies and the potential impact on sleep.

According to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), anxiety is the second most applied chronic health condition for natural therapies medicines.

In this blog, we discuss the prevalence of mental health issues, with a focus on anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We also explore the role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in these conditions, and focus on the data surrounding the increasing number of patients who are accessing natural therapies to help better manage their mental health.

Mental Health in Focus

The World Health Organisation defines mental health as “a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. It is viewed as an integral component of health and well-being that underpins our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships and shape the world we live in”. 

Mental health conditions are very common, and can significantly impact one’s quality of life.

The impact on us

Mental Health issues do not discriminate, and affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. In Australia, the prevalence of these conditions is quite staggering – over two in five (42.9%) people aged 16-85 have experienced a mental health disorder at some time in their life, and one in five (21.4%) have experienced a mental health disorder for longer than 12 months. This helps us understand the need for effective treatments and interventions to help better manage our overall well being.  

Understanding Anxiety, Depression and PTSD

Anxiety is a complex emotional state characterised by feelings of unease, apprehension, and worry. It is a normal response to stress or perceived threats, but when it becomes excessive, uncontrollable and persistent, it can develop into an anxiety disorder. It can manifest with physical symptoms, like increased heart rate, muscle tension, nausea, diarrhoea, or restlessness, and cognitive symptoms like racing thoughts and excessive rumination. 

Depression is characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyable activities. It often goes beyond normal fluctuations in mood and can affect a person’s daily life, including their ability to work, socialise and maintain relationships. 

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can develop in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Common symptoms of PTSD include intrusive and distressing memories of the trauma, flashbacks, night terrors, and severe emotional distress when exposed to reminders of the event. 

Dysregulation of the Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network of receptors, enzymes and endocannabinoids (yes, we naturally produce our own cannabinoids!) in the brain and throughout the body. It plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis, or “balance” within the body. It is believed that patients who have chronic health conditions may in fact have a somewhat of a dysregulation or an “imbalance” of their ECS, and this too is applicable for mood disorders like anxiety, depression and PTSD. 

The two main cannabinoids (or endocannabinoids), produced by our bodies are called 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and Anandamide. Anandamide is often referred to as the “bliss molecule” because it plays a role in promoting feelings of well-being and happiness. Interestingly, the “runners high” you may experience after exercise is now believed to be from a surge in endocannabinoids, specifically anandamide, and not endorphins, as they are unable to cross the blood-brain-barrier.

These two endocannabinoids help to regulate various functions, including mood regulation, stress response, inflammation, and can modulate other neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, glutamate and Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). 

When looking at how these two cannabinoids may affect anxiety and depression, one study showed lower levels of 2-AG in patients with major depression, whereas it showed patients with high anxiety scores had lower levels of anandamide. 

There is limited research on the role of the ECS in patients with PTSD specifically, however one study showed the effects of trauma on the ECS seem to differ, depending on whether the trauma was experienced in childhood vs adulthood. 

Plant-derived cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids) such as delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) interact with the endocannabinoid system’s primary receptors CB1 (found primarily in the central nervous system) and CB2 (found primarily in the peripheral immune system) by either mimicking endocannabinoids, or by influencing their production or breakdown. These interactions in turn can have various therapeutic effects. 

It is important to note that the relationship between endocannabinoids and mood disorders like anxiety, depression and PTSD is complex and not fully understood. While some studies suggest that enhancing endocannabinoid activity using phytocannabinoids can have positive therapeutic outcomes, there are also concerns about potential side effects and the risk of cannabis use disorder (in particular with THC). Research in this area is ongoing, and the development of safe and effective treatments based on the latest research is critical.

Increase in the number applications for natural therapies to treat mood disorders

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) tracks all of the applications made by doctors via the Special Access Scheme (SAS-B) for the patients prescribed natural therapies. Since 2020, anxiety has been the second most applied for chronic health condition for natural therapies medicines. In addition, anxiety, depression and PTSD have all been in the top five most applied for conditions for the use of natural therapies, as well as chronic pain and sleep disorders. 

This data demonstrates the increased use of natural therapies as a potential treatment option for mood disorders, when other conventional therapies may have not been successful or effective.

CBD or THC for mental health? 

CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid and can be associated with its potential therapeutic benefits in helping to manage mental health disorders. Some studies suggest CBD may have anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory effects, and may help in better regulating mood. THC on the other hand, is the psychoactive component of the plant and is responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use. While THC can have therapeutic effects for some conditions like chronic pain and cancer-related symptoms, its psychoactive nature may contribute to increased anxiety and paranoia in some individuals. Finding a balance between these cannabinoids is crucial in optimising mental health benefits, while aiming to minimise potential unwanted side effects. 

It is also important to note that not all mental health issues or mood disorders may be appropriate for natural therapies medicines. Some studies have shown an exacerbation or worsening of symptoms in certain mood disorders (especially with THC-containing medicines), so it is important to be transparent when discussing your medical history with your healthcare professional. If you would like to explore the use of natural therapies further, we recommend having a discussion with your GP, or booking in with the friendly team at Astrid Clinic, who can provide personalised guidance based on your specific condition(s), medical history and needs. 

Summary

In summary, the landscape of medicinal cannabis as a treatment for mental health is complex, and research behind the role of cannabinoids in mood disorders is ongoing.  It’s important to consult with an experienced healthcare professional if you are considering any form of natural therapies medicine, as the effects can vary greatly depending on the type of therapy, and various individual factors. 

If you’re suffering from emotional distress, you can contact a 24 hour crisis support or suicide prevention services in Australia.  

24 hours, 7 days
Lifeline: 13 11 14 

Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978
Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
13YARN: 13 92 76
For further information see Mental health resources

References: 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8525214/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3808114/  ***

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders

https://psychology.org.au/for-the-public/psychology-topics/anxiety

https://psychology.org.au/for-the-public/psychology-topics/depression

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-5®). American Psychiatric Pub.

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd

https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/mental-health/national-study-mental-health-and-wellbeing

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9916354/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6816276/