I Wasn't Expecting This Supplement To Make Me More Productive — But I'll Take It*

I, along with what feels like half of the world, have used hemp-derived CBD regularly for a few years now. Lured by its stress-relieving claims, I first got into the habit of taking it before bed to calm occasional racing thoughts from the day.* For a while, it did the job! It made my bed feel slightly more comfortable and my anxiousness slightly less prominent.

The sustainability editor in me was sold on the product after I learned that the hero ingredient, hemp oil, is certified organic by the European Commission, which has more rigorous, long-running standards for hemp production than the U.S. does. (the hemp oil in calm+ is now USDA certified organic as well.)

I first took the calming supplement at the start of a busy workday. I washed the singular gelcap down with some coffee, my inbox staring back at me with each gulp. I'd just as quickly forgotten I'd taken it as I got to work answering messages, assigning stories, and brainstorming pitches. It wasn't until a few hours later that I realized I'd gotten through a lot of work in a shorter time period than usual. And I'd done it all without needing to stop for a break or midday self-pep talk.

While "productivity-supporting" is not a claim you'll see directly marketed on a hemp product, it makes sense based on what we know about the plant.* 

Its active ingredients, or phytocannabinoids, have been shown to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system in a way that eases stress and supports a more positive mood.* Research also shows that stress is not necessarily conducive to productivity1, suggesting that minimizing stress can help employees do their work more effectively. And while everyone will have a different experience with hemp oil, many find that it helps them adopt a more even-keeled outlook.*

By increasing my stress resilience, this supplement seems to help me stay on track and not get as sidelined by negative, overwhelmed self-talk during the day.* I also noticed that, after I take it, I feel a little happier to tick off tasks that I used to dread and put off until later.*