It seems that just about every product on the market these days is CBD-infused. With most CBD-infused products geared towards relaxation and improving sleep quality, it seems only natural that a CBD pillow would eventually hit the market.
The idea of a CBD pillow may seem silly or ineffective, but quite a few people claim CBD pillows work for them.
What is CBD Pillow?
A CBD pillow is what its name implies: a pillow wrapped in minuscule CBD droplets coated in a protective polymer layer. Manufacturers create this unique product by incorporating non-intoxicating CBD into the pillow using a unique type of technology called microencapsulation.
When friction occurs against the pillow, generally caused by a head lying down or rubbing against the pillow, the CBD is released and absorbed into the surrounding skin and hair follicles, serving as a topical or transdermal form of cannabis consumption.
Numerous companies have launched their own versions of CBD pillows in recent years. While proprietary specifications can make an individual product stand out, many of this unique product's key qualities and characteristics remain the same regardless of the company. Those elements include:
- Infusion Methods: Microencapsulation is central to the production of a CBD pillow. This infusion method is foundational for delivering CBD to consumers as they sleep. After the encapsulation, the quality and integrity of these capsules are examined using scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis, and particle size analysis further helps ensure that the minuscule CBD capsules are adequately sized before being embedded into the pillow fabric.
- Absorption: While topical application typically does not reach the bloodstream, several CBD pillows tout their ability to act as transdermal, which delivers the cannabinoids to the bloodstream without needing to be smoked, vaped, or swallowed. However, if an item is not listed as transdermal, then it may not reach the bloodstream and only provide localized effects to the skin where applied.
- Durability: Producers claim that their CBD pillows are not only practical but also durable. Some brands claim that CBD continues to be delivered to the consumer even after 20 washes.
- High CBD “Purity”: CBD pillows using an isolate infusion deliver strictly one cannabinoid rather than most or the entire plant profile like a broad- or full-spectrum product delivers. These infused pillows use 99% pure CBD isolate, which may provide the “pure” experience some seek in an isolate.
If CBD pillows exist, what about a THC-infused weed pillow? Based on recent market information, pillows infused with THC do not seem to exist or at least be readily available. Most companies and the current technology focus on CBD infusion.
Additionally, current federal and state laws make it much more difficult to produce THC-infused products legally. In contrast, CBD is legal on the federal level, as are certain minor cannabinoids, presenting a plethora of compound options to infuse into pillows and other items.
Does a CBD Pillow Really Work?
Some may find the idea of a CBD-infused pillow dubious. However, anecdotal feedback shows that people have claimed to experience improved feelings of relaxation and overall sleep quality when microdosing CBD as they rest.
While anecdotal feedback is not supported by current clinical or medical research, CBD has shown significant potential in improving an individual's sleep. Sometimes, the cannabinoid is combined with other popular natural sleep remedies, such as melatonin. Many people have turned to CBD and other minor cannabinoids, like CBN, in place of traditional sleep remedies.
With CBD showing ample potential to improve rest and relaxation, it's no surprise that many claim that CBD-infused pillows work for them. This could be particularly true for any pillow advertising transdermal effects, which deliver CBD throughout the body after first being absorbed by the head and hair follicles.
Advantages of a CBD Pillow
If effective, CBD pillows could deliver unique benefits to consumers as they sleep. However, current studies don't point to any medically supported benefits of using a CBD pillow. Some of these products are touted as transdermal consumption methods, which means the consumer will experience the effects of CBD throughout their body as they sleep.
If an item is made as a topical, then the CBD will be delivered to the specific parts of the skin and muscles that directly come in contact with the pillow. Most items are billed as transdermal, but consumers should know this before making any purchases.
Drawbacks of a CBD Pillow
Many CBD-infused items have come and gone over the years. From practical items, like topicals and edibles, to more far-fetched ideas, like infused workout clothes, countless CBD items have hit shelves since the legalization of the Farm Bill in 2018.
While a CBD-infused pillow may deliver the effects it claims, it may also be just a marketing gimmick. Without any clinical trials and unverified consumer feedback, there is little evidence to support this product as an effective delivery method at this time.
CBD pillows tend to cost $100 or more, and that may not include a pillowcase. While this unique product could be effective, it's going to come at a relatively high cost.
Can You Bring a Pillow on a Plane?
As per current TSA regulations, passengers can fly with CBD oil and other CBD products in the United States as long as the products adhere to the rules outlined in the 2018 Farm Bill. Products must be derived from hemp and contain no more than 0.3% THC. Consumers should travel with the products in the original packaging and consider having a certificate of authenticity from the company just in case any TSA agents want to confirm the contents of the item.
As such, passengers should have little to no problem taking their CBD-infused pillow onto a plane. In most cases, passengers will likely have to adhere to standard carry-on procedures, which may provide a size limitation on the pillow size you can bring on board. Most pillows are commonly accepted on flights, so be sure to check the size specifications on the airline’s website before getting to the terminal.
Tips for Buying a CBD Pillow
As with any CBD product, consumers should consider an array of variables before determining if a CBD-infused pillow is right for them. In addition to reading consumer reviews, buyers should consider a company's history of product safety. In addition to looking for a Certificate of Analysis on the product’s packaging or company website, consumers may also want to verify any potential concerning elements in the product by reviewing pesticide and heavy metal reports whenever possible.
When searching for an infused pillow, consumers should consider the infusion methods and how the product will be absorbed into the skin or bloodstream. Durability is a key factor, as some CBD pillows claim to maintain efficacy even after 20 washes. Additionally, anyone seeking a purely CBD experience will want to verify that the pillow was made with a CBD isolate rather than a broad or full-spectrum option.
Consumers should only buy products from reputable brands that have the lab analysis and consumer feedback to warrant their purchase.
The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
