Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a phytocannabinoid. It is one of 113 identified cannabinoids in cannabis plants, along with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and is contained in 40% of the plant’s extract. It is derived directly from the hemp plant, which is a cousin of the marijuana plant. Clinical research on CBD included studies related to anxiety, cognition, movement disorders, and pain, but there is not enough high-quality evidence that cannabidiol is effective for these conditions and ailments.
While CBD is a component of marijuana (one of hundreds), by itself it does not cause a “high.” According to a trusted source, “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential…. To date, there is no evidence of public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”
CBD can be taken in different ways, including by inhaling cannabis smoke or vapor, orally (softgels, gummies, and oils), and as an aerosol spray into the cheek. CBD does not have the same psychoactivity as THC, and may change the effects of THC on the body if both are present.
Studies suggest that CBD may offer relief for pain and inflammation. There’s also evidence that topical CBD products, like creams, can help with a variety of pain sensations, including: Arthritis-related pain. A 2016 animal study found that applying topical CBD may help with arthritis-related pain and swelling.
Topical CBD products are powerful when prescribed right and used correctly. They can relieve anything from joint and muscle soreness to dermatitis without some of the harsh and negative side effects of chemical topicals.
Topical cannabis has been around for centuries, way back to ancient Europe and Egypt. They were used as disinfectants and used as treatments for inflamed skin and muscles. Some even used these topicals as a local anesthetic. CBD balm is also becoming increasingly popular among tattoo artists due to the powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of CBD, which you can read more about here. Most CBD salves contain very low traces of THC, not more than the legal limit of 0.3% trace.
As soon as the user rubs the CBD salve on the affected area, the skin starts to absorb the cannabinoid lipids and the healing process starts. The salve begins the recovery process and relieves pain and itchiness with its soothing features on the skin. salves blend plant material with carrier oils and beeswax. Lotions, on the other hand, are composed of water and oil, mixed with an emulsifying agent. with a water-to-oil ratio that’s 70% to 20%.
It’s unlikely that you’d have a bad reaction to a CBD topical. If you have extremely sensitive skin, you may react to some of the additional ingredients in the salve, most likely the beeswax. But if you use your salve as directed, bad reactions are unlikely.
The best way to determine whether a CBD salve works for you or not, is to try it for yourself.
CBD is being researched for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to help soothe irritated skin. When a salve is applied topically CBD penetrates the skin and blocks pain receptors in the body. When combined with other comforting herbs, CBD can act as a powerful soother to those aches and pains.
They can be particularly useful for those looking to increase skin health and balance. There is also the fact of selecting between salves and other topicals. For beauty uses, you’ll probably be better off with a moisturizing CBD cream or a lotion. Salves, on the other hand, are better for specific purposes (rather than as a hygiene cream). If you are looking for a topical CBD product without any hassle, a salve could be a good fit for you. Just make sure to buy your CBD salve from a reputable seller, and look out for one with verified lab reports and high-quality ingredients.
Look for a product that comes with an up-to-date, comprehensive COA. The effects of CBD topicals will often peak within 90 minutes of application.
