Reasons to Use CBD Topicals for Pain Relief

CBD topicals relieve pain thanks to their pain-relieving qualities. They are preferred for their fast-acting effects with little or no side effects. This article highlights the reasons for using cannabis-infused topicals for pain and factors to consider before purchasing the topicals. 

Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active ingredient obtained from the hemp plant along with other phytochemicals and cannabinoids such as flavonoids, terpenes, Cannabigerol (CBG), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabin (CBN). Unlike THC, Cannabidiol does not produce a high effect. There are various formulations of CBD, such as oils, topicals, edibles, and vapes. Many users suffering from pain and inflammation turn to cannabis topicals for quick relief, thanks to their anti-inflammation and analgesic properties. When applied to the targeted area, it provides instant relief. The cannabis-infused topicals are preferred by individuals less tolerant of CBD oil and vapes. 

How CBD Topicals Work to Provide Pain Relief

The body features a complex signalling system known as the endocannabinoid system. Blanton et al. (2021) noted that this system is responsible for maintaining body balance; it regulates sleep, pain, appetite, memory, and mood. The system also comprises endocannabinoids, enzymes, and endocannabinoid receptors. Topicals penetrate deeper into the skin upon application, activating the endocannabinoid receptors. CBD indirectly binds to the CB2 receptors in the skin, providing inflammation and pain relief. CBD topicals do not reach the bloodstream since the skin is thick; if a product contains THC, you will not experience any mind-altering effects through the topicals. 

Reasons to Utilize CBD Topicals for Pain Relief

It Is More Effective Compared To Other CBD Formulations, Such As Oils

CBD topicals are a better option for pain relief than oils and vapes since an individual can apply the products directly to the skin where the pain is felt. In return, the patient tends to feel immediate relief compared to other CBD formulations, where relief is felt in the entire body. All these are due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. 

It Is Available In Various Options Providing You with Your Desired Effects

Shopping for Cannabidiol topicals can be overwhelming. Before purchasing the product, it is important to double-check its ingredient list. You will find terms like isolate, Broad spectrum, and full spectrum. These product types provide different results as follows;

CBD isolate

CBD isolate features Cannabidiol solely. Cornwell (2020) noted that, during extraction, all the other chemical compounds and phytochemicals were filtered out, leaving Cannabidiol as the active ingredient. It is a great option for individuals who want to benefit from CBD's effects when tackling pain.

Broad spectrum

Broad-spectrum topicals constitute most chemical compounds in the hemp plant, excluding THC. It is an excellent option for users who want to benefit from the pain-relieving effects of another chemical compound except for THC.

Full spectrum

Full-spectrum CBD topicals contain all the chemical compounds and phytochemicals in the hemp plant, including CBN, CBG, flavonoids, terpenes, and THC. A point worth noting is that its THC levels do not exceed 0.2 percent, making them legal o use. Oláh (2022) noted that it is considered the most powerful CBD form due to the entourage effect. The entourage effect is a process whereby all the other compounds work with CBD to enhance its therapeutic benefits. 

It Helps Tackle Other Health Conditions

CBD topicals cover you if you have trouble sleeping due to pain complications. The cannabis derivative is packed with analgesic qualities; this makes it interact with the endocannabinoid system blocking pain signals from reaching the brain neurons. It is also used to relieve headaches, foot pain arthritis pain. The cannabis-infused products also enhance pain management techniques for other conditions like sciatica. 

It Mimics Other Pain-Relieving Medications

Like other prescription drugs, CBD topicals activate the CB1 and CB2 receptors. As a result, it blocks pain signals from traveling to the brain neurons. Besides being a cannabinoid receptor manipulator, it also boasts anti-inflammatory qualities addressing pain symptoms from the root other than masking them. 

It Rarely Has Any Side Effects

CBD is all-natural; the body tolerates the effects of Cannabidiol, making it act with minimal or no side effects. However, one must use the right amount of CBD for the problem.

It Contains Antibacterial Properties

Wagner-Graham et al . (2019) stated that CBD topical not only tackles pain but also speeds up the recovery time due to its antibacterial properties; it fends off infections. 

Factors to Consider Before Using CBD Topicals for Pain Relief

• Its CBD source: Go for hemp-derived products. The reason is that the hemp plant is richly concentrated with low amounts of THC. Additionally, confirm that it was cultivated locally since all the guidelines were considered.
• Lab reports: If a product does not have proof of a third-party lab testing report on its website, sneered to ask for it physically. This report confirms the safety and quality of the product. Ensure that an independent lab was used to avoid biasness. Additionally, it should contain a certificate of the analysis report. This report outlines the cannabinoid content level and if there is any toxic substance, such as heavy metals.
• THC level: Ensure that the product does not have more than 0.2 percent of THC to be on the safer side of the law. 
• A reliable brand: Before purchasing your product, ensure that you are familiar with the brand. It would also help to check other customer reviews on it. 

Verdict

 CBD topicals include salves, lotions, balms, and creams. They contain Cannabidiol and other substances, such as coconut oil and hyaluronic acid, as their main active ingredient. CBD topicals provide the body with various benefits, including pain relief. There are various reasons individuals prefer using the topicals for pain relief, such as it is a potent anti-inflammatory agent, contain antibacterial properties, is all-natural, meaning it rarely causes any side effects, and is available in multiple formulations. Before using any cannabis product on your skin, it is important to communicate with a dermatologist. 

References

Blanton, H. L., Barnes, R. C., McHann, M. C., Bilbrey, J. A., Wilkerson, J. L., & Guindon, J. (2021). Sex differences and the endocannabinoid system in pain. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, 202, 173107.

Cornwell, M. (2020). CBD Tinctures: All You Need to Know.

            Medical Controversies, 43.

Oláh, A. (2022). Cannabidiol (CBD). Marijuana in America: Cultural, Political, and 

Wagner-Graham, M. A., Barndt, H., & Sunderland, M. A. (2019). Measurement of antibacterial properties of foil-backed electrospun nanofibers. Fashion and Textiles, 6(1), 1-11.