CBD Muscle Gel UK Shopping Guide
CBD Muscle Gel UK Shopping Guide
CBD muscle gel is topical infused with Cannabidiol of varying concentrations and sold in many online and physical stores across the UK. This blog gives a comprehensive shopping for CBD muscle gel in the UK.
Cannabidiol is a subset of cannabis derivatives domiciled in hemp. It could also come from the marijuana plant, although hemp-derived products are non-intoxicating; this makes it a significant pharmacological utility. The cannabis compound is infused in many products, including topical, edibles, and orals. Legalising hemp in the UK has invited a sharp spike in CBD oil products. Many muscle gel products are sold in unregulated markets across the UK, exposing users to low-quality products with negative effects. Therefore, cannabis users should have basic knowledge about cannabidiol products to have the effects of cannabis compounds.
What is CBD muscle gel?
Cannabidiol-infused muscle gel is a subset of topical products with two major components; it is infused with Cannabidiol extracted from hemp and mixed with a carrier oil to make the gel. Cannabidiol oil combines CBD with a carrier oil like coconut or hemp seed oil. It also contains other inorganic compounds, which make it more therapeutic to the skin. The carrier oil in the gel and cannabis compounds like terpenes makes it essential for localised skin conditions. The levels of THC in all gels sold in the UK must remain below 0.2%; otherwise, it is illegal.
How CBD interacts with the body
In 2003, scientists discovered a complex network of enzymes, neurotransmitters, and receptors called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The system uniquely interacts with cannabinoids from CBD to maintain a series of imbalances caused by pain, inflammation, and other stressors from the external environment. The ECS contains receptors domiciled in many parts of the body. For example, it contains a set of receptors called the CB1 domiciled in the central nervous system. According to De Gregorio et al. (2019), the ECS has CB2 receptors domiciled in the peripheral nerves, such as the skin; the peripheral receptors interact with topical gels to exert health and therapeutic effects on many health conditions. Unlike edibles or vapes, topical products diffuse into the body with the help of CB2 receptors without getting into the bloodstream; the peripheral pathway does not lower CBD's bioavailability or intoxicate users even with high amounts of psychoactive chemicals like THC.
CBD topical products with THC are more effective for localised conditions like muscle soreness, swellings, and fatigue. According to Nahler, Jones & Russo (2019), CBD combines with THC to provide a wide range of benefits called the entourage effect.
Therapeutic benefits of CBD Muscle gel
The skin is the largest organ that provides cover from external stressors, exposing it to skin-related problems. The cannabidiol-infused gel may provide the following benefits to the human skin;
Reduces Inflammation
CBD topical gels treat inflammation with little or no side effects compared to traditional pharmacological drugs. The cannabis balms avoid gastrointestinal administration and evade wastage through first-pass metabolism, making them effective for localised muscle inflammation. According to Iffland & Grotenhermen (2017), CBD has anti-inflammatory effects suitable for reducing muscle swelling. The anti-inflammatory properties make Cannabidiol an effective alternative to pharmacological medication. The cannabis balm also contains anti-oxidative properties suitable for preventing diseases from oxidation of free radicles. The gel treats inflammation and has soothing effects on the skin.
Regulates Sebum Production
Sebum is a waxy, oily substance that allows the skin to remain moist and hydrated. However, an overproduction of sebum leads to problematic accumulation in the pores. If sebum mixes with dead cells or dirt, it becomes blocked; the skin breaks away, like acne. Peyravian et al. (2022) opined that Cannabidiol suppresses sebum production by interacting with the endocannabinoid receptors domiciled in the peripheral nerves; this interaction leads to normal skin growth.
Treats Acne
Hormonal imbalances or nutritional alterations cause acne. The most common cause of acne is abnormal shedding of cutaneous cells, excess sebum production, and bacteria accumulation in the pores. The abnormalities lead to pain and inflammation. It also results in mental problems like anxiety, stress, and sleeplessness. Cannabidiol products contain antibacterial properties which counter the effects of bacteria and dirt. Its anti-inflammatory properties lessen pain from skin breakouts synonymous with acne. Peyravian et al. (2022) observed that CBD’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system controls Sebocyte glands' activities, leading to excess sebum production.
Cannabidiol also treats hormonal imbalances, which lead to stress, anxiety, and sleeplessness. CBD's anxiolytic properties reduce anxiety. The corresponding calming effects induce quality sleep. As Cannabidiol reduces inflammation, it makes the users fall asleep.
Hydrates the Skin
Dehydration is caused by environmental and internal factors such as dry weather, insufficient intake of water, and lack of enough sleep. Dry skin appears rough, patchy, scaly, or dull among some people. Cannabidiol stimulates the production of waxy substances to moisturise dry skin.
Oxidises Free Radicals
Free radicals are harmful to the skin and convert when they become oxidised. The radicals are unstable complexes in search of electrons; they pick electrons from the skin and create a phenomenon called oxidative stress. The stress could destabilise molecules like DNA resulting in premature ageing signs like wrinkling, sagging of the skin, and formation of fine lines. Cannabidiol contains antioxidants that reduce the effects of free radicals by interrupting their action or suppressing their stress on the skin.
Delays Aging Signs
Less collagen production leads to ageing signs like wrinkles and skin sagging; the signs could emanate from multiple factors, although reduced collagen production is the main cause. Collagen maintains skin elasticity and firmness. The human body stops when we get older stops; environmental factors like UV rays could also reduce its production. Tóth et al.(2019) opined that CBD interacts with the collagen signalling system; the interaction stimulates collagen production and deregulates irregular activities of the Sebocyte glands; a proper sebum flow and corresponding collagen production leads reduces ageing signs. CBD's capacity to treat diseases like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and pigmentation disorders suppresses signs of early ageing.
Research on the effectiveness of CBD’s role in collagen loss is anecdotal among humans.
Side effects of CBD muscle Gel
Cannabidiol-infused is relatively tolerated in the body; they have few or no side effects. The gel does not cause diarrhoea, drowsiness, or nausea, as with most edibles and orals. Topical products are not gut-processed or absorbed from the bloodstream. Cannabidiol edibles lead to drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting when taken in excess.
The risk of psychoactive effects is a major concern for many users of full-spectrum topical products. However, the cutaneous signalling seen in topical products does not cause intoxication. Products like salves, balms, or gels reach the endocannabinoid system through peripheral receptors. The peripheral nerves do not alter the user's mental state; even if one has more than the recommended 0.2% THC, one cannot become intoxicated.
Nevertheless, Cannabidiol-infused products have the following side effects;
- Lightheadedness
- Change in weight and appetite
- Sleepiness
Low-quality topical products could also have risks like;
- Burning in the skin
- Irritation
- redness
- skin rashes synonymous with an allergic reaction
How to get Good Quality CBD Gel
Cannabidiol products are relatively novel, and the mushrooming products confuse new buyers. Dubious sellers may exploit the weak regulations in the cannabis sector to sell low-quality products disguised as high-quality. The UK's Home Office has several regulations against cannabis-infused products. However, there have been several malpractice cases within the sector. For instance, manufacturers should infuse 0.2% THC in all cannabis products; this amount is non-intoxicating and generally well-tolerated in the body. The regulations also demand that sellers label their products and acquire the necessary licenses before selling them. CBD muscle gel customers should look out for the following before purchasing any topical product online or in physical stores;
Read online reviews
Cannabis users prefer online shopping due to its convenience. Buyers benefit from the reactions of previous users of products. CBD brands allow their users to share their experiences about the products through customer reviews. Positive reviews indicate good quality products and vice-versa. New buyers should therefore get the reaction of customer reviews to ascertain the products’ effects before they commit to them.
Ask for the Certificate of Analysis
The Certificate of analysis (COA) shows the ingredients, methods of extraction, and the source of hemp used in the gel. Also, the COA provides independent third-party lab test results; brands with this document on their website are committed to quality gels for their consumers. The absence of a COA from a brand's website shows that the product has illegal content. Buyers should analyse the ingredients with a knowledgeable person if they need the gel to treat conditions such as eczema, acne, or psoriasis. New users may need medical advice to determine the ingredient's effects on their skin.
Analyse CBD Content
CBD gels come in different spectra with varying cannabis profiles. They include full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolates. The full-spectrum gel has a wide range of cannabinoids like terpenes, flavonoids, and fatty acids; some full-spectrum may also have psychoactive THC, among other derivatives. CBD is from hemp or marijuana and could is subjected to purification methods giving other spectrums with different strengths. For example, manufacturers could extract THC from Cannabidiol to produce broad-spectrum. The hemp-extracted with intense purification gives a pure spectrum called the CBD isolate; it has Cannabidiol as the only active cannabis ingredient. The CBD isolate spectrum has a purity of about 99%, depending on the method used for purification.
THC in full-spectrum muscle gels amplifies the effectiveness of CBD rather than causing psychoactive effects. Full-spectrum muscle gels are strong and produce faster relief for pain and inflammation; their cannabis profile benefits the muscles with arthritis pain, severe soreness, and inflammation. However, full-spectrum gels with THC may produce allergic reactions among some users. Therefore, cannabidiol users should check for CBD products with a spectrum that suits their needs.
Check for Inorganic Ingredients
CBD topical products have additional inorganic ingredients which amplify the effects of CBD. These could include the scents that magnify CBD's therapeutic effects and the antiseptics that disinfect the skin. CBD topical products have fatty acids, terpenes, and flavonoids, giving them a wide range of pharmacological utility. The organic compounds are relatively compatible with many types of users.
However, some additives could cause irritation or other allergies to some users. Therefore, one should conduct a patch test to confirm the effects of the gel on their skin.
Check for the Brand’s Reputation
The credibility of a brand is verifiable through its reputation. Topical products from reputable brands provide a better treatment outcome than less popular brands. Also, brands with a reputation to preserve do so by providing high-quality products consistent with legal provisions. Buyers can identify reputable brands from social mentions, customer reviews, and the number of warnings from regulatory bodies like the FSA and the Home Office. Some have their products updated on the UK or EU websites; consumers can use a unique code that comes in the product or search for the product from the stated websites to verify their ingredients.
Check for Legal Compliance
Cannabis products are subject to strict regulations in the UK. Cannabidiol comes from hemp or marijuana, the most common strains of Cannabis Sativa. The former contains a higher amount of Cannabidiol, making it a major source of CBD. In contrast, marijuana contains psychoactive THC. In the UK, THC is regulated below 0.2%; this concentration does not have psychotropic effects. However, topical products do not predispose users to mental alteration, even with elevated amounts of THC.
The amendment to the 1971 drugs acts led to declassified hemp products from controlled substances. Although the act removed a legal obstacle to Cannabidiol, its implementation remains shrouded with weak regulations. All topical products with more than 0.2% THC are illegal; buyers should avoid brands with elevated levels of THC as they indicate low quality.
UK laws classify most Cannabidiol topicals as cosmetics. They are, therefore, not subject to Novel Food regulations; the FSA regulates edibles and oral products.
Compare Prices
Online purchases benefit from a wide range of product prices. While discounts and low prices are welcome for buyers on tight budgets, low prices may indicate low-quality products. Buyers can compare the cost of a unit of muscle gel across different brands to get a clue of the product's cost. If a brand sells its muscle gel at a relatively lower cost, one should avoid it; the brand might be hiding under the guise of low prices. Nevertheless, high prices do not always correspond to high quality; buyers should ensure they use other quality checks in addition to the prices to get the best quality muscle.
Frequently Asked Questions about CBD Beauty Products
Is CBD Gel Legal in the UK?
CBD muscle gel comes from hemp, a major source of Cannabidiol. The cannabis derivative dispenses multiple health and therapeutic benefits without causing many side effects. Products with Cannabidiol are legal in the UK but must have at most 0.2% THC; any amount beyond this mark is classified as cannabis and may attract legal charges not only in the UK but also in many EU countries which share similar legal frameworks for cannabis.
Can CBD Creams Make Me High?
Cannabidiol-infused beauty products cannot result in psychotropic effects. Topical products rely on peripheral receptors domiciled in the skin. The receptors interact with the cannabis compounds in topical products without reaching the bloodstream. Therefore, Cannabis-infused beauty products are non-psychoactive, even with high levels of THC.
Is Full-spectrum Muscle gel legal in the UK?
CBD's cultivation, sale, and consumption are legal in the UK. Manufacturers of full-spectrum products must obtain CBD cannabis strains with 0.2% THC. Not all full-spectrum CBD products contain THC; some muscle gels are classified as full-spectrum due to additional ingredients rather than THC; the muscle gel remains legal in the UK.
Is CBD Oil and Cannabis Oil The Same?
Cannabidiol oil and Cannabis oil have different chemical compositions. On the one hand, CBD oil is non-psychoactive and contains legal amounts of THC. In contrast, cannabis oil contains THC as its active ingredient. Its sale, manufacture, and consumption are prohibited in many countries, including the UK.
Is CBD muscle gel Safe for Pregnant Users?
Cannabidiol muscle gel is a topical product safe for different types of users. They are not ingested like edibles or tinctures or absorbed into the bloodstream. Instead, they are absorbed through the peripheral receptors, which take active components into the body without going through the bloodstream; they remain safe for pregnant and lactating users. Although anecdotal, research on CBD's effects on children has not shown adverse side effects, especially for topical products. Nevertheless, experts discourage pregnant users from cannabis products. Therefore, pregnant users should seek medical advice before using the gels while pregnant.
Does CBD muscle gel Work for pain?
CBD balms work for a wide range of pain and inflammation. Cannabidiol contains anti-inflammatory properties, which exert therapeutic benefits for pain caused by muscle tears, soreness, and inflammation.
Is Muscle Gel Age-Regulated?
CBD products are not prohibited for users of any age group; all persons are allowed to use the product. However, many regulatory bodies prohibit CBD for toddlers. Regulatory bodies discourage CBD among toddlers unless given under prescription. A fair amount of data links cannabis to slow cognitive development among children. Although the studies on these effects are in infancy, users should avoid the muscle gel for toddlers.
Conclusion
Cannabidiol muscle gel is available in online and physical stores across the UK. The product offers users a wide range of therapeutic benefits if taken in the correct quality and quantity. The non-psychoactive cannabis topical treats inflammation caused by conditions such as acne, eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Cannabidiol products are well-tolerated in the body. However, irritation, allergies, and itching may occur from the products due to low quality. High-quality products are obtained from reputable brands; these brands have positive customer reviews, receive positive mentions, and follow government-sanctioned regulations to manufacture and sell their products. Buyers should therefore look for reputable brands to obtain good quality muscle gel.
References
De Gregorio, D., McLaughlin, R. J., Posa, L., Ochoa-Sanchez, R., Enns, J., Lopez-Canul, M.& Gobbi, G. (2019). Cannabidiol modulates serotonergic transmission and reverses allodynia and anxiety-like behaviour in a model of neuropathic pain. Pain, 160(1), 136.
Iffland, K., & Grotenhermen, F. (2017). An update on safety and side effects of Cannabidiol: a review of clinical data and relevant animal studies. Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 2(1), 139-154.
Nahler, G., Jones, T. M., & Russo, E. B. (2019). Cannabidiol and contributions of major hemp phytocompounds to the “entourage effect”; possible mechanisms. J. Altern. Complementary Integr. Med, 5.
Peyravian, N., Deo, S., Daunert, S., & Jimenez, J. J. (2022). The Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Cannabidiol (CBD) on Acne. Journal of Inflammation Research, 15, 2795.
Tóth, K., Ádám, D., Bíró, T., & Oláh, A. (2019). Cannabinoid Signaling in the Skin: Therapeutic Potential of the “C(ut)annabinoid” System. Molecules, 24(5), 918. MDPI AG. Retrieved from http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/molecules24050918