Cannabis Topicals: Benefits, Effects & Uses
Cannabis Topicals: Benefits, Effects & Uses
Topicals are a hot item on the cannabis market because of the growing popularity of CBD Oil. Although many people have just begun to learn about the healing potential of cannabis topicals, the ancients knew all the details.
Ancient Egypt may have been the first to use marijuana topicals. The Ebers Papyrus shows their anti-inflammatory uses. Later, Queen Victoria of England was rumored to have used cannabis topicals and cannabidiol oil (CBD) to relieve cramps. Cannabis topicals are now widely available and used to treat inflammation, pain, mood disorders and many other ailments.
This section explains how topicals work and explains the differences between different types. It also reveals the science behind their therapeutic abilities.
How Cannabis Topicals Work
Cannabis topicals penetrate the skin's surface layer and act as lubricants. Their treatment goes deeper. Cannabis topicals enter the bloodstream through the skin. They bind to different cannabinoid receptors within your Endocannabinoid System once they are in the bloodstream. You will feel the effects of a topical within an hour.
A full-spectrum cannabis product may contain THC, CBD and a variety of terpenes. You can also choose to use a pure CBD isolate. Full-spectrum products offer a full infusion of all elements that the plant provides. CBD isolate, on the other hand, strips other cannabinoids and loses some of its therapeutic properties.
Another difference is that CBD-derived topicals and hemp are legal to buy over-the-counter from your local cannabis dispensary. THC-containing products require a doctor's prescription and a medical marijuana card. They are not available in all states.
Types of Cannabis Topicals
With a growing demand for CBD products, the market for cannabis topicals is booming. These are the most popular types of cannabis topicals:
- Lotions and creams
- Oil
- Salves
- Gels
- Transdermal patches
Health Benefits
For pain relief, most people resort to using topical cannabis products. Evidence is strong that cannabis topicals can effectively relieve pain and inflammation. Emerging research also suggests that CBD oil can be used to treat eczema, and other skin conditions.
Reducing Pain & Inflammation
One animal study showed that CBD can be transdermally applied to relieve pain and inflammation related to arthritis. The implications of this study are important as one fifth of adults worldwide have been diagnosed with arthritis. The CBD oil did not cause any side effects in animals and was well tolerated by researchers.
Treatment of Migraines
Many medical marijuana products have been used by migraine sufferers to relieve their symptoms. According to the American Migraine Foundation, CBD oil may help with migraine-related neck pain and joint stiffness. CBD oil could even be more effective than traditional medications. CBD oil works locally and can be taken orally. It may prevent nausea and vomiting.
Helping Eczema Patients
Eczema sufferers may also benefit from the anti-inflammatory and anti itch properties of cannabis topical. Atopic dermatitis is treated with CBD and other cannabinoids. Through the entourage effect, CBD and other cannabinoids interact in skin with receptors.
Acne Reduction
Topical CBD might be able treat acne vulgaris, a stubborn and common skin condition. Because acne is closely linked to inflammation, CBD's anti-inflammatory properties may be able to help fight blemishes.
Possible side effects
Cannabis topicals have not been associated with any side effects. These are the most common side effects:
- Rash
- Itching
- Allergies to skin
CBD topicals have very few side effects, which is a big difference from other methods of marijuana ingestion like edibles.
How to use cannabis topicals
Cannabis topicals are much easier than other forms of marijuana, particularly smokable products and concentrate. Here are some tips to make the most of your CBD and cannabis topicals.
What to look for
Look for CBD isolate or hemp on labels if you are looking to enjoy the benefits of CBD. Look for products that are "full-spectrum" if you want a mixture of terpenes, cannabinoids (including THC),
Avoid any product that promises a miracle cure. Always purchase cannabis from a licensed, reputable dispensary.
Cannabis Topical Dosing
For information on the correct dosage, refer to the label. Apply a tiny amount of cannabis to your skin to test for allergic reactions. Next, adjust your dose to suit your needs.
Get the best results
To get the best results from cannabis topicals, be sure to follow the instructions and be consistent. A cannabis salve may provide immediate relief, but it might take longer. Topicals are best used in the morning, and at night. You can make cannabis topicals part of your daily health routine and test until you find the right one.
The Bottom Line about Cannabis Topicals
Cannabis topicals have been shown to be safer than any other method of ingesting a drug. Combination topicals and CBD products containing THC provide different levels of pain relief. These effects are temporary, and many people apply topicals multiple times per day to get the desired results.