Cannabis topicals have gained significant popularity as a non-intoxicating method to harness the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. These products, which include creams, salves, and oils, are designed to be applied directly to the skin. But do cannabis topicals really work? Let’s delve into the science, types of topicals and the expected results to understand their efficacy and applications.
Expected Results and Benefits from Infused Topicals:
Cannabis topicals offer a compelling alternative for individuals seeking relief from pain, inflammation, and skin conditions without experiencing the psychoactive effects associated with other forms of cannabis. With various forms available, from creams and salves to body oils and bath products, there is a topical solution for virtually every need. One of the most significant advantages of topicals is their ability to provide targeted relief exactly where it’s needed, without affecting the rest of the body.
Chronic Pain: Many users report significant relief from chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis, neuropathy, and fibromyalgia, with regular use of THC-infused topicals.
Acute Pain: Topicals are effective for managing acute pain from injuries or post-workout muscle soreness. CBD combined with essential oils like Cedarwood and Rosemary work together to provide warming sensations for fast relief. The anti-inflammatory properties of cannabinoids can help reduce swelling and redness in the desired areas.
Many topicals also contain additional ingredients like minerals, vitamins, and carrier oils which enhance skin health by moisturizing and promoting healing, benefiting conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
While the scientific research is still catching up, the existing studies and overwhelming anecdotal evidence suggest that cannabinoid infused topicals are effective for many users. As always, it’s essential to choose high-quality products from reputable sources and consult with a healthcare provider, although most cannabis topicals are fine to use with other medications and issues it’s always best to confirm.
As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, we can expect further innovations and even more effective topical formulations, offering new ways to harness the therapeutic potential of cannabis. So, whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, inflammation, or simply looking to improve your skin health, cannabis topicals might just be the perfect addition to your wellness routine.
Types of THC-Infused Topicals
1. Creams and Lotions:
These are among the most common forms of cannabis topicals. They are typically used for moisturizing the skin and providing relief from minor aches and pains. Use by applying directly to the skin where relief is needed, such as joints or muscles. You can expect reduced inflammation, pain relief, and soothing of skin irritations. The moisturizing properties can also help with dry or irritated skin.
2. Balms and Salves:
These products are thicker and often more concentrated than creams and lotions. They are designed for deeper penetration and more intense relief. Oftentimes these are used for targeted areas requiring more substantial relief, such as sore muscles or chronic pain areas. Salves offer enhanced pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects and are particularly effective for conditions like arthritis or deep muscle pain. Our Original Salve, which can be found at both our Green Truck medical location and our Adult-Use location, The Garage, is a great option for pain. As one of the most concentrated CBD topicals, this unscented salve is perfect for relieving stiffness, tension or soreness anywhere on your body. As the CBD soaks deep into your body, relax and let your pain and tension melt away.
3. Body Oils:
Oils deliver cannabinoids and other herbal terpenes directly through the skin and lock in moisture providing prolonged and consistent relief. You can use it by applying directly to an area of the skin. Some benefits include long-lasting relief from pain or inflammation. Unlike other topicals, body oils lock in moisture and create a natural skin barrier to protect and soothe. Great for skin issues such as Eczema, Rosacea, and Psoriasis.
4. Bath Products:
These include bath salts, soaks, and bombs infused with THC and other cannabinoids. Add to a warm bath and the cannabinoids will be absorbed through the skin during a soak. These products offer full-body relaxation, relief from muscle tension, and overall skin nourishment.
While we are currently sold out of The Healing Rose CBD Bath Soaks due to high demand, we encourage you to check back soon or explore our other available topical options. Our knowledgeable budtenders can recommend alternative products that provide similar full-body relief and therapeutic benefits. The combination of cannabinoids and essential oils in our other topicals can still offer great options for skin health and relaxation.
How Do THC-Infused Topicals Work?
Cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) by binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors found in the skin. THC is known for its strong affinity to CB1 receptors, which are abundant in the nervous system, including the peripheral nerves in the skin. When applied topically, THC can reduce inflammation, pain, and muscle spasms through localized effects.
For all the pet lovers out there, a study published in the European Journal of Pain demonstrated that topical application of cannabinoids could significantly reduce pain and inflammation in animals with arthritis without causing notable side effects, so your furry loved ones can experience some pain relief from topicals as well!
Understanding Cannabis Topicals
Cannabis topicals are products infused with cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) intended for external use. Unlike other cannabis consumption methods, topicals do not produce a psychoactive “high” because cannabinoids applied to the skin do not typically reach the bloodstream in significant amounts. Instead, they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) through receptors located in the skin.
Dr. Ethan Russo, a neurologist and cannabinoid researcher, explains, “Topical applications of cannabis work primarily through local effects on cannabinoid receptors in the skin, providing targeted relief without systemic effects.” Along with many new studies coming out the facts speak for themselves. One study done in 2022 “…tested the effect of CBD on malignant melanoma cell growth and metastasis in a mouse model…Compared with the control group, a significant decrease in tumor size was observed in the CBD-treated mice. The survival time of the CBD-treated animals was significantly longer than that of animals in the control group….quality of life and physical performance were better in CBD-treated mice…” How amazing is that? Not only did the tumor size decrease but the quality and length of life was improved. Cannabis is truly incredible!
Knowledgeable Budtenders at Green Truck and The Garage
When it comes to finding the right cannabis topical for your needs, knowledgeable guidance is invaluable. At Green Truck and The Garage, we pride ourselves on having highly informed and approachable budtenders available at all times. Whether you’re looking for pain relief, anti-inflammatory benefits, or skin health improvements, our team can help you navigate through the myriad of products available.
Drop into one of our retail locations and speak with one of our knowledgeable budtenders today who can recommend the perfect product for your specific needs or desires. Pain relief is only a short trip away!
Our budtenders are well-versed in the latest research and product offerings, ensuring that you get personalized advice tailored to your specific condition. They can explain the differences between various types of topicals, the best ways to use them, and what you can expect in terms of results.
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**Sources:**
1. [Cannabinoid Receptor-Related Mechanisms in Chronic Pain](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4851925/)2. [Impact of Cannabinoid Compounds on Skin Cancer](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8997154/)
