For a number of years, when we thought of cannabis, smoking was the first image that was brought to mind. Now, that’s less likely to be true – there are numerous ways of consuming cannabis, each suited to a person’s individual needs. Cannabis topicals have quickly taken over a significant portion of the cannabis market. They have gained the attention of cannabis beginners and connoisseurs alike.
We have a selection of topicals in our online cannabis dispensary. Keep reading to learn more about why people are turning to cannabis topicals as part of their regular health and wellness routine.
What are Cannabis Topicals?
Cannabis topicals are products, like creams and lotions. They are applied directly to the skin with the goal of providing localized relief. They are beneficial for joint pain, sore muscles, inflammation, as well as skin conditions like acne, eczema or psoriasis.
One of the benefits of topicals is that they don’t penetrate the skin. Therefore, they’re tolerated at a high dose and don’t provide any psychoactive effects – even with THC. This means you don’t have to worry about applying too much. Another benefit is that it’s applied directly to the site of pain or inflammation to provide fast relief.
How do Cannabis Topicals Work?
Although the research on cannabis topicals specifically is still in the preliminary stages, there is a lot we can say about them. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for maintaining homeostasis in the body. Therefore it helps to regulate a number of critical functions such as mood, sleep, appetite, etc. The cannabinoid receptors that are responsible for regulating our endocannabinoid system (where the cannabinoids like THC and CBD bind to) are located throughout the body – including in our skin.
Topicals and Pain Management
Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, are well established for managing pain, through managing inflammation, interrupting pain signaling, and interacting with the immune system. Numerous studies have focused on the use of cannabis for pain associated with arthritis, including when it was applied topically.
A number of people, such as athletes, have turned to cannabis topicals as a means of managing muscle and joint pain.
Consider Green Therapy Canna Icy Hot for muscle soreness and joint pain. Don’t want the icy hot experience? Try Nectar Botanicals Medicated Pain Balm, or Delush Magic Stick for those who are always on the go.
Cannabis topicals are often used on the hands and feet for joint pain, as well as on the muscles for soreness. However, there are a number of other ways to use topicals to manage pain.
For Headaches
Cannabis can help to manage migraines and headaches. A 2016 study found that cannabis helps reduce migraine attacks – from more than 10 a month to only 4.6. Regular consumption of cannabis can help to prevent migraines as well as treat acute pain. While cannabis can be taken orally for headaches, such as tinctures, cannabis topicals can also be applied to the temple, jaw, or neck to help minimize pain associated with headaches.
For Menstruation Pain
Cannabis can also help manage pain associated with menstruation. Research indicates that the source of most pain associated with menstruation is the result of prostaglandins. It’s been noted that people with higher levels of prostaglandins tend to have more painful and/or heavier periods. As a result, treatments that lower prostaglandin levels tend to be effective, which is the goal when prescribing Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs).
Scientists have recently discovered that CBD also inhibits the prostaglandin-producing enzyme. However, unlike NSAIDs, CBD interacts with the body differently. This results in anti-inflammatory benefits without the gastrointestinal side effects that come along with NSAIDs. An added benefit of cannabis is that it may prevent a person from producing as much of this enzyme in the first place.
Of course, a cannabis topical cream can be applied directly to the lower abdomen to help manage pain associated with menstruation. But cannabis products can also help promote relaxation in many other ways. Consider a relaxing bath with Active Releaf CBD Bath Bombs or Delush Magic Soak bath salts.
What We Know About Cannabis and Skincare
Cannabis topicals are not only used for managing pain in the muscles and joints; they’re also used as a major part of a person’s regular skin routine. Cannabinoids help to attract and lock in moisture and have antioxidant properties. This helps promote healthy skin as well as repair damage and reduce the signs of ageing. This suggests ongoing use of cannabis, and cannabis topicals, can have positive long-term effects on the skin as well as for treating skin conditions.
Looking for a cannabis topical to add into your everyday skin routine? Check out Delush Hemp Body Lotion, their Whipped Body Butter, or one of the other incredible topical products in our online dispensary.
There is also evidence that cannabis has antibacterial properties that can help prevent things like sunburns from getting infected.
Cannabis topicals are not only good for your everyday skin routine, they can also help manage inflammatory skin conditions. In a 2019 study, participants who used topicals twice a day for three months experienced a reduction in symptoms. They also reported an increase in their overall quality of life. It’s also important to note that none of the participants experienced adverse reactions to the CBD topical.
Cannabis topicals have also shown promise in the management of symptoms associated with acne. Acne often develops as a result of excess sebum (an oily substance that is secreted from the sebaceous glands). A 2014 study showed cannabis inhibits the production of sebum; therefore, this along with its anti-inflammatory properties, mean cannabis is well suited for use on acne prone skin.
How to Use Cannabis Topicals
Cannabis topicals are applied directly to the skin in the same manner as a typical cream or lotion. The cannabinoids do not penetrate the skin. Thus you can apply and re-apply liberally without having to worry about adverse impacts or psychoactive effects.
Try Topicals Today
Topicals are only one route of administration when it comes to cannabis consumption. They can be used in combination with other consumption methods as a regular part of your health routine.
Are you looking to buy cannabis topicals? They are a great way to experience cannabis, whether you are looking to relax, destress, release pain or want to feel energized. Check out the selection in our online cannabis dispensary!
If you enjoyed this post, catch our next one on Cannabis and Self-Care.