Topical CBD For Your Body: A Complete Guide To Understanding How It Works
Updated December 2021
By now, you've likely heard the buzz surrounding cannabidiol, or CBD. Today, you can chew on CBD gummies, take drops, drink it, vape it, and even soak in a hot CBD bubble bath. While there are numerous benefits to using CBD products, many people are focused on its ability to relieve pain throughout the body.
It's no wonder the CBD market is expected to surpass $20 billion in the U.S. by 2024. Despite the growing popularity, there's a lot of people who don't know about CBD, though.
Interested in giving topical CBD a try to manage your pain?
Here's everything you need to know about topical CBD and how it can help your discomfort. With this guide, you can feel fully informed before you start shopping. Learn everything you need to know about topical CBD for your body with this guide!
What is CBD?
Before we discuss topical CBD, let's talk about the source of this ever-growing product: cannabidiol.
CBD is a type of natural, organic compound in cannabis known as a cannabinoid. Unlike THC, another cannabinoid found in cannabis, CBD doesn't get you high.
Both of these compounds act on a system of receptors in the body called cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are found in the central nervous system, including parts of the brain and spinal cord. They're also found throughout your immune system tissues.
The endocannabinoid system in the body regulates various functions throughout the body, including your immune system, metabolism, memory, hormone release, sleep and even pain control.
THC and CBD are similar enough endocannabinoids that they can manipulate these functions. Remember, CBD doesn't cause psychoactive effects the way THC does. Instead helps your body by reducing pain, regulating your sleep, and ensuring all of your systems are functioning in balance.
Today, scientists are researching other benefits of using CBD products. For example, it's thought that CBD can combat the effects of Alzheimer's. It is also used to help reduce seizures, acne, anxiety, depression symptoms, and addiction.
What Is a CBD Topical?
CBD topicals are created by combining various ingredients with hemp-extracted oils that contain CBD and other cannabinoids. As a topical base, CBD acts on the body's naturally occurring receptors that are associated with inflammation and pain.
Topical CBD products are available as pain creams, massage oils, body lotions, balms and salves, face serums, face masks, muscle gels, soap, bath bombs and more!
More skincare and cosmetic products featuring CBD are popping up as well. One great example is Manuka Cream, which is healing cream for your skin that also includes Manuka Honey with the CBD. Manuka honey has been proven to provide additional healing properties and when combined CBD, creates a wonderful healing cream.
You can use topical CBD for your body by rubbing it into a specific area, such as your joints. The CBD won't enter your bloodstream. As a result, topical CBD products don't address systemic issues. Instead, CBD topicals are designed to keep your pain at bay for a certain period of time. However, the effects of CBD on the body depends on the person.
Does Topical CBD Work?
Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or infections. This process allows the body to tell our immune system it needs to heal and repair damaged tissue. Inflammation also allows the body to defend itself from viruses and bacteria that can cause harm.
Too much inflammation, however, can have a negative impact on the body. For example, chronic inflammation is associated with disease and autoimmune disorders such as heart disease, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and others.
You might notice inflammation if a part of your body appears red, feels hot, or starts swelling. A CBD topical can help relieve your inflammation. It can also reduce headaches, cramps, skin conditions, and arthritis As a result, CBD topicals can help relieve achy joints and sore muscles.
According to this study, CBD works to reduce inflammation and pain-related behaviors. Based on the results, topical CBD has therapeutic potential to relieve pain for arthritis patients and other inflammation-related issues.
While CBD does help to relieve inflammation and pain, it's important to remember that results can depend on the person.
A Buyer's Guide for Topical CBD
If you're looking for a topical CBD product, it helps to complete your research first. That way, you can find a high-quality product that will help relieve your pain.
First, make sure to remain wary of any outrageous claims. CBD products aren't regulated by the FDA. As a result, CBD product makers aren't allowed to make claims on their labels.
If the CBD product claims it can treat or cure a health issue, such as cancer, look elsewhere.
Next, check for a certificate of authenticity. You can verify a topical CBD product is reliable if you can find this certificate on their website. If you can't, ask the company if they can provide the certificate.
A certificate of authenticity is a multipage document. It indicates the product was tested in a lab. The document will also tell you how much CBD the product contains based on the lot or batch.
You can also determine what other ingredients are featured in the product by finding this document. Make sure the report was completed by an independent, third-party lab to avoid bias.
Try to avoid impulse purchases from random shops. Instead, complete thorough research. Make sure the CBD topical you're purchasing actually contains CBD.
To make sure you're buying a high-quality product, read the label. Make sure you're not allergic to any of the ingredients. You can also check the label to make sure the ingredients are cruelty-free, paraben-free, free of GMOs, and that the product is American-made.
Feel free to speak to your doctor before purchasing a CBD product. Let them know your concerns, especially if you intend on using CBD to treat an underlying condition. CBD can affect other medications you're taking, so it's important to consult your doctor first.
Topical CBD: Everything You Need to Know About CBD for Body Pain
Interested in taking topical CBD to relieve your aches and pains? With this guide, you have everything you need to make an informed choice. Now you can start shopping without stress.
Explore our CBD topicals today to find the product that's right for you!