Cannabidiol or CBD comes in many forms. Manufactures can create formulas for oral consumption. They include edibles such as gummies, cookies, chocolate bars, and others. There are also vape oils and tinctures. Lastly, you can buy CBD oil in the form of a topical cream. Here’s a review of CBD topical products and how they work
Overview of CBD Creams and CBD Topicals
CBD creams are topical products. This means that you need to apply them on the skin. Manufacturers normally the cannabidiol products by using existing creams. This means that these creams may also contain other ingredients.
How CBD Creams Works On Your Skin
CBD topical cream can relieve pain using several pathways. The skin also has the endocannabinoid system (ECS). So, you can apply CBD products on the skin directly. It should be noted that in this case, the compound doesn’t reach the bloodstream. It only acts on the upper layer of the skin.
The ECS has endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes. So, when you apply a CBD topical, it will get synthesized. The resulting effect is that the ECS will end up producing more endocannabinoids. High amounts of endocannabinoids in the body can help to treat migraines and arthritis among others.
Besides that, the best CBD cream for pain usually contains immunomodulatory effects. So, if you are suffering from pain and inflammation, this is an effective remedy. In addition to anti-inflammatory properties, CBD pain relief cream can significantly minimize pain.
CBD Cream and Relieving Pain
There’s evidence that highlights the effectiveness of CBD cream and pain. User’s reports, animal studies, and preclinical studies support all these. There are two main types of chronic pain that CBD products can help treat. They include neuropathic and inflammatory nociceptive.
Neuropathic pain is as a result of damaged nerves. They include injuring the funny bone and multiple sclerosis. In addition to that, it could be pain from sciatica. This type of pain is usually throbbing, sharp, or has a burning sensation.
Nociceptive pain occurs from when there is inflammation or damage to tissues. For instance, when you’re stung by a bee or twist your wrist. Besides that, it could be as a result of inflammatory conditions such as IBS or arthritis.
But regardless of the type of pain, you can use CBD for treatment. The cannabidiol contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. So, it treats inflammation and soothes the body.
Scientific Background of CBD and Pain Relief
There are so many CBD topical products. They include CBD cream for back pain, sore joints, and worn-out muscles among others. All these products are highly effective in easing the pain. But is there a scientific background to support all these?
Well, several research studies show that CBD has immunomodulatory effects. This means that has a positive effect on pain and inflammation. Additionally, it can affect how the endocannabinoids in the body respond to stimuli.
These studies established that CBD increases the amount of endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA). This usually occurs after the cannabidiol inhibits the production of the enzyme that breaks down AEA. Apart from that, other studies have established that it has anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also worth noting that it has antioxidants. So, when it’s administered orally, it can suppress the effects of inflammation. However, its immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties are still available in topical creams.
How Should You Use the Cream?
Before you even fully use the cream, do a patch test. So, if the product is safe for use then go ahead and apply it. CBD creams provide a localized effect. So, to use a cream, first, wash the specific area with a mild cleanser and warm water. Wipe the area dry then apply the cream.
But how often should you use a cream? Well, these products come in different concentrations. In addition to that, they help to treat various health issues. However, most people normally use CBD creams 1 to 3 times daily. However, some people use them even more frequently to ease severe pain. Generally, it’s good to use it 3 times daily. After a few days, then you can adjust the frequency depending on how your body is responding.
Downsides to Consider
CBD has a good safety profile. Therefore, it is a well-tolerated product. However, there are still instances where it can cause side effects. Some people have sensitive skins. Others may be allergic to the ingredients. Possible downsides include:
- Skin discolorations
- Redness
- Skin dryness
- Irritation
- A burning sensation
Note: patch application for testing can help to reduce the chances of downside. This is because it helps to establish the effectiveness of the product before you can fully use it.
The Bottom Line
The use of topical CBD cream for pain is usually good. This is because these products provide a localized effect. In addition to that, they are suitable for non-vapers. So, if you need pain relief for a specific body part, then you should consider using it.
However, these products have low bioavailability. Moreover, you can only use them on specific types of pain or skin issues. So, if you are looking for a CBD product to enhance general body wellness, then you should consider another form.
Sources
- https://vaping360.com/best-cbd-vapes/cbd-creams-lotions/
- https://www.cnbs.org/cannabis-101/cannabis-facts/
- https://extension.psu.edu/industrial-hemp-production
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3736954/