Using CBD Topical Salve and How It Can Benefit Your Health
Although scientific research is still ongoing, the CBD industry keeps flourishing and it doesn’t seem like it will slow down any time soon. With so many CBD-infused products hitting the market every day, it is projected that the industry will hit $16 million in the United States by 2025. This simply shows that the natural compound has proven to be very beneficial for both the physical and mental health of people.
For those who are new to all this, CBD, or commonly referred to as cannabidiol, is a natural substance that comes from the cannabis sativa plant. It is well known for not providing consumers with the psychoactive effects or the “high” unlike its more famous cousin THC. It has been used as the main ingredient in many CBD-infused products with topicals being the most popular ones at the moment.
So, if you want to know more about this, keep reading to find out how to use a CBD topical salve and how it can benefit your health.
Photo by Jirapong Pnngjiam from Pixabay
Contents
Main uses of CBD topicals
Pain relief is one of the major health benefits CBD provides its consumers. This is because it has anti-inflammatory properties that help manage and eliminate pain altogether as well as enhance circulation and regenerate cellular activity. That’s why it is used to treat numerous conditions that are accompanied by chronic or severe pain symptoms in the muscles, joints or back.
For example, people suffering from arthritis or similar conditions rely heavily on CBD topicals to ease inflammation.
Besides helping reduce aches, CBD ointments can be used for treating various skin conditions. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties present in the compound help decrease inflammation in conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, rashes and dry skin. The properties also reduce the occurrence of wrinkles and help slow down the aging process.
How does it work
CBD topical salves lessen pain and inflammation symptoms by interacting with the endocannabinoid system in the human body. This system consists of receptors, endocannabinoids and enzymes that are located on the skin, in muscle tissues and nerves and operate to break down and synthesize CBD.
One important thing that must be noted is that when a CBD topical salve is applied to the skin, it doesn’t make it to the bloodstream. Instead, it binds with the two receptors of the endocannabinoid system known as CB1 and CB2 which are responsible for managing various sensations of pleasure and pain. So, when CBD is applied to the affected area, it immediately binds with these two receptors and reduces the discomfort.
How to apply it
A CBD topical is applied on the area that is in pain or suffers from some kind of skin inflammation. Before you do this, it is recommended that you wash the area first with soap and water to remove any dirt, oil buildup or previously applied topical cream. This way you are ensuring that you have created the best environment for the ointment to be fully absorbed into the skin.
Remember to generously rub the cream onto the area and let it absorb for a few minutes before covering it with a cloth or a bandage. Depending on how much cream you have applied, how often you have been using it and the severity of the conditions, the ointment can take anywhere from one to 48 hours.
Photo by Mathilde Langevin from Unsplash
Potential side effects and risks
Since CBD is a natural compound, it is considered generally safe and well-tolerated by many consumers. However, some people who use CBD topicals have shown signs of irritation on their skin as a result of the ingredients in the cream. That’s why it is recommended that you do a patch test beforehand in order to avoid experiencing such discomfort.
In any case, the side-effects of using CBD salves are less likely to happen as opposed to other CBD-infused products which get directly into the bloodstream.
How to choose the best product
The truth is there are many CBD products on the market today, so it is important that you choose the best one in order to avoid any potential side effects.
For example, the most important thing you should do first is to look for the certificate of analysis. Not only will this document tell you that the product has been tested in a lab, but it will also include information about how much of the CBD compound is present and what other ingredients have been used. Also, reading the label carefully will ensure that you aren’t allergic to any of the other ingredients present in the product. Make sure you consult with a doctor first in order to tell you which product will work best based on your condition.
Make your own CBD topical
If you feel like this is something you can successfully achieve and want to create a homemade product, you can make your own CBD topical salve. First, take 10 grams of organic hemp and grind the leaves and stems with a coffee grinder. Next, place them into a jar and mix them with organic coconut or almond oil. Seal the jar tightly and place it into a pan with 2-3 inches of water.
Boil for three hours and refill if necessary. Remove the jar from the pan and let it cool at room temperature. Repeat the boiling process for another two days and on the fourth day strain the ointment using cheesecloth to remove extra debris.
Add cocoa or shea butter to thicken and firm up your ointment. Make sure you store it in a cool and dry place to maintain its potency.
Final thoughts
If you are experiencing frequent pains and inflammation on your body and skin, but traditional creams are ineffective, then you should definitely turn to CBD topical salves. These products are infused with the natural compound CBD and are applied directly on the affected area. Once absorbed, the cannabidiol interacts with the receptors in the body that manage pain without giving you the psychoactive effects.
Although CBD ointments are generally safe and easy to use, it is still important that you familiarize yourself with all information so you can have the best experience and results from using a CBD topical salve.
