Topicals are an unfortunately overlooked means of cannabis therapy that deserve some time in the limelight. Cannabis doesn’t have to be relegated to the bong or the brownies! Thanks to increasingly more accurate research, we are pinpointing new ways to use cannabis everyday. Topicals provide the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the cerebral “high” typically associated with cannabis. Not only are topicals an excellent means of pain relief, they can be amazing for treating skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema as well. There are even cannabis-infused lubricants designed to increase libido and sexual pleasure. Topicals encompass everything from lotions, balms, and oils to bath salts and transdermal patches.
How Do Topicals Work?
A study by the US National Library of Medicine found that we have both CB1 and CB2 receptors throughout our body, including our skin. Within the hair follicles, sweat glands, and nerve fiber bundles located throughout our skin are these receptors designed specifically to work with cannabinoids to act on the endocannabinoid system or ECS. By utilizing topicals, we are able to leverage these receptors to experience the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without passing through the blood/brain barrier and thus eliminating the typical cerebral effects that cause a person to feel high. Even with topicals that contain THC, the user isn’t subject to the same inebriation they would typically experience if ingested, smoked, or vaped. While this approach has been used for centuries, it’s only recently begun to be researched and patented. Different topicals will have varying benefits depending on how they are processed, how they are intended to be applied, and what other ingredients are used in conjunction with the cannabis.
A topical designed to treat muscle pain may be combined with cayenne
A topical designed to be used vaginally for menstrual cramps may avoid ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin. Topicals can be designed to emphasize certain cannabinoids over others, such as CBD or THCA, or they may be designed to mimic the medical benefits of specific strains. This is why it’s important to do your research, ask questions, and buy topicals that are designed for the effect you want.
What Are Some Conditions Topicals Are Used to For?
Topicals have been designed to treat everything from tension and muscle soreness to cramps and headaches. Some of the most common uses are: Pain Management By applying cannabis locally to areas experiencing pain, the effects are faster and limited to the area where the pain is. Skin Infections Because cannabis has been shown to be an effective anti-bacterial, antiviral, and antifungal, it is ideal for treating skin infections. It’s even shown to be very promising in treating acne. Surprisingly, it’s also very helpful in treating oral infections as well! Arthritis Cannabis is a powerful anti-inflammatory and inflammation is the source of pain and discomfort for patients suffering from arthritis Burn Treatment Cannabis oil has been shown to be considerably more effective in healing burns than antibiotic cream. In fact, this patient, showed faster healing, less scarring, and less pain when treating the same burn with both substances side by side. Skin Abnormalities and Cancer Applying cannabis to skin abnormalities and then covering them with a waterproof bandage for 48-72 hours has shown to be very effective at reducing the size of or even eliminating skin abnormalities such as warts and moles. Additionally, cannabis has shown a great deal of promise in inhibiting the growth of skin cancer cells! Female Sexual Pleasure Because female genitalia is so porous, topical cannabis is highly effective in increasing blood flow and nerve sensation in the area. This creates a more intense sexual experience.
Recommended Cannabis Topicals
If you’re anxious to try out the world of topicals for yourself, let me recommend these amazing products to get you started: Mary Jane’s Medicinals Lip Bong This nutrient packed lip balm is perfect for keeping your lips moisturized and healthy. It’s particularly useful for those who suffer from cold sores since those who use it report less frequent outbreaks and faster healing. BONUS- you can rub this lip balm on your temples to treat headaches! Whoopi and Maya’s Soak This soothing topical combines the many benefits of Epsom salt with cannabis to create a soothing, detoxifying bath soak. It’s designed to relieve menstrual discomfort but can be perfect for simply relieving sore muscles or joints that need a long, hot soak. Treat Yourself Cannabis Infused Whipped Body Butter- Skin Healing Formula If you are looking for a rich moisturizer designed to soothe and heal skin irritated by things such as psoriasis, eczema, poison oak, or good ole fashioned dry skin, this is the product for you. It has a rich, luxurious feel and smells amazingly clean and fresh. Kush Creams Aloe Based Face and Eye Cream This cream touts some powerful anti-inflammatory properties that make it perfect for fighting acne and wrinkles! It can be used both at night and under makeup! Empower Cannabis Infused Oil This product is simple and straightforward. Simply rub the oil where it hurts and go about your day! Nothing complicated and no more pain! Mary’s Medicinals Transdermal Patch These patches are the perfect solution for ongoing pain management. They are long lasting and discreet so you can utilize them to fight chronic pain all day long. Now, it places the lotion in the basket…..and buys it! Seriously, if you haven’t made the move to give topicals a try, there is no better time! The market is full of options of every variety and there is something for everyone. It’s time to explore the benefits of cannabis outside of the stereotypical joint. Cannabis is so much more than a recreational substance!