The use of cannabis for wellness purposes has become increasingly popular in times. Among the ways to consume cannabis, cannabis topicals have emerged as options for individuals seeking localized relief without experiencing any psychoactive effects. In this post, we will delve into the usage of topicals to attain relief and enhance overall well-being.
Understanding Cannabis Topicals
Cannabis topicals refer to products infused with cannabinoids extracted from the cannabis plant. These topicals come in forms, including creams, salves, balms, lotions, and transdermal patches. They are designed to be applied on the skin and are absorbed locally, providing targeted relief to areas of the body.
How Cannabis Topicals Function
When applied to the skin, cannabis topicals interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is present throughout our bodies. The ECS consists of receptors called CB1 and CB2 that play a role in regulating functions such as pain perception, inflammation, and immune response.
Cannabinoids, like THC and CBD found in topicals, bind with these receptors when applied locally. This interaction helps regulate pain signals and alleviate inflammation in the area without entering the bloodstream or causing any intoxicating effects. However, it’s important to note that certain products may contain levels of THC that could potentially result in psychoactive effects if used excessively.
Picking the Right Cannabis Topical Product
With many options available nowadays, it can be overwhelming to choose the cannabis topical. Here’s what you should consider;
- Understand your needs: Determine if you’re looking for relief from areas of pain or skin conditions.
- Read the labels: Look for indications of CBD or THC concentrations along with ingredients.
- Assess potency: Check the levels of cannabinoids in each product based on the effects you desire.
- Prioritize quality: Opt for trusted brands that source their cannabis from cultivators who prioritize quality control.
Application Techniques
To get the results from topicals, follow these steps.
- Clean the area: Make sure the targeted skin area is clean and free of dirt or sweat.
- Apply a small amount: Take a small quantity of the topical and gently massage it into your skin until it absorbs. Remember, using little might not provide relief while using too much could be wasteful.
- Adjust frequency: You can apply the times a day depending on your needs. Monitor its effectiveness to determine how to use it.
- Be cautious around sensitive areas: Avoid applying near your eyes, genitalia, or open wounds.
Benefits of Cannabis Topicals
Cannabis topicals offer a range of advantages beyond relieving pain, here are some of them.
- No mind-altering effects: Unlike methods of consumption cannabis topicals don’t cause any euphoria or intoxication since they don’t enter the bloodstream.
- Lasting relief: The effects of topicals can often provide relief for several hours, which is longer compared to consuming it orally.
- Targeted benefits: By applying cannabis topicals to areas, they directly address and benefit those areas without affecting the rest of the body.
- No exposure to toxic chemicals: Using cannabis topicals eliminates concerns about irritation or potential exposure to harmful chemicals.
Potential Risks
While cannabis topicals are generally safe to use, there are things to consider and possible side effects or risks.
- Individual variations in effects: Different individuals may respond differently to cannabis topicals based on factors like skin type, sensitivity to cannabinoids, and overall health.
- Potential skin irritations: Although uncommon, some users may experience skin irritations or allergic reactions when using formulations or botanical extracts present in the product. It is recommended to test a patch of skin before applying it widely.
- Poor scientific research: While there is promising anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of cannabis topicals in managing pain and inflammation, scientific research in this area is still limited. It’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider for advice.
Conclusion
Cannabis topicals offer an effective choice for those seeking relief from pain and inflammation in certain areas. It’s important to understand how they work, how to select the products, apply them correctly, and be aware of any side effects to benefit from their therapeutic properties fully. Whether you’re managing pain or simply aiming to improve your well-being, incorporating
