THC vs. CBD Topicals: Which One Is Right For You?

Topicals are non-prescription drugs that are applied to the skin and are intended to be used externally. Salves, lotions, and balms are examples of topicals. They may assist with a variety of concerns, including skin conditions and pain management. Cannabis topicals generally include other active ingredients, such as menthol and camphor, which have soothing effects, to complement the effects of the cannabinoids and terpenes in cannabis.

Cannabinoids are a class of chemicals produced in cannabis plants that act as signaling molecules. Both CBD and THC are just two cannabinoids out of more than 100 present in the plant, along with CBG, CBN, and CBC. The reason you hear mostly about CBD and THC is that they are associated with the reduction of inflammation (CBD) and pain (THC).

Here are the three main categories of CBD wellness products available:

CBD Isolate: This is the most pure type of CBD, with no THC or other terpenes. According to reports, CBD Isolate aids in inflammation reduction to a lesser extent than broad and full-spectrum CBD products.

Broad Spectrum: Broad spectrum products contain every cannabinoid found in the hemp plant except for THC. Broad-spectrum CBD extracts, unlike CBD isolate, are more likely to produce positive health effects due to the entourage effect.

Full Spectrum: Full spectrum products contain all the cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, including THC. According to studies, whole-spectrum treatments are more effective at treating pain and anxiety than CBD-only medications due to the entourage effect and the particular interactions of THC and CBD in the body.

1:1 (THC:CBD): Products that contain a one to one ratio of CBD to THC pack even more benefits. CBD-rich hemp oil products are used to treat inflammation, while THC is utilized to relieve pain. Topical ointments containing equal proportions of both THC and CBD are ideal for relieving severe pain in the regions of your body that require it the most. These products, however, are only sold by licensed cannabis dispensaries.

By combining a high dose of THC with CBD, topical and wellness items that include both THC and CBD, such as tinctures and salves, are able to utilize the endocannabinoid system to provide entourage effects to the treated region as well as the entire body. The endocannabinoid system consists of two distinct types of receptors, CB1 and CB2, that help to promote various areas of the body. CB1 receptors are present in various areas of the body, including the skin, muscles, and nerves; whereas CB2 receptors are concentrated in the brain and central nervous system.

Topical cannabis products work through CB1 receptors in your skin to provide pain and inflammation relief to that particular region. After being applied to the skin, cannabinoids are absorbed into the body and enter the circulation. The cannabinoids and terpenes are transported to CB2 receptors, where they can provide additional mental benefits. However, because absorption takes so long, many individuals will not be aware of the benefits right away.

Overall, THC vs. CBD topicals is a personal decision. Some people may find that they need both THC and CBD to provide relief, while others may only require one or the other. It is important to experiment with different ratios and potencies to find what works best for you.

When it comes to choosing between THC and CBD, it really depends on what you are looking for in your product.  If you want something to provide relief from pain or inflammation, then CBD-rich products are a good choice. If you are looking for something to provide mental benefits, such as reducing anxiety or promoting relaxation, then THC-rich products are a better option.

If you’re looking for a CBD lotion to try, be sure to try Canis’s body lotion to feel the calming and relaxing benefits that CBD has to offer.