Why You’re Going to Love CBD Topicals

It’s always good to start with the basics; in this case, defining CBD. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in cannabis plants (aka hemp and marijuana). CBD is a member of a group of chemical compounds called cannabinoids. These cannabinoids can have several reactions with the human body because of a serious of receptors we have called the Endocannabinoid System. The more famous of the cannabinoids and its reaction is the high that THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) creates. Because THC is so famous people tend to assume that all cannabinoids are the same as THC. However, CBD and THC are very different compounds. Unlike THC, CBD does not have a psychoactive effect. It is often said that CBD may help you achieve a greater feeling of calm, but it is unlikely to cause any sort of inebriation.

Another difference between CBD and THC is that most CBD products are now federally legal, where THC is still subject to individual state laws. In December of 2018, the United States legislature passed the new version of the Farm Bill. This version of the bill officially made hemp federally legal. However, it is important to remember that this doesn’t mean that it is legal in every state, merely that the federal government will not get in the way of states legalizing hemp. That being said, it is legal in most states. The Farm Bill defines hemp as cannabis with less than 0.3% THC. This was great news for CBD manufactures, as hemp has high levels of CBD while containing very little THC.

As a result, there has been an explosion in CBD product available. They range from the expected (things like oils and edibles) to the bit more unusual (like topicals). While oils and edibles get a lot of attention, it feels like topicals don’t get talked about too much. It tends to leave people wondering, why does any use topicals in the first place?

Many people struggle with things skin problems like acne and redness. Others have to endure the issues that come along with inflammation. There seems like the more popular CBD gets the more studies you can find about what benefits CBD may have to offer. Among these are studies on how CBD may be able to improve the daily lives of those who fight acne or inflammation.

One popular aspect of CBD topicals is that their effect is much more localized than what you would experience with any other CBD product. You are more likely to get a focused effect than you would with something like a capsule. Other products are going to have more of a general effect. If there is a particular part of your body that has been bothering you, then a CBD topical may be your best choice.

Of course, you don’t even need the excuse of acne and inflammation. There are those who just use it as a nice daily moisturizer. Some like using CBD topicals for the potential boost that the topical may add to their day. Most CBD topicals are made using carriers like coconut oil and shea butter, leaving the skin feeling smooth and soft.

Acne is one of the most common skin afflictions that people experience. We’ve all dealt with it as some point, and we all know it’s no fun. But recent research suggests that CBD may be able to improve your skin health. A study done in 2015 tested the safety of topical made with cannabis extract and its ability to reduce sebum production and redness on people’s cheeks. The researchers concluded that not only was the topical safe to use, but it was also able to help reduce redness and sebum production, thus reducing acne.

Inflammation is a common issue for a lot of people. It can lead to all kinds of problems including decreased mobility. There have been many studies that have found that CBD could be helpful in reducing inflammation. One of these studies, conducted in 2012, looked at how CBD interacted with mice who had spinal inflammation. They found that CBD helped fight the inflammation by targeting certain receptors associated with the affliction.

There’s nothing difficult about using CBD. You just use it like any other topical. Apply the topical need to the area where it is needed most. It may be a moment or two before you feel any real effects from the CBD. It tends to be different for each person.

If you want to start using a CBD topical and are not sure how to start, the best answer is start small. It is best to start with a very low dosage, see how it sits with you, and then work your way up. There are no serious side effects associated with CBD. Some people do experience things like fatigue or diarrhea, but those who report these side effects often take large quantities of CBD consistently. Plus, the CBD in topicals never actually reach the bloodstream. So, it is unlikely that you should feel any side effects from the CBD at all. As mentioned before, everyone is going to react to CBD differently, some may require more or less than others. So, you may have to experiment to find how much works best for you.

As with anything that you add to your wellness routine, you should talk to your doctor before you start using CBD topicals. Some medication may not react well with the cannabinoid. It may change or cancel out the effects of the medication.