An Overview of CBD
CBD is a compound in marijuana that is the complete opposite of its relative THC. This is because most CBD products contain less than 0.3% of THC to comply with legislation. Cannabidiol does not inhibit and mental status changes and disorientation that can occur with THC consumption(1).
How Do CBD Topicals Work
CBD does wonders for pain especially pain associated with muscle soreness! Special skin conditions can also benefit from topical CBD. This is because CBD penetrates the dermal and subdermal skin layers, reaching further than just the surface of the skin. So how do CBD topicals actually work?
Its mechanism of action incorporates the endocannabinoid system which is responsible for sensations such as pain. It accomplishes this by binding to the cell receptors in muscle tissue along with skin and nerves. Doing so provides instant relief to troubled areas and quickly reduces inflammation!
“There is research to support that Phyto cannabinoids, like CBD, interact with receptors and other enzymatic factors within our skin that modulate pain and inflammation,” said Emma Chasen, the co-founder of Eminent Consulting, a cannabis consultancy firm(2). “Because the skin is actually quite thick, when you apply CBD cream, the CBD soaks into the skin but does not make it to the bloodstream. It interacts with CB1 receptors — if THC is also present — and other receptor families such as the TRPV receptors and factors such as PPAR-gamma and COX-½ and TNF-alpha. With these interactions, CBD can modulate the pain and inflammatory response.”
Any Benefits?
As listed above the benefits are pretty self explanatory. Many people notice improvements in affected areas soon after topical application. A study in 2017 discovered topical CBD to reduce acute joint inflammation in rodents! Another study conducted and published in the “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology,” validated that CBD can help tame many skin conditions such as dermatitis and psoriasis.
Reference:
- https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd
- https://420intel.com/articles/2020/06/19/technology-behind-cbd-topicals-how-do-they-work
FDA Disclaimer – These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or prior to using any CBD products.