CBD has become increasingly popular over the last couple of years. This has led to article after article focused on CBD and what it can do. But in these articles, it seems like common practice to just gloss over CBD creams and not talk too much about it and other topicals. This makes it difficult for those who may be interested in creams to learn more. Well, this article is trying to rectify that. Let’s talk topicals and their advantages.
What is CBD?
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). It is just one of over 113 compounds called cannabinoids. These cannabinoids can have a number of 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. This is the reaction that is most commonly associated with cannabis and, as a result, CBD. However, CBD and THC are very different compounds. Unlike THC, CBD does not have a psychoactive effect. It may create a sense of calm, but that appears to be the only effect it has on one’s mental state.
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 bill included a section legalizing industrial hemp across the country (we go into more detail about this bill and what exactly it means in another article here). It defines hemp as cannabis with less than 0.3% THC. This was great news for CBD manufactures, as hemp, while containing very little THC, has high levels of CBD.
This has led to CBD producers creating all kinds of CBD products, from basic CBD oils to crazy edibles to lotions and creams. While oils and edibles get a lot of attention, it feels like creams don’t get talked about too much. It tends to leave people wondering, why does any use creams in the first place?
Why use CBD creams?
Many people struggle with things skin problems like acne and redness. Others have to endure the issues that come along with inflammation. As CBD becomes more popular the research on what it can do increases. Among these are studies on how CBD may be able to improve the daily lives of those who fight acne or inflammation.
Acne is one of the most common skin afflictions that people experience. It can be so frustrating. But recent research suggests that CBD may be able to improve your skin health. A study done in 2015 tested the safety of cream made with cannabis extract and its ability to reduce sebum production and redness on people’s cheeks. This study found that not only was the cream safe to use, but at the right level of dosage (more than 3% extract) it was able to reduce the redness on the test subjects’ cheeks as well as their sebum production.
Inflammation is a common issue for a lot of people. It can lead to all kinds of problems including decreased mobility. Recent studies suggest that CBD may be able to increase the quality of life of those who struggle with 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.
One of the benefits of using a cream over another CBD product is that it is localized. 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 you are really struggling with something that is focused in one area of your body and cream may be the best option for you.
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. They do it just for the potential boost it can add to their day. Most CBD creams are made using carriers like coconut oil and shea butter, so it leaves the skin feeling smooth and soft.
How to use CBD creams
Using CBD creams is easy. You just use it like any other cream. Apply the cream need to the area where it is needed most. It may take a little while to for you to start to feel any effects. It tends to be different for each person.
If you want to start using a CBD cream and are not sure how to start, the best answer is start small. It is smart to start with a small amount of a (preferably low content) CBD cream and see how you react to it. 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. 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.
It is also always a good idea to talk with a medical professional before starting any new supplement, including CBD. Some medication may not react well with the cannabinoid. It may change or cancel out the effects of the medication.
Creams, while not as popular as edibles, has the potential to help with the quality of life for so many people. If you are ready to try some CBD cream check out Panacea Life Science’s inventory here.
Have any comments, questions or concerns? Feel free to contact us! You can get ahold of a Panacea Life team member through our website or by emailing [email protected].
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