The potential benefits of CBD have been discussed over the past few years, with many people touting its medicinal properties. One of the most popular forms of CBD is topical creams and salves. But do these products actually work to provide any relief from pain or inflammation? In this article, we will explore the evidence surrounding whether or not topical CBD products can help with pain relief.

What are topical CBD products?

CBD topicals are products that are applied directly to the skin to deliver cannabidiol (CBD) to your body. These topical products come in a variety of forms such as ointments, creams, balms, salves and more. The idea behind using a topical product is that it can be absorbed through the skin and quickly enter your bloodstream. This allows you to experience the effects of CBD without having to take an oil tincture or capsule.

How does CBD affect pain and inflammation?

Studies have shown that both CBD and THC have anti-inflammatory properties that could potentially reduce pain associated with inflammation. In addition, studies have shown that cannabinoids such as CBD can interact with certain receptors in our bodies, known as endocannabinoids, which are thought to modulate pain signals throughout our nervous system. By interacting with these receptors, it is possible that cannabinoids could reduce the level of pain experienced by people suffering from conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia.

Clinical evidence supporting the use of topical CBD for pain relief

While there aren’t many clinical trials looking at the use of topical CBD specifically for pain relief, there is some evidence that it may be effective in providing relief when used regularly over time. A 2018 study found that patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis experienced a significant reduction in symptoms after regularly applying a topical cream containing both THC and CBD for 4 weeks. Another study published in 2019 concluded that topically applied full-spectrum hemp extract was effective in reducing joint inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis when used over a 4-week period.

Potential side effects of using topical CBD products for pain relief

Although most people don’t experience any serious side effects from using topical CBD products for pain relief, some mild reactions may occur, such as skin irritation or redness at the application site. It’s also important to note that if you are allergic to cannabis, you should avoid using topicals altogether as they may cause an allergic reaction due to their plant-based ingredients, such as coconut oil or beeswax, which contain traces of THC or other cannabinoids found naturally in cannabis plants.

Is it safe to use topical CBD products for pain relief?

In general, yes – the use of topical cannabis-derived products for pain management appears to be safe when done correctly according to the manufacturer’s/supplier’s instructions and, if necessary, under the supervision of a qualified medical professional. However, it’s important to remember that while data supports the use of topicals for the management of certain types of acute and chronic pain conditions, more research is needed before definitive conclusions can be drawn regarding efficacy and safety. Furthermore, if you are currently taking prescription medication, you should always consult your doctor before trying any new supplement, including topicals derived from cannabis extracts.

Conclusion

There is limited clinical evidence to support the efficacy of cannabinoid-based treatments, including topicals, when used to treat different types of chronic pain conditions, but overall the results so far seem promising[5]. If you are considering trying these types of products, make sure you understand all the risks involved along with the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer/vendor, and always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to treatment plans involving existing medications etc.

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