What is Topical CBD?

Topical CBD is a broad term that encompasses a range of hemp products you can apply directly to the skin, like creams or ointments. Many of these products also contain other ingredients, such as menthol or capsaicin, making it difficult to determine whether any positive effects you experience are due to the CBD or another ingredient.

A common reason for using a CBD topical is to help relieve aches and pains in the muscles or joints. CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the pain caused by chronic injuries or even simple everyday aches and pains. This makes CBD a natural solution for relieving the pain of sore muscles or arthritis.

Topical CBD: How It Works and Its Benefits

Unlike ingestion, CBD topicals absorb through the top layer of the skin and interact with receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system to help lower pain signals or inflammation. By binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBD can help balance the endocannabinoid system and restore your body’s equilibrium.

Some premium topical CBD products may also include additional materials to help soothe your skin, such as essential oils or aloe vera. Others might also have additional ingredients, such as menthol, to create an extra cooling sensation. Many CBD topical products are a combination of both CBD and THC, or even a third cannabinoid called CBG, to provide more targeted relief for certain conditions. This is especially helpful if you need to avoid THC for work or medical reasons or simply want to limit how much THC gets into your bloodstream.