In recent years, the use of cannabis topicals for pain relief has gained significant
attention, presenting a natural alternative to traditional pain management
methods. These topicals are infused with cannabinoids like THC and CBD (among
other “minor” cannabinoids), which interact with the body's endocannabinoid
system to provide targeted relief.
Cannabis topicals are non-psychoactive products, including creams, lotions,
balms, and salves, designed to be applied directly to the skin. They work by
interacting with the endocannabinoid receptors found in the skin, muscles, and
tissues. Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, bind to these receptors, promoting
balance and reducing inflammation, which ultimately leads to pain relief. Unlike
ingesting cannabis, topical application allows users to experience the therapeutic
benefits without the "high" associated with smoking or consuming edibles.
Cannabis topicals generally fall into two categories, the first being simple creams,
balms and lotions that work on the outer layer of the body’s tissues (muscles,
ligaments, tendons, etc.) They are extremely localized in that they penetrate only
the top layers of skin in the general affected area and last 2-3 hours.
Other topicals fall under the “transdermal” umbrella, meaning the medicinal
delivery goes through the seven layers of skin and directly into the bloodstream.
The main benefit is to reach deep pain centers like joints, cartilage and nerve
endings. They may also radiate in a wider area of relief for approximately 2-3
hours. Transdermal patches, however, (like those offered by Mary’s Medicinals
and Papa and Barkley) are placed on the inner wrist or top of the foot to enter the
bloodstream and offer full body pain relief for up to 12 hours.
One significant advantage of cannabis topicals is their ability to provide relief for
chronic pain conditions. For instance, individuals suffering from arthritis have
reported reduced joint pain and inflammation after applying CBD-infused creams
directly to the affected areas. Additionally, athletes dealing with muscle soreness
or injuries have found relief through the use of THC-infused balms, which aid in
soothing muscle tension and promoting faster recovery. Mary’s Medicinals
Muscle Freeze has been cited as an excellent lotion for muscle and outer tissue
pain relief.
Cannabis topicals offer the advantage of targeted relief, allowing users to address
pain in specific areas without affecting the entire body. For example, individuals
experiencing localized back pain can apply a cannabis-infused lotion directly to
the affected area, providing targeted relief to that specific region. This localized
approach makes cannabis topicals a valuable tool for pain management,
especially for those seeking non-invasive alternatives.
Neuropathic pain, resulting from nerve damage or injury, can be particularly
challenging to treat. However, cannabis topicals have shown promise in easing
this type of pain. Patients with conditions like diabetic neuropathy or multiple
sclerosis have reported decreased nerve pain and improved quality of life after
incorporating cannabis-infused topicals like Mary’s Medicinals Transdermal
Compound into their pain management routine.
User Testimonials: Real-life examples highlight the efficacy of cannabis topicals
for pain relief. Mary, a 60-year-old arthritis patient, shared her experience, stating
that after using a transdermal THC-CBD balm regularly, she experienced a
noticeable reduction in joint pain and increased mobility. Similarly, John, a former
athlete, praised the benefits of THC-infused topicals, stating that it significantly
aided in his post-workout recovery, allowing him to get back to his training
routine faster.
Cannabis topicals offer a promising avenue for pain relief, providing a non-
psychoactive and localized approach to managing various types of pain. As more
individuals seek natural alternatives to conventional medications, these topicals
continue to gain popularity and recognition for their potential therapeutic
benefits. With the ever-growing interest in cannabis topicals, ongoing research
will likely uncover even more benefits and applications for these remarkable
products.
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