Many people choose CBD topicals to help with localized pain or skin conditions. How do they work? Topicals come in the form of salves, creams, lotions or oils. They have been shown to penetrate into the three layers of the skin and are used for conditions that are within one inch of the surface. Cannabidiol's anti-inflammatory properties, along with the analgesic effect it has when combined with a driving compound such as menthol or camphor, may have a powerful soothing effect on sore muscles or joints.
The skin is filled with CB2 receptors which bind with cannabinoids applied directly onto the skin. This activates the endocannabinoid system, which can help move the body into a more balanced state. Users have reported that topical CBD products help alleviate pain from arthritis, menstrual cramps, post workout muscle fatigue, and some experience great relief from migraines when applied to the temples. The effects are quickly felt, and take usually about 15 minutes. It does not enter the bloodstream, and lasts about 2-4 hours.
Research has shown that "cutaneous cannabinoid signaling" is deeply involved in the maintenance of skin homeostasis, barrier formation and regeneration. Dysregulation of this system contributes to several issues which can result in a skin rash or outbreak. A high quality concentrated CBD salve may assist in soothing these conditions.
Sources say a concentration between 5 and 25mg per targeted dose is usually a good place to be. Cannabinoids have a biphasic effect, meaning that low and high doses may produce opposite effects. More is not necessarily better, so start with a moderate dose, and move up or down from there. Many topical brands have extremely low concentrations, so pay attention to the total mg of CBD in a product before purchasing. Size of container does not correlate with amount of cannabidiol. Hempward topical products are more highly concentrated than some others by a factor of up to ten.
Does it matter where the CBD comes from? Absolutely, yes! Many manufacturers don't know which farms their hemp-derived CBD is grown. At Hempward Farms, we are the farmers. Our hemp is irrigated with Rocky Mountain water, has no pesticides or herbicides, and is hand harvested. Using only full-spectrum CBD extract, we provide a richer profile of cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, which allows a more potent and nuanced array of pharmacological properties.
CBD topicals may be just the right thing for addressing specific sore spots or skin irritations. They can be used alone, or as an addition to ingesting a CBD extract or softgel. Whichever works for you is the best plan to follow. CBD might be just the right effective, plant-derived adjunct to your healing protocol.
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