A Beginner’s Guide to Cannabis Topicals

Cannabis isn’t quite the taboo subject that it once was, it is a multi-million dollar industry, now. Also, it isn’t just for smoking because the extracts of the plant are now made into cannabis topicals and used for a variety of applications.

Are you interested in trying a cannabis lotion or salve but don’t know the benefits or if it is the right choice for you? Let’s find out more about what you can use cannabis topicals for, and how they work.

Why Use Cannabis Topicals?

For the most part, cannabis applied topically does not have any psychoactive effects. However, it does have a wide variety of healing properties and other uses.

Those looking to gain the benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects may be interested in trying a topical product for applications such as muscle pain relief or skin healing.

Topical Cannabis Options

CBD vs THC topical products have roughly the same effect. Yet, THC-heavy topical products tend to be a stronger analgesic than CBD-heavy products.

Topical cannabis products are used in the same ways as you would use those products if they weren’t made with cannabis.

If you desire a product that is easy to apply when you are on the go you might enjoy a topical that is in a stick form, which is a thicker consistency than a cream that is more like a lotion texture.

Something For The Pain

Possibly the most common reason for using a topical cannabis product is for pain relief. Pain such as tension, aches, carpal tunnel, arthritis, and muscle strains are eased with CBD and THC topicals.

When you apply a salve, balm, cream, oil, or lotion containing THC or CBD to the area of your aching muscles it works quite quickly.

The body naturally produces something called endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids regulate actions in the body such as the pain signal and stress.

With the application of topical cannabis, cannabinoids will slow your pain signals. A slowed pain signal will feel like a major reduction in the amount of pain that you feel.

Cannabis is also an effective anti-inflammatory. For inflammation of the muscles or joints, try using a bit of cannabis cream on the area.

Marijuana Massage

As if massages weren’t lovely enough, adding a cannabis-infused or a CBD topical product such as lotion to the situation takes it to a whole other level.

Using a THC or CBD enriched lotion for your massage does not mean that you will get high from your massage. But, many people feel naturally high after a full body massage as massage releases serotonin and relaxes the mind, body, and spirit.

Combine the natural reaction of the body that happens during a massage with the boost of muscle relaxation that you get from cannabis topical products and you may never want a plain massage ever again.

Try a marijuana massage at home, or look for a professional massage therapist who offers the service.

Treating Skin Conditions

What can cannabis do topically for skin conditions? The healing properties of CBD-rich topicals are especially great for issues that are caused by inflammation and fungus.

If you suffer from skin issues such as eczema, acne, psoriasis you may find relief in using a topical cannabis product. Prescription products for skin conditions are harsh and drying, whereas CBD is natural, gentle, moisturizing, and healing.

Making Your Bathtime The Bomb

Taking a warm bath is a great way to relax. A luxurious bath setting with candles, bubbles, and music can be made even better with a CBD bath bomb.

Drop a fizzy bath bomb in, or pour a scoop of lavender bath fizz in just before getting in. This trendy addition smells lovely and makes you feel amazing.

Are Topical Cannabis Products Drug Test Safe?

Taking a drug test can be a stressful event if you have been using or have been around any drugs. Many people wonder if using topical cannabis products will give you a positive drug test.

This is a perfectly logical question. But, the answer is that while smoking, vaping, or ingesting cannabis is a sure-fire way to fail a drug test, topical products are generally safe.

However, just because topical cannabis products rarely show up on a drug test, that doesn’t mean that there is zero chance it will be that way for you. It is better to be safe than sorry and abstain from using topical products before a drug test.

Getting Started

So, how does one get started with using topical cannabis products? Starting with one product is a safe bet.

Choose the product that you think would benefit you most at this time and start with a small dose application. Use it when you can pay attention to how it makes you feel.

Also, keep in mind that it is good to be open-minded about new experiences. If your topical cannabis product didn’t work as you thought it would the first time, don’t be apprehensive about trying it again.

Trying the same product twice may give you varying results from time to time. Or, switching to a different product might get you the desired result.

Look at the specifics of the product. If the first one you tried was heavy on the CBD but has a low THC content, try going with a product that has a different CBD/THC content.

Your Journey Into Topical Cannabis

You are now better prepared and properly educated on using cannabis topicals. Whether you are looking to improve the health of your skin or simply relax and reduce pain and inflammation, topical cannabis products are a great option for many Canadians.

Are you ready to check out some cannabis products? You can shop online, or pop on down to the Kelo Cannabis shop in downtown Kelowna.