How CBD Creams and Salves Work

If you've spent much time keeping up with the world of health and wellness, you may already be familiar with CBD, or cannabidiol (which is a compound found in cannabis). You might now that it's used in oil form to deal with everything from anxiety to chronic pain. However, did you know that CBD creams and salves are also available? Many people have found that topical products containing CBD such as lotions, salves and creams provide relief from pain and inflammation.

What can CBD salves be used for?

CBD salves and creams are used for a wide variety of conditions. These include, but are not limited to:

• Pain relief. Because CBD is a powerful natural analgesic, it can be used to relieve pain without the side effects that come with many over-the-counter or prescription painkillers. Additionally, CBD may be useful when treating rashes and other skin ailments, such as eczema or psoriasis.
• Skin conditions like acne and athlete's foot/ringworm can also benefit greatly from topical application of CBD cream or salve.
• Finally, if you're suffering from cold sores (herpes), colds or flu symptoms (influenza), arthritis (joint inflammation), diabetes (high blood sugar levels) or even chronic pain then you should consider trying a topical treatment like this one. 

How do topical lotions, creams, and salves work?

Cannabinoids are absorbed through the skin.  The cannabinoids that work the best for topical creams are CBD and THC. These two compounds bind to receptors in your body that control pain, inflammation, temperature regulation and more. These receptors are all over your body; some are on nerve endings in or near your joints or muscles while others line blood vessels themselves. When cannabinoids bind with these receptors, they have an effect on those nerves that influence how much those vessels dilate or constrict.

Do I need a prescription to buy CBD topicals?

CBD topicals can be bought without a prescription.  In general, you can buy CBD topicals in online, in vitamin stores or pharmacies.  You'll also find them in some drug stores and health food stores.  All CBD is not created equal and you will want to know where it is grown and extracted.  If it is third party tested and that it is organic.

How do I use a CBD cream or salve?

Apply the CBD cream or salve directly to the sore joint or muscle that needs relief.  Rub it in and allow it to go to work.  The cream or salve can be applied to the affected area as often as necessary. 

CBD creams and salves may provide relief from pain and inflammation to sore joints and muscles.  It’s important to remember that everyone has a different set of needs, each individual person will need to assess which type of CBD product, edible or topical meets their needs.  More research needs to be done, but current studies show CBD cream salves can be used successfully by those who are looking for relief from chronic pain, inflammation.