Topicals (creams, gels, lotions, and salves) infused with medical cannabis have become a great way for many with chronic conditions, such as arthritis, to manage pain flair-ups. They are often used successfully in combination with other ingestion methods such as edibles, oils, gel caps and vaporizing flower. While this article is titled “CBD Cream for Pain”, many effective cannabis topicals will actually have both CBD & THC! (And no, don’t worry, you can’t get intoxicated or “high” from absorbing THC through a cream or lotion.) Both CBD & THC play similar but different and equally important roles in alleviating pain and inflammation by acting on different receptors in your endocannabinoid system. But more about that further down.
CBD & THC in Managing Pain
As you may know, medical cannabis has become a staple in many people’s lives who suffer from varying conditions that are or include chronic pain as a symptom. This is because it can be safer than many pharmaceuticals, including opioids, with fewer side effects. CBD & THC are two cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, and the most talked about and researched when it comes to medical applications of the plant. Our bodies have a naturally occurring system called the endocannabinoid system, which helps keep our body in homeostasis and manages things including pain response, hunger, mood, and more. CBD & THC act on these receptors which are throughout the entire body; this is how it can help manage symptoms from so many different conditions.
CBD is known for its inflammatory properties, while THC is known for its analgesic properties. The Entourage Effect demonstrates that medical cannabis is often more effective when it contains a combination of cannabinoids like THC and CBD working synergistically, rather than isolating individual cannabinoids. For those seeking relief from more serious pain, this can make all the difference in managing that pain.
Cannabis Topicals, Creams, and Gels
Infused creams and topicals are most beneficial when the pain, joints, and muscles are close to the skin (Ie hands, elbows, feet, etc.). They can be easily rubbed into the area of skin where needed and should begin to work within 10-30 minutes. Most Licensed Producers will look to make the cream as pleasant as possible to use – safe ingredients and even added essential oils for a great smell. Many different infused topical formats exist now and include gels, creams, lotions, salves, and more. Some of these products are now even being used to help alleviate things like itching for conditions like eczema.
How Does Infused Cannabis Cream Work? Is Medical Cannabis Cream Safe?
As mentioned, the endocannabinoid system is present throughout our entire body, even in our skin! When an infused cream is applied, the cannabinoids (CBD & THC) bind to these receptors and can cause localized effects such as pain relief and inflammation reduction. Because the cannabinoids are absorbed into the skin, they do not enter the bloodstream and should not cause any psychoactive effects. That said, if you use something called a transdermal patch, they can actually pierce the skin and may result in cannabinoids entering the bloodstream.
Infused creams in Canada are produced by Licensed Producers who follow strict standards and guidelines on the products they create and provide to patients. While there is no one set way to make creams, many will most likely be similar to skin creams you can buy in stores and pharmacies, with the addition of cannabinoids. It’s always recommended to look at the ingredients used in a skin product before purchasing to prevent any irritations or allergies.
If you have any questions about medical cannabis or infused topicals, our team at Apollo is here to help 7 days a week. Ask us a question by email or phone, or book a free virtual appointment with one of our healthcare professionals today. We look to support our patients along their journey so that you can find the relief you deserve.
Conditions Cannabis Topicals Can Help With
Infused topicals can help with autoimmune conditions, neuropathic pain and even muscle soreness. These conditions range from fibromyalgia, arthritis, cancer, chronic pain, and nerve damage among others. As mentioned before, serious pain management may be better managed with a combination of different medical cannabis products such as CBD oil. The combination of different options allows the cannabinoids more ways to interact with your endocannabinoid system and helps better manage pain response and inflammation for longer periods of time, such as during sleep.
Conclusion
With the rise of medical cannabis as an effective alternative to traditional medicines, more research and products have begun to emerge that can help benefit us with pain management. Infused cannabis topicals have become more popular just over the last few years, with more patients relaying their positive results. If you would like to learn more about pain management via medical cannabis, CBD (and THC) infused topical creams, or to speak with a medical cannabis healthcare professional, please don’t hesitate to give us a call or email us at Info@apolloresearch.ca. To book your free virtual consultation, click here.
