Medical and recreational cannabis users use cannabis for a variety of reasons. However, one of the most popular health-related reasons individuals use cannabis is to reduce chronic pain or inflammation. Edibles, flower, and concentrates can all tackle these issues with varying degrees of effectiveness, there are other options for individuals who don’t want to ingest cannabis. One way to take advantage of the benefits of cannabinoids without smoking or eating it is by using cannabis topicals. In this post, we’ll discuss what topicals are and their possible benefits.
Cannabis Topicals: What Are They?
Cannabis topicals are balms, lotions, oils, salves, and patches that allow you to access the benefits of marijuana through external use.
Often formulated with essential oils and hydrating agents like cocoa butter or jojoba, topicals allow you to use cannabinoids for skin issues like rosacea, eczema, sunburns, and insect bites or for localized inflammation or pain. Topicals can be used to aid in muscle recovery after a workout or as part of a beauty or self care routine.
Applications and Uses for Topicals
Cannabis topicals fulfill some different roles from other forms of cannabis products. Edible and smokable cannabis products are great options for anyone who wants to spread cannabis’s effects throughout their entire body. For example, medical patients who want to reduce anxiety or improve their sleep often use these products. They’re also top picks for recreational users who just want to enjoy cannabis’ psychoactive high.
In contrast, cannabis topicals serve a different role. They’re ideal for targeting a specific area of the body instead of the whole thing. As a result, topicals can be an option for those seeking to relieve chronic joint pain or inflammation. So, for example, if you have achy hands because of arthritis, then you would apply a balm or salve to just your hands to help manage that pain.
That’s not all, though. Some cannabis topicals also make effective cosmetics. Some data suggests that cannabis’s possible anti-inflammatory properties may be able to rejuvenate skin and reduce acne. Cannabis skincare is an exciting way to practice self-care and is growing in popularity. Brands are using cannabinoids to help combat redness, irritation, and inflammation that occurs from various skin conditions as well as just everyday living.
Transdermal patches are often lumped in with topicals, though they are distinct. Whereas you apply a topical locally to deal with a particular issue, transdermal patches allow cannabinoids to enter into the bloodstream, providing full-body relief much like other consumption methods. Because of their unique properties, we’ll do a post on how to use them soon!
Where Can I Buy Cannabis Topicals?
Think cannabis topicals may be able to help you find relief or level up your beauty routine? If you’re looking for quality cannabis topicals, stop by our Sacramento dispensary or check out our menu now. We also offer delivery!