What are Cannabis Topicals and How Do They Work?

Newly legalized cannabis markets mean a host of new and exciting ways to consume cannabis. If you're one of those who prefer to avoid combustion methods of administration, but still obtain maximum medicinal benefit from cannabis, then here's what you need to know about cannabis topicals, one of the most underrated forms of medical marijuana in Canada. Cannabis topicals are just what they sound like: creams, balms, ointments, massage oils, and other cosmetics. These are all infused with cannabinoids like THC and CBD for medicinal value.

What are Cannabis Topicals?

Cannabis topicals consist of lotions or oils infused with cannabis intended for transdermal use. Designed primarily for medicinal patients, they help treat a wide range of conditions such as physical pain, inflammation, burns, skin conditions, and even skin cancer. Most forms of topicals are non-intoxicating as the THC present doesn't make it into the bloodstream. Safe, effective, and free from any associated stigma, cannabis topicals open up the world of cannabis to those who may have never before considered it. Topicals come in many blends and often harness the unique potential of individual strains for maximum therapeutic potential. Depending on the profile of a given strain, specific combinations of terpenes and cannabinoids can help enhance the medicinal benefits when treating certain conditions. In addition, many producers commonly add a range of natural plant compounds and essential oils to their blends to help promote additional therapeutic potential.

How Do Cannabis Topicals Work?

Cannabis topicals differ from other delivery methods in that they provide localized relief where they are applied. The cannabinoids present in the topical penetrate the skin and bind with cannabinoid receptors without making their way to the bloodstream. Unlike smoked or edible forms of cannabis, topicals aren't processed through the lungs or liver. Instead, they interact directly with the receptors on our skin, where we have an abundance of CB2 receptors. When patients apply a topical to their skin, the cannabinoids present bind with the receptors within and help provide quick and effective relief to a range of conditions.

Can Topicals Get You High?

The vast majority of cannabis topicals will not induce the high we commonly experience when smoking strains high in THC. Even when THC is present in the topical, it won't make it into the bloodstream, but rather, it provides localized relief in the tissue, joints, or on the skin. That said, there are some instances where cannabis topicals can induce a high. This occurs most commonly with transdermal patches, where just like nicotine patches, the THC present absorbs slowly over time into the bloodstream. Depending on the dosage, this may induce the psychoactive effects commonly associated with other forms of THC administration. Another case where cannabis topicals may induce a high is when they are applied to parts of the body with higher concentrations of mucus glands in areas like the vagina or anus. When applied to these areas — and there are many reasons why you may want to — you can potentially expect increased absorption of any THC present into the bloodstream along with an associated high. While they can induce a high, the level of intoxication is generally not a strong as with other forms of administration that include smoked, vaped, sublingual or oral ingestion. It's for this reason that topicals are much more popular with those seeking to harness the medicinal benefits of cannabis over those looking for a recreational experience.

What Are The Benefits of Cannabis Topicals?

Patients traditionally used topicals for localized pain relief, muscle tension and soreness, as well as quelling inflammation on sore arthritic joints. But as the scientific understanding of cannabis evolves, more and more uses for topicals are beginning to emerge. Patients are now beginning to report success using cannabis topicals for skin conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and itching, as well as headaches and cramping.

How To Use Cannabis Topicals

Producers tend to offer a wide range of blends when it comes to topical formulations. Different ingredients may be better than others when targeting specific conditions, so it's important to experiment and find what works for you. Practice Mindful Use When applying a topical, always tune in to the body beforehand. Try and feel out the pain or discomfort. Body aches often come from the stress we inadvertently subject our bodies to through poor posture or the overuse of certain muscles. Whether we apply it on the temples, wrists, neck, knees, or heels, doing so mindfully and with a solid intention will give our bodies a better chance of healing. Wash, Apply, Massage and Don't Skimp! Before applying a topical, it's always advisable to wash and dry the intended area before applying topical cannabis. Each time you apply it, you should thoroughly massage the cream into the skin, but avoid using excessive force that may aggravate any underlying pain or discomfort. Many patients report greater success with topicals when they apply them generously, so don't be shy about helping yourself to seconds should you not feel sufficient relief. Avoid Eye Irritation Always wash your hands well after applying a topical. We all have a tendency to touch our eyes or open wounds throughout the day. Doing so with traces of a cannabis topical that may contain a myriad of added medicinal ingredients can often lead to severe irritation if it gets in contact with the wrong area.

Medical Marijuana in Canada

Cannabis topicals are most effective when used with consistency. Old niggling aches and injuries take time to heal and are unlikely to disappear immediately with topical use. Topicals tend to make underlying discomfort more tolerable and can provide the key to long term healing when we take a mindful approach to healing in our everyday lives. If you'd like to buy medical marijuana in Canada and try out some topicals, then why not check out our CBD topical cream? This specially formulated blend can help patients combat a wide range of conditions. Whether you're battling pain, eczema, rashes, burns, or sore joints, this unique blend of CBD will help quell the underlying discomfort and support your body on the path toward long-term healing.