Research has given therapeutic CBD topicals credibility. Now the thing that comes up most often is that CBD topicals are not always what they say. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. Over the years I have encouraged you to do your research. Lost Remedy has done its research, which is why we use NuLeaf Naturals CBD oil for all of our products. But if you need more information read this blog. It’s a start.
Before we move on, here is the Cliff’s Notes version of CBD topicals. CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of many compounds in hemp. The power of CBD can be associated with the endocannabinoid system, or ECS, present in everyone. The ECS maintains homeostasis – or balance – by regulating various processes in the body such as appetite, pain and mood, among others. CB receptors are found throughout the skin and the addition of a CBD topical can help promote healing and homeostasis. As the name implies, CBD topicals are applied to the skin.
Pain
Therapeutic CBD topicals for pain are the next most researched. Many people live with chronic pain, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia and nerve pain, neuropathy and others. Then there are those whose pain is self-induced: overexertion, injury, wounds, burns, etc. from everyday activities. Pain is pain, and CBD has been found to ease symptoms of pain.
A 2020 study found that CBD topicals reduced the sharp or intense pain, itchy sensations or cold that neuropathy caused. Other studies show that CBD topicals reduce inflammation, which causes pain in arthritis and other sources of pain caused by inflammation.
As indicated, CBD is a natural anti-inflammatory. In addition it also has analgesic, or pain reducing, components, as well as it is an antioxidant. Being anti-inflammatory and pain relieving are easy to understand. But what do antioxidants have to do with relieving pain?
Antioxidants are natural or manmade substances that prevent certain kinds of cell damage caused by oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals – oxygen-containing molecules with an uneven number of electrons – and antioxidants in your body. Because of the uneven number of electrons, free radicals can interact easily with other molecules and cause large chain reactions, called oxidation. Oxidation can be good or bad. Antioxidants, on the other hand, can donate an electron to free radicals, stabilizing them.
Oxidation is normal and can actually be helpful by fighting off pathogens that lead to infections. Oxidative stress, on the other hand, means free radicals are running rampant and can damage fatty tissue, DNA and proteins in your body, which can lead to painful conditions.
Skin conditions
Antioxidants also play a big part in helping to heal skin conditions such as, eczema, psoriasis and rashes. CB receptors, CB1 and CB2, are part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) we all have. They are like scouts that interact with endocannabinoids and CBD to help normalize unhealthy situations. Located throughout the skin, receptors help keep balance.
CBD’s antioxidant properties work to fight off environmental damage and heal conditions caused by UV overload, toxins in the air and other conditions caused by inflammation. Remember CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties? Unlike products that just ease symptoms, CBD takes a more hands-on approach.
Applied to the affected area, a CBD topical activates our CB receptors, which in turn, control inflammation in the epidermis. As a result, bodies are able to heal from the inside out.
One small study on people with psoriasis and eczema showed that using CBD topicals twice daily for three months reduced the inflammation and itching. Plus, there were no side effects and a noted lack of scarring. All without any side effects.
Dermatology
Another place CBD is making its mark is in dermatology. It’s been called a superfood for skin. Without the chemicals and toxins found in most skin products, its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, antipruritic, anti-aging and anti-malignancy properties protect and nourish the skin. CBD has balanced fatty acids, which moisturize and hydrate skin. Combined with essential and carrier oils it keeps skin healthy. The same fatty acids also help to relieve and replenish skin in the face of rash, eczema and psoriasis.
As CBD has become more prevalent in the market, it’s becoming clear that people are looking for natural health and beauty products. Products that fortify the skin and body. So as I admonished at the beginning of this blog, know what you are buying and don’t take products at face value. As more consumers become aware of CBD and its potential, more studies and research are being conducted. Research bodes well for the industry and consumers. There is so much to know about CBD, so do your homework. You’ll be glad you did.