Because CBD is everywhere, maybe you’ve wondered what’s different about CBD topicals. Let’s begin with what are CBD topicals. They refer to a product you apply topically that contains CBD oil. CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of about 100 components of the cannabis or hemp plant. It’s nonpsychoactive, meaning it won’t make you high, unlike its psychoactive cousin tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the component in marijuana that gets you high.
According to this report, “There has been a growing level of interest in research on the topical usage of a cannabis-based extract as a safer and more effective alternative to using topical corticosteroids in treating some dermatoses. Together with the discovery of the cannabinoid receptors on the skin, it has been further illustrated that topical cannabis has anti-inflammatory, anti-itching, analgesics, wound healing and anti-proliferative effects on the skin.”
That said, however, caveat emptor. By that I mean, don’t accept that the product you’re looking at is all that it claims to be. Because the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regulate CBD and its products, anything goes. You’ll want to do a little research on the products you’re eyeing to get a better picture of the CBD and other ingredients.
The difference of CBD topicals
You probably are aware of the ways people use CBD: vaping, consuming edibles, holding CBD under the tongue and so on. With all of these methods, CBD eventually makes it to the bloodstream. When you swallow the oil, tincture or edible, your liver metabolizes the CBD. What’s left moves to the blood stream and travels through the digestive system. Finally it’s distributed through the endocannabinoid system (ECS) present in every body. As a result, it can take hours for you to feel the effects of CBD.
Topicals, on the other hand, bypass the whole digestive process because you apply them directly to the affected area. The CBD interacts with the ECS receptors located throughout your skin getting to the heart of the matter much faster. In addition, the results can last longer when used for a localized condition such as pain, rash, wounds or nerve issues.
Plus, CBD topicals include carrier oils such as sweet almond, avocado, grapeseed and a host of others in addition to 300-plus essential oils. Each possess therapeutic benefits on its own. The addition of organic, cold-pressed carrier oils and essential oils, either steam distilled or CO2 extracted, are combined with CBD oil to address conditions from arthritis to skin care.
With the presence of cannabinoid receptors in the human body, the full-spectrum hemp oil delivers the natural healing benefits of these carrier and essential oils more effectively and efficiently to target the area of need. Think of it as a streamlined delivery.
What to look for in CBD topicals
Earlier this year, Forbes Health looked at CBD topicals to nail down what constitutes a worthy product. The research concluded with these criteria:
- Made from plants grown in the United States
- Made with CBD that has a certificate of analysis (CoA)
- Are third-party tested by ISO 17025-compliant laboratories
- Are made with all-natural ingredients
A 2017 study showed that 70% of CBD products were mislabeled, having either significantly more or less CBD than advertised. That’s a problem. If you think you’re getting one thing and really you’re getting a knock-off that’s made with synthetic chemicals, you could jeopardize your health.
Lost Remedy CBD topicals are made with organic, hemp-derived CBD oil. We make our products without chemicals, toxins, stabilizers and all the other harmful chemicals found in so many health and beauty products the FDA doesn’t regulate. Finally, look for products made full-spectrum hemp oil that is extracted by C02.
What’s a CBD CoA?
As noted by Forbes Health, a CBD CoA is a pretty big deal. You probably already have some knowledge of CBD, how it’s extracted and the importance of honesty in marketing the products. A CoA, or certificate of analysis, is the proof that you’re getting the real deal.
A more official definition would be: A CoA is an accredited laboratory document showing the quantity of a variety of cannabinoids in the CBD oil. The lab that tests the CBD needs to be unbiased and not affiliated with the company that offers the CBD.
You can learn a lot about the CBD from a CoA. For instance, for full-spectrum hemp oil (FSHO), you’ll get a snapshot of all the components that are in the oil. Compounds present in FSHO should include other cannabinoids, such as CBD, CBDA, CBDV, CBG, CBN, CBC and others. In fact, you may even find THC listed at levels below .3% weight. Without the full group of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, et al, the product isn’t the real deal.
Are CBD topicals safe?
The short answer is, yes. CBD topicals have few, if any, side effects. However, if you have an underlying condition that requires you to take prescription medicine, talk to your doctor. CBD has the potential to affect how your medication works. Learn all you can about the product you want to use and the ingredients in it and discuss with your doctor how it may affect the medications you take. Usually, a bigger concern for adversely affecting your medications is when CBD is ingested, but it’s better to be safe.
Do you have more questions about CBD topicals? Take a deeper dive into what to look for in CBD products. Or check out these FAQs to learn more about CBD topicals.