Before we get into why to use CBD topicals, I’ll first introduce you to CBD from hemp. CBD, or cannabidiol, is found in cannabis plants. For the purposes of this blog, I’ll point out that Lost Remedy uses hemp-derived CBD in our products. The reason I point that out is to let you know our products are nonpsychoactive, meaning you won’t get high.
What is CBD from hemp?
The first thing you’ll learn about CBD from hemp is that it’s one of more than 60 compounds belonging to a class of molecules called cannabinoids. CBD oil is made from strains of cannabis sativa that have low levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC, also a cannabinoid, is found in a strain of cannabis sativa that contains high levels of THC. These strains are called marijuana, which is identified as a Schedule 1 narcotic by federal law. CBD oil, high in cannabidiol, is also a cannabinoid. Our own bodies create cannabinoids. Millions of cannabinoid receptors travel throughout your body, mostly in the brain, central nervous and immune systems and skin. Cannabinoids play a fundamental role in the body, because the endocannabinoid system regulates homeostasis, or the general state of balance. The introduction of cannabinoids helps to regulate sleep, appetite, mood, hormones, pain and many other body functions.
What are the different kinds of CBD topicals?
Our topicals could be categorized as health and beauty products. Lost Remedy CBD topicals don’t contain the chemicals, parabens, artificial preservatives and other synthetic components that often can harm skin.
Nope, these products just contain CBD, emulsifiers, essential and carrier oils and purified water, all organically sourced. So, let me tell you about the kinds of CBD topicals we offer.
CBD lotion
CBD lotion is a combination of carrier, essential and CBD oils incorporated with purified water. A vegetable-based emulsifying wax is incorporated in this mix to form a smooth and stable consistency. This formula is applied directly to any area of the skin that you wish to hydrate and rejuvenate.
CBD creams
Thicker than lotions, the CBD creams combine CBD with carrier and essential oils, water and a combination of emulsifying wax, and stearic acid to provide a slightly thicker consistency than lotions. These products allow for easy application and rapid absorption into the skin, and are also applied directly to the affected area.
CBD salves
Lost Remedy salves are anhydrous, meaning there is no water in them. These products have a beeswax base, making them more dense and solid than the lotions and creams. The firmer consistency of these salves requires gentle massage to warm the area and penetrate the affected area. This method of delivery has proven to be more effective for conditions such as arthritis and neuropathy.
Why use CBD topicals?
Besides not containing chemicals and toxins, CBD topicals offer two important benefits:
Nutrition
CBD or hemp oil contains the essential fatty acids of Omega 6 and 3 as well as a bevy of vitamins, proteins and minerals that absorb directly into the skin. By using CBD, combined with essential and carrier oils, which are also rich in vitamins and minerals, you are lavishing a whole lotta love and nourishment on your skin. Nutrition your skin needs to retain its elasticity and smooth texture. CBD also helps protect against free radicals—UV rays, smoke and environmental pollutants—that damage and age skin.
Healing
Skin acts as a filter for our bodies, deflecting many of the omnipresent pollutants in our atmosphere. Our skin works hard to protect our internal selves, and that takes a toll on it. But you can employ CBD topicals to heal the damage caused by external elements. Here’s why. CBD is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial, with essential fatty acids that moisturize and protect the skin. Each time you apply CBD topicals, you treat your skin and body to a plethora of healing elements.
How do CBD topicals work?
CBD topicals work in conjunction with our already present endocannabinoid system. We all have two CBD receptors, CB1 and CB2.
The CB1 receptors in the brain affect coordination and movement, pain, emotions, mood, thinking, appetite, memories, and other functions. CB2 receptors are more common in the immune system. They affect inflammation and pain.
When you apply CBD topicals directly to the skin, they penetrate the layers and interact with the CB receptors. Instead of attaching to the receptors, it acts like a guide, telling the receptors to use more of their own CBD.
What do CBD topicals benefit?
By applying CBD rather than ingesting it, topicals go to work immediately hydrating the skin to relieve pain and itching. It also kick-starts CB receptors in the skin that help the endocannabinoid system in our bodies maintain homeostasis, or balance.
In your brain, producing cannabinoids is essential for proper function. Stress and poor diet can cause damage to brain cells; CBD oil, rich in Omega-6 and -3 and linoleic acid, boost cannabinoid production to make necessary repairs. Plus, its calming effect on the brain can reduce anxiety and depression.
But the benefits don’t stop at the brain. In several studies, CBD has been shown to relieve pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Conditions such as neuropathy, nerve pain, arthritis and others respond well to CBD topicals and oil.
Common skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, poison ivy, hives or athletes foot respond well to CBD topicals, too. So does acne, rosacea, scaly dry skin, dermatitis and cold sores. Plus, the itching from bug bites also abates when you apply CBD.
A big plus for using CBD topicals is that there have been few if any side effects, unlike most over-the-counter products. That alone may convince you to look more closely at using CBD topicals for your health and beauty needs.