by Lauren Silva, Contributor | Forbes Health
CBD, or cannabidiol, is increasingly popular, thanks to its reported myriad benefits and non-intoxicating properties. But it’s no fad—even science is getting behind the plant compound. Clinical studies show CBD topicals like creams, gels and balms can relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis, nervous system damage and ongoing localized muscle aches. CBD creams can provide short-term topical relief for some.
What Is CBD Cream?
CBD cream, which often includes balms and salves, is a topical application of cannabidiol. This cream offers more localized effects rather than systemic ones that edibles or inhalation can provide.
“When CBD is used topically, it does not reach the bloodstream,” says Robert Milanes M.D., founder of Holistic On Call and a doctor with Heally, an alternative medicine telehealth platform.
This application method makes CBD cream a good choice for people who are new to CBD and less comfortable ingesting it, but still want to benefit from CBD’s pain relief abilities.
“Because it’s localized, it’s not the best method of delivery for trying to help yourself sleep or for anxiety,” says Steven Phan, founder of Come Back Daily, a CBD dispensary in New York.
How Does CBD Cream Work?
Compared to ingesting CBD, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to take effect, applying CBD topically allows you to feel the localized effects pretty quickly, according to Laura Fuentes, a licensed compound pharmacist and co-founder of Green Roads, a major CBD brand.
This quick uptake, paired with CBD’s inherent benefits, makes CBD cream a great option for pain, inflammation, soreness and tightness relief in specific parts of your body, she says.
One 2018 study with over 300 participants with knee pain from osteoarthritis found a transdermal synthetic CBD gel significantly improved patients’ worst pain score and physical function averages[1]. These patients were treated with 350 milligrams of CBD gel per day for 12 weeks.
Other studies show that topical application of CBD can significantly reduce pain in patients with peripheral neuropathy—a set of conditions damaging the peripheral nervous system—and myofascial pain (localized muscle and tissue pain)[2][3].
How to Use CBD Cream
To apply a CBD cream, you rub it into the affected area, such as an achy knee or sore neck. “The cream is absorbed into the skin and then binds to the numerous cannabinoid receptors located in the different layers of the skin,” says Fuentes.
Each topical CBD product may have unique directions, however. Some may instruct you to use a small amount while others encourage using a liberal amount.
Balms and salves have a thicker consistency and often need to be warmed in your hands before applying them to the target area. And some products don’t require getting your hands dirty at all, thanks to roll-on and stick applicators.
Potential Side Effects of CBD Topicals
CBD itself is safe and well tolerated, and it has no risks of abuse or dependence, according to the World Health Organization.
“Additionally, using CBD topically reduces the likelihood of experiencing side effects typically associated with CBD use, such as drowsiness, fatigue and diarrhea,” says Dr. Milanes.
Milanes and Fuentes warn that while CBD itself might be safe, there is a chance you might be allergic or sensitive to another ingredient in a CBD topical, which could cause adverse effects. To avoid unpleasant reactions, they suggest reading ingredient lists carefully.
Phan also recommends talking to your doctor before using CBD if you’re on any medications— especially blood pressure medications because CBD can also lower blood pressure.
