Cannabis Muscle Rub, along with other cannabis topicals have become increasingly popular in recent years for their pain-relieving effects, especially with muscular pain. CBD, or Cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the hemp plant, as well as in the Cannabis plant, that works to reduce inflammation in the body. Hemp is the usual source of Cannabidiol since it contains no THC. However, a small amount of THC actually enhances the Cannabidiol without getting you high.
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A product like this may also be called a Cannabis topical, a salve or an ointment. The application of it before exercise will stimulate the micro circulation in the area it is applied to, and it easily penetrates the skin. This will also start to warm up the muscles. As you know, warming up before any exercise is important to reduce potential injury to the muscles.
What Is Cannabis Muscle Rub Good For?
The product is thick enough for small areas and spreads easily for larger areas. You want it to sink into the skin reasonably quickly to start doing its protective job. You can use it pre-excercise as well as post-excercise. After your exercise, you have warmed down and stretched. You have probably showered, and your skin is hydrated and warm. It’s really convenient that this product sinks in quickly and does not stain your clothes?
It’s not just for sporty folk! It will totally work for a bodybuilder. It will be very functional for a triathlete. A runner will benefit from using this salve, so will someone who has never been in a gym in their life! If you are following a gentle seated exercise video on YouTube, this is also for you. I use it on my knees and ankles before going for a walk. I’ll use it after a long day out to help soothe sore muscles. We all have muscles and joints, and we can all benefit from taking care of them.
Does CBD Balm Help With Muscle Pain?
When applied topically, this cannabis rub interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the skin. These are part of our endocannabinoid system, and the receptors are responsible for regulating pain and inflammation. Studies have shown that Cannabidiol is effective for reducing pain and inflammation in conditions such as arthritis and multiple sclerosis. It can also alleviate muscle soreness caused by exercise or injury. Using a balm infused with CBD offers a distinct advantage as relieves pain without the adverse reactions typically associated with traditional painkillers.
How Long Do CBD Topicals Take To Work?
The term CBD topicals, refers to skincare products that contain Cannabidiol or CBD Isolate. Cannabis-infused products sink into the skin’s surface and provide localized relief. However, if a balm is poorly made, these ingredients do not penetrate more than the top layer of skin. When made correctly, like this one, they give good transdermal penetration to the deeper layers of the skin, and also enter the bloodstream.
The time it takes to feel the effects of Cannabis topical depends on the person and their condition. Generally, it can take between 15 minutes to an hour to feel the beneficial effects of a CBD balm. The consistency of the user in applying the topical is also crucial. Regular use can result in a faster onset of results. CBD topicals are a great option for individuals who want localized relief without the high that most other marijuana products give.
Is Cannabis Muscle Rub An Anti-inflammatory?
There is evidence that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties. When applied topically, the CBD in the rub interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain and inflammation. CBD can inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines and increase the production of inflammation-busting cytokines, helping to reduce inflammation. In addition, CBD also has antioxidant properties, further reducing inflammation by reducing oxidative stress.
While CBD products have gained popularity for their potential benefits, it is important to note that they should not be considered a substitute for medical treatment. Always talk to your healthcare provider if you are not sure about using them.
How Often Can I Use Cannabis Muscle Rub?
Start with a small amount and increase dosage gradually as needed. Some people may apply this once a day, while others may use it multiple times a day. It’s easily absorbed by your skin. Pay attention to how your skin reacts to the product and adjust usage accordingly. If you experience any adverse effects, such as redness, itching, or irritation, discontinue use immediately and consult with a medical professional.
Choosing Cannabis Based On The Terpene Profile
These are aromatic compounds found in Cannabis that contribute to its unique scent and have therapeutic properties. Considering the terpene profile when choosing a Cannabis strain for your muscle rub can significantly enhance the desired effects. Different ones offer various benefits such as pain relief, reduction of inflammation, and soothing effects. Here are some Cannabis terpenes to consider.
Myrcene: This is commonly found in indica strains and is known for its sedative and relaxing effects. It helps to alleviate muscle tension and promote a sense of calmness.
Limonene: Found in citrus fruits and some cannabis strains, Limonene has a bright, uplifting aroma. It is often associated with mood enhancement and provides a refreshing sensation when used in a muscle rub.
Caryophyllene: With a spicy and peppery scent, Caryophyllene is known for its ability to reduce inflammation. It helps to relieve muscle soreness and reduce discomfort.
Pinene: As the name suggests, Pinene has a pine-like aroma and is commonly found in coniferous trees. It can reduce inflammation and also give a sense of alertness and clarity.
Linalool: This is known for its calming and relaxing properties. Linalool can be found in lavender flowers as well as several cannabis strains, and helps soothe muscles and promote a sense of tranquillity.
Remember that the terpene profile of Cannabis can vary depending on the strain and growing conditions. If you have access to them, ask dispensary employees for recommendations on Cannabis strains with beneficial terpenes for muscle rubs.
You can read more about the different specific terpenes in this blog 14 Top Terpenes in Cannabis and Essential Oils
How To Make Cannabis-Infused Muscle Rub At Home
I’ll briefly go through the ingredients and explain everything you need to know about what they do, and why you want them.
Olive Oil
Of course, you have heard of this as a kitchen ingredient, but it is also an important cosmetic ingredient. This oil has less smell than the type used in the kitchen and is high in Omega-9 (Oleic Acid). It works well for reducing muscle pain and other skin conditions. It’s also a great oil that is heat stable so can be used to make a Cannabis oil.
It’s simple to do, and you could just make a bottle of CBD oil to use as a type of topical. There are full instructions in my blog post Best CBD Oil For Pain which uses Rice Bran Oil. Simply change the Rice Bran oil for Olive oil and follow the instructions for the decarboxylation.
You can also use kief to infuse into your oil as it is just as effective as the buds.
Rice Bran Wax
This is taken from the bran of rice when it is hulled to make white rice. The wax is extracted, and it is an excellent vegan alternative to beeswax, which can feel a little “draggy” across the skin. It thickens up the oil blend and makes it easier to apply, and also locks in the benefits of the other ingredients into the skin.
Squalane
This is derived from olives, and makes any oil much more spreadable and easy to apply to the skin. It gives a silken texture and enhances the penetration of the other ingredients, so they absorb into the skin better. You will also find it included in this great, free Squalane Cleanser formulation.
Eucalyptus Globulus Essential Oil
There are several varieties of Eucalypts essential oil (EO), and the Globulus variety is one of the best to use as an analgesic to help ease aches and pains from sore muscles. Aromatherapists use it in massage treatments because of its ability to reduce inflammation and ease muscle spasms. It is steam distilled from the leaves of the tree and is used for other reasons such as improving mental focus and stimulating healthy circulation. It also contains Camphor, which reduces inflammation as well.
If you wanted to, you could change the Eucalyptus EO to Peppermint EO which contains the terpene called Menthol. This has a cooling sensation on hot, irritated skin, and also soothes muscle aches. Always make sure you keep EO’s out of the reach of children.
Cannabis Muscle Rub
Equipment Needed:
- Alcohol to disinfect and cleanse the equipment
- Paper towels for cleaning up – very important!
- Digital scales for weighing (Check the price on Amazon (*paid link)
- Stainless steel or glass jug for mixing (Check the price on Amazon (*paid link)
- Teaspoon for stirring
- 100ml jar for the finished product (Check the price on Amazon (*paid link)
You can read more about the equipment in this blog Tools & Equipment for Making DIY Skincare Products at Home
Here’s The Formulation:
Fat Phase (heat until melted)
- 75g Cannabis Infused Olive Oil
- 15g Rice Bran Wax
- 10g Squalane
Cool Phase (about 40 °C / 125 °F)
- 1g Eucalyptus Globulus Essential Oil
100g Total Weight
Here’s The Method:
- Use some alcohol to wipe down your working area and clean your containers.
- Weigh your Fat Phase ingredients on the scales and then place into a stainless steel or glass jug. Put into a saucepan of boiling water to gently melt the ingredients.
- Stir thoroughly to combine well, then take off the boiling water and continue stirring.
- As the mixture starts to cool down, it will go slightly opaque and more “custardy” in texture. Stir in the Cool Phase essential oil and blend it thoroughly.
- Pour into your container and label with the date.
You can put it in the fridge to firm up, but once it has, you don’t have to keep it in the fridge at all. It has been designed so that it will not leak in a sports bag. To use it, push the back of your fingernail against the balm to get enough to put into your palms. It melts quickly at skin temperature and is then easy to rub in to your skin.
Because this is not a Cannabis cream or lotion, it contains no water, and so needs no preservative. It is a very stable Cannabis product and will last 12 months or more. Remember that it works best when you use it regularly.
Important Tip!
Before you clear up, put the container back into the saucepan of boiling water to remelt the balm that has stuck to the sides. Using some paper kitchen towel, wipe out any remaining balm. It is important to do this thoroughly while it is still liquid, as Rice Bran Wax can easily block your sink or dishwasher. How do I know this? Yeah, I did it and paid to call the plumber out!
Conclusion
Many over-the-counter CBD lotions and creams are available, including cheap options that have become common as more brands join the market. Remember though, that CBD creams contain water and lotions contain even more water. The active ingredients you need are fat-soluble and not water-soluble, so you are paying extra for a lot of water. They may also contain very low levels of Cannabidiol and not from plants with the desired terpene profile. Making CBD salves yourself means that you are in complete control of the formulation.
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