Does topical cannabis really work? That's a question we get a whole lot from SeniorStoner.com readers.
It might seem difficult to believe that rubbing or slathering on a cannabis infused lotion, salve, or balm could actually bring real tangible pain reliving or anti-inflammatory relief. But there is actually solid science behind it.
Topical cannabis, with one important exception and those are specially made trans-dermal patches, cannot enter the bloodstream. Likewise, cannabis topicals won’t make you high or a fail a drug test.
Nonetheless, THC or CBD topicals can provide therapeutic benefits by bonding with the CB2 cannabinoid receptors that are abundant throughout the body’s largest organ, the skin.
Most people use cannabis infused topicals for relief of localized pain, muscle soreness or to reduce inflammation. But new evidence is emerging that they can also be effective for skin conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis.
EASE YOUR PAIN
EASE YOUR MIND
Learn how to make topicals at home, and you not only take away your pain, but you will save a ton of money as well.
How are cannabis topicals made?
Some topicals are made with THC rich decarboxylated cannabis. That means the marijuana has been heated into order to turn the THC-A (or THC acid) in the raw plant into THC, especially effective for sore muscle type pain.
However some topicals producers choose to not decarboxylate preferring to keep the THC in its acid form, as THC-A is effective for its anti-inflammatory and neuro-protective properties.
When shopping, choose a THC-A rich topical for inflammatory pain, such as arthritis.
CBD is also a strong anti-inflammatory when used topically. Lkewise some manufacturers use CBD, either exclusively or in conjunction with THC in their formulas.
As the market expands, a dizzying array of topical cannabis products are hitting the shelves including balms, salves, lotions, creams, bath soaks, massage oils and more. There are even topical marijuana applications specifically made for pets!
Does topical cannabis really work for seniors?
In a word, YES!
We are not sure if silvers are ahead of the curve when it comes to topical cannabis, or if they just have more reasons to use it. But we found that when interviewing dispensary managers around the country, they all invariably report that topical cannabis products are especially popular with the over 50 crowd.
Author Cheri Sicard says it was a senior who inspired her online DIY Cannabis Topicals course (see below).
"I got an email from an elderly gentleman who had found great relief from his arthritis pain with a THC and CBD topical," Cheri says. "But he was unable to afford the salve at $60 a jar. I knew there was a better and more economical way, so I created the course to teach people just how easy it is to make their own topical products."
DIY Cannabis Topicals
In her comprehensive DIY Cannabis Topicals online course, author and cannabis expert Cheri Sicard uses both raw and decarboxylated cannabis in many of her formulas in order to get the best of both worlds.
Her course shows just how easy it is to make your own pain relieving salves, bath soaks, roll ons, massage oils, and more. All infused with the healing power of cannabis.
If you’ve been curious if topical cannabis might work for you, why not give it a try. You have nothing to lose but pain and stiffness!
You might also enjoy: