CBD Cream For Pain: How To Use CBD For Pain Relief

Pain and discomfort can be a major barrier to enjoying our day-to-day lives. However, those who are seeking better pain management may not want to rely solely on over-the-counter or prescription pain medications. The solution? Some are now turning to CBD products like CBD creams. 

Cannabidiol (CBD) has been around for a long time, and businesses like BATCH are constantly looking to create products from these cannabinoids to better human lives.  In this article, we will cover the basics of CBD cream, the pros and cons of using it, and what conditions this topical may provide relief for. Let’s dive in!

CBD topicals like CBD cream are quickly becoming a popular choice for pain relief and management. But does CBD really work? There may be some potential for CBD topicals when it comes to their use for feelings of discomfort. 

The CBD industry is very new, which means that we don’t have a lot of research to back up definitive claims regarding CBD’s efficacy as a pain reliever. However, some users may report experiencing some benefits after applying CBD topicals. Additionally, there are a few studies that have researched CBD’s use for pain relief. 

One small, placebo-controlled 2020 study in Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology examined the use of topical CBD in 29 individuals who had peripheral neuropathy, a chronic pain condition caused by nerve damage. After four weeks, the 15 participants who used topical CBD oil reported considerably less discomfort than the 14 participants who used a placebo.

That being said, it’s important not to turn to CBD as an alternative to treatment for major pain. Additionally, it’s recommended that you speak with your doctor to learn more about potential side effects and whether or not CBD is right for you. 

CBD is a natural compound found in the hemp plant. It is one of over 100 compounds found in the plant, known as cannabinoids. Unlike THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid responsible for the high you receive from cannabis, CBD does not have psychoactive properties. Instead, CBD is believed to offer similar benefits to THC without the high. 

CBD can be consumed or absorbed through various mediums, including edibles, oils, tinctures, and topicals such as creams and lotions. Each method of consumption is designed to offer different benefits, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs. Topical CBD creams are a great option for those who are looking for localized results as they can be applied directly to the affected area.

CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a network of receptors and neurotransmitters that regulate a variety of bodily functions, including mood, appetite, pain, inflammation, and sleep to achieve homeostasis. 

The endocannabinoid system has two types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 receptors and CB2 receptors, which are located throughout the body but specifically in the central nervous system and immune system. The body produces endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to produce effects like fighting inflammation and providing pain relief.

CBD is what’s known as a phytocannabinoid, or a cannabinoid found in hemp. When phytocannabinoids are introduced into the body, they bind with the CB1 and CB2 receptors, and it’s believed that they can offer benefits in the process. 

Like any other form of treatment, there are both pros and cons to using CBD cream for pain. Here’s what you’ll need to consider prior to enlisting the help of a CBD cream for your feelings of discomfort.

Pros:

• One of the biggest pros is that CBD cream is easy to use. It can be applied directly to the affected area, making it a convenient option for those who don’t want to take oral medications.
• CBD cream is relatively safe. Unlike other pain medications, it does not have the potential for addiction or overdose.
• CBD creams may reduce feelings of discomfort while also moisturizing and hydrating the skin.
• Some CBD creams contain additional ingredients, such as menthol or arnica, which may provide enhanced results.

Cons:

• One of the biggest disadvantages is that it may not be as effective as other pain medications.
• It is also important to note that CBD cream can be a more expensive alternative to other pain relief options as it is not covered by most insurance plans.
• It might be difficult to determine the precise dose while applying creams.
• There is always the possibility of a reaction when you apply anything to your skin.

CBD is said to be effective for a wide range of conditions. While what users may experience will vary depending on multiple factors, CBD could hold some promise for the conditions that users are targeting.

According to a study review published in the Journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics in September 2015, "preclinical evidence strongly supports CBD as a treatment for anxiety disorders," including PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder), generalized anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and seasonal affective disorder.

In 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of CBD under the brand name Epidiolex to treat seizures caused by Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, two rare forms of epilepsy, in patients two years of age and older.

Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints, making it difficult to perform everyday activities. CBD may be a viable solution to reduce the symptoms of arthritis and provide relief. 

In 2018, researchers conducted a 12-week study on the effectiveness of topical CBD gel on patients suffering from osteoarthritis-related knee discomfort. Participants took 250 milligrams or 500 milligrams each day, split into two applications. 

Overall, CBD did not significantly enhance participants' weekly pain levels when compared to a placebo. However, when researchers examined the average weekly worst pain scores as well as the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) physical function scores, they discovered that individuals who took 250 milligrams of CBD daily improved much more than placebo participants.

CBD cream can achieve a cooling effect if the cream in question is made with a combination of natural ingredients, including CBD oil, menthol, and other essential oils. These ingredients work together to provide a cooling sensation that may help reduce inflammation and reduce pain. Menthol is known to have a cooling effect, and it’s commonly used in other products designed to help soothe sore muscles and joints.

CBD cream for muscles and joints may be a helpful natural remedy for those suffering from pain and inflammation in these areas. 

Some studies have shown that CBD may be useful in relieving symptoms of arthritis or joint pain. According to one medical study published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 36% of respondents who took CBD to treat medical conditions (including arthritis and/or joint pain) found it to be effective.

Some research has found that CBD may help reduce inflammation in the body, which can serve to reduce pain and swelling. 

A preliminary controlled study was conducted to determine if plant-derived cannabis medicinal extracts (CME) can improve neurogenic symptoms that are unresponsive to standard treatment, as well as to quantify adverse effects. 

Results showed that THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol) pain alleviation was significantly superior to placebo. CME improved some individuals with impaired bladder control, muscular spasms, and spasticity.

CBD cream is easy to use and can be applied directly to the affected area. To use, simply apply a small amount of cream to the affected area and massage it in.

When using a CBD cream, start with a low concentration and work up to a higher one. This will allow your body to get used to the effects of CBD and minimize any potential side effects. It is also important to note that CBD cream should not be used on open wounds or broken skin.

When it comes to using CBD cream for potential pain relief, the correct dosage is essential. That being said, the most effective dose will vary greatly from person to person. Factors like height and weight, individual response to CBD, and the condition you’re trying to treat will all play into how much you use.

The general rule of thumb is to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until the desired effect is achieved. The effects of CBD can vary from person to person, so it is best to experiment and find the right dose for you.  

CBD cream is yet another CBD product making a splash in today’s market, and for good reason. It’s easy to use, requires no ingestion, and is often combined with other ingredients designed to target discomfort on the skin or below the skin. 

Are you looking to give CBD cream a shot? Start here with BATCH! Here at BATCH, we provide high-quality CBD cream and other hemp-derived products that have been lab-tested for quality assurance. Our hemp is organic, single-sourced (grown in Wisconsin), and combined with premium ingredients. Whether you’re shopping for topicals, gummies, or something else entirely, you can rest assured you’re getting the best with BATCH. 

According to a medical study that was published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, CBD is generally safe and has few, if any, mild negative effects.  However, there is one major caveat: CBD has the potential to interact with some drugs. 

It is important to talk to your doctor before taking CBD if you are taking any medications. Your doctor can advise you on the best course of action and help you determine the best dosage for your needs. 

Using CBD topically reduces the chance of suffering typical CBD side effects such as drowsiness, fatigue, and diarrhea. While CBD might well be safe, there is a possibility that you are allergic or sensitive to another substance in a CBD topical, which might cause adverse effects. It is important to read ingredient lists carefully. 

The answer is a resounding no. CBD is a non-intoxicating compound, meaning that it will not produce a “high” or any psychoactive effects when used. In fact, CBD is said to potentially counteract the effects of THC, the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. 

Generally, it takes about 15 to 30 minutes for the cream to start working and for you to start feeling relief. But, the amount of time can vary based on the individual, as well as the contents of the specific CBD cream used.

Generally speaking, a CBD cream may last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the dosage, your body, and the concentration of CBD in the cream.

CBD is a compound that may have the potential to target pain. However, that does not mean that it will certainly work for your specific needs. Talk to your doctor to learn more about CBD, whether it’s a viable option for pain relief, and how it may fit into your daily pain management regimen. 

Absolutely! CBD oil is another topical that will work on your skin if you’re seeking to try CBD for relief from feelings of day-to-day discomfort.

The benefits of using CBD topically have just recently been studied by researchers. According to preliminary research, CBD may be an effective and useful treatment for people with certain skin conditions.

Sources

1. Xu, D. H., Cullen, B. D., Tang, M., & Fang, Y. (2020). The effectiveness of topical cannabidiol oil in symptomatic relief of peripheral neuropathy of the lower extremities. Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, 21(5), 390–402. https://doi.org/10.2174/1389201020666191202111534 
2. Blessing, E. M., Steenkamp, M. M., Manzanares, J., & Marmar, C. R. (2015). Cannabidiol as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 825–836. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-015-0387-1 
3. FDA (2018). FDA approves first drug comprised of an active ingredient derived from marijuana to treat rare, severe forms of epilepsy. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved February 6, 2023, from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-drug-comprised-active-ingredient-derived-marijuana-treat-rare-severe-forms 
4. Hunter, D., Oldfield, G., Tich, N., Messenheimer, J., & Sebree, T. (2018). Synthetic transdermal cannabidiol for the treatment of knee pain due to osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, 26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joca.2018.02.067 
5. Corroon, J., & Phillips, J. A. (2018). A cross-sectional study of cannabidiol users. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 3(1), 152–161. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2018.0006 
6. Wade, D. T., Robson, P., House, H., Makela, P., & Aram, J. (2003). A preliminary controlled study to determine whether whole-plant cannabis extracts can improve intractable neurogenic symptoms. Clinical Rehabilitation, 17(1), 21–29. https://doi.org/10.1191/0269215503cr581oa 
7.  Iffland, K., & Grotenhermen, F. (2017). An update on safety and side effects of Cannabidiol: A review of Clinical Data and relevant animal studies. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 2(1), 139–154. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2016.0034 

Baswan, S. M., Klosner, A. E., Glynn, K., Rajgopal, A., Malik, K., Yim, S., & Stern, N. (2020). therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) for skin health and disorders. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, Volume 13, 927–942. https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s286411