Does Cannabis Cream Work?

A cream or topical is an ointment which can be directly applied on the affected parts of the body. When used on the body, the cream is absorbed through the skin, where it activates cannabinoid receptors.

Creams give quick relief from inflammation and pain. Cannabis creams usually lack toxic compounds, which allows patients to benefit from the plant’s therapeutic properties without receiving psychoactive properties of THC. Topicals can be in the form of lotions, bath salts, balms, and oils.

 

Types of Creams

Salves- A salve is a perfect alternative for chronic pain relief. It’s simple to use, discreet, relatively mess-free, and works fast.

Lotions- A lotion is suitable for less chronic or more general pain. It will move quickly over broad areas of skin due to its less concentration. Also, lotions comprise moisturizing ingredients which makes the skin silky and smooth.

Oils- Oil is mostly preferable on body parts such as feet or elbows with rough skin. Oils are also used for medicated massages which work great on your shoulders or back.

Balms- Lip balms contain ingredients which can heal chapped lips.

Bath salts- They remain one of the most innovative topical products. They are usually added to a hot bath, and they are capable of providing general pain relief. Bath salts can also be used for relaxation and sleep.

 

Do these creams work?

There have been many testimonies about the effectiveness of cannabis creams, gels, and oils. However, these testimonies are backed by little or no scientific studies. A recent study published in Neurotherapeutics states that CBD functions by stimulating the body’s endocannabinoid system that aids to alleviate pain, sleep, and immune-system responses. Current studies suggest that CBD oils and creams can quickly relieve arthritic pain and reduce spasms in people with multiple sclerosis.

 

The symptoms which can be treated with topicals?

Pain and Inflammation

Creams can be used for the treatment of breakthrough pain, neuropathic pain, and chronic pain. Interestingly, researchers have proven that marijuana is a preferable alternative for chronic pain than even opioids. Also, since arthritis usually results from joint inflammation, treating the inflammation itself can lead to pain relief.

 

Skin Conditions

Creams have the potential to provide effective relief from a variety of skin diseases such as psoriasis, severe itching, and atopic and contact dermatitis.

People who have eczema can use creams to treat itching and inflammation. Furthermore, the antimicrobial properties of cannabinoids can help in managing Staphylococcus aureus, the bacteria which causes dermatitis.

People suffering from acne can use CBD to inhibit lipid production in skin cells, therefore effectively regulating the amount of oil generated by the skin.

Cannabinoids contain antioxidant properties that protect the skin against damage; thus, topical cannabis may also be an effective anti-aging treatment.

 

Wounds

According to research conducted in 2016, the topical application of THC and CBD could lead to useful pain and symptom management in the healing of infected wounds. The antibacterial characteristics of cannabinoids may also aid in addressing antibiotic resistance.

 

Headaches

Cannabis cream or lotion can be directly applied to your temples. According to preliminary studies, topical cannabis can be used as an effective treatment for migraine.