Nowadays, we are progressively into discovering (or better said, re-discovering) the versatile beneficial uses of cannabis. Surprisingly, weed seems to be the new super ingredient in modern-day skincare. What’s more, cannabis is steadily earning a solid reputation as the most profitable ingredient in beauty and skincare.
Apart from the fact that cannabis topicals can do wonder for beautifying your skin, they can provide efficient relief to sports injuries, muscle pain, joint pain, arthritis, and nonetheless, marijuana-infused topical solutions can work great for treating burns and enjoying a whole new level of therapeutic full-body massages.
The multiple uses of cannabis topicals we just mentioned above actually barely even scratch the surface, as the active cannabinoids can be infused into various lotions, sprays, oils, and balms, so the ways one can take the best advantage of the associated health and beauty benefits are pretty much endless.
In this article, we will look into all the fantastic benefits cannabis topicals can offer, and we will also include precious tips on how to make cannabis topicals, including our top favorite recipes.
Cannabis Topicals: The Basics
Even though the majority of cannabis topicals available on the market are non-psychoactive, it is crucial to always carefully read the labels, as there has been a rise in marijuana-infused topical solutions making use of carrier chemicals like magnesium stearate for the purpose of allowing the active cannabinoids to cross into your bloodstream.
However, in the absence of a carrier chemical, cannabis topicals will not lead to similar psychoactive effects associated with other delivery methods, such as smoking, vaping, or ingesting pot.
Recently,cannabis-infused skincare products have become more than merely a beauty staple, as these mighty antidotes are literally chock-full of numerous healing properties, and with this in mind, you should better not deprive yourself of the multifaceted benefits you can reap by opting for pot-laced topical solutions. Most importantly, the skin is the largest organ in your body. On top of that, your skin contains cannabinoid receptors capable of interacting with the active cannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant.
You can choose to rub topicals directly into the skin, or you can take advantage of adhesive patches or infuse other topical solutions, such as bath bombs, in bathwater. Cannabis topicals do not enter the respiratory or digestive tract, providing a healthy alternative to those who dislike or cannot tolerate smoke.
There is a whole myriad of cannabis topical solutions you can try out, some of which contain only THC, others contain only CBD, while there are also solutions that feature a powerful combination of varying ratios of THC to CBD.
How Do Marijuana-Infused Topicals Work
Marijuana topicals work their way thanks to the active cannabinoids binding to the endocannabinoid system’s CB2 receptors located in the skin, as well as binding to the tissue located directly under the skin, known as the subdermal layer.
https://www.youtube.com/watchv=PZYjJf0t2OQ
Video by: Healer – Your Endocannabinoid System Explained
Source: youtube.com
Once absorbed into the top layers of the skin, pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and various other beautifying and healing properties are activated. Typically, the effects that come along after applying a cannabis product topically can be felt almost immediately. However, in some cases, it can take up to one hour to experience the desired effects.
The effects of marijuana-infused topical solutions are quite long-lasting, even though they are generally mild, and have little to do with the usual potency of weed experienced upon inhaling or ingesting the active cannabinoids. Depending on the strength of the preparation, and also depending on the amount applied, the effects can last for up to 6-8 hours. Mind that the effects of weed-laced topical solutions can be further enhanced based on additional ingredients present in the final product.
Quintessentially, the beneficial effects associated with the application of cannabis topicals are much more localized than the full mind and body effects experienced from other methods of cannabis use.
Health Benefits of Cannabis Topicals
Below is a short summary of the conditions that one can address by applying cannabis topicals to reap the desired health benefits.
1. Shingles
2. Rashes
3. Psoriasis
4. Eczema
5. Dandruff
6. Acne
7. Mild skin irritations/ Itchy skin
8. Burns
9. Muscle pain/Tension
10. Arthritis
11. Soreness/Swelling
12. Joint pain
13. Menstrual cramps
14. Headaches/Migraines
15. Minor wounds
16. Bruises
17. Insect bites
18. Cancer-related skin lesions
Now, let’s dig a bit deeper into how cannabis topicals can provide the therapeutic benefits listed above.
#1. Cannabis Topicals for Localized Pain Management
When it comes to localized pain, such as knee or back pain, cannabis topicals can prove to be excellent remedies.
Being fast-acting and providing quick relief, marijuana topical infusions work by acting on a peripheral basis, meaning that you can apply them liberally as to achieve the desired effects without having to worry about possibly experiencing any psychoactive potency. However, do make sure to check the labels of the products you are about to apply, as in some cases, pot topicals may be manufactured with the clear purpose of providing users that legendary buzzing high by the addition of carrier chemicals used to help cannabinoids pass into the bloodstream. For DIY cannabis topicals targeted at localized pain, it is best to use strains high in THC, high in CBD, or a combination of two. For example, you can try infusing your homemade cannabis topicals, whether it be salves, lotions, soap bars, or creams, with Gorilla Glue and Cali Kush for maximized THC and CBD benefits.
#2. Marijuana Topicals for Mild Skin Irritations
With cannabis topicals’ ability to offer localized pain relief while simultaneously helping to reduce swelling, you can take the best advantage of applying weed-laced solutions topically in order to treat bug bites, mild skin abrasions, bruises, burns, and scratches.
In the case you are about to opt for DIY marijuana topicals intended to be used for relieving mild skin irritations, it is best to stick with simple, organic ingredients that will not further exuberate the issues you are trying to treat by applying a pot-infused topical salve, balm, or lotion, among others, topically.
Opting for balanced THC to CBD strains to infuse into your homemade anti-skin irritations topicals, such as Auto Critical CBD and Super Silver Haze, can work wonders.
In the case you are planning on purchasing a readily-available cannabis topical product, make sure to thoroughly check the ingredient list first and/or speak with the dispensary staff as to avoid additives that can exacerbate the symptoms you are trying to address.
#3. Pot Topicals for Sexual Pleasure
As cannabis topicals are rapidly making their way into the bedroom, men and women all over the world rejoice, especially as we keep in mind that cannabis is a well-known aphrodisiac for thousands of years (particularly for women).
It was all the way back to over 2000 years ago when currently existing references of cannabis use for sexual pleasure in tantric sex practices in ancient India were compiled.
While we are just re-discovering cannabis as the mighty ancient arouser that it is, DIY weed lubes and DIY cannabis suppositories are growing in popularity. When it comes to applying weed topicals for the purpose of increasing sexual pleasure, the cannabis strains you can choose to work with are the best to be summed down to a strictly personal matter of choice. High THC or high CBDIndica-dominant or Sativa-dominant It really depends on the way any of these strains tends to work on your unique body and mental perceptions.
Generally, Sativa and Sativa-dominant strains, such as Chocolope and Acapulco Gold, can make an excellent choice for some users. For others, Indica-dominant strains like Cream Caramel and Super OG Kush can make a better option.
https://www.youtube.com/watchv=arpnYyqGFMI
Video by: The Doctors – Marijuana for Better Sex
Source: youtube.com
#4. Weed Topicals for Psoriasis
Psoriasis can be a very painful condition, as it is characterized by painful red patches on the skin and severe itchiness, caused by excess buildup of skin cells.
Apart from uncomfortable, psoriasis also tends to be embarrassing, often leading to a decrease in the quality of sufferers’ lives. While there is currently no cure for this condition, and the treatment options are rather limited, cannabis may provide a powerful option for successful alleviation of the associated symptoms, even though more research is needed to validate the therapeutic relationship between cannabis and psoriasis.
Psoriasis sufferers who want to take advantage of cannabis topicals should be extra careful when choosing a suitable product. It is best to only opt for all-natural, simplistic, organic products that do not contain a whole myriad of ingredients. Better yet, embracing a DIY attitude can be a wonderful move, as this puts you 100% in charge of the selected ingredients you can choose to use when prepping homemade psoriasis cannabis topical ointment.
#5. Ganja Topicals for Skin Health& Beauty
Incorporating cannabis into your beauty regimen can help you keep skin healthy, youthful and glowing for years to come. mAs cannabis happens to be a powerful antioxidant, you can take the best advantage of its miraculous anti-aging properties by applying it topically.
A study found that CBD is actually a more potent antioxidant than Vitamins E and C, speeding up skin healing processes and preventing environmental damage to the skin tissue. With this in mind, without underestimating the antioxidant properties of THC, you can take advantage of high CBD strains, such as CB Dream and CB Diesel, when getting down to mixing your very own skin-beautifying weed topicals.
Furthermore, considering the antibacterial properties of both THC and CBD, you can use cannabis topicals to target cellulitis, impetigo, and boils, as the ancient herb can provide multiple amazing benefits when it comes to treating bacterial skin infections.
In fact, the powerful antibacterial properties of cannabis are game-changing, as many researchers are now progressively into deciphering the secrets of the magnificent cannabis plant, from the perspective of possibly becoming the new, all-natural antibiotic of the future. Since researchers have concluded that both THC and CBD possess strong antibacterial properties, you should feel free to use your favorite cannabis strain for DIY antibacterial topical infusions with best results.
#6. Cannabis Topical Solutions for Inflammation
In a study published in the journal Rheumatology, important discoveries on the way cannabis helps to fight off inflammation were revealed. According to the results of the study involving arthritis sufferers, it was shown that CB2 receptors are present in rates way above the average in the joint tissues.
It is exactly by activating these receptors how cannabis topical solutions can greatly aid in fighting inflammation, including but not limited to arthritis-related inflammation (for the record, inflammation is the leading cause for arthritis).
#7. Marijuana Topicals for Burns
Burns can be very painful, and in fact, depending on the severity of the burns, it can take weeks or even months for the affected spots to heal.
As of now, the ability of cannabis topical solutions to provide efficient relief and healing to burns is mostly limited to anecdotal evidence, however, the number of such reports is really impressive, so it certainly seems like using cannabis for treating burns is a practice that is only bound to grow in the foreseeable future.
Mixing a simple coconut oil, dried cannabis flowers and aloe vera balm can prove to help burns heal faster while reducing associated discomforts.
#8. Weed Topicals for Full-Body Massage
Considering the therapeutic advantages of targeting CB2 receptors through the application of cannabis-infused topicals, a full-body weed-laced massage really sounds like a no-brainer.
Whether it comes to a sensual foreplay massage, or whether it comes to addressing conditions such as sports injuries, fibromyalgia, and/or neuropathy, among others, cannabis topicals can prove to work wonders. Apart from traditional cannabis-infused lotions, oils, and creams, a weed-infused honey massage or a weed-infused chocolate massage can truly exceed your expectations.
DIY Cannabis Topicals Recipes
If you have been wondering how to make cannabis topicals for a while, then maybe it is high time to quit thinking and get down to action. The DIY cannabis topical solutions recipes that we will share below can be easily upgraded to match your personal taste, needs, and preferences, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
Cayenne Pepper, Ginger, and Cannabis Salve
Best for: Sore muscles relief, joint pain relief, arthritis relief, menstrual cramps relief, anti-inflammatory
What you need
10 grams of dried cannabis flowers
315 grams of coconut oil
70 ml of olive oil
1/3 cup beeswax
1 tablespoon of Cayenne pepper powder
1 tablespoon of Ginger root powder
1. Decarboxylate your cannabis flowers. Potency will depend on the levels of THC/CBD present in the particular cannabis strain/strains you choose to work with. For this recipe, we used proudly homegrown Afghani strain flowers for their powerful medical benefits and high cannabinoid content.
2. Using a double boiler or the water bath method, low heat olive oil, and coconut oil, making sure to stir continuously.3. Maintaining a low heat, stir in the decarboxylated cannabis flowers and keep stirring the mixture for about 20 minutes.
Quick Note: It is very important to keep the temperature low, or else, you risk to burn off THC/CBD and decrease potency. Also, mind that olive oil has a lower smoke point than other oils, so act accordingly.
4. Remove from heat and pour the mixture into a suitable glass jar using a cheesecloth. Set the mixture aside.
5. In a double boiler (or using the water bath methods), add beeswax and melt on low heat. Once melted, toss in the cannabis-infused oil mixture.
6. Add cayenne pepper and ginger powder and stir in well. At this point, you can also choose to add several drops of any of your favorite essential oils. We highly recommend you give lavender oil or tea tree oil a try for this particular recipe.
7. As soon as the combination is perfectly well-combined, remove from heat. Finally, transfer into suitable containers and apply as necessary. Stores in the refrigerator for up to 12 months.
Simple Cannabis Lip Balm
Using the same coconut oil, olive oil, beeswax and dried cannabis flowers matrix as in the Cayenne pepper and Ginger salve recipe above, you can simply skip on adding the Cayenne pepper and Ginger root powder straight away and use a small amount of the concoction for the preparation of a wonderful cannabis lip balm.
Just add a teaspoon of honey and a teaspoon of coconut, stir well, transfer into suitable lip balm containers, and show off your gorgeously smooth and irresistibly delicious smile like a real cannachic.
Rose Water + Cannabis Oil Hair, Body & Facial Spray
Best for anti-dandruff, anti-bacterial, keeps skin and hair scalp healthy, removes impurities, refreshes and rejuvenates
1. Fill a clean spray bottle with 4 parts of Rosewater and 1 part of cannabis oil. Feel free to use high CBD, high THC, or balanced THC to CBD cannabis oil based on your personal needs and preferences. For this recipe, we made utilized homemade cannabis oil created with the use of the all-time favorite Northern Lights strain.
2. If desired, add several drops of your favorite essential oil/oils. We added a few drops of Rose oil to optimize the benefits of Rosewater, and a few drops of homemade Vanilla bean tincture.
3. Shake well each time prior to application. Apply liberally onto your hair scalp, face and/or body whenever and wherever you feel like it. Keep away from direct access to sunlight and excess heat.
Cannabis Topical Solutions: Wrapping Up Benefits and Uses
While the multiple, incredible therapeutic benefits of cannabis, alongside its absolutely endless uses in food, beauty, and health are still being discovered, more time needs to pass before we are fully equipped with proper knowledge on that matter. However, cannabis-infused topicals seem to be more than just a fancy trend, and they are definitely here to stay.
If we have managed to inspire you to try out how to make cannabis topicals by the recipes and information shared in this article, then we are happy to have been of your assistance!
