Everything You Need to Know About Cannabis Topicals

What Are Cannabis Topicals? How Do Cannabis Topicals Work? 

Topicals are products applied on the surface of the body to provide localized relief. Marijuana infused topicals deliver cannabinoids such as THC, CBD, and others through the skin, which has an abundance of CB1 and CB2 receptors. Cannabis topicals are often combined with essential oils to expand the scope of effects they provide. 

Types of Cannabis Topicals

There are various ways we can look at distinguishing the types of topicals.

Cannabinoids.
It can be based on the cannabinoids used in a topical - CBD, THC, CBDa, THCa and so on plus their combinations.

Topical vs Transdermal.
With the former the cannabinoids enter the body and attach to fat cells, and with the latter they enter the bloodstream. We’ll discuss this in detail a bit later.

Method of application. 
Lotion or cream - lower concentration for general use. May contain other beneficial ingredients and help as a regular cream moisturizing the skin.
Oil - infused oil is perfect for a sensual massage
Salve or balm - meant for localized application of a higher concentration, including lip balms and roll-ons.
Bath Bomb - meant for overall relief and relaxation and easy to use. Just drop one in a hot bath and enjoy. 
Lube - used as an aphrodisiac and lubricant for enhanced and heightened sexual experience 
Patch - a transdermal topical that delivers CBD and THC into your blood stream. A discreet alternative to other methods of CBD or THC intake. 

How Long Do Cannabis Topicals Take to Work?

Typically, the effects of a topical are felt within 10-30 minutes and may last up to 3 hours. But, keep in mind, that there certain factors that might influence that, such as, of course, the dosage, topical type, and in case of THC transdermal products - your tolerance.

Will Cannabis Topicals Get Me High?

This is a point where you need to make sure you understand the difference between topical and transdermal products.

They are both the same in regard to application method but cannabinoids from topicals do not enter your blood stream thus will not get you high even if they contain THC, while transdermal products such as patches will get the cannabinoids into the stream and have psychoactive effects if they contain THC.

In two words - transdermal products with THC in them will give you the buzz.

The great thing about topical and transdermal products is that they are discreet, have no side effects like dry mouth and red eyes, and will deliver constant and long-lasting relief.

Will Cannabis Topicals Show Up On My Drug Test?

As we mentioned above, using transdermal THC products will allow the cannabinoid to enter into the bloodstream and will most probably show up on a drug test, which looks for tetrahydrocannabinol.

Studies show that using THC containing topicals should not make you fail a drug test. 

Pure CBD products will not show up on a drug test either, however hemp CBD may contain up to 0.3% THC and there is a very slight chance you might fail a drug test.

If you know you are going to take a drug est, and you just need your medicine, make sure you use a pure CBD topical from a trusted manufacturer and inquire about these details when purchasing.

THC Topicals vs CBD Topicals

The main difference between CBD and THC topicals would be that CBD has various health benefits but its main effect is on the immune system, while THC’s main benefit would be pain management among numerous other things. 

Most topicals available in stores are CBD only, but you should try out different options and see what works best for you. THC is most commonly found in transdermal patches and is used mostly for a steady supply of the cannabinoid into the body.

What Are the Effects and Benefits of Cannabis Topicals?

Cannabis-infused oils, creams, and balms may help with muscle or joint pain or stiffness, arthritis, nerve pain, sunburns, acne, tendonitis, eczema, psoriasis.  Certain topicals are also created to enhance sexual pleasure or make a massage more sensual.

Transdermal products provide effects and benefits similar to other methods of cannabis consumption, such as smoking, edibles, and so on.

In Conclusion

When picking your cannabis topical, make sure to buy from a trusted source, like Silver Stem Fine Cannabis. We offer a great variety of topicals from handpicked manufacturers, which you can also order online.

Health Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using cannabis, particularly if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking medication.