[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Whether you’re an avid trainer or a busy individual — or some combination of the two — long days of physical and mental demands can take a toll on our bodies. You know what we mean. It doesn’t matter if you work in a trade, are an athlete, hustle in retail or the medical field, are a teacher, or sit at a desk — life can be demanding. Naturally, you’ll experience some aches and pains from either moving too much or moving too little. Here are the best CBD products for pain and how to find the right one for you.
Refresh: What CBD can do for pain
If you’re not familiar with what CBD can do for pain, we’ll get you up to speed. Though the compound is still being researched for a wide variety of conditions, some studies have already yielded promising results. And this isn’t old news. Check out this quick video on the history of CBD. CBD has shown promise for conditions such as arthritis, endometriosis, and chronic pain. It should be noted, too, that CBD for pain relief is a phenomenon in which patients are finding success before the science can catch up. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consult your doctor before adding it to your regimen.
Other common ingredients to look for
When shopping for the best CBD products for pain, you may see some commonalities. Besides what CBD can do for pain, what do these other ingredients bring to the table?
- Menthol: Provides a cooling sensation by activating certain neurons. It is derived from corn mint, peppermint, or other mint plants.
- Camphor: Comes from the wood of a camphor tree and provides relief from pain, itching, and inflammation.
- Capsaicin: Derived from peppers, capsaicin provides a hot sensation to the point where certain neurons are desensitized.
- Beeswax: Naturally carries antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties good for wounds, scrapes, or dry, chapped winter skin.
- Peppermint: An effective anesthetic as it can provide cool-warm sensations while closing pores and tightening skin. When ingested, it may also offer benefits to the respiratory and digestive systems.
- Turmeric/curcumin: Can help heal wounds by decreasing inflammation and oxidation. When ingested, it can soothe stomach upset and address widespread inflammation.
- Lavender: Has anti-inflammatory properties that can help minor burns and bug bites. When ingested, lavender may also help digestive issues such as nausea and vomiting.
- Eucalyptus: Can help ease joint pain and other cases of inflammation.
- Willow bark: Derived from the willow tree, willow bark acts as a natural aspirin for many different types of pain and inflammation.
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Deciding which type to use
Now that you have a better idea of what ingredients are out there in addition to CBD, which form should you choose? It depends on what type of pain you’re experiencing, your pain tolerance, as well as your tolerance of CBD. With any new product, you should allow ample time to both incorporate it into your routine and for it to work. You may get lucky and feel immediate relief, but many products need to be reapplied throughout the day. However, it’s best to consult your physician to avoid any risk of overuse or interactions.
- Balm: CBD balms are good for local areas of skin irritation or inflammation, such as bug bites. CBD balms are often portable and travel well.
- Cream: Creams are good to both moisturize the skin and to penetrate more deeply. They can be spread on larger areas, such as joints, your back, and over your hands and feet.
- Roll-on: Roll-ons are a great choice for those who are sensitive to residues or textures that creams can offer. They can also penetrate deep into the skin for arthritis symptoms.
- Patches: Patches are great to target areas for a longer period of time, such as your pelvis if you experience menstrual cramps.
- Spray: Sprays, similar to roll-ons, can offer widespread relief. They often incorporate cooling action, so they’re great for after workouts.
- Edible, tincture, or capsule: Unless you’re taking a water-soluble CBD tincture, your body may have less CBD to allocate to pain relief. CBD edibles, tinctures, and capsules still target your endocannabinoid system to inhibit pain, yes, but the CBD must also be metabolized.
Our favorite pain-fighting products
According to Healthline, Lazarus Naturals and Charlotte’s Web are two of the best CBD oils to try. If you’re looking for a topical, which often works best for targeted pain relief, there is a wide variety to choose from. In fact, Papa & Barkley‘s first product was created when the founder’s father was put in hospice for debilitating back pain. The founder’s CBD formula worked well enough that “Papa” was able to return home. Dr. Kerklaan Therapeutics was created by a doctor who was on a mission to provide a natural formula for an elderly patient experiencing chronic pain. Of course, his topicals were a success. You can also shop CBD backed by great athletes like Rob Gronkowski (cbdMD) and Mike Tyson (Coppergel®), who know a thing or two about pain.
You already know what we’re about to say — consult your physician before adding CBD to your regimen. We hope you find something that works for you!
