The cannabinoid cannabidiol derived from the hemp plant is used as an active ingredient in many health and wellness products. This is mainly due to its purported therapeutic effects like reducing inflammation, relieving pain, relaxation, managing anxiety, etc. Here, we will discuss in detail the pros and cons of using CBD topical salves.
What Is A Salve?
A salve is a topical product that can be applied to the skin for protection or healing. Most often, they are formulated using plant-based ingredients. It differs from ointments, creams, and lotions in the blend of ingredients used for making it.
The key difference between creams, lotions, and salves is their water content. The main ingredients in salves are therapeutic plant extracts like cannabidiol (CBD), beeswax, and carrier oils, and they are water-free. Also, they have a longer shelf life because they do not contain water. The lipid-rich ingredients will increase the bioavailability of cannabidiol because it is an oil-soluble compound. Lotions are a formulation of oil and water, mixed with an emulsifying agent; the water to oil ratio is 70% to 20%. Finally, creams are heavier than lotions because their water to oil ratio is 1:1, and they also contain an emulsifying agent.
What Is A CBD Salve And How Does It Work?
CBD salve is a CBD topical that you can apply on the skin for its potential therapeutic effects like relieving pain and reducing inflammation. Apart from cannabidiol, the other major ingredients in it are carrier oils like almond, coconut, or olive, along with beeswax. The fatty acids in the carrier oil ensure that cannabidiol is easily carried across the skin cell membranes and reaches the deeper layers of the skin. Here, it interacts with the receptors of the ECS for producing its potential therapeutic effects.
What Are The Benefits Of CBD Salves?
- The main therapeutic effect and health benefit of using CBD salves is that they can be applied for relieving pain.
- You can use it for reducing inflammation.
- It is believed that CBD salves can help with speeding up the healing of minor wounds.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Using CBD Salves?
- Compared to other CBD products, the bioavailability of CBD salves is incredibly low. So, you must apply large quantities of it to get significant relief.
- It offers only short-term relief, and hence, not a replacement for conventional treatment.
