CBD Salves – How to Use a Salve Effectively
Topical CBD is available in lots of forms including salves, tinctures, lotions, balms, moisturizers, butter, and cream. There are numerous other terminologies but there is a difference in CBD oil, cream, and salve.
Generally, there is no genuine difference between CBD salve, balm, and ointment. All these three terms can be used interchangeably. According to a medical dictionary, a salve is a semi-solid blend formulated for external application on the skin. Medicinal substances are combined within suitable vehicles. The easy definition is salve is a medicine-infused mixture formulated for direct skin application. CBD hemp salves from Leanna Organics are safe and effective as they undergo stringent 3rd party lab testing.
The difference between lotions/creams and balms/salves/ointment is the bases used to create them, which are responsible for the resulting texture. Lotions/creams use moisturizing agents and water as a base. Alternatively, balms and salves use wax and fatty oils as a base. There is no water added. The functional difference lies in the amount of CBD and specific ingredients used in preparing the salve.
How are CBD salves made?
Basic ingredients used in preparing the salve concoctions are –
- Natural wax
- Fatty oil base
- Therapeutic or medicinal compound.
The common natural wax choice is beeswax. It is a dense sticky hard material that melts to bring in usability. Some brands use vegetable wax to make vegan salves.
Oil base is used for transporting the medicine. Coconut oil is the preferred option. It has molecular high fatty acid content responsible for carrying infused CBD compounds.
A finely grounded cannabis plant is steeped in the oil at 200+°F for several hours and the heat decarboxylates the CBD into an active molecular form. At this point, the fatty acid molecules in the oil latch onto CBD. On completion of the heating process, oil is blended with melted wax and a topical cannabidiol salve is created. Essential oils like peppermint and lavender are added. Fat-soluble vitamins like D, E, and A can also be included.
How do CBD salves work?
CBD activates the Endocannabinoid system in the body. ECS regulates major functions within the body via cannabinoid receptors. The CB1 and CB2 receptors are spread across the body and are responsible for mood, appetite, immune functions, and pain sensation. Skin is the largest organ and its surface has a high concentration of CB receptors. It can quickly absorb fatty-based oils.
When salve is applied to the skin, the oil base carries phytochemicals across the cell membranes. The CBD starts its physiological mechanism on tissue layers and surrounding cells. Instead of masking inflammation or pain, the cannabinoid salve ensures that the discomfort and pain are reduced for some time.
Therefore CBD salves are used for skin-specific conditions and joint pain. CBD targets precise areas directly and starts working on the pain source. CBD salves never spread deep within the tissue and reach the bloodstream. They are best for treating surface-level pain.
How to use CBD salves efficiently?
Wash and clean the target area or wipe it with a cloth and disinfectant. Full-spectrum salves offer maximum benefits, so a little is a lot. Apply and massage the area gently. Make sure to buy organic CBD hemp salves from reputable sources!
