If I’m honest—it took me a minute to fully wrap my head around how cannabis topicals work. I mean, I was used to thinking of cannabis as something you ingest to feel its benefits. So, the idea that a lotion, balm, or bath bomb could deliver serious relief without any of the psychoactive effects felt, well, a little too good to be true. But once I tried it—and felt the soothing magic for myself—everything clicked.
Cannabis topicals are quietly changing the game in the wellness world by offering fast, natural, and localized relief. Whether you’re easing post-yoga muscle tension, calming inflamed skin, or managing chronic pain, these products are the perfect ally for a self-care routine that actually works. But how exactly do they work their wonders? And why are they so effective? Let’s dive in and uncover the science (and the magic) behind cannabis topicals.
What Are Cannabis Topicals?
Whenever I’m talking to customers at the dispensary about cannabis topicals, I notice a lot of them are curious but hesitant. The same questions always pop up: “How do they work if you don’t ingest them?” or “Will I feel anything?” And I get it—I had the same questions at first. But here’s the thing: once you understand what cannabis topicals can do (and actually feel them working), you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.
Cannabis topicals are exactly what they sound like: cannabis-infused products applied directly to your skin. From silky lotions and thick balms to fragrant oils and luxurious bath bombs, they’re designed to give targeted relief exactly where you need it—without the high. That’s right—no heady buzz, no foggy mind. Instead, you get localized, plant-powered relief for sore muscles, dry or irritated skin, or any area of discomfort that needs a little love.
When I explain this to customers, their faces light up because it’s such a win-win: you get all the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without needing to worry about feeling “off.” Instead, you can apply a balm to your shoulders after a long day or soak in a CBD bath after yoga and feel the relief sink in—naturally and gently.
Common Types of Cannabis Topicals I Recommend to Customers:
- Balms and Salves: I always describe these as the “heavy hitters” of topicals. They’re thick, waxy, and amazing for deep muscle relief and joint pain. I often suggest them to customers dealing with chronic pain or post-workout soreness. Also great for extra dry skin!
- Lotions and Creams: These are perfect for customers looking for daily hydration and light relief. I recommend them to anyone with dry skin, mild inflammation, or surface-level aches—plus, they’re super easy to work into an everyday skincare routine.
- Oils: Lightweight and versatile, oils are my go-to suggestion for massage lovers or anyone incorporating cannabis into a relaxation ritual. I tell customers to try massaging a CBD oil into their feet or back before bed—trust me, it’s magic.
- Bath Soaks & Bombs: My favorite conversation topic! I love recommending bath soaks to customers who need full-body relaxation. I’ll usually say, “Have you ever had a bath that felt like a warm hug? That’s what a CBD or cannabis-infused bath will do.”
One product I never skip talking about is the Cloud 9 Bath Bomb from Mary Jane’s Medicinals. And believe me when I say the name isn’t just a marketing ploy. I’ve had customers come back and tell me that soaking in this bath bomb felt like pressing the reset button on their whole body.
When I explain topicals this way, people stop seeing them as just another cannabis product and start seeing them as a self-care essential. And when they come back to tell me how much relief they felt, I know—just like I do.
Soak in Bliss: Mary Jane’s Medicinals Cloud 9 Bath Bombs
Let’s be real—sometimes, a hot bath is the ultimate cure-all. But when you add one of Mary Jane’s Medicinals Cloud 9 Bath Bombs, it’s like you’ve been upgraded to first-class relaxation. After just 10-15 minutes in the tub, you’ll feel your stress dissolve and your muscles melt into a blissful puddle of relief.
What Makes Cloud 9 So Special?
These bath bombs are infused with cannabis extracts, essential oils, and soothing botanicals designed to calm both body and mind. The combination of cannabinoids and aromatherapy takes your bathing experience beyond simple relaxation—it’s self-care elevated to an art form.
Pro Tip: If you’ve had an intense yoga session or just a rough day on your feet, this bath bomb is a game-changer for post-workout recovery and stress relief.
New Non-THC Formula:
I recently chatted with one of the brand reps, and they shared some exciting news: Mary Jane’s Botanicals now offers a non-THC version of their products! This means everyone can soak in the benefits of their thoughtfully crafted formulas without worrying about THC content. Perfect for those who want the relief but need to steer clear of cannabinoids with psychoactive effects.
Why You’ll Love the Non-THC Option:
- Suitable for all comfort levels, whether you’re new to cannabis topicals or just prefer a THC-free routine
- Ideal for gifting to friends or family members who could benefit from plant-based wellness
- Packed with the same therapeutic botanicals and essential oils as the original formula—just minus the THC!
Now that we’re all dreaming of luxurious baths, let’s dive deeper into the science behind why cannabis topicals work so well.
Why Do Cannabis Topicals Work So Well?
If you’ve ever had me explain this across the dispensary counter, you’ve probably heard me say: “It all comes down to your body’s built-in balancing system—the endocannabinoid system (ECS).” Once you understand how this system works, it makes total sense why a little balm on a sore muscle can do wonders without needing to pop a pill or ingest anything.
- The ECS is like your body’s behind-the-scenes coordinator, constantly working to maintain balance, or what we call homeostasis. It regulates everything from pain and inflammation to mood and immune responses. And guess what? Your skin is loaded with cannabinoid receptors—specifically CB1 and CB2 receptors—making it the perfect delivery system for targeted relief.
- When you apply a cannabis topical, cannabinoids like CBD, THC, or CBG bind directly to those receptors in the skin, muscles, and surrounding nerves. This localized interaction allows the cannabinoids to get straight to work, helping to ease pain, reduce inflammation, and calm irritated skin—without affecting your whole body or getting you high.
Key Mechanisms of Action (How the Magic Happens):
- Localized Absorption:
Think of it this way—when you apply a topical, the cannabinoids stay where you put them. They penetrate the skin barrier and interact with nearby receptors, targeting the exact area where relief is needed. This is why applying a balm to your lower back or a cream to an inflamed knee brings relief right there without any systemic effects. No full-body buzz, just targeted TLC. - Anti-Inflammatory Power:
If you’ve ever used a topical for muscle soreness or skin irritation, you’ve probably felt how quickly it calms things down. That’s because cannabinoids like CBD and CBG work to reduce inflammation by helping regulate your immune response. Inflammation is your body’s natural way of protecting itself, but when it goes overboard (think chronic pain or skin flare-ups), cannabinoids help dial things back to normal. - Pain Modulation:
This is a fancy way of saying that cannabinoids help block or reduce the pain signals being sent to your brain. When cannabinoids interact with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the skin, they influence how pain signals travel through your nervous system. This means less discomfort and a greater sense of relief, especially for issues like sore muscles, joint pain, or inflammation.
Think of it like giving your pain or inflammation a direct message to calm down. You’re not waiting for a capsule to dissolve or a gummy to kick in—you’re applying relief exactly where you need it. It’s fast, effective, and fits into your routine without any disruption.
And it’s not just for those with chronic issues—whether you’re recovering from a workout or dealing with an occasional flare-up, cannabis topicals can offer relief without making you feel like you need to lie down for hours. That’s the beauty of localized treatment—you get the benefits without feeling like you’re out of commission.
What Cannabinoids and Ingredients Should You Look For?
Not all topicals are created equal. The cannabinoids and other ingredients inside can make or break the effectiveness of the product. Here’s a quick guide to what you should be looking for:
- CBD (Cannabidiol): Known for its anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and skin-soothing properties.
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): Especially helpful for deep muscle pain and arthritis. But don’t worry—topical THC won’t get you high!
- CBG (Cannabigerol): A rising star in the skincare world, CBG is great for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Terpenes: The aromatic compounds found in plants (and cannabis!) do more than smell nice. Myrcene, for example, is relaxing and perfect for unwinding, while limonene offers uplifting, mood-boosting effects.
Pro Tip: Full-spectrum products, which contain a combination of cannabinoids and terpenes, often provide enhanced benefits thanks to the entourage effect. This phenomenon occurs when cannabinoids and terpenes work together, amplifying each other’s effects for better results.
How to Use Cannabis Topicals for Maximum Effectiveness
- Clean the Area First: For optimal absorption, wash the skin to remove any dirt, oil, or sweat.
- Apply Generously: Don’t skimp! Massage the product into the affected area using circular motions for 2-3 minutes.
- Layer When Needed: For deeper relief, apply a second layer or pair the topical with a heating pad to help the cannabinoids penetrate deeper.
- Be Consistent: For chronic pain or inflammation, applying the topical 2-3 times per day can lead to better, long-lasting relief.
- Incorporate Into Wellness Rituals: After a yoga session, during a bath, or as part of your nightly wind-down routine, topicals work beautifully when paired with other self-care practices.
Topical Myths Busted
Let’s clear up some common misconceptions so you can feel confident when adding topicals to your wellness routine:
Myth: Topicals provide instant relief.
Truth: While you may notice a soothing sensation within a few minutes, the deeper, more therapeutic effects typically take 15-30 minutes as the cannabinoids absorb into the skin and bind to your body’s endocannabinoid receptors. The key is patience—consistent use can also enhance their long-term benefits. So, give it time, breathe, and let the plant power do its work.
Myth: Topicals will get you high.
Truth: Most cannabis topicals don’t enter the bloodstream, so you won’t feel any psychoactive effects. Instead, they work locally, providing targeted relief to the area you apply them. The exception to this rule is transdermal patches, which are designed to deliver cannabinoids through the skin and into the bloodstream, potentially creating a mild psychoactive effect if they contain THC.
Myth: More product means faster relief.
Truth: You don’t need to apply a large amount for topicals to work effectively. A small, well-massaged amount is typically enough. The key is in the application—taking the time to massage the product in allows it to absorb properly and target the affected area. Quality and technique matter more than quantity.
Myth: Topicals and transdermal products work the same way.
Truth: While they may seem similar, topicals and transdermal products work in different ways. Topicals, like creams, balms, and salves, work at the surface level or slightly below, providing localized relief without entering the bloodstream. Transdermal products, such as patches, are designed to penetrate deeper, delivering cannabinoids directly into the bloodstream. This means transdermals can have system-wide effects and, if THC is present, could produce psychoactive effects. Choosing between the two depends on your goals—targeted relief or full-body effects.
By understanding these common myths and differences, you can better select the right product and fully integrate cannabis topicals or transdermals into your self-care routine.
Cannabis Topicals- Nature’s Secret Weapon
After years of conversations at the dispensary counter and my own wellness journey, here’s what I can confidently share: cannabis topicals can be a game-changer. They’re a simple, natural way to give your body some much-needed relief—without overcomplicating your self-care routine.
Whether you’re easing post-yoga tension with a CBD balm, calming irritated skin, or unwinding after a long day, topicals help support your body’s natural balance. They’re not a miracle cure, but when used regularly, they can be a powerful part of your routine.
With non-psychoactive options like Mary Jane’s Botanicals, anyone can experience the soothing benefits of cannabis without THC concerns. It’s relief, relaxation, and recovery—accessible to everyone.
So, if you’ve been looking for a reason to explore topicals, consider this your sign. Let nature guide the way.
Stay well. Stay balanced. Stay elevated.
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