Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active ingredient derived from cannabis which has proven effective in managing a variety of conditions. Since the production and use of hemp-derived CBD products was largely legalized in the United States in 2018, its popularity has sky-rocketed. CBD products have been shown to provide the same relief as marijuana without the effects of THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana.
Although there is currently a lack of clinical studies in humans to substantiate its efficiency, many studies have found promising evidence of its ability to treat chronic pain. It’s fairly commonly accepted in society that cannabis has such beneficial effects, but more scientific research is required to demonstrate it beyond a doubt. There have been numerous studies carried out on animals that confirm its potential as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent. There is also enough anecdotal evidence of its pain-relieving function that medical marijuana is frequently recommended to patients suffering chronic pain. Since its legalization, it is expected that many more studies will be underway to understand its potential.
Do patches really work?
Of all the CBD products out there, CBD patches take the crown for those looking for localized pain relief. Some people are skeptical but there are so many people who swear by them, can it really be a myth? They work in the same way as nicotine patches, which people generally accept are effective and a genuine tool to ease symptoms. It’s only a matter of time before this acceptance is extended to CBD patches too!
Pain is one of the most common reasons people use CBD products, but consuming it orally can prove less effective or require higher dosage to achieve the desired results. Patches give users more control over where the effects of the CBD are targeted, so they can place the patch as close as possible to an inflamed or sensitive area.
Transdermal pain relief has been used for decades and as the therapeutic use of CBD has become more commonplace, CBD patches have become more popular and are increasingly effective thanks to ongoing development.
How effective are they?
Studies have shown that not only is transdermal application of equal efficacy to oral consumption, but it actually offers increased bioavailability of the drug by bypassing the first-pass metabolism effect of oral delivery. This means that by cutting out the impact of the digestive system, more of the active compounds make it into your system. As a result, the localized effect has actually been shown to be greater, whereas CBD oils and other products are thought to have a more general effect.
Let’s take a brief look at the science behind the magic. With transdermal patches, CBD is absorbed directly into the bloodstream. The CBD interacts with various systems within the body to create an anti-inflammatory response and increase the body’s anandamide level to regulate pain, among other things. That means patches are an extremely efficient way to treat localized pain.
Long-lasting pain relief
Another huge bonus of CBD pain patches is that they can provide pain relief for up to 4 days which is significantly longer than other CBD products. This is extremely convenient for users and also a great solution for those suffering from chronic pain as they provide consistent, ongoing relief.
Even other topical applications cannot compete with patches in terms of longevity of the effects. Creams and lotions tend to absorb more quickly into the skin, so they may have a similar short term effect, but they must be applied regularly. They are also more prone to being washed off or rubbing off on items of clothing etc. CBD patches are designed to continue releasing CBD for days at a time.
They take up to an hour to take effect so if you are looking for very quick relief, they are not the solution, but if you can wait an hour for the benefits then it will be more effective in the long run.
Subtle and discreet
Another reason people love CBD patches is because they are subtle and discreet. They do not draw attention or invite unwanted questions (although you may want to shout about them from the rooftops once you realize how effective they are) so you can get your relief in peace. They are also relatively low-maintenance in comparison with oral CBD products, for example, which will need to be taken regularly to keep on top of discomfort. With patches, you simply pop one on the affected area and you can forget all about it for days at a time. It takes a matter of seconds and provides long-lasting relief.
So, if you are looking for long-lasting, subtle and effective pain relief, CBD patches are an excellent option. Although every individual responds differently to CBD, the overwhelming consensus is that this is a great transdermal pain relief option with minimal side effects.