What Is a CBD Massage? And Can It Help You Relax?

There’s a new trend taking the U.S. by storm. CBD, or cannabidiol, products have been popping up virtually everywhere you look, from restaurants to oils and skin care products. But do these products actually work? CBD products aren’t meant to treat or cure a specific condition, but research shows they can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. That’s led to a rise in CBD massages, thus combining the best of both worlds. The next time you need a massage, consider adding some CBD.

How CBD Affects the Body

Cannabidiol is one of the many cannabinoids derived from the marijuana plant, but CBD doesn’t contain THC, which is the element that gets you “high”. Most items contain no more than a 0.3% concentration of THC, so you don’t have to worry about experiencing the psychotic effects typically associated with weed. The market is full of so-called CBD products. You can ingest it in the form of food, put a few drops in your tea, or rub it into your skin in the form of lotion, oil, and other skincare products.

There’s been a lot of talk about the health benefits of CBD, but these products have only been around for a few years and more research is needed to find out if they have the same effects as prescription medication. However, there is evidence to suggest they can be effective.

When it comes to pain relief, many use CBD to combat joint and muscle pain, including those suffering from arthritis. A 2017 study from the journal Pain found that prophylactic treatment with CBD stopped pain and hindered the development of more pain in rats with osteoarthritis.

When applied topically, research shows CBD can reduce the signs of certain skin disorders, such as psoriasis, scars, and atopic dermatitis. These conditions are often treated with topical corticosteroids, but they often come with painful side-effects, especially on areas with thin skin. However, more research is needed if CBD can produce the same effects as a topical steroid.

Matthew Halpert, an instructor of immunology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, says CBD treats underlying condition that causes pain or inflammation, unlike many pain relief creams and medications. He says there are cannabinoid receptors throughout the body that affect pain sensation and mood. They are a part of the body’s endocannabinoid system, which affects many bodily functions. His research shows that CBD can reduce the production of inflammatory markers like tumor necrosis factor alpha, which is common in those with rheumatoid arthritis.

But not everyone agrees. A 2019 study shows that cannabis products with higher THC levels were associated with greater symptom relief among more than 3,000 people, but CBD products (with no THC) were not. Doctors say they need more time to determine if CBD products can be used as an alternative to prescription medication and OTC skincare products.

For some, CBD may be their best shot at pain relief and anti-inflammation. CBD products come with few to zero side-effects. They don’t lead to addiction, pain, or nausea, making them a possible alternative to powerful prescription pain meds. Others may be allergic to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

While some items can relieve pain and inflammation, not all products are created equal, so it’s important to choose a reputable vendor or business when trying them for the first time.

The Power of a CBD Massage

Working as a healthcare provider isn’t easy. Long shifts and hours of intense physical work can leave your muscles exhausted at the end of the day. So, how do you get rid of all this tension and pain?

A CBD massage might help.

Step inside a CBD massage parlor, like Mellow Massage in San Diego, CA, and you’ll be greeted by a massage therapist trained in all things CBD. They will go over the potential health benefits of using CBD oils on the skin. They will then focus on areas of tension and pain just like a normal massage, but the cannabidiol oil makes a big difference.

Having a professional apply CBD to large areas of the skin also gives the body more of a chance to absorb the cannabinoids. The skin is the largest organ in the body, but having a masseuse rub traditional lotion or oil on your body may not be enough to soothe your pain, especially if you’re recovering from a chronic skin condition.

The same goes for your patients. While CBD massages and products aren’t meant to replace clinical treatment, they can help you and your patients cope with everyday aches and pains. If you’re looking to unwind after a long day of work, consider treating yourself to a CBD massage.