Can CBD Oil Really Enhance the Effects of a Massage?
There is a lot of hype surrounding CBD products, such as massage creams or oils. In fact, it continues to be the subject of several studies, particularly regarding its effectiveness in relieving certain pains and symptoms. .
So does CBD oil really work?
The addition of CBD to massage oils is all the rage, and a good number of brands are not shy about boasting about its benefits, particularly against muscle pain and tension. However, are these claims largely unfounded, correct or simply a marketing ploy? CBD's ability to reduce pain has been the most widely studied property of the substance.
... it is possible that a minimum amount of between 0.4 and 1.4 mg of CBD for each kilo of body mass, or even more depending on the individual, is necessary...
According to WebMD , some studies suggest, for example, that CBD may help reduce pain, but results vary depending on the person and the doses used. One study found that CBD may help reduce pain in people with fibromyalgia, while another study showed promising results in treating chronic pain in people with cancer.
However, although the therapeutic properties of CBD have been the subject of several medical studies, some with promising results, it is important to note that these remain mixed. More research is, therefore, necessary to determine the real effectiveness of the non-psychoactive substance of cannabis, especially when it is used in cosmetic products or massage oils.
Everything We Know So Far About CBD's Effectiveness for Pain Relief
Studies on the effect of CBD generally indicate a positive effect on pain sensations in some participants. However, more double-blind research is still needed to understand exactly how CBD may affect pain and to what extent a placebo effect would not skew the data.
For example, a study published in 2018 showed that CBD can reduce pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Another study from 2017 found that CBD can reduce neuropathic pain in patients with multiple sclerosis. Additionally, a 2020 study showed that CBD can reduce postoperative pain in patients undergoing surgery.
Also in 2018, in another study focused on reducing stress, male participants were given CBD before undergoing a simulated public speaking test. The researchers found that a 300 mg dose, taken orally 90 minutes before the speaking test, significantly reduced speakers’ anxiety. However, those in the placebo group and those in this study who received a smaller 150 mg dose saw little improvement. The same was true for those who received a 600 mg dose.
How much CBD oil is needed to feel the beneficial effects?
There is no magic or universal dose or concentration of CBD when it comes to using a massage oil for muscle relaxation. The amount of CBD needed to achieve this effect depends on several factors, including the person’s weight, individual tolerance, and the intensity of the pain or muscle tension. However, some research suggests that a CBD massage oil with a concentration of 250 to 500 mg of CBD per 30 ml may be effective for muscle relaxation. It is important to note that each person’s response to CBD may be different and it will likely take some experimenting to find the right dosage and application method.
Additionally, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using or applying new products directly to your body, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking medications.
Generally speaking, the amount of CBD needed to be effective depends on a variety of factors, including weight, but it is possible that a minimum amount of between 0.4 and 1.4 mg of CBD per pound of body mass, or even more depending on the individual, may be necessary. This assumes, in more ways than one, that clinical trials continue to demonstrate the effectiveness of CBD for pain management.
Generally speaking, we highly recommend that you make sure that the CBD amount is clearly stated in milligrams on the packaging before purchasing your massage oil. An oil percentage, on its own, is not determinative of how much CBD you will actually apply.
Can I buy CBD oil where I live?
In France, CBD massage oils are legal under certain conditions. Make sure to choose products made with CBD isolates to avoid any problems with the authorities, as “full spectrum” oils may contain THC-type cannabinoids (the psychoactive molecule in cannabis), which is not allowed. For France, more information is available here .
In Belgium, the situation is more ambiguous. At present, the consumption of CBD edibles is not legal, while the use of CBD in cosmetics is in a gray area. More information can be found here .
We use many sources when writing our articles. Here are some additional primers on the topic:
https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-for-anxiety#dosage
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327518#dosages
https://www.discovermagazine.com/lifestyle/how-much-cbd-oil-should-you-take-for-pain
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/04/210423130221.htm