Best 6 CBD Creams, Balms And Lotions
When it comes to managing pain, cannabidiol (CBD) emerges as a promising solution for seeking relief. Scientific studies highlight the efficacy of CBD-infused topical products, including creams, balms, and gels, in addressing pain associated with conditions such as arthritis, migraines, nerve damage, and muscle aches. If you are considering the use of a CBD cream, we have conducted thorough research on available products in the market and curated our top recommendations for you. To identify the optimal CBD creams, the editorial team at Forbes Health conducted an in-depth analysis of data pertaining to over 50 CBD cream products derived from plants cultivated in the United States. All selected products possess a certificate of analysis (COA), undergo third-party testing in ISO 17025-compliant laboratories, and contain no more than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) by dry weight. From factors like pricing and potency to unique effects, discover which CBD cream products distinguish themselves as our top picks.
Best CBD Creams, Balms And Lotions of 2023
Lazarus Naturals CBD Balm Stick
Rating: 5.0
Price: $42
Type: Full-spectrum
Potency: 71 milligrams of CBD per 0.05-ounce application
Available at diamondcbdoil.com
Why We Selected It:
The Lazarus Naturals CBD Balm Stick provides a convenient and mess-free application of the brand’s potent Relief and Recovery CBD balm. This full-spectrum balm incorporates active ingredients such as capsaicin and menthol alongside CBD, aiming to relieve muscle pain and aid in the recovery process. Rigorously third-party laboratory tested, the balm undergoes scrutiny for heavy metals, pesticides, and potency verification. Each 2.54-ounce stick boasts an impressive 3,600 milligrams of CBD.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Rigorously third-party laboratory tested for quality and potency.
- Certificate of Analysis (COA) available on the company website.
- Mess-free application.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for individuals with grapefruit allergies, as noted by the company.
- Not suitable for vegans, as it contains lanolin.
Additional Details:
A 2.54-ounce Lazarus Naturals CBD Balm Stick, delivering 3,600 milligrams of full-spectrum CBD, is priced at $42. For those seeking a smaller option, a 0.56-ounce stick containing 800 milligrams of CBD is available at $12. The company offers a convenient payment option through Sezzle, allowing consumers to pay in four interest-free installments for orders exceeding $25.
Batch Original CBD Balm
Rating: 4.5
Price: $49.99
Type: Full-spectrum
Potency: 25 milligrams of CBD per 0.05-ounce application
Available on https://www.diamondcbdoil.com
Why We Chose It:
Batch’s Original CBD Balm stands out for its incorporation of jojoba oil, promoting rapid absorption, as claimed by the company. Encased in a convenient twist-up container, the balm ensures a mess-free application. Each 2.5-ounce stick harbors 1,250 milligrams of CBD sourced from Wisconsin, complemented by the infusion of lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, and vitamin E oils.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Non-GMO.
- Paraben-free.
- Crafted with 100% organic hemp, as stated by the company.
Cons:
- Lacks additional active ingredients for heightened muscle relief.
- Available in only one size and potency.
Additional Details:
A single purchase of a 2.5-ounce container of Batch Original CBD Balm is priced at $49.99. Opting for the subscribe-and-save option, with deliveries every 30 or 60 days, yields a 25% reduction in the cost. Additionally, the company extends a 30-day money-back guarantee to enhance customer satisfaction.
Carmen’s Medicinals Full Spectrum CBD Salve
Rating: 4.5
Price: $44.95
Type: Full-spectrum
Potency: 29 milligrams per 0.05-ounce application
Available on https://www.diamondcbdoil.com
Why We Selected It:
Carmen’s Medicinals Full Spectrum CBD Salve blends all-natural essential oils and terpenes to deliver relief for localized aches and pains while simultaneously nourishing the skin. The salve is recommended for application on joints, hands, and the back.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Manufactured with USDA-certified organic hemp.
- Gluten-free and devoid of common allergens such as milk, eggs, peanuts, fish, shellfish, and soy.
- Produced in an FDA-registered facility.
Cons:
- Only available in a single size and potency.
- Slightly pricier compared to similar products.
Additional Details:
A 1.7-ounce container of Carmen’s Medicinals Full Spectrum CBD Salve, containing 1,000 milligrams of CBD, is priced at $44.95.
CBDfx CBD Cream for Muscle and Joint: Cooling Formula
Rating: 4.5
Price: $79.99
Type: Broad-spectrum
Potency: 29 milligrams of CBD per 0.05-ounce application
Available on https://www.diamondcbdoil.com
Why We Chose It:
CBDfx’s CBD Cream for Muscle and Joint: Cooling Formula stands out with its incorporation of 1,000 milligrams of broad-spectrum CBD per 1.7-ounce bottle. The formula is enriched with additional ingredients like menthol, white willow bark, and caffeine, designed to enhance the cooling effect for pain relief.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Non-detectable levels of THC, as per the company’s claim.
- Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free.
- Certificate of Analysis (COA) easily accessible on the company website.
Cons:
- The cooling effect may not be appealing to all consumers.
- Effects may take 10 to 20 minutes to manifest.
Additional Details:
A single bottle of CBDfx Cream for Muscle and Joint: Cooling Formula, featuring 1,000 milligrams of CBD, is priced at $44.99. The company provides the option of four interest-free payments with Sezzle. For those seeking higher potency, a 3,000-milligram version is available for $99.99. CBDfx ensures customer satisfaction with a 60-day money-back guarantee.
cbdMD CBD Recover Pump
Rating: 4.5
Price: $59.99
Type: Broad-spectrum
Potency: 11 milligrams of CBD per 0.05-ounce application
Available on https://www.diamondcbdoil.com
Why We Chose It:
The cbdMD CBD Recover Pump earns its place with a formulation boasting 750 milligrams of broad-spectrum CBD per 3.4-ounce bottle. This recovery pump is enriched with additional pain-relieving ingredients, including arnica, specifically designed to alleviate muscle pain. The company recommends applying a thin layer of the cream to any painful area up to four times a day.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Certificate of Analysis (COA) easily accessible on the company website.
- No detectable levels of THC.
- Mess-free application.
Cons:
- Less potent compared to other similar products.
- Hemp is not USDA organic.
Additional Details:
A single bottle of cbdMD CBD Recover, containing 750 milligrams of CBD, is priced at $39.99. Utilizing the subscribe-and-save option allows consumers to save 25%. The company also facilitates convenient payment with four interest-free installments through Sezzle. For those seeking a higher potency, a 3.4-ounce bottle with 1,500 milligrams of CBD is available for a one-time purchase at $59.99.
Joy Organics CBD Sports Cream
Rating: 4.5
Price: $49.95
Type: Broad-spectrum
Potency: 13 milligrams of CBD per 0.05-ounce application
Available on https://www.diamondcbdoil.com
Why We Chose It:
Joy Organics CBD Sports Cream earns our recommendation for its blend of broad-spectrum CBD, menthol, and camphor, delivering a cooling sensation for muscle and joint relief. Specifically formulated for individuals with active lifestyles, including athletes, this product caters to those seeking effective recovery.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Zero THC content, as claimed by the company.
- Carbon-neutral shipping.
- 90-day satisfaction guarantee.
Cons:
- The menthol and camphor cooling effect may not appeal to all consumers.
- Available in only a single size and potency.
Additional Details:
A one-time purchase of a 4-ounce bottle of Joy Organics CBD Sports Cream, featuring 1,000 milligrams of CBD, is priced at $49.95. Opting for the subscribe-and-save option allows customers to enjoy a 30% discount. Additionally, the company provides free shipping on orders exceeding $50.
Methodology: Selecting the Top CBD Creams of 2023
In the pursuit of identifying the best CBD creams available in 2023, the Forbes Health editorial team employed a meticulous methodology. The process involved a comprehensive analysis of data pertaining to over 50 CBD cream products, ensuring they met the following criteria:
- Originating from U.S. Cultivated Plants:
- Products had to be crafted from plants cultivated within the United States.
- Possessing a Certificate of Analysis (COA):
- Each CBD cream under consideration must have a COA, emphasizing transparency and produc
- t quality.
- Third-Party Testing by ISO 17025-Compliant Laboratories:
- Rigorous third-party testing conducted by laboratories compliant with ISO 17025 standards was a prerequisite for inclusion.
- Formulated with All-Natural Ingredients:
- The creams had to be made exclusively with all-natural ingredients, prioritizing purity and holistic wellness.
Following these criteria, the CBD creams were then systematically ranked based on essential factors such as price, potency, and the inclusion of additional soothing components. A standard application size was defined as 0.05 ounces of CBD cream. However, recognizing the importance of providing a comprehensive view, the full product pricing was presented, accompanied by a per-application breakdown. This approach aims to assist users in evaluating the best daily value and aligning with individual budget considerations.
Overview of CBD Cream: A Comprehensive Guide
What Is CBD Cream?
CBD cream, encompassing balms and salves, represents a topical application of cannabidiol. It offers localized effects, contrasting with the systemic effects of edibles or inhalation.
“When CBD is used topically, it does not reach the bloodstream,” states Robert Milanes M.D., founder of Holistic On Call and a doctor with Heally.
This makes CBD cream an ideal choice for those new to CBD, seeking pain relief without ingesting it.
How Does CBD Cream Work?
Compared to ingesting CBD, which can take time to take effect, applying CBD topically provides localized effects swiftly. Laura Fuentes, co-founder of Green Roads, notes that this quick uptake, combined with CBD’s inherent benefits, makes CBD cream an excellent option for pain, inflammation, soreness, and tightness relief in specific body areas.
How to Use CBD Cream
Application involves rubbing the cream into the affected area, such as a sore knee. The cream is absorbed into the skin, binding to cannabinoid receptors.
Health Benefits of CBD Cream
- Research suggests efficient absorption through the skin.
- Preliminary studies show potential benefits in treating chronic pain conditions like arthritis.
- Studies indicate improvement in pain scores and physical function for conditions like peripheral neuropathy and knee pain from osteoarthritis.
- Anti-inflammatory properties may aid in improving skin conditions like acne and eczema.
Potential Side Effects of CBD Creams and Topicals
CBD itself is generally safe. Topical use reduces typical side effects associated with CBD, such as drowsiness and fatigue. However, be cautious about potential allergies to other ingredients. Reading ingredient lists is advised.
Consult with a doctor before using CBD, especially if on medications like blood pressure medications, as CBD can lower blood pressure.
Is CBD Cream Safe?
CBD creams lack FDA regulation, making it challenging to determine their safety and efficacy as a product category. The American Academy of Dermatology reports potential effectiveness in treating conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema, with few or no side effects. Safety and efficacy depend on the specific CBD cream product and its formulation.
Where to Find Top-Quality CBD Creams, Balms, and Lotions
CBD creams are readily accessible through various channels, including brick-and-mortar wellness stores, dedicated CBD shops, and a multitude of online manufacturers.
Whether you opt for an in-person purchase or explore online options, prioritizing high-quality products is crucial. Look for items with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from a reputable third-party laboratory. This certification should confirm the product’s potency, cannabinoid content, and ensure it is free from contaminants such as pesticides and heavy metals. This diligence ensures that you are investing in a CBD cream that meets rigorous quality standards.
