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Muscle soreness and tension are all part of heavy exercise and physically demanding jobs. Therapies like massage can help with the recovery and healing process, but if you’re an athlete or manual worker, you could likely benefit from everyday support to soothe your tired muscles and speed up recovery.
Topical CBD products to the rescue! After learning about CBD from teammates and colleagues, or reading the many positive reviews online, many athletes and blue-collar workers have turned to CBD balms to provide the support and benefits their muscles need to recover from demanding workouts and jobs. The demand for CBD balms is higher than ever, and today there is a wide assortment of CBD balms to choose from, depending on your personal needs and application preferences.
Most who have used CBD balms have been happy with their experience. If you’re wondering whether CBD balms can help you, you’ve come to the right place. Here, we walk you through the information you need to find the right product from the right brand to deliver the types of soothing benefits you’re looking for.
Koi Full Spectrum CBD Balm is made with full spectrum hemp extract, delivering the full list of valuable cannabinoids, terpenes, vitamins, and other compounds naturally occurring in the plant. This includes an incredible 3,000 mg of CBD for more powerful topical support. A blend of a dozen soothing natural oils – such as eucalyptus leaf oil, rosemary leaf oil, spearmint oil, and lavender flower oil – offer an immediate soothing sensation.
What is CBD?
CBD has quickly become a part of many people’s everyday wellness routines. CBD is short for cannabidiol, the second most prevalent chemical compound in the Cannabis Sativa plant. CBD was first discovered in the 1940s and recently became popular for its natural wellness and balancing benefits.
CBD is one of more than 100 cannabinoids found in the plant. THC, or Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive ingredient in the Cannabis Sativa plant and is the most widely known cannabinoid. The two compounds share numerous similarities but have one significant difference: Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t produce psychoactive effects. This difference has fueled the popularity of CBD among people looking for its wellness benefits but who prefer to avoid the euphoric effects that come with using THC. Our beginner's guide to CBD explains even more.
While CBD is often ingested, it also delivers exciting benefits when applied topically. CBD used to make CBD balm is extracted from hemp, a variety of the Cannabis Sativa plant that has extensive CBD yield and only traces amount of THC.
CBD Vs. THC: What’s the Difference?
While CBD and THC are both cannabinoids, the two have distinct differences and uses.
THC or Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol is the main psychoactive ingredient in the Cannabis Sativa plant. It works by signaling the release of the brain chemical dopamine to activate the brain’s reward system.
Psychoactive properties
CBD doesn’t cause any type of euphoric effects like THC does. Instead, its interaction with receptors in the body promotes an overall sense of balance and supports better functioning.
Chemical structure
As cannabinoids, you can expect both compounds to have a similar chemical structure to some degree. Their chemical structure is very similar to that of the body’s natural endocannabinoids.
Both compounds have the same molecular structure with differences in how the molecules are arranged, affecting how each compound binds with receptors and their effects.
Sources
Both hemp and marijuana plants contain CBD and THC but in varying concentrations. In the marijuana plant, THC is more prevalent, while hemp contains more CBD. CBD used to make CBD balms is sourced from hemp plants because of their high CBD and low THC yields, ensuring the products meet the legal limit of 0.3% THC by dry weight.
What is CBD Balm?
CBD balms, which are sometimes referred to as CBD muscle and joint rubs, are a sweet-smelling semi-solid oil infused with CBD and other beneficial natural ingredients that is applied directly onto the skin.
Different brands have different formulas for their CBD balms, but the balms are primarily infused with soothing ingredients that nourish and soften the skin and target muscles and joints. Unlike creams which are also used for beauty purposes, balms are mainly used to address troubled skin areas and deliver targeted relief.
CBD Balm Vs. CBD Cream: What’s the Difference?
As you search for CBD balms, you will come across another type of CBD topical, CBD creams. The two terms are often used interchangeably because both combine CBD oil and hemp extracts with other botanicals. In most cases, however, outside of both containing CBD the two are distinct and designed for different applications.
CBD creams
CBD creams are generally made using a water base, giving them a softer and creamier consistency that absorbs quickly into the skin. Rapid absorption means there’s no residue left on your skin. But if your goal is to have a substance that remains longer on the skin’s surface, an oil-based product like a CBD balm is a better choice.
It’s possible to find CBD creams designed to soothe muscles and joints, but such creams have short-lived effects because of their rapid absorption. Creams make better beauty products that deliver vital nutrients quickly to the skin.
CBD balms
Balms are topicals with an oil base, and CBD balms share this feature. CBD balms don’t absorb into your skin as fast as CBD creams. They stay on the surface of the skin longer and create a protective barrier on the skin.
During winter, balms can protect the skin from getting dry or chapped, a unique advantage that you can’t get with creams. Balms are also better for massaging into the skin to deliver the active ingredients into the affected areas gradually and over a longer period for prolonged nourishing effects.
Topical CBD products like our new full-spectrum balm can ease tired muscles and joints and support softer, more supple skin. As described in our guide to CBD topicals, some of the everyday challenges Koi Full Spectrum CBD Balm can be helpful with include:
- Overworked muscles and joints after strenuous workouts or physically demanding work
- Tense wrists and forearms from long hours at the computer
- Tired feet from standing for hours at a time
- Troubled or dry areas of skin
- Irritated skin from damaging environmental elements like UV rays
This new full-spectrum CBD topical product is for those needing more powerful targeted relief. In addition to a high concentration of balancing CBD, Koi Full Spectrum CBD Balm offers the powerful entourage effect that comes from using the plant’s compounds altogether. When used together, CBD and the other compounds work synergistically to enhance their effects.
As a topical, Koi Full Spectrum CBD Balm lets you direct these powerful entourage effects right to the areas that need attention. Massage it into your skin as needed (even multiple times a day) or regularly for a more preventative care approach.
Our new Koi Full Spectrum CBD Balm expands our popular line of topical CBD products, which also includes our Koi Naturals CBD Balm made with broad-spectrum CBD, and our Koi CBD Gel Roll-On with broad-spectrum CBD and other natural oils. All Koi topicals are third-party tested by accredited labs to ensure their purity and potency.
Types of CBD Balms
Balms can feature various ingredient configurations depending on the brand and purpose of the topical. Common ingredients used to support the CBD extract include hemp seed oil, adaptogens like Chaga mushrooms and ashwagandha root, MTC oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, and shea and cocoa butter.
When deciding on a CBD balm, you’ll want to consider the types of CBD extract you’re most interested in. There are three types of CBD extract used to make CBD balms:
- CBD isolate – This is the purest form of CBD. It contains CBD that’s been isolated from all other plant material. CBD isolate comes in crystalline or powder form, which is then infused in the topical. While effective, CBD isolate balms do have one disadvantage. There’s evidence to suggest CBD and the other compounds in the plant’s extract work together synergistically to maximize their benefits. With the other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids removed, you miss out on this entourage effect.
- Full-spectrum CBD – For most, full spectrum CBD balms are a great way to go. They contain the full hemp profile that retains the other cannabinoids and even trace amounts of THC. Full-spectrum CBD balms are heralded because of the entourage effect, and they also contain flavonoids and terpenes that have additional benefits and effects. The concentration of THC in full-spectrum CBD balm is limited to 0.3% THC by dry weight, which is within the legal limit.
- Broad-spectrum CBD – Broad-spectrum CBD is a middle-ground between Full-spectrum and CBD isolate and can be a great choice. It’s very similar to full-spectrum CBD because it retains the other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. However, with broad-spectrum CBD balms, the small amounts of THC naturally found in the extract are removed.
Getting the right type of CBD balm ensures you get the best results and experience from the balm. While for most, full-spectrum CBD balms are the best, broad-spectrum CBD balms and even CBD isolate have their place. Visit our blog to learn more about the differences between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD extract.
Benefits of CBD Balms
CBD products come in various forms, and each has its place because of the unique experience it offers. CBD balms aren’t any different. By choosing to use CBD balms to support skin health and encourage recovery, you can expect to enjoy some benefits that you wouldn’t get from other types of CBD products, such as CBD oil, gummies, or CBD vapes. This includes:
Localized benefits
CBD balms deliver effects where and when you need them. Unlike ingesting CBD, which delivers balancing benefits throughout your body, you can apply CBD balms to specific areas for localized relief and nourishment.
Easy to apply
Applying balms is easy, even for first-time CBD users. CBD balm application is like applying any other type of balm or topical. The only difference is that we recommend spending more time massaging the balm into the skin to maximize absorption. Apply a generous amount and work it into your affected area.
No measurements necessary
The greatest challenge beginners have with CBD products is determining how much CBD to take. If you take too little, you don’t experience the effects. Granted, some consumers easily find their sweet spot relatively fast. With CBD balms, that’s not a concern. Once you have your jar of Koi CBD balm, you just need to take a small amount of the balm, enough to cover the affected area and spread. It doesn’t have to be precise.
Protects the skin against dryness
CBD balms have a rich oil base that forms a protective layer on the skin. This prevents excessive moisture loss and keeps the skin supple. Because the balm stays on the skin longer than cream, it provides that protective layer longer as it is slowly absorbed into the skin.
Come in multiple options
Choosing to use a CBD balm is not the only choice you will make. Balms come in different formulations to suit any need or preference. From different CBD extracts to different oil bases and ingredient formulas, balms come in various forms and sizes for various functions. You can choose the one that appeals to you most.
How to Use CBD Balms
Using your CBD balm correctly maximizes the effects and enhances your experience. Luckily, using CBD balms correctly isn’t a toll order.
- Read the instructions – Every reputable brand includes simple and easy-to-understand instructions on the packaging on how to make the most out of its products. Ensure you read the instructions, and while at it, double-check the ingredients list to make sure there’s nothing you’re allergic to. Some brands also include a CoA, have a look at that as well.
- Do a patch test –When using a new topical product, even a CBD balm, it’s good practice to always start with a patch test. Apply a small amount of the balm to a discrete part of the skin and observe for 24 hours. If there’s no reaction, you can proceed to apply as desired.
- Clean and dry the skin – Start by cleaning the skin around the area where you want to apply the balm. Cleansing the skin removes the barrier of dirt that might prevent full absorption of the balm and helps open the pores.
- Spread the balm – Take a generous amount of the balm and spread it gently on the affected area. Take some time to massage the balm into the skin to maximize absorption.
- Apply regularly and consistently – The skin creates a barrier that protects the body against external contaminants and does an excellent job of limiting what gets into the body. You can counter this by applying the balm at regular intervals and around the same time to optimize absorption and the effects of CBD.
How to Choose the Right CBD Balm For You
Not all CBD balms are the same, and you’ll have a much better experience if you take a little time to find a high-quality product made by a reputable company. Here are a few tips to help you in the process.
Brand reputation
At Koi CBD, we have invested in technology and research to make the best quality CBD balms that are safe and effective. By buying CBD balm from an industry-leading brand, you’re assured of the best quality and experience.
You can tell a brand’s reputation and the quality of its range of CBD balms by looking at customer reviews. Most brands will have the reviews on their official websites, but you can also find the same on third-party review sites.
The longevity of the brand also speaks a lot about its reputation. Most no-name CBD brands are relatively new with no proven track record compared to reputable brands that have been around for several years and continue to grow.
Third-party lab tests
Reputable companies in the CBD industry utilize third-party testing to verify the safety and quality of their consumer products. Third-party testing helps you know that the products you use are free of toxins and effective.
Third-party testing confirms the CBD concentration of the final product, the quality of the ingredients used, and the safety of the products. Third-party testing is particularly crucial for topical CBD products to ensure you get what you’re paying for.
Brands post the results of the third-party tests in what is called a certificate of analysis (CoA). Consumers can view the CoAs for CBD balm before making a purchase. If a brand doesn’t have the CoAs readily available, that serves as a red flag.
Ingredients
CBD balms have more ingredients than CBD extract to facilitate the effectiveness and absorption of the product. With more ingredients, there is a higher chance that bad actors will use substandard ingredients. Some low-quality CBD balms use ingredients that could worsen your discomfort and cause undesirable skin effects. Make it a rule to check the ingredient list when buying topicals to ensure you pick those made using quality ingredients.
Why Koi CBD Balms Are the Best in the Market
If you want CBD products from a reputable brand that cares not only about making quality CBD products but also about its many customers, Koi CBD is your best bet. Our CBD balm is the best on the market. Here’s why:
USA-grown Hemp
We don’t take chances with the quality of the ingredients we use to make our CBD balms. We use the best quality CBD extract source from USA-grown hemp with the aid of our experienced partners. The hemp is thoroughly tested to meet the highest quality standards, agricultural requirements, and consistency.
Accredited 3rd Party Testing
Our CBD balm is not only third-party tested but tested in ISO-accredited third-party labs. We use the most reputable labs to run tests on the balms to verify composition, quality, and safety. We have the results of the tests available on our websites for you to check before purchasing the products. Our thorough testing ensures we keep our promise of giving every person the best possible CBD balm and other CBD products.
Batch Level Transparency
Our batch-level transparency allows you to track every CBD balm you buy down to its production batch to acquire information like the Certificate of Analysis and ingredients used to make the balm.
By making our production processes transparent, you get to know everything that goes into your CBD balms. This can also help you understand CBD products better.
Production and packaging
We’ve invested in state-of-the-art production equipment to guarantee the quality of our CBD balms. Most of our production processes are automated to prevent cross-contamination and human intervention.
Our CBD balms also come in elegant and thoughtful packaging. The packaging maximizes the shelf-life of the balm and provides information, including a complete ingredient list and instructions that make the product easy to use.
CBD Balm FAQs
The understanding of how CBD works has come a long way. Once applied to the skin, CBD is thought to enter the body through the pores on the skin and interacts with the CB2 receptors near the skin’s surface. This interaction activates the endocannabinoid system to restore balance and support various important functions, including those related to discomfort and soreness, and skin care. Visit our guide to CBD topicals to learn more.