Sore Muscles & CBD

The concept of May Day (May 1) dates way back to ancient agricultural rituals in Greece.  It’s traveled through medieval and modern Europe, to us here today – celebrating the return of Spring. Spring has definitely sprung – even here in West Michigan.  I definitely think we are all ready for the new life and growth that we’re seeing after what felt like the longest. Winter. Ever. At least since last year. 

What else comes with all this new life and growth? Our desire to get out into it!  We are definitely spending more time outdoors, both working and playing! We’re prepping gardens, cleaning up yards, playing spring sports.  You name it, we’re doing it.  If you’re anything like me, you hibernate a bit in the winter.  I’m moving my body less and camping on the couch more.  So when that Spring activity level kicks into gear, it’s a big change! Sometimes, it’s a big, painful change when those muscles and joints start getting stressed.  Luckily, I have CBD to help – and I’m hoping you do, too!

Why does CBD help with muscle recovery?

We’ve talked a great deal about the endocannabinoid system (ECS) over our blog history. The ECS works to promote balance in our bodies – keeping everything in neutral. It’s made up of a system of CB1 & CB2 receptors that cannabinoids can bind to. 

CB1 receptors – found primarily in our central nervous system

CB2 receptors – found in peripheries like skin

Cannabinoids can bind to either receptor. The neutralizing effect that they have depends on where that receptor is located. So, if it’s a CB1 receptor in the brain, the result may be a reduction in anxiety. If it’s a CB2 receptor in a joint, neutralizing will mean pain and inflammation relief.  

Should I use CBD on the outside or inside?

Both! They even work really well together. 

• Outside – Cannabinoids and our skin are primarily made up of lipids, so one melts quite nicely into the other. That allows you to get that anti-inflammatory right to the source of your pain. CBD applied to your skin gets to work quickly (within 15-30 minutes), and will last about 4-6 hours.  Lotions and balms don’t get all the way into your bloodstream – they stay local, working their neutralizing magic on those muscles and joints. 
• Inside – Anything that you take in orally will get into your bloodstream and travel to those hard to reach receptors, resulting in internal benefits. Those capsules, liquids, gummies, etc will take more time to get to work for you (60-90 minutes) but they will bind and keep working for you for at least a full 24 hours.  

Do I have to take it all the time?

Yes, and no.  

• In order for you to see the best results from an internal CBD, consistency is key.  You want to build up a reservoir that your ECS can keep tapping into.  When we’re talking about sore muscles and joints, CBD can really be taken “as needed.” It gets right to the source of the soreness quickly and easily – and doesn’t need to be taken every day.  You’ll just want to reach for it after a long day in your yard spreading that mulch or pulling those weeds. 

We’re not the only ones coming out of hibernation in the spring – the birds and the bees and the flowers and the trees are, too! (Isn’t that a song?) That means a return to bug bites and allergies.  Good times! Luckily, CBD can help there, too. Those same salves that can sink in and soothe sore muscles can offer a break for irritated skin. Anytime that you are looking for a skin soother, pay close attention to those ingredients.  You want to keep the list limited and it’s generally a good idea to avoid things you can’t pronounce! Stick to natural options.  The last thing we want to happen is to irritate the skin more when we’re trying to soothe it.  Make sure that you have a great natural bug spray in your arsenal as well.  You’ll need it for your celebration of spring. Happy May Day! 

Do you have any great tips for soothing tired muscles or angry skin? We’d love to hear them and we’re always here to help! You can find us on social media, live chat, by email at support@greenwellnesslife.com or by phone at 866-244-4223.  Stay well!