Without a doubt, nature knows best. Throughout history plants have proven to be our strongest allies. Plant derived oils in particular are little powerhouses when it comes to wellness, offering us a plethora of therapeutic benefits. For pain management specifically though, it is Cannabis oil that has taken center stage. But by combine Cannabis Oil with other plant oils results can be greatly magnified. Here is why….

Cannabis is packed full of cannabinoids, the most prominent of which being THC & CBD. These cannabinoids have the ability to interact with the body’s very own endocannabinoid system, providing both analgesic and anti-inflammatory responses. The bodies largest organ, the skin, contains millions upon millions of cannabinoid receptors making topical Cannabis for pain an extremely effective tool. But CBD & THC are not the only players when it come to the potent effects of topical cannabis for pain management.

Lets take a look at terpenes. These are the primary compounds responsible for the aromatic properties of ALL plants. It is a plant’s resin glands that secrete specific terpenes which give each plant their unique aroma and flavor. Think pine, citrus, lavender, or even the highly recognizable smell of OG Kush. These smells are all direct products of terpene secretion. Terpenes do much more than just secrete those wondrous aromas that we all know and love though. They also carry their own sets of therapeutic properties similar to those of CBD & THC.

Linalool, for example, is a common terpene found in both Cannabis and lavender and is known for its calming effects. It also has very powerful anti-inflammatory properties though, making it an ideal candidate for topical applications. Another common and well recognized terpene is terpinen, a major component of the essential oil of tea tree as well as many cannabis strains. Terpinen also exhibit strong anti-inflammatory properties. By further examining the therapeutic benefits of terpenes, science is recognizing that they play a very powerful role when it comes to pain management.

Just like CBD & THC, terpenes themselves readily absorb into the body carrying with them many therapeutic properties.

Each terpene is unique in that they absorb differently depending on the vehicle in which they are applied. One study suggests that some terpenes absorb at a higher rate when delivered in a topical vehicle created from an oily solution vs in a hydrogel or emulsion. Thus, it is important to take into account the formulation when seeking optimal effects of topical cannabis for pain.

Terpenes can also assist with the transdermal penetration of other compounds. Certain terpenoids provided an almost 198-fold increase in permeability of diclofenac sodium, a topical gel used to treat pain, swelling, and joint stiffness caused by arthritis. The same can be true when it comes to topical cannabis for pain. Terpenes themselves have the ability to bind to cannabinoid receptors which helps CBD & THC penetrate the skin barrier, further enhancing the beneficial effects of these compounds.

The more terpenes the greater the synergistic effects. Terpenes have the ability to magnify the therapeutic benefits of a plant’s individual components. Keeping terpenes unharmed is absolutely key during the extracting process. This is where the choice of extraction method comes into play. Whole plant extraction methods that utilize extremely low temperatures keep a plant’s resin glands in tact, preserving more terpenes than isolate methods of extraction.

Canna-Fusion out of Southern Oregon offers whole plant extracted topical Cannabis for pain in the form of super convenient roll on oils and salves.

Canna-Fusion products are also enhanced with proprietary blends of therapeutic essential oils specific for pain and inflammation. Adding terpene rich essential oils to whole plant extracted cannabis oil results in a symphony, each ingredient working in harmony. Available in multiple CBD:THC ratios, Canna-Fusion salves and oils feature essential oils such as Frankincense, Lavender, and Peppermint. Not only do topicals like these feel and smell great, they just plain work and there’s no high.

Topical Cannabis products that combine the power of essential oils with CBD & THC can provide a fast acting and long natural treatment for pain associated with fibromyalgia, arthritis, and tendonitis. They can also work wonders for minor first aid treatments such as burns, bruises, sprains, and soft tissue injuries. Terpene rich Cannabis topicals are helping kick inflammation (in its many forms) to the curb, effectively and naturally.