Topical
A cannabis-infused product designed to be applied to the skin for localized relief of pain, inflammation, and various skin conditions.
Topicals come in various forms, like creams, lotions, balms, salves, oils, and transdermal patchesâand some incorporate other ingredients, like menthol, camphor, or essential oils to enhance their therapeutic effects (similar to Bengay or Tiger Balm).
When you slather a cannabis topical on your sore shoulder, the cannabinoidsâCBD, THC, or othersâbind to the receptors in your skin and peripheral nerves. But because they donât typically cross into the bloodstream, they probably wonât get you high. Your elbow might feel amazing, but your brain likely wonât notice a thing.
One exception? Transdermal patches. These slow-release stickers do cross into the bloodstream, which means they can provide full-body reliefâand yes, psychoactive effects, if THC is onboard. Think of it like a time-release edible that skips the taste test and digestive drama.
People report topicals for targeted relief within minutesârelief that can last a few hours at the application site. While evidence of their efficacy is anecdotal, itâs supported by the fact that the skinâs endocannabinoid system modulates pain and inflammationââ.
Common uses include easing:
- Sore muscles
- Arthritis and joint pain
- Nerve pain (like neuropathy)
- Inflammatory skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis)
Topicals are appealing to those who want the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without any mental effects. They are also used in dermatology research. (Cannabinoids have demonstrated anti-itch and antibacterial properties, which hold potential for wound or acneââ care.)
In short: topicals are the chill, non-psychoactive way to get cannabis where it hurts, without sending your head to space. Rub it in, feel better, move on.

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