CBD + Arnica: Two Natural Powerhouses That Seriously Work Together

Now more than ever, people like us are looking for alternative options to relieve discomfort. Active lifestyles and old injuries can hold us back, but there is hope for a natural solution! CBD oil paired with Arnica may be one super-charged option, and for good reason. This combination is becoming a popular way to provide serious relief for many different types of aches and pains.

The benefits of topical CBD alone may potentially do the trick if you are looking for help with discomfort and may certainly take the edge off. But there are other powerful ingredients that topical CBD can be combined with to optimize results. Arnica has shown to be one of those ingredients. Let’s dig a little deeper into CBD and Arnica and talk about this great combo.

What is Arnica?

Arnica is a natural herb that is grown in temperate climates, such as central Europe and Siberia. There are even some parts of the United States where it can be grown. The flowers of the plant can be used for medicinal purposes. It is a bright yellow color, which has earned it the nickname, “Mountain Daisy.” Doesn't that already sound like something you would like?

Arnica has many different uses. Not only can it be used to improve physical discomfort, but it is also a flavoring ingredient. It can be used to add flavor to candy, drinks and even frozen desserts. There are companies who even use it in anti-dandruff shampoos and hair tonics. Topical arnica is a more common use, though it is often found for oral use in the supplement aisle.

What is Arnica Used For?

Arnica is most often used as a topical gel, cream or ointment to help with physical discomfort. Remember when you hit your shin on the corner of the coffee table and you had that big bruise? Or the time you wiped out sliding on the tile floor in your socks? Arnica might have been a great remedy in both of these cases.

Typically, Arnica is used as a topical gel or cream, but it can be taken orally in small doses as a homeopathic remedy. In addition to helping relieve discomfort, it may improve the appearance of bruises big and small.

Arnica may also help with swelling and inflammation on those sore spots. This has made it a popular choice for people after they have had certain types of surgical procedures, or are recovering from general clumsiness. Arnica is also popular for athletes who compete in contact sports like soccer, boxing or even skateboarding.

Arnica may also help to relieve muscle soreness. Additional studies have been done to determine its effectiveness in treating several conditions. But more research still needs to be done in those areas.

Does ArnicaHave Side Effects?

Most people who take Arnica do so without any noticeable side effects. But supplements can and do often have side effects and Arnica is no different. It is not recommended to use it on broken skin, and it may cause irritation if used for an extended period of time. Also, it may not be recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. They should always consult with their doctors prior to starting a regimen that includes Arnica.

It is possible for some people to have an allergic reaction to Arnica as well. If this occurs for you, or you become hypersensitive to it, you should stop using it. You may find that you are also allergic to other plants within the same family, such as:

• -Sunflowers
• -Dandelions
• -Daisies
• -Marigolds
• -Dahlias

There may also be additional side effects, such as:

• -Possible digestive problems (oral administration is not recommended for people with IBS, Crohn’s disease, ulcers or other intestinal or stomach issues).
• -A faster heart rate than normal.
• -High blood pressure.
• -Excessive bleeding during or after surgical procedures.
• -Irritation of the mouth and throat if taken orally.

If you start taking it and you find that you experience any issues, please consult with your doctor right away.

What Methods of Administration Work Best for Arnica?

Arnica is available for topical use as a tincture, salve, ointment, gel or oil. As we mentioned earlier, it can be taken orally, but most people prefer to use it topically because of how quickly it gets absorbed through the skin.

The pills can be effective at helping to improve discomfort caused by sports-related injuries or bruising. But the preferred method of using Arnica is topical. It can be very effective at reducing soreness and the appearance of bruises.

CBD for Discomfort: How Does it Work?

CBD is an acronym for cannabidiol, which is a type of cannabinoid that naturally occurs in cannabis and hemp plants. It does not produce the high feeling that people associate with marijuana; that is actually caused by THC, which is a different cannabinoid. Hemp-derived CBD cannot legally contain more than 0.3% THC, which is not enough to cause any of the stereotypical reactions that cause someone to be “high.”

Topical CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) directly under the skin to reduce discomfort.

The Endocannabinoid System and its Role in Relieving Discomfort

The body is equipped with the endocannabinoid system which consists of endogenous cannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) as well as enzymes that break down cannabinoids. The purpose of the ECS is to promote homeostasis (balance in the body).

This system determines the way we process and utilize cannabinoids within the body both internally and topically. These receptors are primarily located within the brain and immune system. Their job is to receive chemical signals from different types of stimuli. When they receive those signals, they help the cells of the body respond in appropriate ways which can help you feel better, physically and mentally.

When the ECS is not functioning the way it should, the body’s nerve cells are stimulated to increase discomfort when necessary. This typically happens when a person suffers from an injury, or there is another issue that needs to be addressed. That discomfort serves as a warning that something is not right within the body.

You may have heard about the effects of CBD when you are feeling sore. CBD binds to CB2 receptors, inhibiting production of the enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter called “anandamide.” The purpose of anandamide is to block pain receptors. More anandamide equals less pain.

Over 20 years ago, CBD was patented by the U.S. Government as an antioxidant and neuroprotectant. Antioxidants have the ability to combat free-radicals which are a primary cause of inflammation in the body.

Activating receptors through use of CBD may reduce signals of discomfort from the brain. The body synthesizes endocannabinoids on its own, but sometimes that is not enough. That is why supplementing with CBD may be effective. It improves the functionality of the ECS so that it operates normally.

Does CBD Oil Have Side Effects?

CBD is generally well-tolerated even in larger servings. Most people do not experience any side effects when they use CBD oil. But there are some who might be more sensitive to it just like any other substance, and they may experience some mild side effects. Generally, these are not very bothersome, and even if they occur, they tend to go away.

The side effects that are most commonly linked with CBD use include:

• -Fatigue or sedation
• -Diarrhea
• -Changes in appetite
• -Weight loss or gain

Please note that CBD may interact with some medications. It is very important to talk with your doctor before you start using it if you are taking a prescription drug. For instance, there are some types of medications that have a warning not to eat grapefruit. If you are taking one of these medicines, it is best to avoid CBD due to its impact on drug metabolism.

CBD + Arnica: A Powerful Combination to Relieve Physical Discomfort

When CBD and Arnica are combined, people may experience even better results than they would with either one alone. The duo may target irritations and discomforts and provide you with the quick relief you are looking for.

Topical applications of CBD and Arnica may work well because of ECS receptors that are located directly under the skin. With this method of use, CBD acts upon the body’s CB2 receptors.

Using CBD Before and After Exercising

The demand for CBD products has grown tremendously over the last few years. They may have a lot of health benefits, and that includes the possibility of improving your workouts. If you are someone who spends a lot of time at the gym, or who works out at home, you might be surprised to find out how CBD can help with gym soreness.

Bustle released an article by a woman who used CBD both before and after her workouts. She tried different types in order to gauge their effects. She used a CBD edible, an oral spray, and a topical cream.

She tried the edibles and the spray about half an hour before she started her workout. She saved the balm for afterward. During her workout, she only noticed a slight difference in her performance, which she thinks may be contributed to the placebo effect. But afterward, when she applied the cream, she felt almost immediate relief. It did help to soothe her sore muscles, and the tingling sensation she experienced helped as well.

After about a week had passed, she decided to only use the CBD products after her workouts. She found many more benefits, including the fact that her recovery time seemed to have been decreased. Typically, it would take her between 48 and 72 hours to feel ready for another workout, but with CBD, that changed.

Can Athletes Use CBD Too?

Yes, and many of them do. Athletes frequently stress their bodies, and that constant wear and tear on their muscles can lead to excessive inflammation and discomfort. Tara Laferrara is a NASM certified personal trainer, as well as a former sprinter. She says, “It basically manages and prevents my joint inflammation, that aching kind of feeling, that I’d get after a heavy lift day.”

CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may reduce the discomfort that athletes experience from pushing their bodies to the limits. This may make it an effective tool to help with muscle recovery.

“I’ve broken my leg a few times,” professional skateboarder Alec Majerus said in an interview with Monster Children Magazine. “The doctors kept telling me I’d never skate or snowboard again. Honestly, [Receptra topical] CBD has made me feel so much better. I swear by it.”

Another reason athletes might choose CBD oil for discomfort is that it may help improve their performance and endurance. For an athlete who has a balanced cannabinoid system, they may not be able to achieve what is known as the “runner’s high.” This term refers to that exhilarating and euphoric feeling that can sometimes strike during a run or any other type of exercise. It is that feeling that makes the workout seem easier than it is. Using CBD may help to boost endorphins during workouts, which could improve the athlete’s endurance.

But it is also important to note that there are some things that CBD cannot and will not do. For example, it will not completely eliminate an athlete’s need for recovery after a workout. If you are an athlete, you should still allow your body to have the proper amount of recovery time which includes adequate nutrition, hydration, rest and relaxation.

CBD + Arnica for Massage

Massage therapists often consider using CBD oil during massages to help loosen tight muscles and reduce discomfort. But by adding Arnica into the mix, their clients are likely to get even more relief. Because the combination is applied topically through massage, there are additional benefits to be experienced. Using all three together can produce great results.

Charmaine Stattman has been a massage therapist for over 20 years and states, “What I love about Receptra’s Targeted Topical CBD is that my clients respond faster. Muscles relax quickly and my clients experience relief more effectively. If someone comes in with low back pain, me simply massaging them will help. But they typically experience a faster response when I apply Targeted Topical throughout the massage.”

CBD + Arnica for Bruising

When the body gets injured in some way, bruising is a very typical response. It happens because of tiny blood vessels under the skin, which can get damaged by even the slightest impact. The result is that blood gets trapped under the skin.

As time goes on, the trapped blood gets reabsorbed by the body as you heal. But the healing process can be bothersome. The bruise can turn multiple colors and it is usually quite tender to the touch.

Arnica contains compounds that are known to be anti-inflammatory. When it is absorbed through the skin, it goes directly to the bruised area to speed up the healing process.

Do You Need Serious Relief? We Can Help

One of our most popular products is called Serious Relief + Arnica Targeted Topical. This is a type of CBD that is designed to targeted discomfort in the body. It utilizes a blend of natural, organic ingredients that may help you recover faster and get the relief you are looking for.

In addition to containing Arnica, this product also has jojoba, which may minimize any swelling or inflammation that you experience. It also includes jasmine, ylang-ylang, and camphor, which helps to open up the pores for improved delivery. These ingredients may also contribute to fewer aches and pains.

Receptra Naturals’ Serious Relief + Arnica Targeted Topical is a full-spectrum CBD product. It is made from the highest quality, hand-picked hemp flowers, which are grown on family farms in Colorado.

Jojoba

Jojoba oil has a unique chemical structure and it is considered an antioxidant. It has a long shelf life and it is resistant to free radicals. When it is applied to irritated areas of the body, it can have a dramatic anti-inflammatory effect. This is actually thought to be quite similar to what a person might experience when taking an NSAID, such as Ibuprofen.

Jojoba also has a soothing and repairing effect on the skin. It acts as a moisturizer, which is another benefit that may interest you if you are particularly concerned about bruising after an injury.

Jasmine

Jasmine is a plant with a flower that is often used to make various types of medicine. In oil form, it may be used as a carrier oil for essential oils. Inhaling it may improve your mood and reduce stress, which is so important when you are experiencing physical discomfort.

Jasmine is sometimes used as a home remedy for its antispasmodic properties. Many massage therapists use it because it might release tension in the muscles. It may be beneficial in helping with discomfort from muscle injuries for this reason.

Ylang-Ylang

Ylang-Ylang is a type of essential oil that is frequently used in aromatherapy. One of its main components is linalool, which may have stress-reducing properties. Inhaling this oil is believed to send messages to the limbic system, which is the part of the brain that controls emotions. This part of the brain also may influence the central nervous system.

Absorbing Ylang-Ylang through the skin may be able to help reduce stress, which is usually ever-present when a person deals with aches and pains.

Camphor

Camphor oil is extracted from the wood of camphor trees. It is processed by steam distillation, and from there, it has many uses. You can use it to alleviate discomfort and irritation, which is why it is such a useful ingredient. It may also have an impact on inflammation in the body.

Camphor produces tingling, warming or cooling sensations when it is applied directly to the skin. This alone can help with discomfort, and it can also help the body relax, which loosens tight muscles.

Learn More About CBD + Arnica for Physical Discomfort

At Receptra Naturals, we know that your life is much too busy to be dealing with discomfort, aches and pains. Whether you are a busy mom or a top athlete, you need your body to be functioning well. You may be new to the idea of using CBD oil, which means you may have a lot of unanswered questions. Please check out our FAQ page to find the answers you are looking for.

Both CBD and Arnica may be powerful forces on their own, but together, they become a powerhouse! We would love to invite you to give our product, Serious Relief + Arnica Targeted Topical a try. You may also want to consider Receptra™ Seriously Relax CBD Body Oil with arnica which is perfect for a massage, after a shower or at the end of a long day. Let us know what you think!

Do you have questions about CBD and Arnica for your physical discomfort? Please contact us.