With vaping and edibles getting so much attention these days, let us not forget about the value and benefits of topical cannabis, like balms, lotions, oils and salves, that are showing remarkable results in healing skin wounds and abrasions, as well as easing muscular pain.

The cannabis plant contains over 90 unique chemicals, known as cannabinoids, with THC being the primary and best-known compound for obvious reasons, cannabidiol (CBD) is now recognized as the second compound of significance.

Recently, studies have found that topical CBD may be helpful in treating malignant wounds.

A case report published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management had this to say: “Anecdotal accounts of the use of topical extracts from the cannabis plant being used on open wounds date back to antiquity. In modern times, cannabinoid therapies have demonstrated efficacy as analgesic agents in both pharmaceutical and botanical formats.”

The combination of CBD and terpenes (the molecules that gives weed its distinct scent), according to the study, are what makes cannabis valuable in healing skin abrasions.

Medical cannabis patients have reported success with full extract cannabis oils when applied on to wounds caused by skin cancer or other illnesses.

Full extract cannabis oil is also called Rick Simpson Oil (RSO). Simpson became known around the world when he successfully treated his skin cancer lesions with cannabis oil.

Word to the wise: Before applying any topical products on broken or irritated skin, it is important to check whether they contain any harmful solvents or additives, including grain alcohol. Organic coconut oil and almond oil are widely considered to be safe for the skin.

Research published in 2008 also suggested that THC and CBD are effective antibiotics and have successfully killed severe strains of antibiotic resistant bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), in the laboratory.

A study, published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, posited that CBD may also be useful in treating acne abrasions.

“Collectively, our findings suggest that, due to the combined lipostatic, anti-proliferative, and anti-inflammatory effects, CBD has potential as a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of acne vulgaris,” the study concluded.

And last but not least—muscular pain.

Written By: Maureen Meehan for High Times Magazine