Is CBD and massage good for you? Use of cannabis & related CBD is increasing with massage therapists across the U.S. Since cannabis is legal recreationally and medically in many states, using THC and CBD has become a new lifestyle. Now, even the spas offers exclusive cannabis treatments that promise maximum relaxation.
More massage therapists in Washington are incorporating cannabis and cannabidiol in their practice because according to the state laws, it is legal to a certain extent. According to the State of Washington, you can use THC to get high recreationally, however, the massage therapists can only use CBD or CHABA infused products on their clientele.
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CHABA and Massage
CHABA or the cannabis health and beauty statute of Washington State, regulates CBD and massage for the industry. Products containing 0.3% THC or less are considered hemp or a beauty aid that are legal to use by a LMT.
What is used in the massage is cannabis oil, which is a derivative of hemp. This oil contains CBD or cannabidiol, a component present in some of the many cannabis varieties. Unlike THC which has psychoactive powers, cannabidiol helps to relax muscles. According to studies, the benefits of applying CBD topically, helps to release anxiety and muscle pain and relieve inflammation.
Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive and anti-inflammatory. Both CBD and THC are called phytocannabinoids which occur naturally in the cannabis plant.
In 2020, there will be a least 11 states that have legalized marijuana recreationally. Approximately 33 states allow the use of marijuana legally for medicinal purposes. In addition, most U.S. states have made it legal to use cannabidiol (CBD) oils and lotions. Moreover, CBD is used to combat wellness and health related issues in both humans, as well as, animals.
As a massage therapist, you should familiarize yourself and perhaps your clients with the laws in your state. Products that contain CBD, as well as, THC are becoming more popular for the LMT and their clientele. And of course you may be able to charge additional fees for sessions incorporating legal forms of cannabis.
CBD Massage Oils
Without a doubt, a massage with these exclusive oils will prove to be a new experience for those who are tired or stressed. Massage with CBD topicals, is indicated for all types of patients with fibromyalgia, for athletes with muscle injuries, for patients with cancer, multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, lower back pain, among others.
CBD infused chocolate, salves, creams, lotions, oils, candies, sprays and patches, and more, are being used for relaxation and relieving pain. The massage therapist can enhance their practice and income by understanding and using cannabis related extras.
Benefits of CBD Massage Oils
The active ingredient cannabidiol has some positive effects on the human body. While THC is psychoactive and intoxicating, CBD provides the body with relaxation and health without getting high.
Since this component of the cannabis plant generally helps against joint pain, it is obvious that the CBD is also used in massage oils. Soothing massage treatments combined with pain-relieving and muscle relaxant effects are very effective.
Moreover, oils that are applied to the skin provide moisture and nutrients. The other components of massage oils with CBD are usually olive oil, almond oil and hemp oil, which mainly have a moisturizing effect. Furthermore, products infused with terpenes, create natural aromas and flavors like blueberry, strawberry, pineapple, and more.
Most important, cannabidiol is full of minerals and trace elements, which serve the body in many ways. Minerals, vitamins and trace elements ensure a regulated metabolism in the organism and are also responsible for the maintenance and production of many human processes.
CBD oil has an antibacterial effect and cleans the skin surface. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect on irritated areas and promotes healing. That is why the oil can also be used safely on impure skin.
Cannabis Infused Massage
Above all, CBD stimulates the metabolism and ensures more effective regeneration of the body and skin cells. Cramps and aching muscles can be treated effectively with CBD oils and massage. The cannabinoid is also suitable for overall bone health and strengthens the joints. All in all, it is a pervasive product from nature, which achieves quick results, especially when coupled with massage.
Also noted, CBD is quickly absorbed through the skin and actively relieves pain. Massage oil with this active ingredient is an ideal remedy. Rheumatic complaints and other arthritic pain are also part of the scope of CBD and show positive effects against the symptoms, as well as, the cause. Headache and neck pain can also be alleviated by ingesting CBD.
CBD, Massage, and Sensitive Skin
The active ingredient cannabinoid contains a lot of the very rare gamma-linolenic acid, which is an active substance against psoriasis, as well as, neurodermatitis. Mostly, Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids found in CBD strengthen the skin layers, give it more flexibility and more shine. Coupled with CBD and massage, these fatty acids can help your skin look younger.
Thanks to the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, CBD oil is the ideal remedy for acne and blemished skin. CBD can be used without hesitation for sensitive skin. Its relaxing and calming effect is in no way restricting the senses. Swollen skin areas are also treated effectively with CBD oils and even soothes the skin areas afterward.
CBD Massage Oil is Non-Allergenic
The active ingredient cannabidiol is proven to be almost perfectly absorbed by the skin and mucous membranes without residues. Depending on the way the oil is processed, CBD oil can be almost hypo-allergenic and free of any side effects. Moreover, cannabidiol does not irritate or dry out mucous membranes, and therefore can be an alternative to commercially available lubricants.
CBD and Side Effects
There are no known adverse side effects of massage oils with CBD. You cannot overdose, nor does it make you feel uncomfortable. However, there are no allergies to other additives in CBD massage oil, such as almond oil. In case of uncertainty, you can request a little massage with CBD oil to a healthy area of the skin, wait for five minutes, and see how you feel.
In contrast, children and pregnant women should generally not use CBD products. It is because there is currently no concrete study on the long-term effects of CBD during pregnancy
Also, an oil with cannabidiol should ideally be stored in a cold and dark place. Preferably, the oil should use dark bottles, where it is protected from daylight and sun. The massage oils cannot be expired, but it is recommended to use new oil in the first three to five months.
Finally, you do not need to apply a large amount of CBD because the oil is easy to distribute on the skin and active ingredients quickly reach the body via the skin cells.
CBD Massage Cream
CBD Cream is an innovative cream indicated for the relief of muscle and joint pain with cannabidiol (CBD). Analgesic and anti-inflammatory creams are formulated with plants with medicinal properties. CBD cream is consequently suitable for frequent and prolonged use for chronic pain.
Even more, CBD product is usually sold with 100% natural ingredients. The standard components included are cannabidiol, arnica, apitoxin, cannabis sativa oil, menthol, calendula, and more.
CBD is one of the most abundant cannabinoids in cannabis and has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant properties. That is why CBD cream can reduce the transmission of pain signals.
Moreover, CBD cream for massage also contains cannabis sativa oil. It is an oil from the seeds of the cannabis plant. It provides excellent hydration to the skin, nourishes it, and stimulates better blood circulation. It is an antioxidant, anti-aging compound and helps strengthen the immune system. It is rich in amino acids and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.
CBD cream is usually indicated for pain relief of bones, lumbar, cervical, knees, ankles, shoulders, back, neck, also in muscle injuries or in joints and ligaments. Mostly, CBD cream is an anti-oxide, anti-aging gift from nature that helps strengthen the immune system.
CBD Creams Effect on Massage
Applying cannabis cream on the skin is ideal both to nourish, hydrate, and rejuvenate it, as well as, treats some disorders such as psoriasis, acne, dermatitis, and rosacea. Cannabis is very rich in antioxidants, thus fighting the appearance of free radicals, which delays aging.
A facial mask based on cannabis cream will also leave your skin looking like new. Another way in which marijuana can regenerate and beautify your skin is through the cream of seeds. While marijuana and hemp have noticeable differences, the properties of hemp seeds are excellent for revitalizing and smoothing wrinkled skin.
Also, hemp seed cream or ointment, contains large amounts of vitamins and minerals and is anti-inflammatory. Massage therapists in most states can now provide and even sell products infused with CBD to their clientele. Repeat retail customers can be an extra income stream to the practitioner.
Get involved in your local service area to educate and provide products and services to eager repeat clients. Finally, cannabis cream and seed cream are not the same. As much as some vendors insist, the genuine and best ointment is cannabis cream!
If you suffer from back pain, a cannabis cream massage can help you remediate suffering. Regardless of whether it is lower back pain or another type of pathology, cannabis is perfect for treating back pain. You should give yourself a cannabis cream massage in the painful area 3 or 4 times a day for best results.
CBD Massage Certification
For therapists, there is plenty of continuing education and online information to give you the knowledge to excel in this new specialty. The increasing massage therapy industry, along with CBD and its estimated $20 billion dollar “green mine”, needs to be addressed and explored. There are plenty of specialists and courses being offered to educate the LMT.
Practitioners should keep ahead of Federal and Local issues that may arise and change. In addition, LMT’s should strive to improve the industry and inform the public to use cannabis and CBD responsively. There is actually continuing education in Washington State on the subject of cannabis and massage to educate the massage therapist.
CBD Massages for Athletes
Marijuana and sports has not mixed and has been a major problem and controversy in professional sports. Because cannabis has been banned in many sports, many talented athletes have been disciplined and even released from their teams. Most noteworthy, since January 1, 2018, CBD or cannabidiol is no longer part of the list of products banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
Also, as of December 2019, Major League Baseball (MLB) has officially removed marijuana from the banned substance list. Unfortunately, THC and the rest of the hundred cannabinoids present in cannabis are still on the banned list federally and in many states. Massage and its benefits to the body for movement, strength, recovery improvement, and general natural therapy has helped the “movement”. The use of CBD massages can be extremely beneficial to relieve the discomfort derived from sports training.
Likewise, during sports, joints, tendons, and muscles are subjected to intense efforts that produce small lesions. This condition often generates pain and inflammation. As a consequence, after a training session, we often feel tired and sore, maybe even exhausted.
Most noteworthy, the immune system can be affected by fatigue, reducing its ability to fight disease. Sleep and rest are the usual remedies to promote body recovery between workouts. The speed of recovery of an athlete is a crucial element to assess how far an athlete can go. The faster they recover, the sooner they can perform another intense workout and improve their fitness.
CBD and Sports
Also, CBD is an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, neuroprotective, sleeping, and appetite stimulant cannabinoid.
Most noteworthy, CBD is most appreciated by athletes because it has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and effects. CBD reduces pain after training and facilitates recovery. Cannabidiol is a very potent anti-inflammatory without the side effects associated with pharmaceuticals. Therefore, CBD can be used for long periods without harm to the body and dependency.
A massage with CBD reduces frequent muscle spasms or cramps in tired and dehydrated muscles, both during exercise and recovery.
Moreover, with oral consumption, CBD and THC often stimulates the appetite. It is a property highly appreciated by bodybuilders who need to eat a large number of daily calories even if they are not hungry. Another useful feature of cannabidiol is that it facilitates sleep and combats insomnia, which affects muscle recovery after training.
CBD Helps Recovery
Furthermore, CBD even helps in the recovery of traumatic brain injuries in contact sports such as boxing and mixed martial arts. In fact, some MMA fighters use CBD before and after fighting. Anandamide (also called the happiness molecule) is the primary regulator of the endogenous cannabinoid system.
It is a neurotransmitter manufactured by the body and is responsible for the “corridor balloon,” a feeling of concentration and absence of pain that appears during exercise, workouts, and intense exercise. CBD influences this system by preventing the degradation of anandamide and favoring a more intense effect such as a “runners high”.
NSAID’S and CBD
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s), such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or diclofenac, are the drugs most used by the general population and also by athletes. Although they are useful and effective, they do not lack contraindications and side effects.
For example, NSAID’s are quite harmful to the digestive system. They also affect the immune system, the heart, the liver and the kidneys. Although its occasional use is not dangerous, special care must be taken with continued use, as well as, in senior patients.
On the other hand, CBD is not addictive; it is not toxic and has no known side effects. Therefore CBD can be used frequently and even daily without problems in the treatment of inflammation. A massage with CBD oil for an athlete is a pain reliever, and can solve chronic pain and acute pain, favoring better body recovery and rest.
Can a LMT use CBD in Washington State?
As mentioned previously, licensed massage therapists in Washington State are free to use CBD on their patients if the product contains less than 0.3% THC. Items defined in statute as cannabis health and beauty aids (CHABA) are legal for massage therapists to use in their practice.
According to RCW 69.50.575, items containing 0.3% THC or less are considered hemp or a cannabis health and beauty aid (CHABA). CHABA products are legal for LMT’s to use in their practice. It is not recommended for massage therapists in Washington State to use products, including topicals and oils that contain greater than 0.3% THC on their clients.
Either medical, recreational, or client provided products should not be used by a massage practitioner in their sessions. Note: Federally, in all U.S. states, if a therapist applies high concentrated THC cannabis oils as part of their practice, they are illegally administering a Schedule 1 drug and could be prosecuted and lose their license.
Cannabidiol has Positive Effects
In summary, cannabis and cannabidiol has positive effects on external and internal health. Mostly CBD product is still used for relaxation, as well as, natural skincare. It is free of chemicals and aggressive additives that exacerbate many a problem. You can even apply CBD to the face, lips, and neck without hesitation.
Generally, a massage with cannabis oil or cream acts as an analgesic. It is a topical painkiller without side effects. Moreover, it will help you reduce inflammation in tissue and muscle. Although the muscles do not appear to be swollen outside, they always swell inside when you feel pain.
At the same time, cannabis will transfer its relaxing properties to your muscles and body in general. With a good massage, the result will be double. If you have been enduring the pain for a while, it will improve your self-esteem. Finally, topical cannabis application also appeases muscle spasms and cramps.
CBD, Massage Therapy, and the Law
In conclusion, massage therapists are incorporating CBD into their sessions. As more research and study is made available, there is sure to be explosive demand for CBD and massage well into the future. As a precaution, and mostly, since cannabis and THC is state and federally enforced, you should never jeopardize your hard earned license and profession.
Hence, you should follow those LMT mentors and use only CBD products that are approved, tested, and popular in your locale. Stay in compliance and stay ethical and do not assume that you will not be audited or targeted for using questionable cannabis for massage. With the noted advantages and benefits of cannabis and CBD, laws and regulations will be appropriated for the licensed massage therapist and public.
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