When it comes to CBD goods, people can choose from a truly wide range of different products, each promising unique benefits and relief. Among these options, CBD-infused creams and salves stand out as popular choices for those seeking localized relief from various ailments.
The terms CBD salve and CBD cream are often used interchangeably. In reality, these are actually two different products in terms of their compositions, applications, and efficacy. Whether you’re a seasoned CBD enthusiast or a newcomer exploring its therapeutic potential, understanding the differences between CBD salve vs. cream will help you make an informed decision regarding your wellness routine.
What Is a CBD Salve?
A CBD salve is a topical product infused with cannabidiol (CBD) extract, typically derived from hemp plants. Unlike other CBD products such as oils or edibles, which are ingested or applied orally, salves are designed for external use, providing targeted relief to specific areas of the body.
Salves are by no means a modern invention - in fact, their usage dates back to the times of ancient Egypt, where they played a crucial role in the mummification process. Additionally, they were used to deal with infections, irritation, and provide ache relief.
How Are CBD Salves Made?
In ancient Egypt, salves were made from a combination of beeswax or vegetable wax, along with herbs and essential oils. Modern CBD salves are crafted through a meticulous process that involves blending cannabidiol (CBD) extract with a variety of complementary natural ingredients.
The whole process can be summarized in 4 steps:
- Extract CBD from hemp using methods like CO2 or solvent extraction.
- Mix the CBD extract with carrier oils like coconut or hemp seed oil to help it absorb into the skin.
- Add natural waxes such as beeswax or candelilla wax to get the desired texture.
- Add essential oils and botanical extracts to boost the salve's properties and fragrance.
As you can see, centuries went by, but the CBD salve know-how remained practically the same!
What Is a CBD Cream?
A CBD cream is a topical formulation, typically made with a cream base blended with CBD extract. CBD creams contain a balanced mixture of oil and water to ensure skin hydration and provide a familiar consistency.
Some CBD topicals may also incorporate additional ingredients, such as minor cannabinoids, oils, various extracts, vitamin E, or aloe, for added skincare benefits.
How Are CBD Creams Made?
Given that CBD creams and salves are both topicals, their manufacturing processes are quite similar. Again, the first step is to extract cannabidiol from the plant by solvent extraction, CO2 extraction, or steam distillation. However, manufacturers of CBD creams can choose whether to use the entire cannabis plant or just a fraction of it.
Following the extraction process, CBD oil undergoes infusion with carrier oils, herbs, and, notably in the case of CBD creams, water. While CBD salves contain little to no water, some CBD creams could be made from as much as half water and half carrier oil to achieve the desired consistency and effect.
CBD Cream vs. Salve - What’s the Difference?
The main difference between a CBD salve and a CBD cream is their composition. CBD salves are entirely oil and wax-based, which results in a longer shelf life. CBD creams, as we mentioned earlier, have a percentage of water in their base, meaning they’re absorbed faster by the skin.
CBD creams are suitable for everyday application, particularly during optimal times of the day for CBD usage. On the other hand, CBD salves need more time to be absorbed, which makes them ideal for massages and rubs aimed at ache and muscle relief.
For a more detailed breakdown of CBD salve uses, check out this post! And if you want to learn more about CBD salves in general, feel free to explore our dedicated guide.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know what’s the difference between a CBD cream and CBD salve, you can decide which product would suit your needs best. While both offer a potential, targeted relief from discomfort and irritation, their differences in composition, consistency, and absorption rate cater to diverse preferences and needs.
Whether you opt for the fast-absorbing nature of CBD creams for daily use or the prolonged efficacy of CBD salves for targeted massages and rubs, Leanna Organics is ready to assist you along the way. Discover the potential of these natural remedies with us!