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Cannabidiol (CBD), the cannabis compound that’s been touted for its potential healing effects without getting you “high,” has gotten attention for alleviating aches and inflammation. Some athletes have even said it’s a part of their health routine for enhancing performance, particularly when they’re experiencing pain.

It seems that research on the benefits of cand can catch up to the demand for it. It could be a good option for post-workout pain.

If you decide to use it, you need to know everything you can about the best salves and balms for athletes. We looked for brands that offered safe, effective, high-quality products and had positive reviews from satisfied customers.

A 2020 review of the benefits of CBD for athletes says animal-focused and preliminary research suggests it may help reduce inflammation and pain, a good payoff for those looking for post-workout relief. The review also notes CBD may:

  • Inflammation is linked to gastrointestinal damage.
  • The healing of injuries to the bones is promoted.
  • help relieve stress and anxiety, which can boost mental performance during physical activity

Scientists say more research is needed.

Most of the animal research on CBD supports its anti-inflammatory effects, while other research demonstrates that CBD may offer a solid third-line therapy for people with chronic, noncancer-related pain. Research into CBD and pain is ongoing.

The National Library of Medicine currently lists almost 90 clinical trials testing CBD on different types of pain.

CBD alone shouldn’t show up on a drug test. But there’s a catch: Most CBD products contain trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the intoxicating cannabis compound that does show up on drug tests.

If you’re going to get drug tested, it may be best to avoid CBD products altogether. If you’re not concerned about a positive result but still want to avoid THC, choose broad-spectrum or isolate CBD products, which, by definition, should contain no THC.

Pros

  • It may help with pain relief.
  • It may relieve stress.
  • “It’s easy to buy online or in stores.”
  • many types of products available

Cons

  • Some products contain trace levels of the drug, which can be found on a drug test.
  • There is more research needed on the safety and efficacy of cannabinoids.

We look at safety, quality, and transparency when choosing the best products. The product is listed in this article.

  • is made by a company that provides proof of third-party testing by an ISO 17025-compliant lab
  • The company that made it disclosed the source of theirCannabidiol.
  • The certificate of analysis shows that there is no more than a small amount of cannabinoids.
  • The COA says that passes tests for pesticides, heavy metals, and molds.

We also consider what goes on the list.

  • The company has certifications and manufacturing processes.
  • Product potency
  • The product may contain additional ingredients that support pain relief.
  • indicators of user trust and brand reputation, such as:
    • Customer reviews.
    • whether the company has been subject to a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warning letter
    • Does the company make health claims?

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $40
  • $$ = $40–$60
  • $$$ = over $60

Best CBD balm stick for athletes

CBDMEDIC Active Sport Pain Relief Stick

  • Price: $
  • CBD type: isolate
  • CBD potency: 600 mg per 30-mg stick
  • COA: available by email request

Toss this stick in your bag for whenever you need a little pick-me-up while you’re on the move. The ingredient list includes THC-free CBD, menthol, and camphor for pain relief, as well as moisturizing ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, and a mix of other oils.

For a little pain relief, simply roll it on the areas causing discomfort. It’s also hypoallergenic, which makes it a good option for people with sensitive skin.

You can review the COA by email.

Use code “HEALTH15” for 15% off.

Pros

  • It is easy to apply.
  • Immediate relief is provided.
  • The formula contains beeswax, hemp extract, and jojoba seed oil.

Cons

  • A sticky, greasy mess.
  • Some people find the scent unpleasant.
  • smell may make eyes uncomfortable
SHOP NOW AT CHARLOTTE’S WEB

Best hydrating CBD balm for athletes

CBDistillery CBDol Topical — CBD Balm

  • Price: $$
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 500 mg per 1-oz. container
  • COA: available on product page

Have a sore back, leg, or arm? Massage a generous amount of this CBDistillery salve right on the spot that’s bothering you, and you’re likely to find relief.

It not only contains CBD, but it also has a mix of oils (like coconut, olive, apricot, and sunflower), plus essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus. Made of all-natural ingredients, its thick consistency can provide soothing hydration without the grease.

You can review the COA from the product page.

You can use the code “lifelonghealth” for 20% off sitewide or choose the subscription option for 20% off the first two orders and 25% off the third order.

Pros

  • mild scent
  • It is rich, thick and creamy.
  • It contains shea butter, coconut oil, and hemp seed oil.

Cons

  • It may be able to be hardened in cool temperatures.
  • It may transfer to clothing.
  • There is no option to sort or filter website reviews.
SHOP NOW AT CBDISTILLERY

Best roll-on CBD balm for athletes

Level Select CBD Roll-Ons

  • Price: $–$$
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 900, 1,200, or 1,800 mg per roll-on
  • COA: available online

The product comes in three different levels, based on how much relief you need for your muscles. The cool mint scent provided by the menthol can bring a refreshing, ache-alleviating feel.

“This roll-on is great for traveling. Roll the blend onto your trouble spot by shaking the bottle. You get your money back if you don’t like it within 30 days.”

Code HEALTH40 will get you 40% off.

Pros

  • It is a cooling sensation.
  • There are three levels ofCannabidiol available.
  • It reduces pain and tension.

Cons

  • Some people find the scent too strong.
  • One customer says it made them itch.
SHOP NOW AT LEVEL SELECT

Best cooling CBD balm for athletes

Therabody Revive CBD Body Balm

  • Price: $$$
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 500 mg per 1-oz. container
  • COA: available online

The cooling pain relief is possible with just a pea-sized scoop. Roll the balm between your fingers to make it softer, then apply it directly to the area you want to keep away from your eyes.

This product is certified organic by the USDA. It contains an anti-Inflammatory substance.

The balm has a unique blend of ingredients that will help your skin.

Pros

  • USDA certified organic.
  • It contains coconut oil and arnica oil.
  • Money-back guarantee for 30 days.

Cons

  • Some people find the scent too strong.
  • There were no reviews on the website.
SHOP NOW AT THERABODY

Best lower potency CBD balm for athletes

PlusCBD CBD Balm

  • Price: $
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 100 mg per 1.3-oz. container
  • COA: available on product page

The rest of the ingredients come with their own healing benefits, even though this balm only contains 100mg per container. Almond oil, willow bark extract, and beeswax are used for their properties.

This product is also free of fragrances, dyes, sulfates, pesticides, phthalates, PEGs, and parabens.

Pros

  • Non-GMO ingredients.
  • The scent is relaxing.
  • Green tea leaf extract is hydrating.

Cons

  • sticky consistency
  • It is not effective for some people.
SHOP NOW AT PLUSCBD

Best soothing CBD balm for athletes

CBDfx CBD Cream For Muscle & Joint

  • Price: $$$
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 1,000 mg per 1.7-oz. container
  • COA: available online

This cream from CBDfx is formulated to soothe stiff, sore muscles and joints. The broad-spectrum CBD cream contains menthol, caffeine, and white willow bark to help naturally relieve pain. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free.

The cream is also available in a number of cannabinoid concentrations.

Pros

  • instant pain relief may be provided.
  • It helps reduce tension.
  • pleasant scent

Cons

  • pricier option
  • There is no option to sort or filter website reviews.
Shop now at CBDfx

Here is a quick look at how our picks compare.

CBD product Price CBD type
CBDMEDIC Active Sport Pain Relief Stick $ isolate
CBDistillery CBDol Topical — CBD Balm $$ full-spectrum
Level Select CBD Roll-Ons $–$$ broad-spectrum
Therabody Revive CBD Body Balm $$$ full-spectrum
PlusCBD CBD Balm $ full-spectrum
CBDfx CBD Cream For Muscle & Joint $$$ broad-spectrum

“The best way to find a good product is to look for companies that clearly state how they grow and produce their product. If you can’t find it on the website, you should send an email.”

“The FDA doesn’t guarantee the safety, effectiveness, or quality of over-the-counter products, so you want to look for a product that has an up-to-date COA from a third-party lab.”

The company says the product contains as much as it says it does. Check for results of testing for heavy metals, pesticides, and molds.

“It is best to test out a small amount of salves and balms in a limited area before using them on your skin. If you don’t have a negative reaction, then you should use it.”

Most products will offer dosage suggestions, but you can usually use them as you would other topical products that don’t contain CBD. If you’re new to CBD, start low and slow with a lower dose topical to evaluate what’s right for you and to prevent unwanted side effects.

“There are no evidence-based recommendations for the use ofCannabidiol in products. Epidiolex, a seizure medication approved by the FDA, is one of the most well-knownCannabidiolCannabidiol products’ recommended dosages.”

More studies are needed to understand the proper range ofCannabidiol for a number of medical conditions.

According to research from 2017, CBD is generally considered safe and has few side effects. Some people might experience issues like:

  • fatigue
  • There is a lot of diarrhea.
  • Changes in appetite.
  • Changes in weight.

“Don’t use products on broken skin.”

Since CBD can interact with some medications, it’s important to talk with a doctor or pharmacist before trying any CBD product.

Don’t use CBD if you’re breastfeeding or pregnant.

If you have any health conditions, talk to a doctor before using any newCannabidiol products. Certain medications can interact with candly cane.

“If you experience long lasting or severe muscle pain and stiffness that doesn’t improve with home treatments, including CBD balms, talk to a doctor.”

If you have muscle pain and other symptoms, you should seek immediate medical care.

  • high temperature and stiff neck
  • Weakness in the muscles.
  • It is difficult to move the affected area.
  • There are redness, pain, and swelling in the area.
  • The symptoms started after taking a new medication.
  • There is no clear cause for the severe muscle pain.

How much CBD do athletes need?

There are no recommendedCannabidiol dosages for athletes.

Many products have suggestions on their labels.

It is best to start with a small area of skin to see how theCannabidiol affects your body before treating large areas.

When should athletes take CBD?

The best time to apply a product is after a workout. It is possible that the use of the cannabinoid can help ease any inflammation you are experiencing.

Is CBD good for muscle recovery?

Cannabidiol may be able to assist with muscle recovery.

Exercising and weightlifting cause the breakdown and regrowth of muscles. However, too much inflammation caused by strenuous exercise can delay recovery. Topical CBD can help with inflammation and muscle soreness, allowing your muscles to recover faster.

Will CBD show up on a drug test?

trace amounts of THC will show up on drug tests. Even if the product is labeled broad-spectrum or isolated, trace amounts of THC can be found.

If you have to take a drug test and get a negative result, it is best to avoidCannabidiol products.

If you are looking for a product to help alleviate muscle pain, salves and balms may be able to do the job.

Look for a product that has an up-to-date COA. Broad-spectrum or isolated products are better for avoiding THC. However, be aware that trace levels of the drug may still show up on a drug test.

Is CBD legal?The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3 percent THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3 percent THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.