CBD Patches
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CBD Patches: Here’s What You Need to Know
- Summary
- How Do CBD Patches Work?
- What is CBD?
- What Are CBD Patches Used For?
- Who Can Benefit From CBD Patches?
- CBD Patches vs. Oral CBD Methods
- Can I Use CBD For Pain?
- What Are the Types of CBD Patches?
- How To Use CBD Patches
- Dosage
- Risks and Side Effects
- Overview
- FAQs
Summary
You’ve probably heard of traditional CBD oils, capsules and vapes, but CBD patches are definitely worth knowing about too. If you’re not a fan of swallowing capsules or the taste of oil, this discrete and hassle-free method might just be for you. Read on to find out why CBD patches are a popular option for many CBD consumers today.
How Do CBD Patches Work?
Patches are nothing new, in fact, transdermal patches have been used for decades as a way for medicines to be absorbed into the body. A CBD patch is similar to a nicotine patch that helps smokers quit, but instead of nicotine, it has a precise dose of CBD extract. Patches are sometimes used as a more comfortable alternative for people who dislike taking pills or having injections.
One of the main differences between CBD topicals and CBD patches is that patches are transdermal, meaning the molecules can permeate the skin and absorb into the bloodstream. That’s why it’s advised to apply CBD patches to venous parts of the body, such as ankles, arms, and wrists, as well as areas of thinner skin like the back of the neck, inside of the arm or back of the knee to allow for a higher absorption rate into the bloodstream. Heat from the body activates the patch and slowly releases CBD throughout the day.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of many cannabinoids found in cannabis. Another well-known cannabinoid you’ve probably heard of is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Unlike THC, CBD does not cause any intoxicating effects - in fact, one study suggests that CBD can counteract the negative effects of THC.
Many CBD products contain other cannabinoids in addition to CBD. The different extracts are named full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and isolate.
Full-spectrum CBD extract contains terpenes, flavonoids, and other cannabinoids including legal amounts of THC.
Broad-spectrum CBD extract is similar to full-spectrum but without any traces of THC. This is ideal for people who need to undergo drug testing and anyone else looking to avoid THC in their system.
The last type is CBD isolate, often referred to as pure CBD. As the name suggests, CBD isolate is CBD and no other compounds.
Full- and broad-spectrum CBD are commonly believed to be more effective than isolate products due to the “entourage effect”. This is the phenomenon where hemp compounds work in synergy to boost the effects.
Our collection of CBD patches includes products with full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and isolate extract so choose a patch that best suits your needs.
What Are CBD Patches Used For?
Most CBD patches last for 24 hours and take away the stress of calculating the right dosage. They’re a great option for people who dislike taking pills, the taste of CBD oil or inhaling vapour.
- Efficient cannabinoid delivery
Whenever you apply a CBD patch, you can be sure that approximately 50% of its contents will reach your bloodstream. Vaping CBD boasts a similar bioavailability to that of patches at about 50-60%, although vaping is less likely than CBD patches to deliver cannabinoids into the bloodstream. Even though the lungs are generally good at absorbing CBD, the quality of inhaling varies from person to person, and from puff to puff.
Unlike other oral methods, CBD patches also activate the skin cells and may be valuable for the skin.
- Discrete
If you are seeking a discrete and easy to use method of CBD consumption, CBD patches might be for you. There’s no need to grab a glass of water to swallow a capsule, or use a dropper to place it under the tongue - just place it on a discrete part of your body and allow the patch to get to work.
- Long lasting CBD
Unlike CBD inhalation, where the effects of cannabidiol rapidly peak and soon decrease, CBD patches release cannabinoids in a consistent and steady way over time.
Who Can Benefit from CBD Patches?
A variety of people can benefit from CBD patches. For example:
- Busy people with tight working schedules looking for balance.
- People looking for localised CBD benefits.
- Athletes seeking a natural supplement without any prohibited compounds (broad-spectrum and CBD isolate products).
CBD Patches vs. Oral CBD Methods
CBD patches offer a similar effectiveness to oral methods - there are even some advantages over oral methods. CBD that’s ingested must first be metabolised by your body before it reaches your bloodstream, while CBD that’s absorbed transdermally (through the skin) bypasses this process making it faster acting and more efficient.
What’s more, when taken via oral routes like edibles and capsules, CBD lasts in the body for approximately 4-6 hours while a transdermal patch releases a slow and steady dose of CBD that can last up to 48 hours. This is a great option for busy people, taking away the hassle of remembering to top up their CBD throughout the day. In addition, many people find patches particularly handy if there’s a specific area of the body they want to target like the shoulder or lower back.
Can I Use CBD For Pain?
While research into CBD for pain is in its infancy, cannabis has a history of use for easing pain, anecdotally, as well as in traditional health systems.
Cannabinoids act on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) that helps to regulate pain. CBD patches are often used in targeted areas for relief.
What Are the Types of CBD Patches?
The two most common types of CBD patches include matrix patches and reservoir patches.
Matrix patches typically contain five layers: a peel-off protective layer to safeguard CBD, a CBD-infused "matrix" layer, a separating layer, an adhesive layer holding the "matrix" to the skin, and finally, a backing layer. In matrix patches, the rate of CBD release is not accurately controlled. The released dosage will depend on the size of the patch and the amount of CBD contained inside the matrix.
Reservoir patches have only three layers: a peel-off layer, an adhesive layer, and a protective backing layer. However, the permeable release membrane remains the key element of reservoir patches. In particular, manufacturers fine-tune the release membrane to control the rate of CBD delivery at a steady pace. Compared to matrix patches, reservoir patches are better at controlling the pace of CBD release.
How to Use CBD Patches
Though the above descriptions may sound complicated, using CBD patches is extremely easy. To apply a CBD patch, all you need to do is cleanse the area of skin the patch is being applied to, remove the protective film and apply the patch. Wear it for the indicated timeframe, typically ranging from 6 to 36 hours.
There are a couple of tricks to get the maximum efficiency of a CBD patch.
- Apply the patch on venous parts of the body where capillaries and blood vessels are located underneath a thin layer of skin, close to the surface. These parts include ankles, shoulders, wrists, upper arms, back of the knee and back of the neck. In other circumstances, CBD patches work best when applied directly to the targeted area.
- Whenever you apply a CBD patch, make sure that you thoroughly wash and dry your skin as well as remove any oils or dirt. Keep CBD patches away from chlorine and saltwater.
- Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Dosage
Low-dose patches of around 10-30 milligrams per patch are a good place to start if you’re new to CBD. If desired, users can gradually build up the dosage from there - this is the best way to avoid unwanted side effects. Patches of 50mg plus might be more suitable if you’re looking for something stronger. Always follow the manufacturers instructions and do not exceed 70mg of CBD per day.
Risks and Side Effects
While CBD is a safe and well tolerated compound, there are some possible risks and side effects to consider when using a CBD patch.
Side effects
While side effects are rare, CBD may cause some minor side effects, including fatigue, diarrhea, and appetite changes. Also consider possible reactions to the adhesive on the patch itself if you have sensitive skin.
Drug interactions
CBD may interact with some supplements and medications, especially those that carry a ‘grapefruit warning’. Always consult a healthcare professional before applying a CBD patch if you’re unsure about any potential drug interactions.
THC
If you need to undergo drug testing for work or sport or any other reason, choose a product without traces of THC. Always ensure that the product is from a reputable manufacturer and comes with a lab report confirming the cannabinoid profile.
Where Can I Buy CBD Patches?
CBD patches can now be bought from some high street pharmacies and supermarkets. However, the selection is likely to be limited as CBD patches are still quite a new concept. We recommend buying from specialist CBD shops and online stores as the selection of brands, strengths and types will be larger and you’ll have greater access to product information, either from trained staff or from product descriptions and articles like this one.
When shopping for CBD patches, or any CBD product for that matter, look for the following:
- Up-to-date and available Certificates of Analysis (COAs) or lab reports. Reputable manufacturers should always make their COA’s available to view by the public. These reports should show test results regarding the cannabinoid profile and will sometimes also include a terpene profile and contaminants analysis. Every CBD product on the Alphagreen website comes with a COA that you can view on the product page.
- How much CBD is in it and what type of extract it is (e.g. full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate).
- The product contains legal levels of THC. This will vary from country to country and state to state in the US.
- Where their hemp is sourced from.
- Exactly what ingredients are in each patch.
Your one-stop-shop for CBD
At Alphagreen, we’re committed to your health and wellbeing. That’s why we’ve curated a collection of safe and high-quality CBD products in many forms, including CBD patches. We aim to be with our customers in every step of your wellness journey, so we only have reputable CBD brands on our marketplace. Customers not only have access to many CBD products that suit their lifestyle, but they can also count on products that are laboratory tested to ensure label accuracy.
Overview
- CBD patches are a piece of plaster infused with CBD molecules carried on gel or oil, combined with permeation enhancers. This means that CBD patches can ensure a long-lasting effect with slow-release CBD throughout the day.
- CBD patches are a great fit for people who dislike the taste of CBD oil or wish to avoid inhaling smoke or vapour.
- CBD patches are simple to use so may appeal to busy lifestyles and those who wish to incorporate CBD into their exercise and recovery routine.
- CBD patches work well on venous parts of the body, such as arms, ankles and wrists to achieve faster absorption.
- CBD patches can also be applied directly to the area of your body you’re targeting.
FAQ
What is CBD?
CBD is a natural compound that is derived from the cannabis plant. Once the CBD has been extracted from the plant, it can be added to other products. This could be CBD patches, edibles, shampoo, and so many more.
Is CBD Illegal?
Although CBD is a cannabis derivative, it is important to know that it is extracted from an industrial hemp variety that does not contain high amounts of THC. As a result, CBD is legal in many parts of the world, and it is sold and consumed in the UK and most states in the US.
What Are CBD Patches?
Just as the name suggests, CBD patches are patches containing CBD. They’re applied to the body like a plaster that delivers cannabinoids into your bloodstream.
What Are CBD Patches Used For?
People use CBD for a range of reasons. For example, to ease discomfort and to support a healthy lifestyle. If you are new to CBD, it’s a good idea to begin with a lower dose and see if it works for you. If you feel you need to up the dosage you could purchase a higher dose or apply another patch.
Do CBD Patches Work?
CBD patches work through transdermal absorption, where it is delivered to your bloodstream through the skin. The skin contains endocannabinoid receptors which are responsible for many physiological processes, including pain response. Hence, when CBD patches are applied, they may help to provide relief.
How To Use CBD Patches?
CBD patches should be applied on a dry and clean affected area. Depending on the duration indicated on the product label, CBD patches can be left for 12 to 36 hours to provide targeted tension relief. Take note that some patches are not water-proof, so it is important to read the product label for additional information.
How Do CBD Patches Make You Feel?
CBD patches may provide relief for your body and help you to carry on with your day. More research is needed into the potential benefits of CBD patches.
Will CBD Patches Make You High?
No, most patches contain no THC and full-spectrum products only have a tiny amount. Even with the legal levels of THC, it isn’t enough to cause a high or any intoxication.
Will CBD Patches Show Up On a Drug Test?
While it’s unlikely, it’s possible for full-spectrum products containing trace amounts of THC to show up on a drug test. If this is an issue, opt for broad-spectrum and isolate products that come with a COA to verify the patch is THC-free.
How Long Does It Take For CBD Patches To Work?
It could take up to one hour for you to feel the effects of CBD from the patch.
What Is The Best CBD Patch?
Any of the CBD patches on our list are great options for you! You may wish to try out these patches for yourself, so that you can gain some first hand experience and knowledge of CBD patches.
Are CBD Patches Addictive?
CBD patches are not addictive. Although CBD is a cannabinoid like THC (the main one responsible for the mind-altering effects) CBD is non-psychoactive and non-intoxicating, and therefore the user should not become addicted to it.
Are CBD Patches Better Than CBD Oil For Pain?
While research into CBD’s uses for pain is ongoing, some people prefer to use CBD patches over oil for discomfort. This is because you’ll receive a slow, steady release of CBD to a localised area.
Where Can I Buy CBD Patches Online?
There are many online shops now selling CBD products, but we always recommend purchasing from reputable CBD brands and websites with CBD at the heart of what they do. This way, you can access lab reports and expert CBD information to help you make the right purchase for your needs.