THC Balm
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What are cannabis balms?
Cannabis balms and salves are topical wellness products with a thick, waxy consistency that are infused with cannabis. They are often wax- and oil-based and typically contain a higher concentration of cannabis than other topical cannabis products. Like regular balms, they are applied directly to the skin until absorbed.
Once cannabis balms are absorbed, the cannabinoids in the product react with your endocannabinoid system and cannabinoid receptors (but don’t reach the bloodstream), resulting in targeted relief wherever the balm was applied, without any psychoactive effects.
Types of cannabis balms
Consumers can find cannabis balms and THC salves available in a variety of types and formulations, including:
Solid
Salve (higher oil-to-wax ratio)
Massage balm
CBD-only
THC-only
1:1 THC:CBD
Menthol or cooling balms
Capsaicin or warming balms
Essential oil-infused
Botanical-infused
There are many other wellness topicals and therapeutics available. Find cannabis balms, THC salves, creams, lubricants, and other wellness products at dispensaries near you on Weedmaps.
Benefits of cannabis balms
Consumers choose topical cannabis balms and salves for their various wellness uses, including moisturizing, treating inflammation, localized relief, and skin protection.
Cannabis balms tend to be more concentrated than other cannabis-infused topicals and are intended for targeting smaller areas on the body. Because they take longer to absorb and the effects are stronger than cannabis creams and lotions, cannabis balms are best for occasional or as-needed use, such as after an intense workout or to provide some relief from a headache or sore muscles.
How cannabis balms are made
Cannabis balms are made by infusing a cannabis extract into a carrier oil (such as coconut oil, olive oil, or jojoba oil), which allows cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and/or CBN to be absorbed through the skin.
Once infused, the oil is gently heated and combined with beeswax or another natural wax to create a thick, semi-solid consistency. Optional ingredients like essential oils, herbal extracts, and skin-soothing butters are then stirred in. The mixture is poured into tins or jars and allowed to cool and solidify at room temperature. Once set, the cannabis balm is lab-tested, then packaged in child-resistant containers and distributed to dispensaries.
How to shop for cannabis balms
Understanding labels
Reading and understanding the label on a cannabis balm helps a consumer know what ingredients and cannabinoids the product contains, if there are any potential side effects, and how to apply the balm before they use it.
Most cannabis balms and salves will be labeled with some or all of the following:
Cannabinoid content, including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and/or CBD (cannabidiol)
Ingredients
Manufacturer info
Cannabis warning statements
Universal cannabis symbol
Batch number and lab testing info
Serving size and application instructions
Users should check for clear and transparent labeling, clean ingredients, and consistent texture and absorption — all indicators of a high-quality cannabis balm.
Choosing the right cannabis balms
Choosing the right cannabis balm or salve is much like choosing any cannabis product: consumers should consider their wellness goals and preferences.
Dealing with localized pain or soreness? A cannabis balm with a higher THC content may offer relief. THC is known to reduce inflammation. Look for formulas that include warming ingredients like capsaicin for muscle relaxation.
If you're looking for cooling relief, choose a balm that includes menthol, eucalyptus, or peppermint oil. These ingredients pair well with CBD or CBG to reduce inflammation and provide a slight numbing effect.
Do you just need some help relaxing? Look for a balm with a balanced CBD:THC ratio or added CBN (the sleep cannabinoid) paired with calming essential oils like lavender or frankincense.
Once a consumer has figured out their goals, consider their preferences.
If consumers like a bit of fragrance, they can find cannabis balms with various scents. If they prefer no smell, they can go for an odorless balm. Cannabis balms also come in various textures — firmer balms contain more beeswax, while softer salves contain less wax and more oils and butters.
How to use cannabis balms
Directions and dosing
Balms tend to be thicker, more concentrated, and take longer to absorb than other topicals, so users should read the label on the container for application directions.
The label should tell a user how, where, and how often to use the cannabis balm. It should also list the total amount of cannabinoids the product contains and how much one can apply at once.
Frequently asked questions
Although cannabis balms and creams offer many of the same wellness advantages, there are some key distinctions between them.
Cannabis balms are denser and more solid in consistency than creams. They absorb more slowly and often contain a higher concentration of active ingredients. This makes them better suited for occasional or targeted use, such as relieving soreness after strenuous activity or addressing specific areas of discomfort.
In contrast, cannabis creams typically have a lighter, smoother texture, making them ideal for daily application. They absorb quickly into the skin, offer gentler effects, and are well-suited for covering larger areas.
As far as shelf life, cannabis balms can typically last up to a year or more if properly stored. Cannabis products often list an expiration date or “best by” label.
As for effects, cannabis balm effects generally last between 2 and 6 hours, depending on the dosage, potency, area of application, condition or ailment being treated, and a user’s individual tolerance and metabolism. Keep in mind, cannabis topicals don’t reach the bloodstream, so the effects will be non-psychoactive.
As with many cannabis products, including THC topical products, the price of cannabis balms can differ widely based on factors like strength, brand reputation, geographic location, product quality, ingredient list, and the amount provided.
Typically, a single cannabis balm product costs between $20 and $70, though some products may be priced higher depending on their formulation and features.
Follow any storage instructions on the cannabis balm’s packaging.
If no specific guidelines are listed, storing the product in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from heat, sunlight, and moisture is generally safe. Keep it in its original container and out of reach of kids and pets.
Users should check the expiration date to know how long the balm will remain effective.
You can buy cannabis balms, along with other cannabis topicals and therapeutics, including creams and lotions, lubricants, extract oils, capsules, tinctures, Rick Simpson Oil, patches, and bath products, on Weedmaps for pickup or delivery from a dispensary near you.