You must have probably noticed that some dispensaries are already offering a great variety of cannabis products, including cosmetics. There is a flooding supply of cannabis massage creams, soaps and toners in the market. However, as medical products, creams and ointments are designed to treat different skin conditions. Their different administration routes and the great variety of byproducts are leading to an increasingly accepted use of cannabis for medical purposes by patients and their families. These are the people who, by looking for alternatives to treat their chronic diseases and acute symptoms, discovered medical cannabis and its byproducts. Cannabis ointments and creams are an option to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, vitiligo and skin burns. Their topical administration is an alternative for basic treatment, as the endocannabinoid system is locally stimulated. These medicinal products contribute to the skin’s functional regenerative process. Creams and ointments are used to treat joint swelling, localised pain and favour healing.
What is Cannabis Cream?
Cannabis cream contains 20-40% of an oily phase and 60-80% of a water phase. Its water percentage is higher than that of oil or wax. It’s composition is lighter, refreshing and slightly oily. It is rapidly absorbed into the skin, thus producing a quick localised relief action as well.
How is Cannabis Cream Made?
To make cannabis cream, an emulsifying agent must be employed to facilitate the union of the water phase to the oily phase. A simple option is to use 50 g of Lanette plant-based wax, enough for a cream containing 200 cm³ of macerated cannabis oil. You will also need a Pyrex-like bowl, a boiling jug, 750 cm³ of water, small containers and a silicone spatula.
Start by heating the Lanette wax in a double boiler, avoid exceeding 65°C, and stir using the spatula. Once the wax is melted, add the cannabis-infused oil until everything is smooth. For the following step, hit the water until it reaches the same temperature as the wax and oil mixture. This step is very important in order to facilitate the emulsion; the ideal temperature is 30°C. The mixture must be kept in the water bath; slowly add the water and keep stirring while doing so. This last step must be followed closely for an optimal consistency. Let the cream cool. After that, put it in the containers and store at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
Cannabis Ointment
Unlike the cream, this substance is mostly made of an oily phase. A lower percentage is needed (15%) for a creamy consistency. Therefore, the most significant difference between these two products is that ointments can be made with components of lower emulsifying capacity, such as beeswax.
For an ointment containing 200 cm³ of macerated cannabis oil, 10 g of beeswax and 25 cm³ of water are needed. Both the procedure and the temperature used are the same as those used to make the cream. Ointments carry very little water, thanks to which their relief action is deeper.
Cannabis ointments and creams are of a slow and lasting absorption, although low as well. Their local action is very effective and they are of low systemic absorption. This last feature makes these topicals a good alternative in cases where oral administration of cannabinoids is not recommended. They can also be applied while taking cannabis oil orally or using a vaporiser for inhaling flower, always under professional supervision.
