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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% THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% 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.

People with nerve damage may experience pain, numbness, or prickling sensations in certain parts of their body. To reduce these symptoms, some people use topical products. Cannabidiol (CBD) is becoming a popular ingredient to include in these products.

A quick look at the best CBD products for nerve damage

The cannabis plant contains CBD. This is a therapeutic compound that, when combined with an oil, creates CBD oil. This process dilutes the CBD, creating a weaker version that a company can incorporate as an ingredient in a cream or another product.

The products in this article are of high quality, and their manufacturers are able to provide proof of independent third-party testing.

Nevertheless, we advise that people conduct their own research before purchasing any CBD product. The statements below are purely research-based. No one at Medical News Today, including the writer, has tried these products.

This article will list some CBD products that may help with nerve pain and damage. It will also explore some benefits and risks.

There has been little scientific research exploring the effects and benefits of CBD to help treat nerve pain and damage.

Some products with CBD contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the compound in cannabis that people usually associate with the feeling of being “high.”

One 2016 study examining the application of a CBD gel onto rat skin concluded that it can reduce inflammation and pain.

A newer 2020 review concludes that CBD cream was useful in relieving nerve pain.

These initial results are promising, but further research is necessary to fully understand the benefits of using CBD for nerve damage.

For more information and resources on CBD and CBD products, please visit our dedicated hub.

The minimal research in this area means that there is not much information regarding the risks of using CBD creams. In addition, the long-term effects of CBD oil are currently unknown.

If a person uses a product containing CBD and starts to experience a rash, irritation, or swelling, they should stop using the product immediately and contact their doctor.

The below table details some helpful terminology that may help those new to CBD navigate their options.

TermMeaning
CBDA compound within the C. sativa plant that does not create the high sensation individuals commonly associate with cannabis use.
THCA compound in the C. sativa plant. It is the psychoactive compound that creates the high sensation from cannabis use.
Full-spectrumA full-spectrum product will contain all of the natural compounds in the cannabis plant, including THC. However, THC levels must be no more than 0.3% to comply with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulation on full-spectrum CBD products.
Broad-spectrumBroad-spectrum products contain natural compounds of the cannabis plant. However, while manufacturers remove all or most of the THC in broad-spectrum CBD, it may still be present in trace amounts.
CBD isolateThis is the purest form of CBD and should contain 0% THC.
CannabinoidsThe compounds within the cannabis plant, of which there are over 120. CBD is the second richest compound in the plant after THC.
TerpenesAnother compound of the C. sativa plant, terpenes typically give plants their specific aromas. Some terpenes, such as limonene, may have specific health benefits.
Certificate of analysis (COA)Reputable manufacturers of CBD products should ensure a COA is available for inspection. A COA provides information on the third-party testing that independent labs conduct on a particular product. Sometimes, products will have a scannable smartphone code that directs people to the COA online.

Read more about terminology and other important CBD information here.

Additionally, some things a person may wish to consider to help them choose a CBD product include:

  • Form: Some people may prefer a cream or ointment for targeted pain relief. Others may prefer a tincture that they can ingest and that their body absorbs. This option may result in a more rounded pain relief.
  • Quality: A person can ensure a high quality product based on if a company uses third-party testing.
  • Potency: If someone is new to CBD products, they should start with a lower potency and gradually increase if needed.

It is unlikely that any type of cream can fix nerve damage. This is because it cannot penetrate enough of the skin’s layers to reach the nerves.

However, creams may help by numbing or alleviating the pain that often accompanies nerve damage. Therefore, a person may wish to consider the following products.

For advice on how to shop for CBD products, read this guide.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publishing.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

Best cooling: CBDfx CBD Cream for Muscle & Joint

Price$39.99–129.99
Potency500 milligrams (mg), 1,000 mg, or 3,000 mg
CBD typebroad-spectrum

The manufacturer recommends using between a dime-size and a quarter-size amount of cream at each application, depending on the area size. It also says that for best results, a person should apply between three and four times daily.

This cream includes menthol for a cooling effect, as well as caffeine and white willow bark, which the company says helps with pain relief.

Each container has 50 milliliters (ml) of cream.

Below, we look at some pros and cons of this product.

Pros

  • cooling sensation from the menthol
  • a choice of potency

Cons

  • may not work as well for nerve pain
  • higher potencies have a much higher cost

Best organic: Vertly Relief Lotion

Price$48 for 1 bottle, $86 for 2 bottles
Potency500 mg
CBD typefull-spectrum

This product contains full-spectrum hemp extract. This means that the extract includes all cannabinoids that occur in the cannabis plant, including small amounts of THC.

As well as pain relief, the manufacturer states it moisturizes the skin and a person can use it as a pimple treatment.

A person should massage this product into a painful area when needed.

Other key ingredients include:

  • Arnica flower: 2017 research suggests the arnica flower has both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
  • Peppermint hydrosol: This is a liquid that contains antimicrobial properties.
  • Magnesium: The manufacturers claim that this helps with muscle recovery, but the uses and benefits of magnesium through skin application are not yet scientifically proven.

Below are some pros and cons for a person to consider:

Pros

  • vegan formula with organic ingredients
  • many ingredients for added benefits

Cons

  • no potency choice
  • contains THC, which may not suit everyone

Best full-spectrum: Harmonious CBD Pain Salve (Full Spectrum)

Pricing$80
Potency500 mg
CBD typefull-spectrum

This product contains both full-spectrum CBD and arnica oil. It also contains other oils, including eucalyptus oil which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

A person should rub the salve into the affected area when needed.

Positive reviews mention the product’s ability to help relieve muscular pain.

Some pros and cons of this product include:

Pros

  • third-party tested
  • vegan-friendly

Cons

  • no potency choice

Considering the lack of available CBD creams that can help reduce pain, a person may wish to consider trying an alternative product.

The following are some other products a person may consider trying.

Best for wound healing: Lord Jones High CBD Formula Body Oil

Price$50
Potency100 mg
CBD typebroad-spectrum

This product uses broad-spectrum CBD extract, which means that it contains minimal or no THC. However, it still has all cannabinoids that occur in the cannabis plant.

The product uses a roller-ball applicator which a person can apply as much as they require.

It uses jojoba oil, which is an anti-inflammatory that may also help promote wound healing.

It also contains avocado oil, which research suggests reduces inflammation and increases collagen production in rats. This may help with painful joints and muscular reparation.

The following are some pros and cons for an individual to consider:

Pros

  • lower potency may suit beginners
  • the company claims the formula is quick-drying and lightweight

Cons

  • potency is lower than other brands
  • limited manufacturing transparency

Best for arthritis: Charlotte’s Web Arthritis Aches and Pain Relief Ointment

Price$29.99
Potency600 mg
CBD typeunspecified, THC-free (less than 0.01%)

This product is a hand cream to apply when needed. As well as providing pain relief for arthritis, it also moisturizes the skin.

Among the ingredients are lavender and frankincense essential oils, as well as jojoba oil and menthol.

The company markets its product as an arthritis remedy and says that it helps ease pain and aches in the joints.

Below, we look at some pros and cons of this product.

Pros

  • less expensive than competitors
  • the company claims it adheres to Current Good Manufacturer Practice (cGMP) standards

Cons

  • the manufacturer claims the product only provides minor pain relief
  • only for use on hands
  • unsuitable for vegans

Best tincture: CBDistillery Broad Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture

Price$40–60
Potency500 mg or 1,000 mg
CBD typebroad-spectrum

A person using this product should place the necessary dosage under their tongue and hold it for 10–20 seconds before swallowing. One serving is 1 ml (one full dropper).

For a personalized dosage, a person should discuss this with their healthcare professional.

Individuals can choose between two different potencies and there is also a CBD-isolate version available in varying strengths.

The manufacturer only lists fractionated coconut oil and broad-spectrum CBD hemp extract as the ingredients.

This product has some pros and cons for a person to consider.

Pros

  • varying potencies available
  • third-party tested
  • 60-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • less targeted pain relief
  • must pass through the digestive system before improvement occurs

Best roll-on: RE Botanicals Menthol Muscle Rub With CBD

Price$34.99
Potency600 mg
CBD typefull-spectrum

A person applies this roll-on rub to a painful area for targeted relief.

As well as full-spectrum CBD, active ingredients in this muscle rub include 4% menthol which provides a cooling sensation.

The manufacturer claims a person can apply this product as often as needed.

Below, we look at some pros and cons.

Pros

  • third-party tested
  • easy to apply

Cons

  • uses alcohol extraction which may not be to everyone’s preference

The table below compares the products in this article.

CBDfxVertlyHarmoniousLord JonesCharlotte’s WebCBDistilleryRE Botanicals
Formcreamlotionsalveoilointmenttincturemuscle rub
CBD typebroad-spectrumfull-spectrumfull-spectrumbroad-spectrumunspecified, THC-free (less than 0.01%)broad-spectrumfull-spectrum
Price$39.99–129.99$48$80$50$29.99$40–60$34.99
Potency500 mg, 1,000 mg, or 3,000 mg500 mg500 mg100 mg600 mg500 mg or 1,000 mg600 mg
Additional ingredientsmenthol, caffeine, white willow barkarnica flower, peppermint hydrosol, magnesiumarnica oil, eucalyptus oiljojoba oil, avocado oilmenthol, and lavender, frankincense, and jojoba oilsfractionated coconut oilmenthol

According to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), a person experiencing nerve damage and pain should consider seeing a doctor if they experience:

  • tingling or a loss of sensation
  • balance problems
  • weakness
  • cuts or ulcers that do not get better

People with nerve damage may experience pain, tingling, or numbness in certain parts of their body.

Although more research is necessary, some suggest that adding CBD, in combination with other ingredients, may help alleviate the pain that often accompanies nerve damage.

It is also worth noting that different CBD products, other than creams, may help reduce the symptoms of nerve pain or damage.