Medical Marijuana and Massage
by Nicole Stevens
A massage can be one of the most relaxing things a person can treat themselves with. It can also be a necessary aid for people recovering from various muscles strains and body aches, or those going through physical therapy. Few things make a massage even better; a relaxing atmosphere, light tempo music softly playing in the background, dimmed lights, and maybe even some calming marijuana. Now you won’t be subjected to inhaling a room full of smoke while you relax, there are many other ways cannabis can be introduced into a professional massage.
As most know, where legal, cannabis comes in all shapes and sizes, liquids to solids, and this is no different in the world of massage therapy. The most popular products are topicals such as body lotions and oils which are rich with THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Though because these products aren’t coming into contact with the blood stream, it does not give the typical “high” associated with inhaling marijuana smoke. It does however, penetrate cannabinoid receptors in the skin, resulting in pain relief for the client being massaged.
So there’s zero chance of getting high/stoned from the products used?
Yes! The cannabinoid-enriched products are topical creams, rubbed into problem areas of the body during the massage. If there are traces of THC in it, it acts as a pain reliever and targets tired, over-worked muscles and works as a natural calmer. Think of it as using essential oils, such as lavender, to help a person relax and unwind. These products work the same way.
Is it even legal in Florida?
Florida has recently passed a medical marijuana law, but of course, it comes with stipulations. While the active CBD in the products is a non-psychoactive, “the DEA’s position that all cannabis extracts, including CBD oil, are federally illegal Schedule 1 substance” (Mikesell) according to an article by the Florida Spa Association/American Spa Magazine. Technically, the DEA as stated that only certain parts of the plant are considered to be marijuana, and that includes the leaves, the seeds, and the flower itself. Other parts of the plant, such as the stems, stalks, and sterilized seeds, are hemp. In Florida, pure CBD oil falls under hemp products and is not considered to be a narcotic. THC derived products are a bit different, and can only be sold if it is legal in that area.
Besides the ultimate relaxation, what are some specific health benefits one can expect from a cannabinoid enriched massage?
CBD oil has many great effects on the body, and being applied to the outer part is no different. It has been shown to help with various skin issues such as acne, mild irritation (soothes and calm sensitive skin), and even bigger issues such as psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea. It doesn’t cure these ailments, but it does make having them easier to cope with. It can even be beneficial for the outdoorsy type – CBD oil eliminates the irritation of bug bites and scratches, reducing swelling of the skin as a result.
Are all plants created equal?
Not. It is essential to know what product you are using and what ingredients it contains. Just because a product states it contains CBD (or in some cases, THC), it does not mean it is the right choice. The ingredients added in make a huge difference in theend result for the client receiving the service. As an example, the company Crave Skincare has done extensive research to figure out what fits best with their products, resulting in many positive reviews and return customers. The CEO, Janet Schriever, had this to say; “The formula the CBD is in makes a big difference to the effect of the ingredient and using CBD with other botanicals, and phytonutrients are vital. If you are going to use a product with CBD, it should be in a clean, botanical-rich formula.”
So the next time you’re setting up an appointment for a professional massage, ask your masseuse about their line of CBD-oil massage products, figure out the right kind for you, relax, and enjoy!