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Best CBD Cream for Pain Management: Unlocking Relief

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in the cannabis plant and is currently sought after due to its suggested wellness benefits. Known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and ability to promote calmness, this compound has gained the spotlight within the wellness and scientific community.

CBD creams may seem like a considerable option if you are experiencing mild to moderate pain. This format is easy to apply and can be massaged into specific areas of your body, which may help enhance blood flow and potentially alleviate discomfort or pain.

With this in mind, we have collaborated with our Healthnews Research team to select our top CBD creams for pain. We hope the information provided below can serve as a guide and help you choose the best product for your needs.

Best CBD creams for pain: shortlist

Comparing the top CBD creams for pain

ProductPriceCBD typeAmount of CBD per bottleCOA available online
Aspen Green$89.99 Full-spectrum1,000 mgYes
R&R$55.00Full-spectrum1,000 mgYes
Cornbread Hemp$49.99Full-spectrum750 mgYes
BATCH$55.00Full-spectrum1,500 mgYes
NuLeaf Naturals$59.00Full-spectrum900 mgYes
FOCL$39.00Broad-spectrum1,000 mgYes
Medterra$39.99Broad-spectrum500 mgYes
Nordic Nutris$69.99Broad-spectrum2,500 mgYes
Joy Organics$39.96Broad-spectrum1,000 mg Yes

What product is the best?

Pain relief is not an easy matter, so finding a product that aligns with your preferences and needs is crucial for improving your quality of life. That’s why we took the time to review multiple formulas and providers to select trustworthy names in the sphere. After thorough research, we concluded that Aspen Green Full Spectrum CBD Cooling Cream is our favorite CBD cream, mainly for two reasons — brand transparency and ingredient list.

When it comes to its ingredients, the combination of CBD with relieving ingredients like menthol or organic tea tree oil may be key to soothing inflammation and promoting a relaxed state that can make you feel more at ease. Moreover, we also consider Aspen Green a golden standard in brand transparency, particularly for its top-notch manufacturing practices and stringent testing procedures.

Best CBD creams for pain: overview

The promising anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of CBD make this format a good match to target localized pain and body discomfort. Among our top choices, we hope you can find the right match to make your pain and aches more bearable:

1. Aspen Green — best cream for soreness with transparent practices

Aspen Green Relief Full Spectrum CBD Cooling Cream

Aspen Green's Relief Full Spectrum CBD Cooling Cream unites the pain-relieving suggested benefits of CBD with top-notch manufacturing standards, making it a potential candidate to soothe localized pain. With USDA certification and third-party testing, we couldn't overlook the dedication of this brand to providing quality and transparency in the often uncertain CBD market.

Aspen Green leads our ranking not only for its manufacturing practices but also for its remarkable ingredients list aimed at relieving bodily discomfort. Enriched with 1,000 mg of CBD and 33 mg of THC per jar, it also features botanicals like organic tea tree oil and menthol, which may help to alleviate soreness and inflammation.

Aspen Green recommends applying the cream to the skin as needed, however, it is always important to be cautious about CBD dosage. Do not use the cream on open wounds, and consult with your doctor about the cream's usage if you have any skin sensitivities.

It is available for $89.99 and includes free shipping.

Who is it for?

This cream may be a good match if you frequently experience pain in your joints, back, or other localized areas. The formula is full-spectrum, so it is more tailored towards seasoned CBD users looking to relieve pain. Additionally, if you care about the quality and behind-the-scenes of the products you use, this cream can be a great fit.

Our verdict

Overall, we consider this cream a top-notch product to help address pain and aches. Its transparent manufacturing practices and exceptional herbal ingredients earn it the top position in our ranking.

Moreover, our team also appreciates that this cream is vegan and easy to apply, which makes it convenient to take and re-apply throughout the day.

2. R&R — best CBD cream with THC

RR-CBD Pain Cream

R&R introduces a full-spectrum CBD cream designed for those experiencing long-lasting pain and discomfort. With one of the highest potency levels on the market, this product may become a good ally to support arthritis or any other chronic pain condition.

We found it very refreshing that R&R offers a comprehensive explanation of the behind-the-scenes of cream production, from hemp sourcing to third-party testing. Our team really enjoys this practice, as not many CBD providers disclose their production practices.

To use this cream, take a quarter-sized amount and massage it thoroughly in a distressed area to help soothe pain or soreness. It is important to note that this product is only for external use and should not be applied to open wounds.

It is available from $55, and each package contains 1,000 mg of CBD. However, you can select alternative dosages through the website.

Who is it for?

If you are a seasoned CBD user on the hunt for a full-spectrum cream to help address chronic pain, R&R may be a good choice. Moreover, this cream may also be a good fit for athletes who are looking for a cream to help soothe recurring soreness and discomfort in the joints.

Our verdict

We believe CBD Pain Creams are a great formula for those experiencing chronic pain or looking for a full-spectrum formula to target sore joints or muscles. With one of the highest potencies on the market and a blend of nourishing and soothing ingredients, this cream may not only help to soothe pain but may also nurture skin health.

We also highly appreciate the transparency of R&R as a brand, making it a trustworthy and top provider in the market. All these factors earn CBD Pain Cream a well-deserved spot on our ranking.

3. Cornbread Hemp — best CBD lotion for fitness lovers

Cornbread Hemp® CBD Lotion + Menthol

Sore muscles and joint discomfort are close friends of fitness lovers, especially after intense gym sessions. With 25 mg of CBD and 1 mg of THC per serving, Cornbread Hemp CBD LOTION + MENTHOL may help to soothe and relax your body, allowing you to focus on your fitness goals.

We particularly like Cornbread Hemp because it includes menthol in its formula — a compound that can create a cooling sensation to help alleviate pain and discomfort. This compound, combined with CBD and other essential oils, makes the cream a promising candidate to target inflammation, pain, and overall body discomfort.

You can find the CBD LOTION + MENTHOL on Cornbread Hemp's store for $49.99 with a 30-day performance guarantee.

Who is it for?

CBD LOTION + MENTHOL may become a post-workout essential for fitness enthusiasts experiencing soreness and discomfort. Moreover, it is also ideal for those seeking CBD creams with menthol or other counterirritants to help address localized inflammation and aches.

Our verdict

In our eyes, Cornbread Hemp’s formula can be an excellent solution for sore muscles and overall body discomfort. Its blend of menthol and full-spectrum CBD makes it a potential choice for fitness enthusiasts looking to alleviate their bodies after a demanding workout.

The testing and manufacturing practices make the cream one of the best full-spectrum topical formulas, especially if you engage in an active lifestyle.

4. BATCH — best CBD cream with nourishing herbal ingredients

Batch CBD Cream

Finding a cream that can target pain in the body while keeping the skin nourished is difficult, but not impossible, thanks to BATCH. Featuring 1,500 mg of full-spectrum cannabidiol and other herbal ingredients, it may moisturize an affected area while helping soothe the pain.

This CBD Cream completely captivated us due to its exceptional ingredient list, which includes aloe vera, jojoba, and safflower oil — a combination of herbal compounds that may help to hydrate and rejuvenate your skin.

According to the brand, you can use this CBD cream for pain relief whenever you feel discomfort. However, it is important to be mindful of the total amount of cream applied per day, as everyone's response to cannabidiol is different.

You can find this cream for $55 in BATCH's store with a 30-day return policy.

Who is it for?

If you are looking for a CBD cream to help address pain and moisturize your skin, BATCH may be a great option. Moreover, this cream can be cooled in the fridge 1 hour before application, becoming an ideal fit for those who enjoy refreshing and cooling sensations on the skin. Lastly, the texture of the cream is on the thicker side, so if you enjoy creams with a rich consistency, BATCH will fit you like a glove.

Our verdict

We consider BATCH a top provider in the sphere, and its stellar reputation is reflected in its CBD CREAM — a moisturizing solution for calming and unwinding the body. Our team also appreciates the cream's texture and scent, which are perfect for nurturing the skin.

Additionally, this brand is highly committed to transparency, openly sharing the sourcing, extraction, and testing practices of its products. All of these factors earn BATCH a position in our ranking and the praise of our team.

5. NuLeaf Naturals — best unscented CBD balm for pain

NuLeaf CBD Balm

While the pleasant scent of cream can help to unwind and relax the body, a strong or unpleasant one can hinder the calming and relief experience. So, if you are part of the sensitive nose community and prefer an unscented balm to relieve pain, NuLeaf Naturals may be the perfect solution.

We particularly enjoy that this topical is straightforward in its content, boasting two ingredients — organic shea butter and full-spectrum CBD. This combination offers a calming and nourishing solution for those with localized pain who prefer formulas without added or excessive ingredients. Moreover, you can choose between three potencies — 300, 600, and 900 mg.

NuLeaf Naturals shines for its top-notch quality and eco-friendly manufacturing practices. Featuring organically grown U.S. hemp and a supercritical CO2 extraction, the balm features a combination of cannabinoids, terpenes, essential oils, and other beneficial phytochemicals without leaving a big mark on the environment.

This balm is available for $59 in NuLeaf Naturals' online store and includes 900 mg of CBD per package.

Who is it for?

This topical can be a great solution for those experiencing localized pain and seeking a formula that is nourishing but does not overwhelm the nose with its strong fragrance. The product may be more tailored towards seasoned CBD enthusiasts, as it contains full-spectrum CBD and three types of potency to adapt to personal needs.

Our verdict

Overall, we believe this balm can be a great support for those who experience pain in the joints, back, or any other localized area and wish to use a product that may help nourish their skin. We particularly enjoy that this formula is straightforward and unscented, with only CBD and shea-butter to aid those in pain.

Moreover, NuLeaf Naturals is one of the most reputable and eco-friendly providers, delivering products that undergo testing to ensure their quality for consumers. Additionally, we appreciate that this brand has been recognized as Detox Project and Certified B Corporation due to its commitment to fostering an inclusive, green, and sustainable economy.

6. FOCL — best CBD cream for joint pain

FOCL Deep Relief cream

Long and busy days can leave the body feeling stressed and fatigued. FOCL Deep Relief comes to the rescue of busy bees with a cream that may help to calm and unwind the body after an exhausting day.

We are quite fond of this cream’s formula, which includes various ingredients renowned for their potential anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties, such as menthol, camphor bark oil, eucalyptus, and arnica. Arnica, in particular, is suggested to reduce swelling and muscle pain, potentially becoming a great support for those with inflammation.

This product comes in two strengths — 1,000 mg and 2,000 mg. According to the manufacturer, you can apply the cream 3–4 times per day to soothe the body. Avoid using the cream on your eyes and face.

FOCL Deep Relief is available for $39 and includes a 60-day return policy.

Who is it for?

This cream could be a good solution for those who work non-stop and come home feeling fatigued and stressed. Massaging the product into sore spots may help you unwind and relax, helping you feel calmer and ready for slumber. Moreover, this formula may also suit those looking for a broad-spectrum formula to help relieve inflammation and pain.

Our verdict

When it comes to small providers in the CBD sphere, FOCL stands out for its top-notch manufacturing practices, exemplified in products like FOCL Deep Relief. Boasting broad-spectrum CBD and nourishing herbal ingredients, we consider this formula a promising pain-relieving cream for both beginners and experienced CBD users.

Moreover, we also appreciate that the formula is available in two potency options, allowing users to choose based on preferences and needs. The formula is vegan and cruelty-free, an aspect that some members of our team particularly love.

7. Medterra — best CBD for back pain

Medterra CBD Pain Relief Cream

There is nothing worse than a recurring backache that flares up during an important work meeting, at those well-deserved holidays, or simply when all you want to do is relax. For those stressful times, Medterra’s Pain Relief Cream may be a good candidate to soothe and help relieve the pain.

We particularly enjoy the fact that the formula features broad-spectrum CBD alongside menthol and arnica, a remarkable combination to target back pain-related discomfort. While menthol is known for its potential properties to soothe inflammation, arnica is suggested to reduce aches with its proposed anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

The manufacturers suggest that Pain Relief can be applied to sore areas of the body once or twice a day. However, CBD's efficacy and safety are still under study, so it is best to consult with your doctor before using the cream.

The cream is available for $39.99 in Medterra's store and includes two strength options — 500 and 1,000 mg.

Who is it for?

Medterra may be a good option for beginners in the CBD universe looking to relieve aches in the back. Moreover, if you are looking for creams with cooling ingredients, Medterra’s incorporation of menthol may be a great fit. This cream is also lightweight, making it the perfect cream for those who prefer easy-to-apply and non-sticky products.

Our verdict

Medterra may be a great solution to help relieve those unexpected and stressful back pains. Its combination of menthol and broad-spectrum CBD could be ideal for both beginners and seasoned cannabidiol users seeking a formula to soothe and unwind the body.

We particularly enjoy the cream's convenient size, scent, and lightweight texture. Additionally, our team does not overlook the brand's efforts to provide high-quality and tested products, considering Medterra an example of brand transparency in the CBD market.

8. Nordic Nutris — best CBD cream for pain that’s gentle with sensitive skin

Person holding an open jar of Nordic Nutris CBD cream, about to scoop it with their finger

For sensitive skin folks, finding a cream that relieves pain while being gentle with the skin can be challenging. Fortunately, Nordic Nutris CBD offers a third-party tested cream designed to soothe inflammation and itchiness while being mindful of skin sensitivities.

Nordic Nutris' formula is suitable for both beginners and seasoned CBD users. It utilizes broad-spectrum CBD and includes nourishing ingredients like vitamin E, green tea leaf extract, and thyme to target irritated skin.

However, we did not manage to find the cream's label on the website, which may require consumers to search online or directly request the label from the provider.

This cream is available for $69.99 and includes free shipping. Each package contains 2,500 mg of CBD.

Who is it for?

This cream unites both beginner and seasoned CBD users with sensitive skin or those seeking deeply nourishing formulas. It may also be suitable if you tend to experience itchiness along with pain and want to address both types of discomfort. Additionally, if you enjoy subtle fragrances, Nordic Nutris may also be a good match.

Our verdict

We believe that Nordic Nutris may be a valuable aid for anyone looking for a cream to relieve itchiness and inflammation. Its broad-spectrum and nourishing formula may be suitable for beginners in the CBD universe, as it is free of THC. Additionally, we also enjoy its combination of ingredients and subtle scent.

All of these reasons make us consider Nordic Notris a noteworthy product in the CBD sphere and deserving of a spot in our ranking.

9. Joy Organics — best CBD cream for beginners

Joy Organics CBD Cream

Starting in the cannabidiol market can feel overwhelming, especially if you're unfamiliar with both CBD and THC. Joy Organics understands the needs of first-timers, offering a broad-spectrum formula designed to relieve sore muscles and joints, particularly suited for beginners.

We find Joy Organics to be a versatile formula that may help address both muscle discomfort and dry skin. Alongside other beneficial ingredients, it contains hemp extract rich in skin-rejuvenating fats, potentially enhancing your skin health and becoming a new favorite in your skincare regimen.

Additionally, this product is convenient and easy to use; you can apply it after a shower to target sore muscles, dry skin, or overall body discomfort. The cream is lightweight and reported to be quickly absorbed, making it an excellent choice for massages.

Priced at $39.96, the cream includes 1,000 mg of CBD per tube.

Who is it for?

This cream is ideal for first-timers in the cannabidiol market, especially if you are looking for a product without THC. Moreover, those who enjoy CBD products to elevate skin health can find Joy Organics a good companion.

Our verdict

Joy Organics shines in the CBD market as a top-notch provider for addressing bodily discomfort and elevating skin health. Moreover, its formula is free of THC, which may be a great bonus for beginners in the CBD sphere. This formula is easy to rub in and has a nice smell, becoming a great combo for massages.

For these reasons, Joy Organics is one of our favorite creams on the market for first-time CBD users and may help aid your body in periods of stress and discomfort.

How did we compile the list of best CBD creams for pain?

There are several factors to consider when choosing the best CBD cream. We have identified key characteristics that helped us rank the various brands and products in our top picks.

PriceIngredientsManufacturing practicesCBD concentrationThird-party testing
$39.00–89.99High-quality and safe for skin ingredientsTransparent disclosure of manufacturing practices Quantity and type of CBD contained in the productVerification of CBD quantities for labeling accuracy and the absence of harmful substances
  • Price. We chose products with various pricing ranges, allowing you to select the CBD product that best fits your budget and preferences.
  • Ingredients. Our team opted for formulas with science-backed and quality ingredients and prioritized providers that do not include common skin irritants in their formulas.
  • Manufacturing practices. The production of CBD creams is not directly regulated by the FDA, so it is crucial to choose brands that disclose their sourcing, manufacturing, and testing practices. This is why we have selected providers that commit to brand transparency.
  • CBD concentration. Products contain varying amounts of CBD, depending on their formula and type. We selected various potency levels to cater to a broad spectrum of preferences and needs.
  • Third-party testing. Our team has selected those products that have a COA (Certificate of Analysis) to ensure that CBD quantities align with those on the label and there are no harmful contaminants in the formulas.

Expert’s insights

As our article began to take shape, we couldn’t miss the opportunity to speak with our in-house researcher, Alifia Fernandes Jokubauskienė. With a master’s degree in Pharmacy, she was able to expand on our findings and share some practical advice on selecting CBD cream for your needs.

Pain, CBD, and other considerations

While CBD may be a promising aid to help alleviate pain, Alifia reminded us that pain is a complex topic, and relying solely on cannabidiol is not the best approach,

If you are considering CBD products for pain, Alifia emphasized the importance of consulting a healthcare professional to determine if cannabidiol is a suitable choice for you. "If it is, you may want to consider a cream formulation if you have localized pain and want to avoid potential interactions or side effects with oral CBD,” she added.

Alifia also highlighted that choosing cream formulations highly depends on personal preference:

The convenience of a cream formulation can depend on personal preference. Some may prefer it as it’s easy to use, however depending on certain areas of the body, it may be difficult to reach.

Alifia Fernandes Jokubauskienė

CBD creams vs. other CBD forms: which should you choose?

CBD is available in various formats, including oils, topicals, and even gummies. Each format can differ in how it can help alleviate pain and may have different effects depending on the type of pain being targeted.

For localized pain relief, you may consider topicals like CBD creams due to their proposed ability to penetrate the skin and interact with the sore area directly. However, if you experience prolonged bodily pain, CBD products like oils, gummies, or soft gels may also help to soothe general inflammation and pain. Keep in mind that depending on the cause of your pain, you may not observe notable effects of CBD or may require more time to respond to cannabidiol, so choose a product that suits your lifestyle and health needs.

Ultimately, the most suitable form of CBD for pain management depends on your preferences and needs. While some may consider topicals more convenient and easy to use, others may prefer capsules or gummies as they come with a pre-measured amount of CBD. There are multiple formats of CBD to explore, but always keep in mind to consult with your doctor before using any type or dosage.

Benefits of using CBD cream for pain relief

Although CBD shows promise as a pain-relieving option, it still lacks comprehensive research. Early evidence suggests it may interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various processes in the body, including pain sensation. Some potential benefits of this interaction include:

  • Anti-inflammatory effects. Transdermal delivery of CBD may help to relieve inflammation in a more localized area. CBD's suggested pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties may be a good ally to target inflammation and body discomfort.
  • Stress relief. Massages using CBD creams may help reduce body discomfort and promote relaxation for those dealing with chronic pain, in turn potentially alleviating stress-related symptoms.
  • Localized pain. CBD is thought to be absorbed through the skin and interact with endocannabinoid system receptors. This interaction may help reduce inflammation and pain. Furthermore, applying CBD through massage in targeted areas can potentially enhance absorption and improve blood flow.

The most common types of pain relief creams

While topical CBD creams are believed to help with pain, they have not been as extensively studied as other creams and lotions that target pain and inflammation. These creams typically contain active ingredients with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and are often divided into the following categories:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory topicals

These creams inhibit signaling pathways that promote inflammation and pain. They are often recommended to alleviate pain in localized areas, as they can be massaged and tend to work within hours of application.

This medication is usually preferred to address aches or discomfort, as it can minimize the risk of serious side effects associated with oral anti-inflammatory drugs, such as stomach irritation and ulcers.

Prescription creams

They include different analgesics, glucosteroids, anti-inflammatories, and other agents prescribed by healthcare providers to patients with specific pain needs.

Counterirritant creams

These creams are commonly used to relieve minor pains, aches, and sore muscles. They contain ingredients such as camphor, menthol, capsaicin, or eucalyptus oil and are believed to create a superficial irritation to mask mild pain.

Menthol creams are known for their cooling effect and are believed to activate central analgesic pathways. On the other hand, capsaicin creams cause enhanced sensitivity followed by a period of reduced sensitivity. With repeated use, they may lead to persistent desensitization of pain receptors. Capsaicin creams are often used for neuropathic pain and may be beneficial for those with back pain. However, more research on their therapeutic potential is necessary.

Herbal and homeopathic creams

These creams are often used as complementary support alongside other treatments. Even though their effectiveness is still anecdotal, they may help to reduce mild pain and discomfort. They harness the properties of natural ingredients like arnica or safflower, which also have nourishing properties for the skin.

How to choose the best CBD cream for pain

Numerous CBD products on the market aim to alleviate pain and inflammation, but not all of them may be the right fit for you. Therefore, we have conducted thorough research on various CBD creams for pain and have selected some of the best options below.

Best CBD cream for back pain

Topical application of CBD may hold promising properties to alleviate discomfort and soothe the body, especially due to its transdermal absorption. This application may allow for the local targeting of pain and inflammation, which is frequently linked with back pain.

Moreover, creams for back pain with CBD, menthol, or arnica may also be a good choice to soothe irritated or inflamed areas. Some of the herbal ingredients in these creams can also help moisturize the skin, becoming a good potential match for those who experience itchiness or discomfort.

Best CBD cream for joint pain

CBD's safety and effectiveness are still being studied; however, some preliminary evidence suggests this compound may have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. As a result, full-spectrum and broad-spectrum creams may be a promising candidate for targeting joint pain and inflammation.

Moreover, CBD might also aid in alleviating stress, which can often worsen pain symptoms. Therefore, choosing creams that contain natural ingredients such as lemongrass or peppermint oil may have the potential to promote relaxation and alleviate discomfort.

Best CBD cream for arthritis pain

CBD may potentially reduce arthritis pain in humans, as indicated by some evidence. A 2022 exploratory cross-sectional study linked the use of this compound to perceived improvements in pain and physical function by looking at the results of an anonymous questionnaire.

Additionally, arthritis pain often involves bodily pain and stiffness. Choosing a CBD cream designed to target arthritis pain may be beneficial for reducing discomfort associated with the condition. Ingredients such as lactic acid, NMP (N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone), PEG-400 (polyethylene glycol-400), and DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) might help enhance the penetration of cannabidiol in specific areas of the body.

Best CBD cream for neuropathy

While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanism of CBD and neuropathy, it has been suggested that the interaction of this compound with some receptors involved in neuropathic pain could help alleviate discomfort.

Moreover, creams with CBD, specially designed for neuropathy with ingredients such as menthol, may also provide relief for individuals with this condition. This compound can induce a cooling sensation in the body, potentially acting as an analgesic and helping reduce the perception of neuropathic pain.

Possible side effects of CBD creams to consider

CBD is generally considered to have a safe profile. However, the topical application is still largely unknown to science, and there may be potential side effects, specifically skin irritation and allergic reactions. Additionally, some added ingredients in CBD formulas may also cause allergies or other negative reactions.

In any case, CBD may have varying effects, so it is always best to consult with your doctor to reduce potential risks and ensure proper use.

Best CBD creams for pain: conclusion

Over 50 million adults experience daily pain that interferes with their performance and quality of life, as estimated by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Although CBD creams do not provide complete pain relief, they may help alleviate and manage these symptoms, thereby improving the quality of life of those who suffer from pain.

While research on cannabidiol as a pain relief option is still in its early stages, its potential anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and stress-reducing properties may be key in the future of pain-related conditions such as arthritis or neuropathic pain.

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