Man rubbing his neck in pain

How to Choose the Best CBD Pain Relief Rub + Our Top 10 Picks

No one likes to live with pain. That's why many people are starting to explore using a CBD pain relief rub.

CBD has been gaining a lot of popularity lately and one area that it's getting a lot of attention is pain management. It's been shown to have anti-inflammation and pain-relieving properties, making it an ideal choice for those seeking natural alternatives for managing discomfort.

In this article, we will recap some of the best CBD pain relief rubs and discuss how they work to help manage pain. We'll also share some tips for finding the best CBD pain relief rub that's right for you.

Roundup of the Top CBD Pain Relief Rubs

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in hemp and marijuana plants. It is one of many compounds called cannabinoids that are found in these plants.

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, which means that it does not produce the "high" associated with marijuana use. Instead, it is believed to have a variety of potential health benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and improvement in symptoms of certain medical conditions.

CBD is available in a variety of forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, and topical products such as creams and salves. It can be taken orally or applied topically to the skin.

Some people use CBD as a dietary supplement or for general wellness, while others use it to manage specific health conditions.

Do CBD rubs help with pain?

The effects of CBD on the body are still being studied, but so far there has been encouraging evidence that it can help with various forms of pain. CBD works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain perception and inflammation.

A study done in 2015 found that "CBD application has therapeutic potential for relief of arthritis pain-related behaviors and inflammation without evident side-effects." This makes CBD creams a good choice for dealing with muscle soreness, joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

CBD was also found in a study done in 2021 to help relieve pain for the majority of participants and allowed them to reduce their pain medications. This makes CBD a good option for helping to relieve chronic pain as well.

How We Chose the Best CBD Pain Relief Rubs

To put together this list of CBD pain relief rubs, we looked for products that we felt would be effective and safe. Here is what we looked for:

  • CBD concentration: An important factor we looked for was how much CBD was in each product. With higher CBD levels, products are more effective, need to be taken less often, and last longer due to being able to use smaller doses.
  • Quality ingredients: We looked for products made with high-quality CBD and other natural ingredients that have been shown to be effective pain relievers.
  • Third-party testing: We chose products that underwent third-party testing to ensure the accuracy of the potency stated on the label and safety from contaminants.
  • Positive user feedback: We selected products with positive reviews from customers who used them.
  • Easy to use: We looked for products that are easy to apply and can be used on a regular basis.
  • Reputable company: We chose products made by reputable companies that had a track record of producing high-quality CBD products.

With these criteria in mind, here are our picks for the best CBD pain relief rubs.

Rouse Fit Extreme Relief CBD Cream 5,000mg CBD - Best Overall

It's no surprise that we picked our own Rouse Fit Extreme Relief CBD Cream 5,000mg as the best CBD pain relief rub. That's because we know for a fact that it meets all our criteria for a high-quality product.

For starters, at 50 mg/ml of CBD, it's one of the highest-potency products on the market. It's not just a little bit higher than most other products out there, it's sometimes double or triple the concentration of CBD.

This is a huge boost for anyone using this product, but especially for older adults. As we age our bodies struggle to absorb pain-relieving compounds, making a product like this that has a considerably higher potency than most other products on the market ideal.

And that's on top of the fact that, but it's also been lab tested for safety and quality, is made with natural ingredients like menthol and lidocaine, and our customers love it.

CBD content: 50 mg/ml of CBD.

Pros:

  • One of the highest-potency products on the market.
  • Made with natural ingredients like menthol for added relief.
  • Lab-tested for safety and quality.
  • Price per mg of CBD is one of the lowest you can find.

Cons:

  • Higher potency may not be ideal for people new to CBD.

Product Description:

"Our Extreme Relief CBD cream is formulated with menthol and is excellent for larger areas of the body, like the thighs, arms, back, and neck. This is our most concentrated CBD relief cream with 50 mg/ml of CBD. There is a total of 100 ml and a little goes a long way.

Weave wellness into your daily routine with Rouse Fit Extreme Relief CBD cream. Use it upon waking, after a workout, or before bed. It’s designed to target specific areas of the body that need a little extra care."

Joy Organics CBD Sports Cream

Joy Organics CBD Sports Cream is a great choice for those looking for a more budget-friendly option. This cream features 1000mg of CBD extract per bottle.

This product also contains natural ingredients like menthol and camphor to help reduce inflammation and provide soothing relief. It's been tested by a third-party lab to ensure the accuracy of the potency and safety from contaminants.

CBD content: Around 8mg/ml of CBD.

Pros:

  • Relatively low cost for the product.
  • Contains natural ingredients like menthol and camphor for added pain relief.
  • Third-party lab tested for safety and quality.

Cons:

  • Fairly low potency of CBD compared to other products on the market.

Product Description:

"For athletes, or anyone on the move, this premium blend of menthol, camphor is crafted to provide deep and fast-acting benefits for joints and muscles. Apply as needed for a cooling and invigorating experience."

Batch CBD Balm: Fire & Ice

Next, we have Batch CBD Balm: Fire & Ice. This product contains 1250 mg of full-spectrum CBD extract per container.

Like Joy Organics, it contains menthol and camphor for added pain relief. It's also lab-tested for safety and quality, so you can be sure that the stated potency is accurate.

A nice feature of this CBD pain relief rub is that it comes in a roll-on stick for easy application.

CBD content: Around 17mg/ml of CBD.

Pros:

  • Contains natural ingredients like menthol and camphor for added pain relief.
  • Third-party lab tested for safety and quality.
  • Comes in a roll-on stick for easy application.

Cons:

  • A bit difficult to find their third-party lab test results.
  • Fairly low CBD potency.

Product Description:

"FOR RELIEF YOU CAN FEEL

This warming and cooling relief balm delivers 1250 mg of Full Spectrum CBD right where you need it so you can recover quickly and get back to what you do best. 2.5 oz / 75 mL no-mess twist-up container.

  • Boosted with camphor (6.6%) and menthol (6.7%) for a pleasant warming and cooling sensation.
  • Enriched with jojoba oil and essential oils for quick absorption.
  • Subtle lemongrass aroma.
  • Non-GMO.
  • Paraben-free."

Medterra Rapid Recovery Cream

Another CBD pain relief rub worth checking out is Medterra Rapid Recovery Cream. This product contains 250 mg of CBD isolate per container.

It also contains cooling menthol and arnica to help reduce inflammation and provide soothing relief. It's administered in an easy-to-use pump bottle.

CBD content: 5 mg/ml of CBD.

Pros:

  • The company offers a good selection of CBD pain relief rubs.
  • Contains natural ingredients like menthol and arnica for added pain relief.
  • Third-party lab tested for safety and quality.

Cons:

  • Very low potency of CBD compared to other products on the market.

Product Description:

"Our Rapid Recovery Cream is a powerhouse combination of our premium Isolate CBD and naturally soothing ingredients - Menthol & Arnica. Providing a rapid cooling effect, this cream is perfect for muscle support in an easy-to-use pump bottle."

CBDistillery 1000mg Isolate CBD Relief Stick - 0% THC

Another CBD pain relief rub that made the list is CBDistillery 1000mg Isolate CBD Relief Stick - 0% THC. As the name suggests, this product contains 1000 mg of CBD isolate per container.

It also contains natural ingredients like menthol to help reduce inflammation and provide soothing relief. Another thing that sets this product apart from others is that it contains 0% THC so it's very unlikely that it will make you fail a drug test.

CBD content: 13.5 mg/ml of CBD.

Pros:

  • Contains natural ingredients like menthol for added pain relief.
  • Third-party lab tested for safety and quality.
  • No detectable THC so it won't make you fail a drug test.

Cons:

  • This product has lower potency of CBD than others on the market.

Product Description:

"Now available in a 1000mg extra strength option, you can now enjoy targeted relief where your body needs it most. This CBD Relief Stick combines the soothing benefits of 1000mg Isolate CBD, with the cooling sensation of menthol to give you a topical that's perfect for on-the-go relief and recovery.

This topical CBD is a customer favorite because it provides localized relief and has the ability to nourish distressed skin. The no-mess application is convenient, portable, and perfect for everyday use."

FAB CBD Salve

The next CBD pain relief rub worth mentioning is FAB CBD Salve. This product comes in 2 different potencies.

You can purchase the 1000mg 1oz size or the 3000mg 2.5oz size. Both options offer a dose of full-spectrum CBD and menthol to help with inflammation and pain relief.

It also contains a blend of lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus essential oils for added therapeutic benefits.

CBD content: 40 mg/ml of CBD.

Pros:

  • Comes in 2 different CBD potencies.
  • Contains a blend of essential oils for added pain relief.
  • Third-party lab tested for safety and quality.

Cons:

  • A bit costly compared to other products on the market.

Product Description:

"1000mg (1oz) & 3000mg (2.5oz) Topical Salves feature a magnificent heating and cooling effect, contain primary essential oils, natural ingredients, and a calming scent!

We set out to create the very best CBD Salve in the industry with our full-spectrum CBD formulation, strength, and of course, affordability. This product is perfect for the active golfer, runner, gardener, cross-fitter, weight lifter, computer warrior who types all day, or anyone who needs help supporting their daily wellness."

Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Balm

Another great CBD pain relief rub is Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Balm. This balm combines a moisturizing base made with jojoba oil and beeswax, as well as full-spectrum CBD to help reduce inflammation and provide soothing relief.

One thing that sets this product apart is that they offer a lavender and chamomile blend as well as a fragrance-free blend. This is nice for those with fragrance sensitivities.

CBD content: 48 mg/ml of CBD.

Pros:

  • Well-priced for the amount of CBD in the product.
  • Offers both a lavender and chamomile blend as well as a fragrance-free option.
  • Third-party lab tested for safety and quality.

Cons:

  • Full-spectrum CBD might not be a good option for those who are drug tested.

Product Description:

"Our Fragrance Free CBD Balm is formulated for maximum effect with minimal scent. Nourishing functional ingredients like jojoba oil and organic white beeswax paired with our high potency, full spectrum CBD deliver sustained relief from localized muscle pain and inflammation. An effective solution for those sensitive to strong fragrances."

Carmen's Medicinals Full Spectrum CBD Salve

Next on our list is Carmen's Medicinals Full Spectrum CBD Salve. This is a great option for those looking for a CBD pain relief rub.

This salve combines full-spectrum CBD with essential oils to help provide fast and effective relief. The company also offers CBD skin serums and anti-wrinkle creams for those looking for an all-in-one skincare solution.

CBD content: 14 mg/ml of CBD.

Pros:

  • Produced in an FDA-registered facility.
  • No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, and cruelty-free.
  • Third-party lab tested for safety and quality.

Cons:

  • Full-spectrum CBD might not be a good option for those who are drug tested.
  • Pretty low potency of CBD compared to other creams.

Product Description:

"Activate your body and your well-being with our Full Spectrum CBD salve 1000 mg.

Treat your body to this powerful Carmen’s CBD Salve 1000mg that leaves your skin feeling smooth and restored. Infused with full-spectrum CBD and over a dozen natural oils, our magical salve provides an immediate soothing sensation. Try it today!"

cbdMD CBD Recover Tub

Next on our list of CBD pain relief rubs is cbdMD CBD Recover Tub. This salve contains cbdMD's proprietary blend of broad-spectrum CBD along with other beneficial ingredients.

It also has arnica, aloe vera, MSM, and essential oils to help with inflammation and provide fast relief.

It comes in two potencies, 300mg and 750mg.

​​CBD content: 6.25 mg/ml of CBD.

Pros:

  • Contains a blend of essential oils for added pain relief.
  • Third-party lab tested for safety and quality.
  • Affordable compared to other products on the market.

Cons:

  • Low potency compared to other products on the market.

Product Description:

"Soothe away joint and muscle aches with Recover, a CBD cream enriched with pain killing medicine and a wealth of soothing herbal ingredients. Our Superior Broad Spectrum hemp extract provides the soothing wellness and CBD benefits of CBD topicals, while histamine dihydrochloride creates a pleasant warming sensation while providing temporary relief from minor aches and pains.

Add to that arnica, aloe vera, MSM, and a full profile of essential oils in a creamy, moisturizing base, and you’ve got a fully loaded pain relief cream whenever – and wherever – you need it most!

  • Hemp extract contains CBD, CBN, CBG, and terpenes to create our Superior Broad Spectrum formula
  • Histamine Dihydrochloride provides temporary pain relief and increased blood flow
  • Arnica, Aloe Vera, and MSM soothe and support overall well-being
  • Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, and Argan Oil moisturize skin
  • Available in four strengths, including 3000 mg with pump applicator"

Penguin CBD Cream

Finally, Penguin CBD Cream is a great option for those looking for fast-acting relief. This cream contains 500mg of broad-spectrum CBD in addition to peppermint and lavender oil for a soothing scent their customers love.

CBD content: 2 mg/ml of CBD.

Pros:

  • Broad-spectrum CBD and all-natural ingredients.
  • All-organic CBD.
  • Third-party lab tested for safety and quality.

Cons:

  • One of the lowest-potency products on the market.

Product Description:

"Our CBD cream is a luxurious cream that’s silky smooth and cooling upon contact. Its terpene rich formula is designed to be absorbed quickly. Our fans constantly tell us that they love its pleasing scent, which is a peppermint-lavender blend."

CBD content: 2 mg/ml of CBD.

Benefits and Downsides to Using CBD Pain Relief Rubs

Like all supplements or treatments, there are both benefits and downsides to consider when using a CBD pain relief rub. Although they are a great way to help manage and reduce pain and inflammation, they might not be a great fit for everyone.

Here are some pros and cons of using a CBD pain relief rub:

Pros:

  • Provides localized relief to targeted areas.
  • Uses natural ingredients to nourish distressed skin.
  • Easy to use and portable. Plus, you can apply it as needed for managing pain on the go.
  • Contains anti-inflammatory properties which may help reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain.
  • Works quickly to relieve pain since it's absorbed through the skin.
  • Generally considered safe and has few reported side effects.

Cons:

  • Lower doses may not be optimal for those with more severe or chronic pain.
  • CBD in topical form is harder to absorb than when taken sublingually.
  • Not all CBD products are created equal. Check ingredients and quality before purchasing your product.
  • Those with sensitive skin may have an allergic reaction to certain ingredients in the product. Always do a small patch test before applying liberally to the affected area.

Overall, CBD pain relief rubs are a great way to target localized areas of pain and discomfort. With the right product, you can expect fast-acting relief that can help you manage your pain throughout the day.

However, it pays to read labels and test out a few products before committing to one in order to find the best CBD rub for your needs.

Things to Consider When Buying CBD Pain Relief Rubs

When choosing a CBD pain relief rub, there are several factors to consider:

Potency: The strength of the CBD in the product will determine its effectiveness. High-potency CBD products can be up to four times stronger than regular CBD products.

This means that you may experience greater relief from physical and mental conditions as well as reduced dosing time and a quicker onset of effects. Look for products with a higher concentration of CBD if you are seeking more potent relief.

Quality of ingredients: Look for products that use high-quality, pure CBD oil and other natural ingredients. Avoid products that contain additives or fillers.

Extraction method: Look for products that use CO2 extraction, as this method is considered to be the safest and most effective way to extract CBD oil.

Third-party testing: Look for products that have been tested by a third-party laboratory to ensure purity and potency. These test results should be readily available on the product's website or packaging.

Customer reviews: Reading reviews from other customers can give you an idea of the effectiveness of the product and the company's customer service.

Price: Consider the price of the product and whether it is a good value for the quality and potency of the CBD.

Return policy: It is always a good idea to choose a product from a company that has a generous return policy in case the product does not meet your expectations.

How to Use CBD Pain Relief Rubs

To use a CBD pain relief rub, follow these steps:

  1. Clean the area of the skin where you will apply the rub. This will help the CBD be absorbed more effectively and can also help prevent irritation.
  2. Apply a small amount of the CBD pain relief rub to the affected area. You can use your fingers or a cotton swab to apply the rub.
  3. Massage the rub into the skin until it is fully absorbed. This can help the CBD work more effectively by promoting blood flow to the area.
  4. Wash your hands after applying to ensure you don’t sting your eyes.
  5. Repeat the process as needed throughout the day. The frequency of application will depend on the specific product you are using and your individual pain management needs.

It is important to follow the instructions on the product packaging and consult a healthcare professional before using a CBD pain relief rub.

CBD Pain Relief Rub FAQs

What exactly is in CBD pain cream?

CBD pain relief rubs typically contain a combination of CBD oil, essential oils, and other natural ingredients. The exact formulation may vary from product to product.

Can CBD oil be rubbed on the painful area?

Yes, CBD oil can be applied topically to the skin to help manage localized pain and discomfort.

What are the side effects of CBD?

CBD is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, with few reported side effects. However, as with any substance, it is possible to experience some side effects when using CBD.

The most common side effects of CBD include:

  • dry mouth
  • drowsiness
  • dizziness
  • changes in appetite
  • diarrhea

How long does it take for CBD pain relief rub to work?

The time it takes for a CBD pain relief rub to work will depend on a variety of factors, including the specific product you are using, the severity of your pain, and your individual body chemistry.

In general, CBD pain relief rubs are absorbed quickly through the skin and can begin to work within minutes of application. However, the full effects of CBD may not be felt for several hours.

It is important to follow the instructions on the product packaging and to start with a small amount of CBD pain relief rub. You can gradually increase the amount you use if needed.

Is CBD legal?

Disclaimer: The following is not legal advice. You should always seek the counsel of your attorney for all legal matters as laws and regulations change constantly.

The legal status of CBD varies depending on where you are located.

In the United States, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized the cultivation and sale of hemp and hemp-derived products, including CBD, on a federal level. However, individual states may have their own laws and regulations regarding CBD.

In some states, CBD is legal for all uses, while in others, it may be legal only for certain medical conditions. It is important to check the laws in your specific state or country before using or purchasing CBD products.

How does CBD pain relief rub work?

CBD pain relief rubs work by delivering CBD, a compound found in cannabis plants, directly to the skin. The CBD is absorbed through the skin and interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors and chemicals that play a role in a variety of processes, including pain and inflammation.

In addition to CBD, many CBD pain relief rubs also contain other natural ingredients, such as essential oils and plant extracts, which may also have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.

How much does CBD cream cost?

The cost of CBD cream can vary widely, depending on a variety of factors such as the brand, the type of product, the strength of the CBD, and the size of the product.

On average, you can expect to pay between $0.05 and $0.20 per milligram of CBD for a CBD cream. For example, a 1-ounce (30 mL) jar of CBD cream containing 500 milligrams of CBD might cost $25 to $100.

It is important to note that the price of CBD products is not always an indication of quality. It is a good idea to do your research and read reviews before purchasing a CBD cream to ensure you are getting a high-quality product.

Will using CBD cream result in a positive drug test?

It is possible that using a CBD cream could result in a positive drug test for THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants.

Most CBD products are derived from hemp, which contains only trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%). However, it is possible that the small amounts of THC present in hemp-derived CBD products could accumulate in the body over time and potentially cause a positive drug test result.

If you are concerned about the possibility of a positive drug test as a result of using a CBD cream, it is a good idea to choose a product that is labeled as "THC-free" or "no THC." These products are made with CBD that has been isolated from all other cannabinoids, including THC, and are unlikely to result in a positive drug test.

Does CBD cream react with other medications?

It is possible that CBD cream could interact with certain medications or supplements. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider before using CBD creams so they can provide personalized guidance on the potential risks and interactions with your specific medications.

Conclusion to the Best CBD Pain Relief Rub

CBD has shown promise as a natural pain reliever and you can now find it available in many different forms such as oils, tinctures, capsules, and topicals like creams and salves. We hope that this article has helped to guide you in deciding which CBD pain relief rub may be best for you.

Be sure to always do your research, talk with your healthcare provider, and read the product labels before trying any CBD products. With all the available options on the market today, you are sure to find a CBD pain relief rub that fits your needs!

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Blog posts

View all
1 3
View all