The Benefits of CBD and CBG in Topical Discomfort Relief

The Benefits of CBD and CBG in Topical Discomfort Relief

In the world of botanical wellness, two hemp-derived compounds—CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol)—are gaining increased attention for their potential to support topical comfort and skin wellness. As natural alternatives to synthetic ingredients continue to rise in popularity, many are turning to plant-based solutions to help manage occasional muscle tension, skin dryness, and post-exercise soreness.

At The Wright Salve Co., we believe in the power of clean, nature-inspired formulations. By combining CBD and CBG with other purposeful botanicals like Dragon’s Blood Tree Resin and Frankincense essential oil, our products are crafted to support your body's natural recovery and relaxation process—topically and mindfully.

In this blog, we’ll explore the potential benefits of CBD and CBG when applied topically, dive into the differences between these two compounds, and explain why they’re at the heart of The Wright Salve’s flagship formula.


What Are CBD and CBG?

CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol) are non-intoxicating cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), they do not produce a high and are considered safe for topical use when sourced from compliant hemp extract.

  • CBD is the most well-known cannabinoid after THC and is widely used in wellness and skincare products due to its soothing and balancing properties.
  • CBG, known as the “mother of all cannabinoids,” is the precursor from which other cannabinoids like CBD and THC are synthesized in the plant. Though present in smaller amounts, it’s becoming popular for its skin-supportive and calming qualities.

These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS)—a system involved in maintaining overall homeostasis (balance). While research is still ongoing, many people incorporate cannabinoids into their routines to support comfort, skin balance, and overall well-being.4


The Role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in Skin Health

The ECS is a network of receptors and enzymes found throughout the body—including the skin. The two main types of ECS receptors, CB1 and CB2, are part of a complex system that helps maintain equilibrium in multiple physiological processes.

When applied topically, CBD and CBG may interact with these receptors locally, influencing responses such as:

  • Skin hydration
  • Redness or sensitivity
  • Tension in muscles or joints

According to a study in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, cannabinoids may help regulate sebum production and skin reactivity, suggesting their potential in topical skincare applications.1


Why Use CBD and CBG in Topical Products?

Topical products allow you to target specific areas of discomfort or skin dryness without ingesting the compounds. CBD and CBG do not enter the bloodstream through the skin but may interact with local ECS receptors to offer localized, plant-powered support.

Here are some ways CBD and CBG are commonly used in topical form:

1. Post-Activity Muscle Support

People often apply cannabinoid-infused balms after workouts or long days to relax tired muscles and support natural recovery. CBD and CBG are valued for their ability to soothe the skin and promote a sense of ease.

2. Targeted Skin Nourishment

CBD and CBG are known for their balancing and hydrating properties, making them ideal for dry, tight, or weather-exposed skin. When combined with emollients like jojoba oil or cacao butter, these cannabinoids may help restore comfort and softness.

3. Supporting Skin Recovery and Comfort

Anecdotal feedback and early studies suggest that cannabinoids may help support the skin’s natural processes and help soothe areas of temporary redness or sensitivity.2


CBD vs. CBG: What’s the Difference in Topicals?

Though similar, CBD and CBG offer distinct properties that make them a powerful duo in topical formulations:

Property

CBD

CBG

Found in

Mature hemp plants

Young hemp plants

Role

Promotes skin balance & hydration

Known for soothing & calming effects

Topical Use

Skin comfort, hydration, relaxation

Local relief, skin tone support

Research

Widely studied

Emerging but promising

The combination of both in a single product, like The Wright Salve, creates a synergistic effect, helping users experience a well-rounded topical benefit.


Why We Include CBD and CBG in The Wright Salve

Our flagship product, The Wright Salve, is crafted with 1000mg of CBD and 1000mg of CBG, blended into a base of organic beeswax, cacao butter, and jojoba oil for a deeply nourishing and smooth application.

This dual-cannabinoid salve also includes:

  • Dragon’s Blood Tree Resin – traditionally used to support skin resilience and hydration
  • Home-distilled Frankincense essential oil – widely appreciated for its calming aroma and skin-conditioning qualities
  • Myrrh, Tea Tree, and Cedarwood essential oils – botanical extracts with a long history of use in natural skincare
  • Colloidal Gold – a unique addition that gives the salve its luxurious character

Together, these ingredients form a powerful plant-based formulation designed to:

  • Soothe tired muscles after long days or workouts
  • Support comfort in joints or hands
  • Nourish dry, irritated, or sun-exposed skin
  • Tighten and rejuvenate the look of the skin

Whether you're addressing occasional tension, everyday wear, or post-activity recovery, this salve is designed for targeted use and gentle daily support.


What Does the Research Say?

While CBD and CBG are still being actively studied, a growing body of research highlights their potential when used topically:

  • Palmieri et al. (2019) noted that CBD-enriched topical formulations were well tolerated and showed promise for enhancing skin quality.
  • Borrelli et al. (2013) studied CBG’s interactions in biological models and found it to have calming properties.
  • A 2020 review published in Molecules discussed the antioxidant and skin-conditioning benefits of cannabinoids in topical applications.4

While more clinical studies are needed, the early findings support what many natural wellness users already experience: that CBD and CBG may provide comfort and support when applied topically as part of a holistic lifestyle.


How to Use CBD + CBG Salves

Using a topical cannabinoid product is simple:

  1. Clean the area you wish to apply the salve.
  2. Massage a small amount into the skin using circular motions.
  3. Apply as needed, especially after physical activity, showers, or before bed.

Since cannabinoids are fat-soluble, products formulated with plant oils and butters—like The Wright Salve—help improve their absorption and effectiveness.

Tip: Use consistently for best results, and store your salve in a cool, dry place.


Final Thoughts: A Natural Approach to Topical Comfort

CBD and CBG are two of nature’s most promising plant-derived compounds, especially when it comes to supporting topical comfort, hydration, and recovery.

At The Wright Salve Co., we combine these cannabinoids with a thoughtful blend of botanicals and essential oils to help you feel more at ease in your body and confident in your skin. Whether you're winding down after a workout, managing tension from daily stress, or just giving your skin a little extra love—CBD and CBG offer a natural way to support your self-care routine.


References

  1. Oláh, A., Tóth, B. I., Borbíró, I., Sugawara, K., Szöllősi, A. G., Czifra, G., ... & Bíró, T. (2014). Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and anti-inflammatory effects on human sebocytes. Journal of Clinical Investigation, 124(9), 3713-3724. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI64628
  2. Palmieri, B., Laurino, C., & Vadalà, M. (2019). A therapeutic effect of CBD-enriched ointment in inflammatory skin diseases and cutaneous scars. La Clinica Terapeutica, 170(2), e93–e99. https://doi.org/10.7417/CT.2019.2116
  3. Borrelli, F., Pagano, E., Romano, B., Panzera, S., Maiello, F., Coppola, D., ... & Izzo, A. A. (2013). Colon carcinogenesis is inhibited by the TRPM8 antagonist cannabigerol. Biochemical Pharmacology, 85(9), 1306–1316. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocel.2013.02.008
  4. Baswan, S. M., Klosner, A. E., Glynn, K., Rajgopal, A., Malik, K., Yim, S., & Stern, N. (2020). Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) for skin health and disorders. Molecules, 25(24), 5823. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25102476

FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your health care professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.

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