Here's Why You Should Be Using CBD Bath Bombs
Thanks to their recent explosion in popularity in recent years (no pun intended), bath bombs have become a staple in many people's self-care routines. Their fun shapes, scents, and colors make bath time more fun, and their active ingredients can soothe sore muscles and create a relaxing spa-like experience at home. If you're a lover of bath bombs and their de-stressing qualities, then you may be interested in learning more about CBD bath bombs, which are a combination of two factors that can take your relaxation and pain relief to the next level.
How do bath bombs work?
Bath bombs are made from a mixture of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), citric acid, Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate), and natural and organic coloring. Essential oils like lavender, vanilla, orange, and/or lemon are also added to the mix to give the bath bombs their pleasing scents and aromatherapy qualities. Small amounts of these essential oils also help to nourish and moisturize the skin.
When introduced to hot water, the sodium bicarbonate and citric acid dissolve and react to one another. Together, they form carbon dioxide and sodium citrate, and it's this reaction in the bathwater that causes the desirable fizzing, bubbling sensation that any bath bomb-lover will tell you is oh so appealing to watch (and listen to).
When the carbon dioxide is released into the air, the bath bomb breaks up and releases its essential oils and other detergents into the bathwater. As soon as the reaction ceases, the beautifully-colored and scented bath is ready to enjoy.
What exactly is a CBD?
CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of over 100 chemical compounds, called cannabinoids, found in the Cannabis sativa plant, also known as marijuana or hemp depending on how much tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) the plant contains.
Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive and does not cause the "high" that is often associated with smoking or ingesting marijuana. Most CBD is extracted from hemp plants, which only contain about 0.3% THC. For comparison, marijuana plants used to achieve a high usually contain about 15-20% THC.
When extracted form the cannabis plant, CBD is often diluted with specific carrier oils, such as coconut, hemp seed, or even olive oil, before it is ingested or applied to the body. CBD oils and tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties, which are great for dealing with chronic pain, stress, anxiety, and can even aid insomnia. When mixed with other cannabinoids, and active cannabis-plant compounds like terpene and phenolics, the effects of CBD can be amplified. This amplified version of CBD isolate caused by combining multiple compounds is often referred to as the "entourage effect."
So, why put CBD in a bath bomb?
The introduction of CBD to bath bombs is a semi-new method for administering pain relief. When applied to cool, dry skin, you may notice some pain relief, however, it will most likely be very minor. As EchoConnection.org explains, when CBD oil is applied topically, it has a very hard time reaching the bloodstream through the skin, "where it can then be transported throughout the body to interact with or influence [our body's] cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, and non-cannabinoid receptors like serotonin receptor 5-HT1A and vanilloid receptor TRPV-1."
Although, when applied liberally, CBD products like oil, salves, lotions, and balms, can permeate the skin enough via our pores to interact with nearby cannabinoid receptors, thus meaning it may offer some relief when applied to specific sore muscles.
However, when combined with a bath bomb and the heat of the bathwater, CBD is more likely to permeate the skin because our pores open up when introduced to hot water. As you soak in the hot, CBD-rich water, your skin is more likely to efficiently absorb the compound so it reaches the bloodstream, therefore helping you experience the full benefits of CBD throughout your entire body.
Seriously — your bath experience has never felt more relaxing than it does when you use a CBD bath bomb.
And there are other benefits of CBD bath bombs, as well.
According to CBGenius.net, the CBD oil in the bath bomb pairs wonderfully with the detoxing nature of the Epsom salts. The salt can draw harmful toxins out from the body, which can result in mood stabilization, sore muscle relief, improvement in overall health, and can even help with weight management. Because Epsom salts and CBD share so many beneficial properties, the pairing can do wonders for both your mental state and chronic pain at the end of a long day.
The CBD carrier oil in bath bombs may also act alongside the essential oils as a moisturizing skin care element.
How can you get your hands on a CBD bath bomb?
Luckily, a simple Google search can lead you to multiple sites that sell CBD bath bombs. Make sure you're investigating to see what kind of essential oils and carrier oils are used in each bath bomb if you suffer from sensitive skin or allergic reactions. Similarly, also double check the products you're buying to see if they contain any harsh chemicals or preservatives that may cause irritation. Otherwise, your CBD bath bomb experience may cause more harm than good.
Alternatively, you can make your own CBD bath bombs at home using your favorite CBD oil or tincture. All you need are bath bomb molds, baking soda, citric acid, corn starch, Epsom salt, essential oils, natural coloring, and your CBD oil or tincture of choice.
For the most part, all bath bombs you either buy or make in your own home should be vegan based on the lack of animal-related ingredients used. But if making a vegan bath bomb is a main concern of yours, make sure you read over ingredients and look for the appropriate vegan labelling before you checkout.
Using CBD bath bombs can be an amazing experience and can really enhance your at-home spa day. Light a few candles, put on some soothing tunes, let your CBD bath bomb fizz away, and let your anxiety, stress, and pain melt away.
