When you think of massage therapy, you think of words such as relaxation, pampering, and relief from muscle knots and pain.

Massage of some type, has probably been around since the beginning of time. We instinctively press on, grasp, or rub an area of pain or tension because it helps soothe away the pain. Most of us are familiar with the Swedish massage style, which uses a massage oil and long soothing strokes. However, each culture has developed their own style of massage. Chinese, Egyptian, and Ayurvedic massage all date back to 2500-3000 BCE.

Even though massage therapy has been around for a long time, it is not always given the respect it deserves - though people who get regular massage can attest to the fact that it helps provide relief from mental and physical tension.

As a Harvard study noted, therapeutic massage “may relieve pain by way of several mechanisms, including relaxing painful muscles, tendons, and joints; relieving stress and anxiety; and possibly helping to ‘close the pain gate’ by stimulating competing nerve fibers and impeding pain messages to and from the brain.“

The endocannabinoid receptors in our bodies are remarkably receptive to the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. 

As humans started making their own herbs and remedies, they started to massage these remedies into the skin for added benefit. From essential oils to deep heat rubs and herbs such as arnica and lavender, there are many compounds and preparations which help promote relaxation and decrease inflammation and pain.

Modern massage therapy can be considered an effective alternative health strategy for both prevention and treatment of chronic pain and stress, and in the last few years, one very popular addition to the massage experience has been cannabis products, specifically hemp and CBD (cannabidiol).

From high end spas to chiropractor offices, consumers have been requesting that topical hemp and CBD products be added to their massage session - and with good reason, as using topical hemp products in the massage session creates better and longer lasting results.

Admittedly, most massage clients don’t actually know why these products make such a positive difference in their therapeutic experience. To better understand the benefits of cannabis products, we need to learn a bit more about the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a physiological system that has only been studied since the early 1990s, when it was discovered by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam.

We have multiple receptor sites, signaling chemicals, and enzymes in our bodies that make up the ECS. This system helps to communicate with and regulates all our other internal systems, and is designed to bring them into balance or homeostasis.

The endocannabinoid receptors in our bodies are remarkably receptive to the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Of these plant cannabinoids, THC and CBD are the most thoroughly researched, with several hundred plant compounds actually found in the cannabis plant.

These plant-based cannabinoids can be used as a supplement when our own ECS system is deficient. When we balance our ECS through supplementation, we can experience less inflammation, less pain, decreased anxiety, improved sleep, along with numerous other additional benefits.

It’s important to use products on our skin that are free from harsh chemicals or harmful additives, because whatever we apply on the surface of our skin also penetrates deep into the skin layers.

There are many ways to partake cannabis products, including edibles, tinctures, vaping, smoking and topical application. Massage therapists incorporate hemp and CBD-rich topical extracts and other beneficial compounds into their massage oil.

It’s important to use products on our skin that are free from harsh chemicals or harmful additives, because whatever we apply on the surface of our skin also penetrates deep into the skin layers.

Within these skin layers are numerous CB2 receptor sites that will absorb cannabinoids and support a healthier ECS. Hemp and CBD applied topically, will not enter your bloodstream, only working locally where it is applied.

There are numerous topical cannabis formulations on the market, but some of these products have been highly processed, which destroys some of the other helpful compounds found in the cannabis plant. Some products also have artificial fragrances, emulsifiers, preservatives and other unwanted chemicals. So, for the best and safest results, choose a product that has pure ingredients and has also been lab tested for purity and potency for labeling accuracy.

Look for a certificate of analysis (COA) when purchasing a cannabis product and read the ingredient label thoroughly. The certificate of analysis should include the percentage of cannabinoids in the product as well as proof that the product is free of pesticides, heavy metals, residuals, and molds or toxins.

NurseGrown Organics provides the products I use in my massage practice. The cannabis is Clean Green certified, which is as far more rigorous than an organic certification.

NurseGrown’s massage oil is a full spectrum product, meaning it has all of the wonderful cannabinoid plant compounds (with very minimal THC, the legal limit of 0.3% or less for hemp), plus a host of other organic oils and ingredients. It soaks and absorbs into the skin well, without leaving a greasy feeling or residue. The essential oil combinations not only smell amazing, they too have their own therapeutic properties and health benefits.

There are two different massage oils to choose from: Deeply Rooted and Rise Up. I don’t have a favorite because they are both equally wonderful for a full body massage. NurseGrown Organics also makes a topical balm with arnica and frankincense that can be used for spot treatments. You can purchase both the pain balm and massage oil to use at home between massage treatments. 

Here's to happy massaging and your increased health and well being!

Photos by Andrea Piacquadio and Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels

Disclaimer: The information provided is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, provide medical advice, or otherwise replace consultation with a qualified medical or health provider.