DMSO and CBD - Update

DMSO & CBD

Since we last revisited the use of DMSO with CBD and other cannabinoids to improve absorption there’s been an increase in interest in the topic. But does it work? Can you use DMSO and CBD together to increase absorption? Will it help when applying CBD topically in creams, gels etc. to get localized pain relief? Are there issues using DMSO?

Join us for an updated overview on the use of DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) to improve drug absorption. DMSO is used widely but our focus is on the application of CBD, CBG, and other cannabinoid-based salves and creams that are used for relief of localized pain and inflammation.

What is DMSO?

Overview of Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) for Drug Absorption

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a highly versatile solvent widely used in pharmaceutical and topical applications. It is particularly useful for its ability to improve the absorption of active compounds through the skin. Below is a summary of its use in enhancing the delivery of cannabinoids like CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol) in topical formulations for pain relief. DMSO, as a natural byproduct of the wood pulp industry making it easily and widely available as an ingredient for enhancing the delivery of CBD.

Key Properties of DMSO:

How does it work? DMSO is able to penetrate deeper because it increases the permeability of cell membranes. This allows drugs or other active compounds to penetrate deeper into affected tissues when it’s applied. DMSO also has its own anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. This complements the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids. So not only does it help with getting CBD to the site of infection, it amplifies the anti-inflammatory effect.

DMSO is also amphiphilic, meaning it can dissolve both water-soluble and lipid-soluble compound., This makes it very flexible and an excellent vehicle for formulating topical products.

DMSO and Cannabinoid-Based Topicals:

CBD and CBG are well known non-psychoactive cannabinoids that have demonstrated potential in reducing pain, inflammation, and skin-related conditions. When formulated with DMSO, their absorption through the skin is greatly enhanced, potentially improving their therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability. This is very desirable in pain relief applications. CBD and CBG are often delivered as creams, salves, or gels. These products have become very widely adopted for localized pain relief of conditions such as arthritis, muscle soreness, or neuropathic pain. Once again, DMSO helps deliver these compounds more effectively to the affected area.

DMSO’s inherent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties may work synergistically with cannabinoids to enhance pain relief and reduce inflammation.

In addition to improved bioavailability, DMSO can also enable faster onset of relief due to the ability to facilitate penetration of CBD or CBD into the skin.

Considerations and Challenges:

There are some downsides and caveats to using DMSO. It can cause skin irritation and has the potential for some to create allergic reactions. This is especially true if concentration is high. You should test carefully and understand your own reactions. Another consideration is the fact that DMSO, being sulphur-containing does tend to exhibit a distinct garlic-like odour which some users find unpleasant. You should understand the concentration of DMSO in topical formulations, it is regulated and controlled. Make sure you’re using a safe product.

Should you use DMSO with CBD?

DMSO can definitely be a useful component in topical cannabinoid formulations. There is value for some to be able to increase the absorption and efficacy of CBD, CBG, or other cannabinoids products. Improved bioavailability, combined with its own therapeutic properties, make it a great addition to cannabinoid-based salves and creams. However, careful formulation and consideration of potential side effects are essential to ensure safety and avoid possible unpleasant side effects.

CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant properties, but its effectiveness in topical applications can be limited by poor skin absorption. Therefore formulating it with DMSO makes good sense.

Growing Popularity of DMSO in CBD Topicals

There’s a steady growth in interest in combining topical CBD products with DMSO. Topical CBD remedies are themselves increasing in popularity and availability. The global shift toward natural and plant-based remedies has driven the popularity of CBD products, including topicals like creams, salves, and gels. As a result, the interest and advantages of using them with DMSO is increasing as well. This is good as it will motivate more research.

Rising Demand for CBD Pain Relief Products:

An aging and more health conscious population has resulted in an increasing prevalence of chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis, neuropathy, and muscle soreness. So this has fueled demand for effective topical pain relief solutions. Many of these include CBD, CBG and other cannabinoids. CBD topicals enhanced with DMSO are marketed as fast-acting, targeted treatments for localized pain, appealing to consumers seeking alternatives to oral medications. Any time you can apply a topical effectively to a localized area, there is a natural preference among users to target it directly.

Research on DMSO and CBD:

There isn’t much research specifically on DMSO-enhanced CBD topicals. Studies on the ability of DMSO to improve bioavailability and therefore enhance CBD’s therapeutic effects are few in number. However, they do support its use. Anecdotal evidence from users support the notion that DMSO-enhanced CBD topicals provide faster and more effective pain relief compared to traditional formulations. Many users report positive experiences with DMSO-enhanced CBD products, citing reduced pain, inflammation, and improved skin conditions. One study reported in the National Library of Medicine looked at ‘Transdermal Permeation of Cannabinoids using Rats’. The conclusion of the study noted: “Transdermal gel formulations of cannabinoids: CBD, CBG and THCV were formulated using combination of permeation enhancers and solvents. Our IVPT results showed significantly high permeation of these cannabinoids with controlled release for 72 h.”

The Future of DMSO and CBD

Regulatory Concerns:

The regulatory landscape for both CBD and DMSO is evolving. There are varying guidelines across jurisdictions. This can impact the availability and ability to market DMSO-enhanced CBD products. Adoption is affected concerns about skin irritation or odor. Product makers are working to address these concerns through improved formulations.

There is innovation underway and some manufacturers are making improvements. One such area is the practice of ‘microencapsulation’ or combining DMSO with other penetration enhancers to improve user experience and efficacy.

If you’re looking to utilize DMSO to improve the effectiveness of topical pain relief, visit us at our online store for quality pure CBD relief sticks.

DMSO and CBD – Update