How topicals work (without getting you high)
Cannabinoids in topicals interact with CB2 receptors in the skin and muscle tissue. They don't pass into the bloodstream at intoxicating concentrations through unbroken skin, so there's no head-high. This is why topicals are usable in scenarios where a typical edible or vape wouldn't fit — daytime work, parenting hours, sober social settings.
Balms and lotions for sore muscles
Cannabis-infused balms typically use a combination of THC, CBD, and sometimes additional botanicals (menthol, arnica, magnesium). Onset is 15-45 minutes, peak around 1 hour, duration 2-4 hours. Apply directly to the area — a quarter-sized amount per joint is standard. Most Michigan-licensed balms run $30-60 for 1-3 oz.
Transdermal patches
Cannabinoid patches deliver THC or CBD across the skin barrier over 4-8 hours. Unlike standard topicals, patches CAN produce mild psychoactive effects with full-spectrum THC patches because cannabinoids enter the bloodstream slowly. Start with a 5-10 mg patch.
Sublingual tinctures
Drops placed under the tongue absorb through oral mucosa. Onset 15-45 minutes, duration 2-4 hours. Bypasses the liver, so the effect feels closer to inhaled cannabis than swallowed edibles. Tinctures are useful for predictable, discreet dosing. Common doses: 2.5-10 mg per dropper.
- FDA — Cannabidiol (CBD) and Topical Cannabinoid Products — U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- CB2 receptors in skin and the topical cannabinoid mechanism — PubMed Central / NIH
- Michigan CRA — Marihuana Infused Products processor licensing — Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency