CBD education

CBD and Muscle Pain: Everything You Need to Know

From alleviating muscle aches and pains to reducing inflammation and promoting overall health and well-being, CBD is known to have several health-related benefits.

But there’s one area in particular that has proven to have huge upside: Muscle pain relief.

Whether you’re an athlete, fitness enthusiast, or someone who experiences occasional muscle soreness from time to time, understanding how to incorporate CBD into your daily routine can be incredibly beneficial.

Read on to learn everything you need to know about using CBD for muscle pain relief and why you might want to consider using it.

CBD and Muscle Pain: What Does the Science Say?

The Endocannabinoid System and Pain Relief

Woah, woah, woah… the endo-what now?

If you want to understand how CBD can help reduce muscle pain, the first step is understanding what the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is and how it works.

Let’s break it down: The ECS plays a vital role in maintaining your body’s overall homeostasis, or the balance of its internal environment. When an injury or inflammation occurs, the ECS is believed to activate and help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

The body naturally produces endocannabinoids, which have a similar structure to cannabinoids like CBD. Which is why when CBD is introduced into your body, it can mimic the function of endocannabinoids and interact with the ECS, helping provide pain relief and reduce muscle inflammation.

The Differences Between CBD and THC

Yes, CBD and THC are both cannabinoids. But while that may be true, they both affect the ECS in different ways.

THC has a more potent impact on activating the ECS, which results in sensations of euphoria and intoxication commonly associated with marijuana use.

CBD, on the other hand, doesn’t produce those same psychoactive effects. But it still interacts with the ECS enough to provide pain relief, reduce nausea, and aid in several other therapeutic benefits.

CBD is also legally derived from hemp plants containing less than 0.3% THC, making it accessible without a prescription in many regions, such as our very own New England region.

So Can CBD Really Help Relieve Muscle Pain?

Here’s What the Studies Say:

The short answer? Yes… but it’s a bit complicated.

While we’re still in the earlier stages of researching CBD on muscle pain, some studies have shown promising results.

One such study found that CBD can reduce the need for opioids in individuals suffering from chronic pain. CBD has also demonstrated potential in alleviating nerve pain, such as the burning and tingling sensations caused by conditions like diabetes or shingles. Further studies suggest that CBD may even be able to ease muscular symptoms and discomfort associated with multiple sclerosis.

With all the upside, however, it’s important to note that not all studies show consistent results. One recent study, for example, evaluated the effects of CBD oil on exercise-induced muscle damage and found no significant impact on muscle soreness and inflammation.

While research is very promising, it’s no question that more studies are needed to determine the full extent of CBD’s potential in relieving muscle pain in the body.

CBD and Osteoarthritis Pain

Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, is a common cause of chronic pain. And while some studies suggest that topically-applied CBD gel may reduce joint swelling and improve pain, others have shown inconclusive results.

A recent study evaluating the effects of CBD in people with hip and knee osteoarthritis found no significant benefit in pain reduction compared to those not using CBD.

The reality is research is very early, and we still don’t know everything there is to know about CBD and its impacts on muscle pain.

With that said, early stage studies show lots of potential when it comes to using CBD for reducing muscle pains and aches.

How to Use CBD for Muscle Pain Relief

Topical Application of CBD

What are topical CBD products? They’re products like creams and ointments that are designed to be applied directly to the skin over affected muscle areas. And when applied topically, CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, which has shown to localize pain relief and reduce inflammation.

While the concentration of CBD in topical products may vary, it’s crucial to choose high-quality CBD products and review the certificate of analysis (COA) to ensure the CBD content meets your individual needs.

Oral Consumption of CBD

Consuming CBD orally, such as through oils, capsules, or edibles, allows the compound to enter the bloodstream and interact with the ECS on a more systemic level. This method may be beneficial for individuals experiencing widespread muscle pain or seeking overall pain relief.

However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of oral CBD can vary depending on factors such as dosage, absorption rate, and individual metabolism. We always recommend starting with a low dosage and gradually increasing it, as needed, to determine your optimal amount for pain relief and muscle relaxation.

Considerations and Precautions

Interacting with Medications

Before incorporating CBD into your routine, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you’re taking other medications.

Your healthcare provider can help assess potential interactions and guide you through the appropriate use of CBD for muscle pain relief.

Quality and Safety

When purchasing CBD products, it’s essential to prioritize quality and safety. Look for products that have been independently tested by third-party laboratories, and ensure their COA verifies the CBD content and absence of contaminants.

By choosing reputable brands – like Harbor Hemp – and adhering to recommended dosages, you can enhance the safety and efficacy of CBD to help relieve muscle pains.


While research is still in its earlier stages, evidence suggests CBD has great potential to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being.

But whether you choose to apply CBD topically or consume it orally, it’s crucial to select high-quality, reputable CBD products, like our wide-selection here at Harbor Hemp.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your routine, particularly if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

6 Things to Know Before Choosing Your Next CBD Oil

If you’re anything like us, you know that CBD comes in many different shapes and sizes, one of which is CBD oil. From reducing inflammation to helping manage stress and anxiety, CBD oil has been praised for its various health benefits.

But you may be wondering: What exactly is CBD oil and how does it compare to other popular CBD products? How can you use it for yourself and just how effective is it?

Well, we have the answers to some of your most burning questions! Below, we’ll be exploring everything you need to know about CBD oil so you can decide how to choose the right one for you.


1. What is CBD Oil?

CBD oil, short for cannabidiol oil, is a natural compound derived from cannabis. Unlike its counterpart, THC, CBD doesn’t produce any psychoactive effects or a “high” sensation. Although CBD oil can be extracted from non-hemp plants, it’s most commonly derived from hemp.

CBD Oil vs. Hemp Oil: Understanding the Difference

While CBD and hemp oil are often used interchangeably and thought of as one and the same, they are two very different products, each with their own uses and benefits.

Often used as a culinary ingredient and in skincare products, hemp oil is derived from the seeds of hemp plants and contains little to no CBD. CBD oil, on the other hand, is primarily used for its therapeutic properties and is extracted from the leaves, flowers, and stalks of the hemp plant. And as you might have guessed, it contains significant amounts of CBD.

2. What’s CBD Oil Used For?

From managing pain to reducing inflammation and improving sleep, CBD oil has been studied for its benefits in various health conditions.

CBD Oil for Pain Management

One of the most common uses of CBD oil is for pain management. Interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a crucial role in regulating pain perception, studies have shown that CBD can reduce chronic pain and inflammation. Research has also found that it may be effective in managing conditions such as arthritis, sclerosis, and fibromyalgia.

CBD Oil for Inflammation

CBD oil has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation in the body. Because of these properties, CBD oil has been shown to reduce autoimmune diseases and chronic pain.

CBD Oil for Anxiety and Stress

By interacting with receptors in the brain associated with mood regulation, research has found that CBD oil can help reduce anxiety and stress, and many studies suggest that its properties can act as a natural remedy for many severe anxiety disorders.

CBD Oil for Sleep Disorders

While sleep disorders like insomnia can have a significant impact on one’s daily functioning and quality of life, CBD oil may help improve sleep quality and alleviate sleep disturbances. Promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, it’s been found to help regulate sleep-wake cycles through interacting with receptors involved in circadian rhythm.

CBD Oil for Epilepsy and Seizures

One of the most common medical uses of CBD oil is in the treatment of epilepsy and seizures. Research has shown that CBD oil can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in people with these conditions, and the FDA has even approved several CBD medications for the treatment of epilepsy.

3. How Do I Choose the Right CBD Oil For Me?

Choosing the right CBD oil product and using it correctly are crucial if you want to see the best results. Here are a few things to consider when deciding which CBD oil is right for you:

Understand CBD Potency and Dosage

One of the main factors in choosing the right CBD oil is understanding the differences in concentration and potency. While higher potency can indicate better results, that isn’t always the case. The optimal dosage for you might depend on your:

  • Weight
  • Metabolism
  • Medical condition

Our recommendation? Start with a low dose and gradually increase from there until the desired effects are achieved.

What Are the Different Forms of CBD Oil?

CBD oil can take many different shapes and sizes, including:

  • Capsules
  • Gummies
  • Tinctures
  • Topical treatments

While tinctures are the most common form of CBD oil, each form has its own advantages and benefits. Capsules provide a convenient and precise dosage and topical creams are applied directly to the skin for localized relief. Gummies, such as our best-selling Easy Breezy Gummies, offer a tasty and discreet way to get your daily dose of CBD.

4. CBD Oil vs. Other CBD Products

While CBD oil is a quick and effective way to get your daily dose of CBD, it’s just one of the many types of CBD products available on the market. Understanding the differences between CBD oil and other CBD products can help you choose the right fit for your specific needs.

CBD Oil vs. CBD Gummies

While CBD oil provides more flexibility in dosage and consumption methods, CBD gummies offer a more discreet and flavorful option for those who prefer edibles.

CBD Oil vs. CBD Topicals

Commonly used for muscle and joint pain, inflammation, and skincare, CBD topicals are designed to be applied directly to the skin for targeted relief. While CBD oil can be ingested or applied topically, CBD topicals are specifically designed for external use and may provide more localized effects.

CBD Oil vs. CBD Capsules

CBD capsules come in pre-measured doses, offering a simple and easy way to track your daily CBD intake. While CBD oil provides more flexibility in dosage, capsules are ideal for those who prefer a more consistent, hassle-free method of consuming their daily CBD.

5. How Do I Choose the Highest Quality CBD Oil?

Purchasing the highest-quality CBD oil is crucial to ensure the best results possible. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best, highest-quality product:

Buy From Reputable Brands

Look for CBD oil from reputable manufacturers, like Harbor Hemp, who adhere to strict quality control standards. Also, be sure to check for third-party testing and certifications to ensure the purity and potency of the product.

Read Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Look for reviews and testimonials from other consumers who have used the brand or product you’re considering buying from. This simple act can provide insights into the quality and effectiveness of the CBD oil you’re looking at.

Check for Transparent Labeling

A reputable CBD oil brand will provide detailed information on the label, including the CBD content, extraction method, and any additional ingredients. Avoid products with vague or misleading labeling.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about CBD Oil

We get it, you may still have a few questions about CBD oil. So below we’ve compiled a few answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about CBD oil:

Can CBD Oil Get You High?

No, CBD oil doesn’t produce a “high” sensation. It’s non-psychoactive and doesn’t contain THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for intoxicating effects.

Is CBD Oil Addictive?

No, CBD oil isn’t addictive and doesn’t have the same addictive properties as THC.

How Long Does CBD Oil Take to Work?

The onset and duration of effects can vary depending on the person and the method of consumption. Inhalation and sublingual consumption generally provide faster onset, while oral ingestion and topical application have a slower onset, but longer-lasting effects. We always advise to start with a low dose and allow time for the CBD oil to take effect before adjusting the dosage.

Can You Overdose on CBD Oil?

CBD oil is generally well-tolerated, and it’s incredibly difficult to overdose on CBD. However, extremely high doses may cause drowsiness, gastrointestinal discomfort, or other mild side effects. Again, we always encourage you to start with a low dose and gradually increase from there.


From reducing inflammation to alleviating anxiety and treating certain medical conditions, CBD oil has several well-researched benefits that may be able to help you.

But while beneficial, it’s important to purchase your CBD oil from reputable manufacturers with high-quality products, like Harbor Hemp.

You can shop our wide-selection of CBD oils and other CBD products here.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or treatment.

Hemp vs. Marijuana: What’s the difference?

You might have heard the terms “cannabis” or “cannabis industry” being tossed around in the media lately. But did you know that cannabis is actually a genus of plants that has three species: indica, sativa and ruderalis? Although hemp and marijuana both belong to the cannabis plant species and look and smell very similar, they are legally recognized as two different plants. Hemp plants are always classified as a sativa cannabis species, while marijuana plants can be either sativa or indica.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the other ways hemp and marijuana are different.

What is the legal difference between hemp and marijuana?

The key difference between hemp and marijuana is the amount of the cannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that each plant is legally allowed to contain. Hemp, also called industrial hemp, can only contain less than 0.3% THC, according to Federal law, while marijuana plants are generally bred to contain much higher levels of the intoxicating THC.

What is industrial hemp?

Industrial hemp, the type of cannabis plant that hemp-derived CBD is extracted from, is non-intoxicating and can legally only contain less than 0.3% THC. Now legal in all 50 states, thanks to the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is used in the manufacturing of a wide variety of CBD products. These types of products include those made by Harbor Hemp Company such as CBD tinctures, CBD pain creams and topicals, CBD capsules and CBD pet products.

In addition to being used for the CBD industry, hemp is also widely used to produce a range of other products, including food, fiber, fuel and personal care products.

Will I get high from hemp?

No, hemp will not make you high. Unlike marijuana which can have very high levels of intoxicating THC, hemp plants can legally only have less than 0.3% THC and are considered non-intoxicating.

Does CBD come from hemp or marijuana?

Like THC, CBD is found in both hemp and marijuana plants, however hemp-derived CBD is the only CBD that is legal in all 50 states. If you live in a state where medicinal marijana is legalized you may be able to purchase marjunana-derived CBD at a medicinal majijuana dispensary. But it’s a good idea to check your local laws before shopping as you may need a prescription to buy from a dispensary.

Still have questions about the difference between hemp and marijuana?

Our team of CBD specialists is always here to answer your questions. Just drop us a line.

How to buy CBD: 5 things to consider

Buy CBD

You’ve decided that you’re ready to try CBD, but with so many CBD brands available in today’s market, shopping for CBD can be confusing and overwhelming. From dozens of national brands to thousands of local brands, such as Harbor Hemp Company’s New England-made, small batch CBD products, it seems there are endless options to choose from. 

Whether you’re looking to switch to a new CBD brand or are just beginning your CBD journey, here are 5 things to consider to help you find a CBD brand that you can trust. 

Research the company behind the CBD brand

When considering your CBD options, it’s a good idea to do your research on the company behind the brand before making a purchase. Here are few things to look for:

  • Company Website: Hopefully, the company has a website. If they do not, this might be your first red flag that the brand you’re considering is not legit. If they do have a site, does it look professionally designed and is it easy to use? Look for information about the company along with informative FAQs, easy-to-access lab reports, educational content, such as a blog, and easy ways to contact the team. 
  • Emails & Newsletters: A great way to get to know a brand is to sign up for their email list. This can be a quick way to connect with a company and gain access to special offers and educational content. 
  • Social Media: Check out the brand’s social media pages to see the types of content they share. If the pages appear to be professionally done with original content, this is usually a good sign that you’re dealing with a company that is excited to engage with its customers. Beware of brands that have social feeds filled with posts that look blurry or content that seems to be mostly made up of pirated memes. 
  • Google Reviews: CBD companies may publish customer reviews on their own site, but these reviews are not always legit. Google Reviews, on the other hand, are designed to be neutral and cannot be deleted or altered by a company, making them a great place to get real feedback. 

Understand the brand’s CBD manufacturing practices

When you’re researching the company behind the CBD brand that you’re thinking about trying, take a close look at the company’s manufacturing practices. Here are some things to look out for:

  • Manufacturing or Production History: The CBD industry is so new that there aren’t many CBD brands that have been around for more than a few years. However, it’s a good idea to look for companies or leadership that have experience in manufacturing or production. Ideally, you want to look for brands that have years of experience serving similar industries, such as food and beverage. For example, Harbor Hemp was founded in 2018, but our family-owned brand has been sourcing oils and plant extracts since 1936. And today, we’re leveraging generations of industry knowledge to create the highest quality CBD products on the market.
  • cGMP Certified: Some CBD brands may claim to follow GMP or “Good Manufacturing Practices,” a set of regulations issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. But if they have not completed a third-party audit to become cGMP certified or “Current Good Manufacturing Practices Certified,” there is no documented proof that they are in fact following best manufacturing practices. Audits can be expensive and time consuming and require cGMP certified brands, like Harbor Hemp, to prove that they are using the strictest internal controls, procedures and documentation when manufacturing CBD products. 
  • Hemp Licensing: Some states, such as Connecticut, require hemp manufacturers to be licensed. Whether this is a requirement in your state or not, it’s a good idea to make sure that any brands you’re considering are manufacturing in a licensed facility with the documentation to back it up. 

Inspect the packaging

Don’t be fooled by pretty packaging. Attractive packaging may draw you to a particular brand, but with CBD products, safety can hide in the details. When comparing different brands, it’s important to look for key compliance and safety information on the packaging including: 

  • Professional Label: Does the label look professionally designed and printed? Is it printed on water-resistant paper? If the label looks “handmade” or like it was printed on an old inkjet printer, it’s probably a good idea to pass. 
  • Tamper-evident Seals & Child Proof Packaging: Since CBD is a product that is used for wellness, it’s important that the brand takes certain safety precautions. Look for packaging with safety features such as tamper-evident seals on caps and child proof tincture tops. 
  • Batch or Lot Number: High-quality CBD brands lab test each and every batch of products for quality and purity. Look for batch or lot numbers on a product’s label that corresponds to easy-to-access lab results on a brand’s website. If the brand you’re considering does not have lab results posted by batch, or worse, only has one “sample lab report,” this could be a red flag. 
  • QR Code: QR codes have become industry standard allowing consumers to easily access lab reports. When comparing bottles from different brands, look for the one that has a QR code. If you have a QR code scanner app on your smartphone, you can even test out the code to make sure that it successfully links to current lab tests.
  • Best Buy Date: CBD levels in a product may lose potency over time, like most consumable products. Look for “Best Buy” or “Use By” dates stamped onto the label or bottle. Note that CBD products generally have a shelf life of 6 to 12 months as long as the bottles are properly stored. 
  • Review the Ingredients: Truly transparent brand will publish the product’s ingredients on the label as well as the website. Watch out for anything that says “hemp seed oil” and look for brands that use CBD derived from US-grown hemp that is non-GMO and pesticide-free.

Contact the company

If in doubt, contact the company directly with any questions you may have. A trustworthy CBD brand should have no issues openly discussing any of your concerns. And if they can’t provide you with answers to all of your questions or you get a strange vibe, it may be a good idea to move onto a different brand. 

Still have questions about how to select the best CBD brand?

Our team of CBD specialists is always here to help. Just drop us a line

Where can I buy CBD oil? The 3 best options to buy quality CBD products

Curious about trying CBD? You’re not alone. With the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, the hemp-derived CBD industry has become a booming industry. And experts at the Brightfield Group, a leading market research firm, are calling CBD “the next healthcare phenomenon” and predicting that the hemp-derived CBD market will reach $22 billion by 2020.

But what exactly is hemp-derived CBD and where are the safest places to buy it?

What is CBD?

CBD, or Cannabidiol, is one of over a hundred naturally-occurring cannabinoids found in industrial help plants. Unlike THC which can cause users to “get high,” CBD is non-intoxicating. And it is believed that CBD interacts with receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system to help promote general health and wellness.

Is it legal to buy CBD?

Yes. CBD derived from industrial hemp is federally legal. However, it’s a good idea to check your local and state laws for specifics. The laws are different in the UK which is why you might want to learn more about CBD and drug tests in the UK by exploring some more articles online.

3 best places to buy high-quality CBD

With the boom of CBD, it seems you can find CBD being sold everywhere, from health food stores to spas and even gas stations. You can even shop for CBD online from the comfort of your own home. But where are the safest places to buy CBD?

Speciality Stores

If you want to shop local for your CBD, your best bet is to check out the “mom and pop” stores in your area. From natural grocers to yoga studios, golf pro shops and smoke shops (aka head shops), many speciality retailers are now carrying CBD. As an added bonus, particularly for first time CBD users, brick and mortar stores often have trained staff that can help you pick out the best CBD products for your personal needs and may even have some CBD samples for you to try before you buy.

Dispensaries

If you live in a state where medicinal marijuana is legalized, you may be able to purchase CBD at a dispensary. Dispensaries are regulated by the government and typically sell CBD derived from the marijuana strain of the cannabis plant rather than the federally-legal hemp-derived CBD. Keep in mind, this type of CBD often has higher levels of THC and you may need a prescription to purchase it.

Online

Shopping online is one of the most convenient ways to purchase many kinds of CBD products, including tinctures, topicals and edibles. Companies like Harbor Hemp, and other reputable CBD brands, generally sell their full line of products online and will ship directly to your house. In the UK? Check out CBD Queen for a more local option.

Be sure to look for brands that have their third-party lab results and product ingredients easily accessible on their site, along with an easy way to contact customer service with any questions. Also, be sure to watch out for brands that market their products as “hemp oil” or “hemp seed oil” with no mention of CBD or Cannabidiol on their labeling or ingredients list. These products often contain little to no CBD.

Shopping Online with Harbor Hemp Company

Whether you’re looking for Full Spectrum or Zero THC products, Harbor Hemp Company is a family-run wellness company that offers a variety of small batch, New England-made CBD products.

When you purchase your CBD directly from Harbor Hemp Company, or from one of our trusted retailers, you know that you’re buying tinctures, topicals and pet products that are made with US-grown, non-GMO and pesticide-free hemp-derived CBD in a cGMP certified, licensed hemp manufacturing facility.

And you can check the potency and purity of all Harbor Hemp products by viewing the batch test results in our Lab Results database, on every product page or even by scanning the QR code on our product labels.

Still have questions about where to buy CBD?

Our team of CBD specialists is always here to answer your questions about Harbor Hemp CBD products or CBD. Just drop us a line.

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