If we've heard it once, we've heard it a thousand times: "Nothing is more indulgent than a warm bath— it's the best way to clean off a day's stress and obtain full nourishment from head to toe!" For many centuries, submerging into the water (also known as "hydrotherapy") has been one of the oldest forms of self-care, which goes beyond just personal hygiene.
Most of us, if not everyone, would love to kick back in the tub with some aromatic candles all around (and a nice glass of wine on the side, please!) after passing through a long, rough day at work or a strenuous time at the gym. Unfortunately, all the dirt and stress we receive from our daily life can take a toll on both our minds and bodies. However, a warm bath is scientifically and anecdotally proven to help manage stress levels by potentially promoting ultimate comfort and relaxation, according to a recent study.
With that said, it is hardly surprising to see CBD being thrown into the mix. And, with popularity in the name of CBD products continuously swirling, it's nearly impossible not to witness the compound showing up in almost every form imaginable: lotions, hair conditioners, and (of course), even bath bombs, too!
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What is CBD?
If you're not already familiar with cannabidiol or CBD, it is one of the many (over 100!) naturally occurring compounds known as "cannabinoids" in the cannabis plant, although it mostly derives from industrial hemp (a prominent cannabis strain) in compliance with legal requirements. While human studies on CBD's potential health benefits are still ongoing, leaving us in the realm of anecdotal evidence, one thing we do know so far is that CBD is non-psychotropic, which means it has no chance of getting you "high".
CBD is the second-most-prevalent cannabinoid, ranking behind its psychotropic peer, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which can make you high. Even so, CBD is becoming the most talked about among the general cannabis population these days. The reason? CBD's non-psychotropic quality, combined with mounting evidence detailing its potential benefits, has undeniably spurred along with the emerging interest in mainstream CBD products. Now, we are all left curious about this cannabinoid and what it can potentially do for our wellbeing.
So, are you thinking about dropping a CBD bomb into your next bath? Keep reading, and you will find out what CBD has to do with your bath time, and why you should include it in your daily self-care routine!
Potential Benefits of a CBD Bath
You've probably been using a lot of traditional bath essentials (such as oils, gels, and salts) for years, but in case you missed it, CBD bath bombs might just be the newest critical players in the bubble bath game.
For a quick refresher, the first few 'regular' bath bombs were initially invented in the 1980s with baking soda and citric acid as their primary ingredients. Eventually, as creativity and innovation become more advanced, a wide assortment of unique and playful combinations have been taken out in the open by considering additives, such as essential oils, salts, fragrances, colouring solutions, organic glitters, and now even CBD being mixed into countless exciting variations for many reasons, including health, feelings, and fashion.
To be clear, CBD products are not intended to treat or medicate any specific health conditions. Instead, what we can possibly count on is basking in some of the promising results of preliminary studies surrounding the use and consumption of CBD. We may have a long way to go in mastering all the information about this cannabinoid and unlocking its full therapeutic potential. Still, we do have a working understanding of how the active ingredients of CBD may interact with our body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) to potentially deliver a variety of health benefits.
What is the Endocannabinoid System?
The ECS is a specialised molecular system that facilitates many different physiological and cognitive processes, such as pain-related sensations, immune response, mood, memory, appetite, as well as in regulating the potential effects of different phytocannabinoids (including CBD and THC) to maintain an internal regulatory balance known as "homeostasis". The endocannabinoid system is made up of cannabinoid receptors that are native to the body, including the two most well-researched ones- namely the CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are mostly distributed in the central nervous system (CNS), where they carry signals to the brain and oversee its various functions. CB2 receptors, on the other hand, usually appear in the immune cells throughout the bloodstream. Despite the differences in their respective locations, both CB1 and CB2 receptors are thought to play an important role when it comes to developing an exciting relationship between cannabinoids and the ECS.
In fact, a study published in the National Library of Medicine has analysed the possible interaction between cannabinoids and the cannabinoid receptors within the body. It has been found that CBD might elicit its potential effects in the body by engaging with both CB1 and CB2 receptors. For instance, when combined with traditional bath bombs, CBD may potentially impact our overall health (and at the very least the health of our skin) through the receptors found in our skin, which are responsible for governing the effects of any compounds applied to it, such as cosmetics or CBD-infused bathwater.
So, can CBD bath bombs really restore and nourish our mind, body, and soul? Here's what science and an increasing range of anecdotal evidence have to say.
CBD Bath Bombs and Skin Care
As mentioned above, there is relatively limited scientific research to fully confirm any potential health benefits of CBD. However, by looking at the available studies exploring the purported benefits CBD may have on the skin, it may partly explain how a CBD bath may achieve a therapeutic value.
A recent study in the Journal of Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology suggests that CBD may potentially supplement the skin by manifesting a positive impact on its sebocytes- the cells that create "sebum" (an oily substance that triggers the development of acne). Another study on the cannabis plant also points out that the natural properties found in CBD may show promise for supplementing various symptoms of certain skin conditions caused by germ buildup.
It is, therefore, believed that soaking into the water with a CBD bath bomb may help manage specific skin problems, including acne. By interacting with our skin's receptors, the potential nutrients of CBD in the form of bath bombs may be absorbed through the open pores in our skin, allowing them to find their way into the deeper layers of skin to potentially deliver a sense of soothed-ness and relief both inside and out.
CBD Bath bombs and stress
When it comes to managing everyday stresses, the potential impact of a CBD oil bath bomb may be sourced from its two essential parts, which are explained in the name: the bath and the bomb. Earlier, we said that baths, especially warm ones, are a powerful reserve for soothing what ails us. To give you more of an idea, warm water is said to expand your blood vessels, causing the blood to flow easier to all parts of your body. This improvement in blood circulation lowers your blood pressure, which, in turn, calms your mind. This owes to the fact that your mood can sometimes take its cues from how your body reacts to pain or discomfort. As a result, when your body is relaxed, and your blood circulates very well, you are more likely to be able to quiet the worries and negative voices in your head.
Offering a sense of relaxation is usually the primary goal with any traditional warm bath. Be that as it may, soaking in an average warm bath is already considered somewhat beneficial and revitalising. So, what would you do if we told you that there's a way to make warm baths, even more, inviting at the end of a stressful day? Yes, you could potentially make a relaxing warm bath even more soothing if you wish. CBD bath bombs may subtly lend an extra special something to your typical bath experience by possibly offering their proposed calming effects to the whole experience. According to a recent review, simply absorbing CBD bath bombs' natural properties may potentially supplement stress and other symptoms of anxiety, making it easier to decompress and relax, especially if you've had a hard day and really need it.
CBS Bath Bombs and Pain Management
Another massive benefit of a warm bath is the way it may soothe muscle pain by improving blood circulation throughout the body. This is probably one of the best reasons why soaking in warm baths feels so good when your muscles and joints are tired and stiff. So, what happens when you pour CBD into the mix?
Furthermore, one 2015 study involving rats has found that topical CBD application might have the potential to supplement pain symptoms and other pain-related behaviours within animal models, which has encouraging implications for human use. Hence, dissolving a CBD bath bomb into warm water and soaking in it through your skin may potentially help in managing the pain more efficiently than a warm bath alone. The best part of taking a CBD warm bath is the synergistic connection between heat and CBD. Scientifically speaking, the effects of warm water are thought to potentially enhance the absorption rate of CBD into the skin, allowing its possible effects to act more quickly than they otherwise would if you were simply using a CBD cream or balm.
CBD Bath Bombs and Sleep Quality
It was recently mentioned in this particular blog's headline how CBD has potentially helped an insomniac woman improve her ability to sleep at night. CBD may not be a "cure-all" supplement, but it is deemed a versatile ingredient that can possibly impact so many different areas of life, including the ones we've explored above. All those variables (pain, stress, and skin problems) usually go hand-in-hand with various sleep conditions, such as the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep at night, also known as insomnia. Each of these problems brings out the worst in the other, which quickly turns into a vicious cycle if not addressed properly. With health conditions that trigger one another, it is nearly impossible to eliminate one problem without dealing with the other one first.
To put it briefly, a CBD bath may potentially impact sleep quality by addressing the underlying issues that usually contribute to the development of a specific sleep condition. In our case, possibly promoting relaxation and managing pain symptoms through a CBD bath, alongside healthy sleep habits, could perhaps improve the quality and quantity of sleep.
How to Use CBD Bath Bombs
Soaking into a CBD-infused bath is, quite possibly, the easiest and most luxurious way to consume CBD. We mean you don't necessarily have to endure the earthy aftertaste of CBD oil tinctures or learn how to use a CBD vape pen in order to receive your desired amount of CBD when you can simply throw yourself in a lovely CBD bubble bath, and just r-e-l-a-x!
Before you do so, we highly encourage everyone with sensitive skin to test their CBD bath bombs, just as you would usually do with any new skin products. For quick and reliable skin test results, try dissolving a small amount of a CBD bath bomb in the water, and then apply the mixture to any invisible areas of your arms or legs (such as behind your knee or at the crook of your elbow) with a clean washcloth. Wait somewhere between 24 to 48 hours to see if you have any unwanted reaction from the product.
If you are wondering about the right amount to use, that's up to you and your own personal preference, as well as the product you are using. Our fizzy Lavender CBD Bath Bomb contains 100 milligrams of pure CBD infused with lavender fragrances, and a shea butter core that surprisingly pops to the surface of your bath and gently melts onto your skin. Some people may choose to throw multiple bombs in the tub for extra punch and more colourful animation, but it's best to always start small and work your way to higher doses when it comes to CBD. If you have the luxury of time, you may wish to soak in the tub for at least 15 to 30 minutes to see the best results for yourself.
Once you're all set for an exciting CBD bath experience, here are the most critical steps to take:
- Step 1: Fill up the tub with warm water.
- Step 2: Once full, drop in the CBD bath bomb and wait for it to dissolve. The combination of baking soda and citric acid inside the bomb creates a dramatic foamy layer of bubbles on the surface of the water. At the same time, the wonderful aromatherapeutic smell is released.
- Step 3: Whenever the fizzing stops, get in the tub and seize the relaxing moment for a few minutes, allowing your pores to slowly absorb the potential nutrients of your CBD bath bomb. To help you pass the time (if 30 minutes sounds too long for you), you may wish to play some ambient music in the background, read a chapter or two of your favourite book, or enjoy streaming a binge-worthy series (if you have a television in there, or might as well take your laptop or tablet along- but just make sure to keep your electronic devices away from the water to avoid any potential damages- that wouldn't be very relaxing!)
- Finally, rinse off with a post-bath shower that draws an optimal temperature no higher than 112 degrees Fahrenheit. This will further cleanse your skin after the invigorating warm bath has opened your pores and entered your uppermost layers of skin (known as your epidermis) to wash away all your skin's impurities. Don't forget to moisturise your skin after a warm bath to avoid any dryness due to heat exposure.
You can always include a CBD bath bomb in your daily routine, or whenever you feel the need to decompress. There is some evidence suggesting CBD may take time to build up inside the body, which is why you may feel its purported effects gradually increasing over time.
What to Look for in a CBD Bath Bomb
Ready to take a dip into the world of CBD? If you are new to all of this, you will want to ensure that you are purchasing safe and authentic CBD bath bombs from a reputable brand. You're lucky to find us! Here at VAAY, we make it our vow to provide you with a wide selection of premium CBD products made of natural ingredients and with less than 0.2% THC (in line with legal protocols), with every product verified by an independent third-party lab.
As you shop around for CBD bath bombs, we strongly advise you to always check the label- since the potential goodness of any products will strongly depend on the ingredients that are present in them. CBD is the primary ingredient we're looking at here. You can find different CBD bath bombs in a wide range of potencies. However, until experts come up with medical guidelines, starting with low and slow doses and giving CBD enough time to potentially work before increasing your use is probably the best way to go. You may begin with CBD bath bombs that contain at least 50 milligrams of CBD per bomb (or use half of a 100mg CBD bath bomb), and then aim for higher concentrations over time. Many proponents of CBD believe more is better, especially when you're trying to manage symptoms of a specific condition.
The scent is another vital ingredient to consider when it comes to bath bombs. If you fall into a more sensitive skin group, make sure that the fragrances used in your CBD bath bomb are derived from essential oils that are known to be harmless to the skin (including lavender, chamomile, and rose essential oils). Avoid chemical or synthetic fragrances, as these can easily irritate your skin, especially if you are more sensitive. Other common skin irritants may include talc, sea salts, and alpha-isomethyl ionone (a chemical compound found in yeasts), so it is better to keep an eye out for these potentially toxic ingredients. If you like your bath bombs to be aesthetically pleasing, look for products that contain organic colouring and glitter.
Also, be mindful of the harmful things you're washing down the drain. All your bath residues may eventually end up in our oceans and other bodies of water. By keeping your bath bomb 100% natural and safe for your skin, you are ensuring that it's safe for the environment, too. Remember, nothing is more rewarding than enjoying the soothing effect of a bubble bath without hurting our mother nature.
Making Homemade CBD Bath Bombs
It is so easy to feel envious of those people sparing some hours on weekends just to unwind and have a luxurious treatment at a fancy spa. However, perhaps it's time to pass up the expensive spa day when you can actually create an instant spa-like environment with CBD bath bombs in the comfort and convenience of your own home.
Our favourite CBD bath bomb recipe could instantly transform your bathroom into an atmosphere that even a swanky spa-goer would envy. The bath bomb, per se, offers an undeniable sense of pleasure, and the CBD oil in it may potently increase the relaxing vibe in its turn. Of course, you can always choose to source out a readily available CBD bath bomb for your own convenience (especially now that they're just one add-to-cart away!), but if you want to try out the fun part of making fizzy experiments in the kitchen, then be sure not to miss this part.
Without further ado, here we share an ultra-comforting CBD bath bomb recipe that is worth trying out at home.
You will need the following ingredients:
- ½ cup of Epsom salt
- ½ cup of citric acid
- ½ cup of cornstarch
- 1 cup of baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of water
- 1 full dropper of CBD oil (for every bath bomb you make)
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil (for extra moisture and nourishment)
- 12 drops of any essential oil you prefer (such as lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus blends for natural fragrance)
- bath bomb moulds (the number depends on how many bath bombs you'd like to make)
- any fun "flair" to add some surprising treats of bedazzlement (such as natural colouring agents, organic glitters, or dried flowers)
The magic begins here:
- In a large bowl, combine all your dry ingredients (such as baking soda, Epsom salt, citric acid, and cornstarch- followed by your chosen "flair" (glitter, dried flowers, etc) for a frothy work of art.
- In a separate bowl, mix all your wet ingredients (such as CBD oil, coconut oil, essential oil, and water). Pour the water in slowly, and make sure it's not more than the recommended amount to avoid activating the bomb before it's even made!
- Gently pour your liquid mixture into your dry concoction. If you do it too fast, it will start to fizz- and you don't obviously want that to happen!
- Whisk the combined dry and wet mixtures until there are no clumps that gather up. Once mixed very well, it should feel like crumbly, damp sand. Important note: you have to make sure it's not too moist, so that the sand can hold its shape when you get a grip of it.
- Press the mixture into each half of the moulds, and then put both sides together.
- Once the moulds are all filled up, you can now set them aside for 24 hours.
- Finally, remove the hardened bath bombs from the moulds very carefully to avoid any cracks or breakage— and voila! Your homemade CBD bath bombs are now ready to be thrown into the tub, where the real magic happens.
- Have a ball!
The Final Fizz
Cannabis has been around the health and wellness scene for a while now, but CBD bath bombs are quite new in the market. Despite their novelty, CBD bath bombs are quickly making a huge tidal wave- with many studies and anecdotes attesting to their potential therapeutic value that touches on areas of pain management, stress relief, skincare, and sleep improvement. If all these pieces of anecdotal evidence are true, then a CBD bath bomb could be more than just the festive colours and the relaxing sound of fizzing while you wait by the tub.
However, it is too early to confirm any of these affirmations. More scientific research is still needed to support the purported effects and benefits of CBD bath bombs... but one thing we do know for sure is that you are less likely to have an idle time soaking in a warm tub with these newly-developed bath essentials on the block. If you are looking for a fancy way to relax and de-stress after a busy day, a good soak in a tub of warm water— CBD-infused or otherwise— may just help!
