5 Best CBD Balms for 2024

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CBD balms are a good choice to soothe aching and painful joints. Here, we discuss our favorite balms from Lazarus Naturals, CBDfx, and more.
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A quick look at the best CBD balms
Best CBD balm overall: Lazarus Naturals Relax + Unwind Full Spectrum Balm Stick | Skip to review
Lazarus Naturals Relax + Unwind Full Spectrum Balm Stick
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Best CBD balm for inflammation: CBDfx Muscle and Joint Cooling Balm Stick | Skip to review
CBDfx Muscle and Joint Cooling Balm Stick
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Best CBD balm for skin care: PlusCBD Full Spectrum CBD Balm, Extra Strength Formula | Skip to review
PlusCBD Full Spectrum CBD Balm, Extra Strength Formula
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Best CBD balm for sensitive skin: NuLeaf Naturals CBD Balm | Skip to review
NuLeaf Naturals CBD Balm
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Best organic CBD balm: Aspen Green Full Spectrum CBD Relief Body Balm | Skip to review
Aspen Green Full Spectrum CBD Relief Body Balm
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CBD is one of many cannabinoids, or chemicals, present in the Cannabis sativa (C. sativa) plant that may help treat some health conditions.
many cannabinoids
may help
CBD does not have any psychoactive properties, unlike delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is another cannabinoid in the C. sativa plant. THC is the chemical responsible for the “high” that many people associate with cannabis.
does not have
A balm is a topical skin care product usually containing butter, waxes, oils, and active ingredients. Balms are similar to creams, but they do not contain water. Popular ingredients in balms include shea butter and beeswax.
This article discusses CBD balms, their benefits, and how to use them. It also lists five CBD balms to consider.
Learn about the differences between THC and CBD.
differences between THC and CBD
The best CBD balms
A CBD balm is a balm containing CBD oil.
There are many CBD balms available on the market. Below, we list five products for consideration.
Lazarus Naturals Relax + Unwind Full Spectrum Balm Stick

CBD type: full-spectrum
CBD potency: 800 mg per stick
$12.00 AT CBD.CO
*Price may vary.

Lazarus Naturals Relax + Unwind Full Spectrum CBD Balm Stick combines lavender and chamomile, which the company claims promote a sense of calm. Alongside the full-spectrum CBD, other ingredients include jojoba seed oil, beeswax, and full-spectrum CBD hemp extract.
lavender
jojoba seed oil
hemp
The balm is available as a smaller 0.5 oz stick with 800 mg of CBD for $12 or as a bigger 2.54 oz stick with 3,600 mg of CBD for $42.

One review on the product’s webpage mentions that the product’s fragrance is soothing and helped relieve pain.
We have chosen this product as the best CBD balm overall because it contains a relatively high amount of CBD for its size and so may be good value for money. It is also available in different sizes at two very different prices, which may suit different people’s budgets.
The balm comes as a stick, which may make it easier and less messy to apply than a product in a jar.

soothing fragrance
available in different sizes at different prices
contains beeswax so not suitable for some vegan lifestyles
does not ship to Idaho
soothing fragrance
available in different sizes at different prices
contains beeswax so not suitable for some vegan lifestyles
does not ship to Idaho
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 90 days
Shipping: calculated at checkout
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 90 days
Shipping: calculated at checkout
CBDfx Muscle and Joint Cooling Balm Stick

CBD type: broad-spectrum
CBD Potency: 750 or 3,000 mg per 60-mL stick
Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 20% off.
$59.99 AT CBDFX
*Price may vary.
CBDfx’s CBD Balm Stick is designed to be used to soothe muscles and joints. It contains organic broad-spectrum CBD, along with ingredients such as hemp seed oil, camphor oil, peppermint oil, and menthol, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
anti-inflammatory properties
The balm is available as a 750 mg stick for $39.99 or as a 3,000 mg stick for $99.99. Both sticks are 2 oz.
CBDfx states the balm is cruelty-free and vegan, and that the menthol provides a cooling effect. Some reviews claim the product helped with chronic pain.
available in different potencies of CBD at different prices
suitable for vegans
not availble in Idaho
relatively more expensive than comparable products
available in different potencies of CBD at different prices
suitable for vegans
not availble in Idaho
relatively more expensive than comparable products
COA: available online
Shipping: free shipping for orders over $75
Returns: returns within 60 days
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping for orders over $75
COA: available online
Shipping: free shipping for orders over $75
Returns: returns within 60 days
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping for orders over $75
PlusCBD Full Spectrum CBD Balm, Extra Strength Formula

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 100 mg per 1.3-oz container
Use code “healthline40” for 40% off.
$35.99 AT PLUSCBD
*Price may vary.

PlusCBD combines full-spectrum CBD with tocopherol, which is a form of vitamin E, along with ingredients including sweet almond oil, beeswax, and green tea leaf extract.
a form of vitamin E

This balm also contains willow bark. According to the manufacturer, this may provide an anti-inflammatory effect. Similarly, green tea is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
The brand formulates this balm without gluten, GMOs, sulfates, or pesticides.
The balm is available in one size, a 1.3 oz jar that contains 100 mg of CBD. The product costs $35.99. PlusCBD also offers a subscribe and save option.
Reviews on the PlusCBD website suggests the balm can help with different kinds of muscle pain.

Use code “MNT20” for 20% off.

“Smells wonderful, minty, reminds me of an old-fashioned candy shop. Feels a little warm and tingly going onto the skin. The texture is like a thick Vaseline, it felt a little weird rubbing it in. The worst part though was that it sits on the skin and leaves a shiny, greasy residue. It made my hands very oily and didn’t rub in well at all, which made typing a chore when I returned to my keyboard.”
“This might be good for other parts of the body but I definitely wouldn’t recommend it for your hands [as you will be] leaving oil on everything you touch.”
“It soothed my hands OK, but [if someone has] extremely dry hands they’re probably going to need something a little more heavy duty.”
— Emily Schalk, former copy editor
“Smells wonderful, minty, reminds me of an old-fashioned candy shop. Feels a little warm and tingly going onto the skin. The texture is like a thick Vaseline, it felt a little weird rubbing it in. The worst part though was that it sits on the skin and leaves a shiny, greasy residue. It made my hands very oily and didn’t rub in well at all, which made typing a chore when I returned to my keyboard.”
“This might be good for other parts of the body but I definitely wouldn’t recommend it for your hands [as you will be] leaving oil on everything you touch.”
“It soothed my hands OK, but [if someone has] extremely dry hands they’re probably going to need something a little more heavy duty.”
— Emily Schalk, former copy editor
free from gluten, GMOs, sulphates, and pesticides
offers a subscribe and save option
comes in a jar, rather than as a stick, so may be messier to apply
some reviews state it contains a smaller amount of CBD than other similar products, despite being roughly the same size
free from gluten, GMOs, sulphates, and pesticides
offers a subscribe and save option
comes in a jar, rather than as a stick, so may be messier to apply
some reviews state it contains a smaller amount of CBD than other similar products, despite being roughly the same size
COA: available on product page
Third-party tested: yes
Condition tags: pain management, sleep improvement, stress reduction
Returns: returns within 90 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $45
COA: available on product page
Third-party tested: yes
Condition tags: pain management, sleep improvement, stress reduction
Returns: returns within 90 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $45
NuLeaf Naturals CBD Balm

CBD type: full-spectrum
CBD potency: 300 mg per 0.5-oz. jar, 600 mg per 1.0-oz. jar, 900 mg per 1.5-oz. jar
Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 20% off.
$24.00 AT NULEAF NATURALS
*Price may vary.

NuLeaf’s CBD balm contains only two ingredients: full-spectrum hemp extract and organic shea butter. The balm is unscented and NuLeaf states it is designed to absorb quickly into the skin.

Some reviews state the balm leaves their skin feeling soft and helps to relieve different types of pain, such as that caused by arthritis.
The NuLeaf CBD balm comes in a jar is available in three different sizes: 0.5 oz with 300 mg of CBD for $24, 1 oz with 600 mg of CBD for $39, and 1.5 oz with 900 mg of CBD for $59. NuLeaf also offers a subscribe and save option.

“I enjoyed using this balm as a post-run treatment, but didn’t love the texture of it. I used it on my calves after running to relieve soreness.”
“The texture of this balm is super strange. It’s grainy but not coarse — it pills (or crumbs?) a bit and takes a lot of effort to massage into the skin without making a mess. I definitely would recommend using in warmer temperatures or working it with your fingers to help the balm melt more, otherwise you get little balls of balm everywhere!
“I am not sure the CBD really did anything for me personally, but it didn’t do any harm and the massage felt nice (once the little crumbs melted!).”
— Jamey Powell, former Market editor
“I enjoyed using this balm as a post-run treatment, but didn’t love the texture of it. I used it on my calves after running to relieve soreness.”
“The texture of this balm is super strange. It’s grainy but not coarse — it pills (or crumbs?) a bit and takes a lot of effort to massage into the skin without making a mess. I definitely would recommend using in warmer temperatures or working it with your fingers to help the balm melt more, otherwise you get little balls of balm everywhere!
“I am not sure the CBD really did anything for me personally, but it didn’t do any harm and the massage felt nice (once the little crumbs melted!).”
— Jamey Powell, former Market editor
made with only two ingredients and is unscented, which may make it suitable for people with sensitivities or allergies
offers a subscribe and save option
comes in a jar, rather than as a stick, so may be messier to apply
does not ship to several states: Alaska, Idaho, Rhode Island, Utah, and Washington
made with only two ingredients and is unscented, which may make it suitable for people with sensitivities or allergies
offers a subscribe and save option
comes in a jar, rather than as a stick, so may be messier to apply
does not ship to several states: Alaska, Idaho, Rhode Island, Utah, and Washington
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Price per mg: $0.06-$0.08
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Price per mg: $0.06-$0.08
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
Aspen Green Full Spectrum CBD Relief Body Balm

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 1,000 mg per 2-oz jar
Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 20% off.
$89.99 AT ASPEN GREEN
*Price may vary.

Aspen Green’s balm contains full-spectrum CBD. The website states the balm is oil-based and contains botanicals such as mango butter, jojoba seed oil, hemp seed oil, and beeswax.
The brand states that the product is vegan. However, it contains beeswax, which does not fit into some people’s vegan lifestyles.

The product is USDA certified organic and is made with 100% food-grade ingredients.
The balm is available in a 2oz jar that contains 1,000 mg of CBD. One jar costs $89.99. Aspen Green offers a subscribe and save option.

does not contain GMOs
organic ingredients
only one size available
more expensive than other comparable products
does not contain GMOs
organic ingredients
only one size available
more expensive than other comparable products
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Condition tags: pain management, sleep improvement, stress reduction
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Condition tags: pain management, sleep improvement, stress reduction
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
Comparison of the best CBD balms
The following table provides a comparison of the above products.
Lazarus Naturals 
CBDfx
PlusCBD
NuLeaf Naturals
Aspen Green
How we chose the best CBD balms
Medical News Today carefully vets CBD products to ensure they do not pose health risks to individuals. These include:
Ingredients: Products must contain safe and high quality ingredients, and their labels must state all ingredients clearly. They should also confirm they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
Dosage: Products must clearly state the CBD dosage.
Serving size: Manufacturers must suggest a safe serving size.
Third-party labs: Products must undergo third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
ISO 17025-compliant
Available certificate of analysis: The company must demonstrate transparency and share a product’s certificate of analysis (COA) following receipt of its third-party lab results.
Learn more about MNT’s product selection and vetting process.
selection and vetting process
How to choose a CBD balm
Currently, the FDA does not regulate CBD products. A 2022 study showed that the product labels on almost half of the 80 CBD products reviewed were not labeled accurately.
FDA does not regulate CBD products
almost half of the 80 CBD products
Therefore, when looking for CBD topicals, including CBD salves and CBD balms, a person should make sure that the products:
contain no more than 0.3% THC, per the Agriculture Improvement Act
0.3% THC
Agriculture Improvement Act
have proof of third-party testing by an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory
ISO/IEC 17025
have a current and valid certificate of analysis
pass tests for pesticides, heavy metals, mold, and microbes
pass product potency evaluations and safety testing
are not subject to an FDA warning letter
FDA warning letter
Additionally, people may also wish to consider the product’s scent, application method, and price.
Researching manufacturer and retailer reputations, including customer reviews, may also help guide a person’s decision.
Read our complete buyer’s guide to CBD.
complete buyer’s guide to CBD
How to use CBD balm
People should follow all packaging instructions when using CBD products and not exceed the recommended dose.
recommended dose
When applying a CBD balm to the skin, people typically place a small amount of balm on their hands and rub them together. This will help warm and soften the product, making it easier to apply. A person can then gently massage the balm into the required area.
Avoid applying balm to areas with broken skin.
Individuals new to CBD products might consider starting with the lowest possible dosage. Once they understand how their body reacts to CBD, they can slowly increase the dose.
Always perform a patch test before using the product to ensure it will not irritate the skin.
Learn more about allergy testing.
allergy testing
Uses for CBD balm
Scientific research exploring the effects and health benefits of topical CBD is still at a relatively early stage. However, there is increasing evidence that CBD may have many potential medicinal properties.
Scientific research
Evidence notes that the human body contains a complex network of neurotransmitters and cannabinoid receptors known as the endocannabinoid receptor system (ECS). The signaling of the ECS receptors may help reduce depressive symptoms in people with schizophrenia.
neurotransmitters
endocannabinoid receptor system (ECS)
schizophrenia
Research also indicates that the ECS may contain multiple promising therapeutic targets. A 2020 study into how well the skin absorbs CBD concluded that paraffin oil ointments and hydrophilic gels provided the best absorption. Therefore, topical CBD products may be a useful way for people to benefit from the potential of CBD.
multiple promising therapeutic targets
2020 study
While research is still in its early stages, some evidence suggests that topical CBD may have some benefit in treating muscle soreness. Another older 2018 review notes the potential of CBD for pain and inflammation.
evidence
2018 review
pain
inflammation
A 2019 research article and a 2020 randomized controlled trial also highlight the pain relief properties of topical CBD, while a 2021 review showed that CBD, cannabigerol (CBG), and CBD with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) all showed anti-inflammatory effects.
2019 research article
2020 randomized controlled trial
2021 review
Other research also notes that topical CBD may help treat certain skin disorders. A 2019 study suggests that CBD ointment is a safe and effective treatment for inflammatory skin conditions and may help improve skin hydration and elasticity.
2019 study
The American Academy of Dermatology also suggests that topical CBD may help treat acne, psoriasis, and eczema due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
American Academy of Dermatology
acne
psoriasis
eczema
Learn more about CBD for skin.
CBD for skin
Does CBD balm have side effects?
CBD may interact with certain medications. People who take prescription medications should speak with their doctor before using any CBD products.
may interact
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that cannabidiol does not appear to have abuse potential or cause harm.
World Health Organization (WHO)
Most of the known CBD side effects relate to consumable products and so are unlikely to be relevant to topical products such as balms. According to the FDA, side effects can include diarrhea, mood changes, drowsiness, and sometimes liver damage.
FDA
diarrhea
mood changes
Researchers know less about topically applied CBD and which doses may result in side effects. However, when someone applies a balm topically, there is a much lower risk of CBD entering the bloodstream.
Research suggests that short-term CBD use is unlikely to result in side effects, but long-term use may have mild adverse effects.
Research
Learn more about CBD dosage.
CBD dosage
Pros and cons of CBD balms
Below are some advantages and disadvantages for a person to consider when using CBD balms.
Products have the potential to work as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever.
CBD balms could benefit common skin conditions.
There is a low risk of side effects with short-term use.
They are easy to apply.
CBD balms can offer targeted relief.
The FDA does not regulate CBD products.
There is limited scientific research into safety and benefits.
Long-term use may cause side effects.
Some ingredients may interact with certain medications.
Some of the ingredients may irritate the skin.
Frequently asked questions about CBD balms
Common uses for CBD body balm include relieving arthritis pain, easing chronic pain, and soothing tired and aching muscles and joints.
Common uses for CBD body balm include relieving arthritis pain, easing chronic pain, and soothing tired and aching muscles and joints.
The best CBD balm will depend on the person’s needs and tolerance to CBD.
However, we rate Lazarus Naturals balm highly because it is a good value, is available in different sizes, and comes as a stick, which makes it easy to apply.
The best CBD balm will depend on the person’s needs and tolerance to CBD.
However, we rate Lazarus Naturals balm highly because it is a good value, is available in different sizes, and comes as a stick, which makes it easy to apply.
Yes, topical CBD can work for pain relief and as an anti-inflammatory, according to 2022 research.
2022 research
Yes, topical CBD can work for pain relief and as an anti-inflammatory, according to 2022 research.
2022 research
A CBD balm is a topical skin care product usually containing butters, waxes, oils, and active ingredients. Balms are similar to creams, but they do not contain water. Popular ingredients in balms include shea butter and beeswax.
A CBD cream will contain more water than a balm and may be better suited to hydrating the skin than a balm.
A CBD balm is a topical skin care product usually containing butters, waxes, oils, and active ingredients. Balms are similar to creams, but they do not contain water. Popular ingredients in balms include shea butter and beeswax.
A CBD cream will contain more water than a balm and may be better suited to hydrating the skin than a balm.
Summary
CBD balms may help moisturize the skin and relieve soreness, inflammation, and discomfort.
Before purchasing a CBD product, people should ensure it is from a reputable company and passes safety tests. It is also advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using any CBD products.
Visit our dedicated hub for more research-backed information and in-depth resources on CBD.
CBD
Is CBD legal?The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.
state laws