6 Best CBD Salves for Athletes for 2024

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Salve is a type of ointment, spray, or balm that promotes healing or protection of the skin. CBD salves for athletes can help soothe muscle soreness or dry skin.
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A quick look at the best CBD salves for athletes
Best overall: Joy Organics Organic CBD Salve | Skip to review
Joy Organics Organic CBD Salve
Skip to review
Best for pain relief: CBDistillery Oooh Distilled 500 mg CBD Balm | Skip to review
CBDistillery Oooh Distilled 500 mg CBD Balm
Skip to review
Best affordable: PlusCBD Full Spectrum CBD Balm, Extra Strength Formula | Skip to review
PlusCBD Full Spectrum CBD Balm, Extra Strength Formula
Skip to review
Best for mess-free application: CBDMEDIC Active Sport Pain Relief Stick | Skip to review
CBDMEDIC Active Sport Pain Relief Stick
Skip to review
Best preservative-free: Aspen Green Full Spectrum CBD Relief Body Balm | Skip to review
Aspen Green Full Spectrum CBD Relief Body Balm
Skip to review
Best cruelty-free: Level Select CBD Sports Roll On | Skip to review
Level Select CBD Sports Roll On
Skip to review
What are CBD salves?
CBD comes from the Cannabis sativa plant. Producers make CBD oil by mixing CBD with a carrier oil. This process dilutes the CBD, creating a less potent product.
CBD oil
Some companies add CBD oil to salve. A salve is a product that a person applies directly onto the skin to protect it from damage or promote healing.
Learn about other CBD topicals.
CBD topicals
A very active person, such as an athlete, may use a salve for a range of minor training injuries. These may include:
muscle soreness
muscle soreness
bruising
bruising
dry skin
dry skin
blisters
blisters
chafing
chafing
Adding CBD oil may offer additional pain relief benefits, although research into the use of CBD salves for athletes is limited.
What are the effects and benefits?
Few studies have explored the effects and benefits of CBD salves.
2022 research found that CBD improved arthritis pain in 83% of the study’s 428 participants. It also improved physical function and sleep quality in 66% of people. However, the authors did not state the type of CBD the participants used.
2022 research
arthritis
A 2022 systematic review also concluded that CBD is effective for chronic pain and may be a suitable alternative to opioid medication. However, the authors call for more clinical trials.
effective
Learn more about using CBD oil for pain relief.
CBD oil for pain relief
A 2018 case report examining CBD oil in three participants with epidermolysis bullosa, a rare disorder that causes blistering skin, suggests that applying CBD oil to the skin can promote faster wound healing, reduce blistering, and ease pain.
2018 case report
epidermolysis bullosa
Although these initial results are promising, scientists need to conduct further research to understand the benefits of CBD oil on skin injuries.
People apply salves topically, so CBD has a very low risk of entering the bloodstream. This means CBD is unlikely to cause any impairment that could adversely affect athletic performance.
Learn more about the potential benefits of CBD.
the potential benefits of CBD
If a person experiences any of the following symptoms after using CBD salve, they should stop using the product and contact a doctor:
a rash
rash
irritation
swelling
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
How we chose the best CBD salves for athletes
Medical News Today chooses CBD salves and other topical CBD products that meet the following criteria:
Ingredients: Topical products contain safe and high quality ingredients, and the packaging states all ingredients clearly. According to the product’s certificate of analysis (COA), they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, and molds.
Dosage: Products contain and recommend a safe CBD dosage serving size. All brands we feature must clearly state the recommended dosage on their products.
Third-party laboratories: Products must undergo third-party testing for contaminants at an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
ISO 17025-compliant
Laboratory results: Products are from brands that make their testing results publicly available and easy to access.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Learn more here.
Best CBD salves for athletes
Medical News Today has tested some of the products below. Reviewers may have received some products from the manufacturers for free, which does not influence their review. All opinions are the reviewers’ own.

Joy Organics CBD Salve

CBD type: broad-spectrum
broad-spectrum
CBD potency: 500 mg per 1-oz container, 1,000 mg per 2-oz container
COA: available online
available online
Available scents: Lavender Eucalyptus
Third-party tested: yes
Use code “healthcbd” for 20% off.
$54.95 AT JOY ORGANICS
*Price may vary.
This CBD balm comes in two sizes: 500 or 1,000 milligrams (mg). The manufacturer claims it can support healthy muscles and joints.
The product contains broad-spectrum hemp CBD. This means it contains other compounds and cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant, such as CBC, CBN, or terpenes. It does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the component that people may associate with the “high” of cannabis.
broad-spectrum
Learn more about THC.
Learn more about THC.
This THC-free CBD salve contains eucalyptus oil, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains beeswax, which has an antimicrobial effect. This salve may help kill pathogens and prevent or stop an infection.
which has
has
Learn more about Joy Organics.
Learn more about Joy Organics.
Subscriptions and savings
People who opt to subscribe to automatic deliveries will receive 20% off each purchase. Joy Organics offers delivery every 2–12 weeks.
Use code “healthcbd” for 15% off.
free of THC
Joy Organics offers a 90-day money-back guarantee
contains tree nuts, so it is not suitable for people with a nut allergy
can be messy, according to reviews
free of THC
Joy Organics offers a 90-day money-back guarantee
contains tree nuts, so it is not suitable for people with a nut allergy
can be messy, according to reviews
Returns: full refund within 90 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $50
Returns: full refund within 90 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $50

CBDistillery Oooh Distilled 500 mg CBD Balm

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 500 mg per 1-oz jar
COA: available on product page
Third-party tested: yes
Use code “healthline” for 20% off sitewide or choose the subscription option for 20% off the first 2 subscription orders and 25% off the 3rd order.
$60.00 AT CBDISTILLERY
*Price may vary.
The manufacturer claims that this CBD topical provides localized relief to parts of the body that may be experiencing strain. A person will need to apply the product liberally to the area they want to treat.
The product uses full-spectrum, hemp-derived CBD extract. A full-spectrum CBD product means it contains all the cannabinoids that naturally occur within the cannabis plant, including THC.
Learn more about full-spectrum CBD.
Learn more about full-spectrum CBD.
Alongside its CBD contents, this product also contains almond oil, which may have anti-inflammatory properties, and lavender oil. A 2020 study states that lavender oil may promote wound healing.
almond oil
may have
lavender oil
2020 study
Subscriptions and savings
CBDistillery offers free shipping on orders over $75.
Alternatively, people can opt to subscribe for delivery every 4–12 weeks and save 30%. People will receive free shipping.
Use code “MNT20” for 20% off.
has anti-inflammatory ingredients to help reduce aches and pains
has a no-mess application
small and portable container
contains THC, which some people may wish to avoid
contains many ingredients, which may be unappealing for those who prefer short ingredient lists
has anti-inflammatory ingredients to help reduce aches and pains
has a no-mess application
small and portable container
contains THC, which some people may wish to avoid
contains many ingredients, which may be unappealing for those who prefer short ingredient lists
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on 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
COA: available on product page
Third-party tested: yes
Use code “healthline40” for 40% off.
$35.99 AT PLUSCBD
*Price may vary.
This salve contains 100 mg of full-spectrum, hemp-derived CBD extract.
The product also contains almond oil and beeswax, which may help moisturize the skin.
This product has a lower amount of CBD per container than the other options on this list, which may make it more suitable for those who have not used CBD products beforehand. Additionally, it is one of the more affordable options available online.
Subscriptions and savings
PlusCBD offers automatic delivery every 30, 60, or 90 days. People who choose this option benefit from free shipping and 25% off every order.
Use code “MNT20” for 20% off.
“I rubbed [this balm] into my hands before starting work to relieve some muscle and joint pain from typing on my keyboard. I was also hoping it would help with my extremely dry skin.
“The scent was great! It almost reminded me of an old-timey candy shop. Minty and sweet. [However,] it felt super greasy and oily. It’s a very thick formula that you have to scoop on, sort of like butter.
“I didn’t really notice any effects for the pain. I was hoping it might relieve some of my hand pain that I get from typing on my keyboard too much, but my hands and fingers were still kind of sore at the end of the day. It definitely did help with my dry skin, but I think my hands needed a little more moisturizing than it could provide.
[I would] probably not [recommend this balm], just because it’s so greasy. It might be OK on other parts of your body beside your hands.”
— Emily Schalk, Associate Copy Editor
“I rubbed [this balm] into my hands before starting work to relieve some muscle and joint pain from typing on my keyboard. I was also hoping it would help with my extremely dry skin.
“The scent was great! It almost reminded me of an old-timey candy shop. Minty and sweet. [However,] it felt super greasy and oily. It’s a very thick formula that you have to scoop on, sort of like butter.
“I didn’t really notice any effects for the pain. I was hoping it might relieve some of my hand pain that I get from typing on my keyboard too much, but my hands and fingers were still kind of sore at the end of the day. It definitely did help with my dry skin, but I think my hands needed a little more moisturizing than it could provide.
[I would] probably not [recommend this balm], just because it’s so greasy. It might be OK on other parts of your body beside your hands.”
— Emily Schalk, Associate Copy Editor
GMO- and gluten-free
as lower potency cbd product, it is more suitable for new CBD users
more affordable than some other options
may have an oily texture, according to reviews
the beeswax may make it unsuitable for vegans
GMO- and gluten-free
as lower potency cbd product, it is more suitable for new CBD users
more affordable than some other options
may have an oily texture, according to reviews
the beeswax may make it unsuitable for vegans
Returns: returns within 90 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $45
Returns: returns within 90 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $45

CBDMEDIC Active Sport Pain Relief Stick

CBD type: isolate
isolate
CBD potency: 200 mg per 1-oz. stick
COA: available online with batch number
available online with batch number
Third-party tested: yes
$29.99 AT CBD.CO
*Price may vary.
CBDMEDIC offers this relief stick for people who exercise regularly. It provides muscle pain relief and also works on sprains and bruises.
People can apply it before, during, or after working out. Plus, as it is a solid formula, it offers a mess-free application, making it easier to use on the go.
The product is THC-free and contains camphor for a warming effect and menthol, which is popular as a cooling formula.
Subscriptions and savings
At the time of publishing, CBD.co does not offer a subscribe and save option.
However, it does offer payment through Klarna and Sezzle, which allows people to split the cost over several interest-free payments.
suitable for use on-the-go
according to reviews, it is not messy to apply
contains MCT oil, making it unsuitable for people with a coconut allergy
the smaller container may mean that is is not as much value for money as other products
suitable for use on-the-go
according to reviews, it is not messy to apply
contains MCT oil, making it unsuitable for people with a coconut allergy
the smaller container may mean that is is not as much value for money as other products
Returns: free returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
Returns: free 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
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 20% off.
$89.99 AT ASPEN GREEN
*Price may vary.
Aspen Green stocks this full-spectrum CBD balm that helps relieve agitation and discomfort. It is physician-formulated and contains 1,000 mg of CBD in each container and natural food-grade ingredients.
The product is free of artificial preservatives, plasticizers, and synthetic ingredients.
It is also certified USDA organic and has undergone third-party testing.
Subscriptions and savings
Aspen Green offers free shipping and 30% off if a person opts for automatic delivery every 4, 6, or 8 weeks.
“I used this cream for muscle pain related to sciatica and lower back pain from an injury. The balm has a light feel and is not greasy, with the texture of a lip balm or beeswax.
I had a difficult time with this product. It does not come out of the container easily (only glides onto my finger a little bit at a time), therefore I had trouble getting a decent amount of product for usage. It’s a bit like beeswax (although it contains no beeswax!) in terms of texture.
“I struggled with this product, mainly because of its dense texture. I’d recommend Aspen Green’s topical cream versus their topical balm. Even when I did apply the balm to my back, I didn’t feel much (if any) pain relief.
– Christy Snyder, Healthline editor
“I used this cream for muscle pain related to sciatica and lower back pain from an injury. The balm has a light feel and is not greasy, with the texture of a lip balm or beeswax.
I had a difficult time with this product. It does not come out of the container easily (only glides onto my finger a little bit at a time), therefore I had trouble getting a decent amount of product for usage. It’s a bit like beeswax (although it contains no beeswax!) in terms of texture.
“I struggled with this product, mainly because of its dense texture. I’d recommend Aspen Green’s topical cream versus their topical balm. Even when I did apply the balm to my back, I didn’t feel much (if any) pain relief.
– Christy Snyder, Healthline editor
uses hemp from certfied organic farms
uses food-grade ingredients, which may mean they undergo more rigorous testing and procedures
it is an expensive option
the beeswax may make it unsuitable for vegans
uses hemp from certfied organic farms
uses food-grade ingredients, which may mean they undergo more rigorous testing and procedures
it is an expensive option
the beeswax may make it unsuitable for vegans
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74

Level Select CBD Sports Roll-On

CBD type: broad-spectrum
broad-spectrum
CBD potency: 1,200 mg per 2.5-oz container, 1,800 mg per 2.5-oz container
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Use code “HEALTH40” for 40% off.
$40.00 AT LEVEL SELECT CBD
*Price may vary.
Level Select’s soothing CBD roll-on helps relax the muscles and is available in different strengths: 900, 1,200, and 1,800 mg. People can use this product any time they want, and it is also easy to carry, so they may use it at the gym or during their travels.
It has a menthol formula to soothe the skin and muscles.
This roll-on CBD option is cruelty-free and does not contain THCs and GMOs. It also reportedly absorbs fast.
Subscriptions and savings
People can opt for automatic delivery every 1–3 months and receive up to 35% off their purchase.
cruelty- and GMO-free
THC free
the menthol may cause irritation in sensitive skin
one reviewer claims it does not work for a very long time
cruelty- and GMO-free
THC free
the menthol may cause irritation in sensitive skin
one reviewer claims it does not work for a very long time
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
Comparing the best CBD salves for athletes
The following table compares the CBD salves in this article.
Joy Organics
CBDistillery
CBDMEDIC
Aspen Green
Level Select
How to shop for CBD salves
A person may wish to consider the following factors when shopping for CBD salves:
CBD type: People should consider whether they wish to purchase a product that contains THC. For example, CBD isolate products do not have any THC.
CBD isolate
Potency: Those who are new to CBD may wish to start with a salve with less CBD per dose. Then, they can gradually increase the amount of CBD until they reach the desired effects.
COA: People should consider only buying from companies that have an easily accessible COA for all of their products.
Price: People may wish to consider their budget when buying a CBD salve.
Read our guide to buying CBD.
Read our guide to buying CBD.
Alternatives for muscle or joint pain relief
There are other ways a person can reduce muscle or joint pain associated with doing sports. Some people choose these options alongside CBD salves. The options include:
Massage: Sports massages may improve flexibility and reduce delayed onset muscle soreness.
may improve
Stretching: An older article exploring the benefits of stretching highlights that it can benefit shoulder, back, and knee pain. However, a 2021 review and analysis concluded that there is not enough scientific evidence that stretching can aid recovery.
older article
2021 review
Ice: Ice may act as a local anesthetic by numbing the sore tissue and slowing down the pain messages from the brain. When using ice, a person should never put it directly on the skin. Instead, they should always wrap it in a cloth or towel.
Anti-inflammatory drugs: Certain over-the-counter medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can help reduce pain and inflammation. However, this is not a long-term solution.
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Bath salts: Older 2005 research suggests that soaking in bath salts may reduce inflammation and relieve irritation. There is no recent research discussing the benefits of bath salts.
may reduce
Frequently asked questions about CBD and CBD salves
The World Anti-Doping Agency does not prohibit CBD. It is therefore legal for athletes to use it. Athletes can use CBD cream to manage stress, muscle pain, and soreness after exercise. However, they may wish to avoid full-spectrum CBD due to its THC content and talk with a doctor or coach before using CBD.
World Anti-Doping Agency
The World Anti-Doping Agency does not prohibit CBD. It is therefore legal for athletes to use it. Athletes can use CBD cream to manage stress, muscle pain, and soreness after exercise. However, they may wish to avoid full-spectrum CBD due to its THC content and talk with a doctor or coach before using CBD.
World Anti-Doping Agency
Some early research has shown that CBD can improve oxygen consumption and pleasure during exercise. A summary of research also indicates that CBD can help athletes rest, recover, and reduce stress before competition and pain after exertion. These elements may help an athlete perform at their best.
improve
can help
Some early research has shown that CBD can improve oxygen consumption and pleasure during exercise. A summary of research also indicates that CBD can help athletes rest, recover, and reduce stress before competition and pain after exertion. These elements may help an athlete perform at their best.
improve
can help
People expecting to take a drug test may want to avoid using CBD products in the days preceding the test, as some CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC, which may result in a failed test.
Learn more about CBD and drug tests.
CBD and drug tests
People expecting to take a drug test may want to avoid using CBD products in the days preceding the test, as some CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC, which may result in a failed test.
Learn more about CBD and drug tests.
CBD and drug tests
Athletes may prefer to use broad-spectrum or isolate CBD products, as these contain the lowest amount of THC compared with full-spectrum CBD products.
isolate
Learn more about the different types of CBD.
different types of CBD
Athletes may prefer to use broad-spectrum or isolate CBD products, as these contain the lowest amount of THC compared with full-spectrum CBD products.
isolate
Learn more about the different types of CBD.
different types of CBD
CBD has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may aid in muscle recovery. However, more research is necessary to fully understand the benefits of CBD muscle salves, creams, and other products for muscle recovery.
anti-inflammatory and analgesic
CBD has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may aid in muscle recovery. However, more research is necessary to fully understand the benefits of CBD muscle salves, creams, and other products for muscle recovery.
anti-inflammatory and analgesic
An athlete may wish to apply a CBD salve when they experience muscle aches and pains.
An athlete may wish to apply a CBD salve when they experience muscle aches and pains.
People should always start with the lowest possible dose of CBD and gradually increase the amount until they reach their desired effect.
It is important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using CBD products.
People should always start with the lowest possible dose of CBD and gradually increase the amount until they reach their desired effect.
It is important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using CBD products.
Many companies stock CBD salves to help relieve sore muscles after a workout. A 2020 study suggests that CBD oil may be effective in targeting muscle soreness.
may be effective
Many companies stock CBD salves to help relieve sore muscles after a workout. A 2020 study suggests that CBD oil may be effective in targeting muscle soreness.
may be effective
Athletes should avoid full-spectrum CBD products as they can contain THC, which may cause a positive drug test result. Broad-spectrum and isolate CBD products can be suitable for athletes.
Athletes should avoid full-spectrum CBD products as they can contain THC, which may cause a positive drug test result. Broad-spectrum and isolate CBD products can be suitable for athletes.
Hemp salve comes from Cannabis sativa seeds, which do not contain CBD. Hemp salves are also very unlikely to contain THC, the psychoactive compound in the plant.
Salves using CBD will have come from the leaves, stems, and flowers of the Cannabis sativa plant, which do contain cannabinoids and may contain traces of THC.
Hemp salve comes from Cannabis sativa seeds, which do not contain CBD. Hemp salves are also very unlikely to contain THC, the psychoactive compound in the plant.
Salves using CBD will have come from the leaves, stems, and flowers of the Cannabis sativa plant, which do contain cannabinoids and may contain traces of THC.
Summary
Individuals who engage in a lot of exercise, such as athletes, may experience blisters, dry skin, muscle soreness, and chafing. Applying salve can heal and protect the skin from these injuries.
There are a variety of salves on the market that may reduce inflammation and pain. Some athletes opt for CBD salves because they offer quick relief, often taking effect within 10–15 minutes, and may last for a few hours.
A person may consider using CBD salve products in combination with massages, stretching, or ice to help address minor injuries.