HEMP BATH BOMBS

The use of industrial hemp has expanded into the cosmetic industry. Many skin care products such as facial creams, body lotions, and CBD bath bombs contain hemp as a key ingredient because hemp possesses numerous tonic therapeutic properties that treat sleeplessness, skin conditions, stress, inflammation, and pain.

Hemp bath bombs are CBD-infused fizzy balls that improve your bathtub experience by releasing vital ingredients when they dissolve in water. Hence, they have become a popular skincare product for their ability to nourish and rejuvenate the skin. While the bombs are infused with cannabis, their THC concentration does not bring marijuana's psychoactive effects; the CBD in hemp bath bombs does not enter the bloodstream. Depending on the manufacturer, the hemp bath bombs may contain vegetable-based oils, hemp plant flowers, Epsom salts, and ground herbs. Bath bombs are available in different colors and fragrances; some contain essential oils like lavender for calming and deeply relaxing effects, while others have peppermint oil for skin invigoration.

What Are Hemp Bath Bombs?

Hemp is a botanical class of the Cannabis Sativa plant cultivated for medicinal and industrial use. Industrially, it can be used to make a range of products, including textiles and cooking oils. 

Medicinally, hemp derivatives are found in CBD oil tinctures, gummies, and roll-ons. CBD is also used to relieve pain and discomfort, for skin hydration and as an anti-inflammatory. CBD oil comes from hemp plant flowers, leaves, and stalks because of their higher concentrations of CBD. Hemp oil, on the other hand, is extracted from the buds or seeds of the cannabis Sativa plant. Hemp oil possesses a wide range of health benefits, thanks to waxes, oils, nutrients, and fatty acids in the seeds. Due to hemp's nutritional composition, it is used to make hemp bath bombs.

Hemp bath bombs refer to hemp-infused skin care with a mixture of Epson salts, hemp seed oil, essential oils, coloring, and baking soda. The bath bombs produce effervescence when soaked in warm water to release compounds that rejuvenate and relax the skin (Hammell et al., 2016). The effervescence that accompanies bath bombs recreates a spa-like environment in your bathtub.

The Rising Popularity of Hemp Bath Bombs

Nearly 50% of Americans experience moderates to high-stress levels. The mainstream and over-the-counter pharmaceutical anti-depressants often have long-term side effects. Therefore, natural remedies such as CBD and hemp seed oil are recommended. 

Using a hemp bath bomb is one of the most popular ways of relaxing or winding down after a long day's work. It is not only a sure way to relax but offers the convenience of doing so from the comfort of your bathtub. You don't have to take a vacation to a health spa. These hemp derivatives are packed with unique ingredients for a relaxing and skin rejuvenating experience when mixed with the bath water.

Key Ingredients in Hemp Bath Bombs

As earlier stated, the ingredients present in bath bombs vary from one manufacturer to the other. However, most brands use all-natural, organic, and non-GMO ingredients without harmful chemicals or synthetic additives. Each ingredient adds a unique property to the bath bomb formula to offer the ultimate relaxation experience. Ideally, hemp contains fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to replenish and nourish flaky, tired, or sensitive skin. Many brands infuse Shea butter, organic coconut oil, jojoba oil, hemp seed oil, and almond oil for their nourishing abilities. Also, the bombs have Non-GMO citric acid and aluminum-free sodium bicarbonate for exfoliating dead skin (Nadar et al.,2022). All these blends come with fragrances that elevate your bathtub experience. The following are some key ingredients used in the bath bombs:

Hemp Seed Oil

This is the base ingredient contained in hemp bath bombs. The seed oil contains vitamins A and E, waxes, oils, and fatty acids with skin-nourishing potentials; such as Vitamin E and A. The ideal spectrum in the bombs should be full-spectrum hemp to provide terpenes and flavonoids that offer an all-around experience.

Organic Coconut Oil

The organic coconut oil is also called Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT) oil. It is added to the blend mainly for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. Additionally, coconut oil is a moisturizer, relieves irritation, itchiness, and scaly skin linked to conditions such as psoriasis (Hammell et al., 2016). MCT oil acts as a binder between CBD and the CB 1 and CB 2 receptors present in the body to provide the desired experience.

Citric Acid and Sodium Bicarbonate

The Citric Acid and Sodium Bicarbonate are universal to all bath bombs.  These compounds fizz out and in the form of carbon dioxide bubbles when dissolved in the tub water. Their effervescence enhances the absorption of other ingredients infused in the bath bombs.

Epsom Salt

Epson salt mineral compound is crystalline magnesium sulfate that exfoliates the dead skin. The salt also, reduces inflammation, and soothes muscle soreness. Normally, people with osteoporosis, fatigue, arthritis, and joint pain can bathe in Epsom Salt to absorb magnesium; magnesium can boost bone health and improve the body's ability to eliminate toxins.

Essential Oils

All hemp bath bombs contain a blend of essential oils; the oils enhance blood circulation, reduce joint pain and inflammation, and replenish dull, tired skin.

Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil

People still confuse the two because most CBD oils available on the market are extracted from hemp. The oils have significant differences in their tonic therapeutic benefits and extraction methods.

What Is Hemp Seed Oil?

Hemp oil (hemp seed oil) is extracted from the buds or hemp seeds. During extraction, hemp seeds are cold-pressed at low temperatures to obtain a thick, dark oil rich in minerals, fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. Notably, the buds lack terpenes and CBD; although they are abundant in the stalks, leaves, and flowers.

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD oil is extracted from the flowers, stalks, and leaves of the hemp plant. The oil is a resinous extract obtained from the flowers and mixed with carrier oil. Ideally, the flowers of a mature hemp plant contain a dense network of resin glands where active cannabinoid and terpenes exist. CBD oil can also be extracted from marijuana. Unlike CBD from Hemp, the marijuana-bound CBD has elevated levels of the psychoactive THC. In contrast Industrial hemp contains less than 0.3% (THC) and is therefore non-psychoactive. As a result, all hemp-derived products are legal to all Americans of legal age, thanks to 2018 Farm Bill.

Types of CBD Oils

CBD oil is available in three spectrums; full, broad and isolates CBD:

Full-Spectrum CBD Oil

Full-spectrum CBD oil contains all cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids naturally occurring in the hemp plant. This oil type contains CBD, THC, CBG, CBN, cannabinoid, fatty acids, waxes, and phytonutrients. Notably, it has 0.3% or less THC and is therefore non-psychoactive.

Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil

Broad-Spectrum CBD oil contains other active cannabinoid, flavonoids, and terpenes. However, it lacks THC.

CBD Isolate Oil

This CBD oil is made from a 99.9% pure CBD extract and lacks active cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, THC, and terpenes.

Key Distinguishing Factors between Hemp Oil and CBD Oil

CBD Content

Hemp seed oil contains little to no CBD. In contrast CBD oil is rich in CBD because it is extracted from the flowers of the hemp plant, known to contain dense networks of CBD resin glands.

Raw Materials

As earlier stated, hemp seed oil is extracted from hemp seeds, while CBD oil is extracted from the leaves, stalks, and flowers of the hemp and marijuana plants.

The Entourage Effect

Hemp seed oil does not bring about the synergistic entourage effect associated with full-spectrum CBD oil. It lacks the terpenes and active cannabinoids that work synergistically to create the entourage effect. On the other hand, full-spectrum CBD oil contains all the active cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that work synergistically to make it more potent.

Extraction Method

Hemp seed oil is extracted by cold-pressing of the hemp seeds. In contrast, CBD oil is extracted from dried leaves, flowers, and stalks using supercritical CO₂ extraction, along with other organic solvents like ethanol.

Applications

Industrially, the hemp seed oil is used for beauty, hair, cooking, and skincare products. In contrast, the oil is used as a supplement pain control and treatment of different ailments.

Legal Status

Hemp seed oil is federally legal, and anyone of legal age can sell and purchase hemp seed oil. On the other hand, CBD oil is only legal if it contains less than 0.3% THC. Products above the 0.3% THC (usually extracted from marijuana) falls under DEA's jurisdiction, except for states that permit cannabis recreational purposes.

How Do CBD Bath Bombs Work?

Hemp bath bombs works similar to topical products like roll-ons and lotions. The core ingredient does not enter the bloodstream. However, it is readily absorbed via the CB2 cannabinoid receptors present in the skin. This consequently activates the endocannabinoid system that maintains balance and regulation in the body. The bath bombs are utilized as a natural way to relieve stress and tone down muscle soreness to wind down a long working day (Evan, 2020). Infused ingredients in bath bombs such as hemp seed oil and omega fatty acids possess healing value, including moisturizing and healing dry skin.

How to Use Hemp Bath Bombs

Here is a quick guide on how to use hemp bath bombs:

• Fill up your bathtub with warm water and ensure the ideal temperature.
• Place your bath bomb(s) into the tub water and let it disintegrate into the varied colors and effervescence.
• Once everything has disintegrated, get down into the tub, and start soaking up the ingredients released in the water.
• It is advisable to soak up for at least 20 minutes to experience the therapeutic benefits of the bombs.
• Exit the tub, and pat your skin gently with a dry towel. Remember to be gentle to preserve the ingredients attached to your skin.

Can Hemp Bath Bombs Show Up in A Drug Test?

Hemp bath bombs have grown in popularity for their practicality and versatility in offering deep relaxation after a long day's work. Ideal bath bombs give the ultimate fizz and aroma for deep relaxation. The effervescence results from the combination of citric acid and sodium bicarbonate, which act as weak acid and weak base.

Ingredients in the bath bombs do not enter the bloodstream. Instead, they activate the endocannabinoid system via the CB 2 receptors present in the skin. What blood screening looks out for is the psychoactive component of THC; the hemp seed oil lacks THC. Therefore, the bath bombs cannot show up in a blood test.

Can Hemp Bath Bombs Get You High?

The bombs operate like topical CBD products, and do not enter the bloodstream. Besides, hemp bath bombs lack the psychoactive THC and cannot get the user intoxicated.

Potential Benefits of Hemp Bath Bombs

The hemp bath bombs will not only help you get a therapeutic experience, but you will also benefit from hemp's medicinal nutrients. Ideally, the CBD in the bath bomb contains anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties with several health benefits (Evan, 2020). Most bath bomb brands offer products infused with wellness-enhancing ingredients like essential oils, honey, lavender oil, jojoba oil, and peppermint oil that contain a wealth of benefits:

Skin Nourishment

Aside from its ability to moisturize and boost skin elasticity, the hemp seed oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) that possesses anti-inflammatory properties that encourage skin cell growth and generation (Hammell et al., 2016). Hemp oil contains anti-aging properties that keep your skin radiant and youthful.

Mental Clarity

 Hemp seed oil boosts serotonin levels, thereby suppressing stress (Evan, 2020).

Hair and Scalp Moisturization

Hemp seed oil is rich in fatty acids essential in moisturizing your hair. These fatty acids moisturize your scalp to keep it hydrated, and prevent irritation, itchiness, and dandruff growth (Evan, 2020).

Lowers Blood Pressure

Warm hemp vasodilates blood vessels. This increases blood circulation, consequently lowering blood pressure (Hammell et al., 2016).

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Hemp Bath Bombs?

Hemp bath bombs are hemp-infused relaxation and skincare usable that contain a unique mixture of Epson salts, hemp seed oil, essential oils, coloring, and baking soda. This formula produces effervescence when soaked in warm water to leave your skin and body feeling rejuvenated and relaxed while winding down in a hot tub.

How Long Does a Hemp Bath Bomb Take to Work?

Different elements can influence how quickly a bath bomb takes to work. Such aspects include body weight, metabolic rate, and the strength of the bath bomb, and infused ingredients. It is recommended to soak for at least 30 minutes to optimize effectiveness.

Are Hemp Bath Bombs Safe?

Yes, hemp bath bombs are 100% safe. They contain natural fragrances, essential oils, coloring, and hemp seed oil that dissolve in warm water to nourish, moisturize, and replenish dry skin (Hammell et al., 2016). However, be some products could cause allergy, resulting to skin irritation.

What Are the Potential Benefits of Hemp Bath Bombs?

Evan, (2020) noted that hemp bath bombs contain ingredients that treat sleeplessness, pain, discomfort, muscle soreness, stress and anxiety. The bombs also nourish the skin.

What Will a Hemp Bath Bomb Do for You?

Hemp bath bombs nourish the skin, deodorize, increase elasticity, enhance hydration, and make the skin radiant-looking.

How Long Should You Soak in A Hemp Bathtub?

Different elements can influence how quickly a bath bomb takes to work. Such aspects include body weight, metabolic rate, the strength of the bath bomb, and infused ingredients. It is recommended that you soak in your bathtub for at least 30 minutes to optimize effectiveness.

Can CBD Bath Bombs Considered Topical CBD? 

CBD bath bombs can be considered topical CBD because they don't enter the bloodstream. Instead, the infused ingredients activate the endocannabinoid system via CB 2 receptors present in the skin, to achieve the desired effect.

Are Hemp and CBD Bath Bombs the Same?

No. Hemp bath bombs lack CBD. In contrast CBD bath bombs, is extracted from CBD-rich leaves, flowers, and stalks. If you are looking to benefit from CBD's tonic therapeutic potential, use CBD bath bombs.

Are Hemp Bath Bombs Healthy for Your Skin?

Yes. Most brands utilize hemp seed oil along with ingredients such as essential oils and Shea butter for nourishing and rejuvenating the skin. The bombs also provide pain relief and reduce inflammation on the skin.

Can You Take Hemp Seed Oil and CBD Oil Together?

Yes. Both oils possess therapeutic benefits to the body. They can work synergistically to enhance cannabis effects.

Is Hemp Oil Better Than CBD Oil?

Both oils possess different therapeutic properties. The effectiveness depends on consumer’s desired effects. While hemp possesses nutritional benefits CBD oil is ideal for therapeutic benefits, like pain el stress and anxiety alleviation.

Is Hemp Oil Ideal for Pain Relief?

Yes, hemp seed oil possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which act topically for targeted pain management.

How Do CBD Bath Bombs Work?

Hemp bath bombs work the same way CBD topical products like roll-ons and lotions work. The core ingredient does not enter the bloodstream. However, it is readily absorbed via the CB 2 cannabinoid receptors present in the skin to activate the endocannabinoid system that maintains balance and regulation in the body.

Is Hemp Oil or CBD Oil Better for Anxiety?

While both oil types are ideal for anxiety relief, CBD oil is better for treatment. The oil is CBD-rich and easily interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system to regulate mood;. his makes oil ideal for relieving anxiety.

What Is the Shelf Life of Hemp Bath Bombs?

If stored in airtight containers, hemp bath bombs can last for years. Infused ingredients are relatively stable and can last long when tucked away from moisture and other environmental elements.

Can Hemp Bath Bombs Irritate Your Skin?

No. These bath bombs contain skin-friendly ingredients such as Epsom salts, hemp seed oil, natural coloring, and sodium bicarbonate, known to moisturize and rejuvenate the skin. They can hardly irritate the skin although first-time users should monitor the effects for any allergic reactions.

Are Hemp Bath Bombs Safe Down the Drain?

Yes. All infused ingredients are water-soluble and will smoothly wash down the drain.

Are Hemp Bath Bombs Legal?

Hemp seed oil is federally legal, and anyone of legal age can sell and purchase the seed oil products. CBD oil, on the other hand, is only legal if it contains less than 0.3% THC. Any amount above 0.3% THC falls under DEA's jurisdiction, except in states that permit cannabis use for medicinal and recreational purposes.

References

Evans, J. (2020). The Ultimate Guide to CBD: Explore the World of Cannabidiol. Fair Winds             Press.

Hammell, D., Zhang, L., Ma, F., Abshire, S., McIlwrath, S., Stinchcomb, A., & Westlund, K.

(2015). Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviors in a rat model of arthritis. EuropeanJournal Of Pain, 20(6), 936-948.

Hammell, Zhang, Ma, Abshire, McIlwrath, Stinchcomb, &Westlund (2016). Transdermal             cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain‐related behaviors in a rat model of     arthritis. European journal of pain, 20(6), 936-948.

Nadar, R. M., Pathak, S., Ramesh, S., Govindarajulu, M., Moore, T., Agrawal, D. C., & Dhana

sekaran, M. (2022). Cannabis-Based Cosmetic Products and Their Uses. In Cannabis/Marijuana for            Healthcare (pp. 253-269). Springer, Singapore.