How to Make CBD or THC Topicals

🌿 How to Make CBD or THC Topicals: Balms, Oils & Creams with Argan Oil, MCT Oil & Natural Scents

Cannabis Topicals

Cannabis topicals are an amazing way to deliver the benefits of cannabinoids directly through the skin. Whether you're targeting inflammation, pain, or simply looking to relax with a nourishing body cream, topicals made with CBD or THC are easy to craft at home with powerful results.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make your own CBD or THC-infused balms, oils, and creams using Argan oil, MCT oil, and therapeutic scents like sandalwood, menthol eucalyptus, and more.

🧪 What Are Cannabis Topicals?

Cannabis topicals are non-intoxicating when applied to the skin (unless using high-THC products on mucous membranes). They work by interacting with endocannabinoid receptors in the skin, providing localized relief without entering the bloodstream.

✨ Benefits of Homemade Cannabis Topicals

• Natural pain relief (great for arthritis, sore muscles, back pain)

• Anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing

• Hydrating and nourishing for the skin

• Customizable scents and cannabinoid strength

• Free from commercial additives or irritants

🌿 Base Oils & Ingredients You'll Need

Carrier Oils:

• Argan Oil – Packed with Vitamin E, great for skin elasticity and hydration

• MCT Oil – Lightweight, fast-absorbing, enhances cannabinoid absorption

• Optional: Shea butter or beeswax (for balms and solid creams), Jojoba Oil, Avocado Oil, Coconut Oil (Virgin), Olive Oil, Castor Oil, Hemp Seed Oil, Sweet Almond Oil

Cannabinoids:

• CBD isolate (easy for precise dosing)

• THC distillate or full-spectrum oil (for stronger pain-relief)

• Decarboxylated cannabis flower (for infusions from scratch)

Essential Oils (for scent & added benefits):

• Sandalwood – Calming, anti-inflammatory

• Menthol & Eucalyptus – Cooling, great for sore muscles

• Lavender – Relaxing and antibacterial

• Peppermint – Energizing and anti-inflammatory

• Tea Tree – Antimicrobial, good for acne-prone skin

🧴 Step-by-Step: How to Make Cannabis-Infused Topicals

🥄 Option 1: Make a Cannabis-Infused Carrier Oil (from flower)

Ingredients:

• 7–10 grams decarboxylated cannabis

• 1 cup Argan oil or MCT oil

• Cheesecloth, glass jar

Instructions:

1. Decarboxylate cannabis (heat at 240°F for 30–40 minutes).

2. Combine cannabis with oil in a mason jar.

3. Place jar in a double boiler or slow cooker at 160–200°F for 3–4 hours.

4. Stir occasionally. Keep temp below 220°F to preserve cannabinoids.

5. Strain oil through cheesecloth into a clean jar.

6. Store in a dark, cool place. This is your infused base.

🧴 Option 2: Quick Topical with Distillate or CBD Isolate

Ingredients:

• 1 oz (30 ml) Argan or MCT oil

• 100–200 mg CBD isolate or THC distillate

• 4–6 drops essential oils (e.g., sandalwood, eucalyptus, lavender)

Instructions:

1. Warm the carrier oil slightly (do not boil).

2. Add your desired cannabinoid (stir until fully dissolved).

3. Add essential oils.

4. Pour into a dark glass dropper bottle or balm tin.

5. Label clearly and store in a cool, dry place.

💪 Option 3: Make a Balm or Cream

Ingredients:

• ½ cup cannabis-infused oil (Argan or MCT)

• 2 tbsp beeswax pellets (for thickness)

• Optional: 2 tbsp shea butter (for skin softness)

• 10–20 drops essential oils

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler, melt beeswax and shea butter.

2. Stir in infused oil.

3. Remove from heat and add essential oils.

4. Pour into jars or tins while still liquid.

5. Let cool and solidify at room temperature.

🧠 Pro Tips

• Always label clearly with dosage and cannabinoid type.

• For stronger effects, increase the potency of your infused oil.

• Perform a patch test for essential oil sensitivity before full use.

• Store in dark containers to prevent the degradation of cannabinoids.

🧘‍♀️ Suggested Scent Pairings

Purpose	Suggested Blend
Pain relief	Eucalyptus + Peppermint + Menthol
Relaxation	Sandalwood + Lavender
Skincare	Tea Tree + Argan + Frankincense
Energy boost	Citrus (lemon/orange) + Mint

🧴 Final Thoughts

Homemade CBD and THC topicals offer a personalized way to care for your body with the natural power of cannabis. By blending healing botanicals with effective cannabinoid extracts, you create a product that’s uniquely tailored to your skin’s needs — and your wellness goals.

Whether you're recovering after a workout, soothing joint pain, or just looking to moisturize with a little something extra, these balms and creams are your DIY wellness solution.