Paul JamesUpdated on October 30, 2024
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The primary use of CBD patches is to inhibit pain in various areas of the body – specifically, muscle and joint pain.
In the cannabidiol (CBD) market, tinctures and edibles tend to take the spotlight. While these are great methods of taking CBD, there can be times when they’re not the best match for your needs. In such cases, it’s important to have more effective alternatives.
If you struggle with muscle and joint pain, a CBD oil or edible would not be the most effective method to take CBD. The reason is that they do not target specific locations of pain. Instead, their effect is felt to a lesser extent throughout the body.
On the other hand, topical products like CBD patches may be a better solution for you. Regarding CBD for pain, patches provide localized pain relief among other positive effects to the areas they’re applied to.
With so many CBD brands developing unique patch formulas, it’s difficult to determine which product is right for you. That’s why we developed this list of the best CBD patches on the market.
What Are CBD Patches?
If you’re familiar with IcyHot Patches, then you already have an idea of what CBD patches are. Through an adhesive bandage, each patch sticks to the body, delivering a mix of cannabidiol and other ingredients. Menthol and aloe vera are just two examples of the ingredients a brand might add to enhance effects.
The primary use of CBD patches is to inhibit pain in various parts of the body – specifically muscle and joint pain. As a topical product, CBD patches are ideal for these pains as they allow you to target specific body areas.
Since CBD is still administered into the body, these patches may carry positive effects that assist with ailments. However, if you struggle with a health condition beyond muscle pain, you may want to check out other CBD consumption methods, such as tinctures and vapes.
How to Use CBD Patches
Using a CBD patch is very easy. Simply apply it to the area most affected by pain and leave it there for as long as possible. While it can be uncomfortable to carry these patches on your body for prolonged periods, you garner more benefits out of them the longer you have them on.
Each patch’s lifecycle will vary depending on the brand you purchase from. Some patches last 8 hours while others can go for 96 hours. Be sure to read the description of these products before purchasing to find one that suits your needs and lifestyle.
You may find you don’t need a full patch’s contents to receive its benefits. If so, one way to save and increase the value of your purchase is to cut each patch into smaller pieces. Some people have found this to be effective, especially when using patches that contain large amounts of CBD.
OUR TOP PICK
Mary's Nutritionals
Specifications
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
10mg - 300mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
10mg per patch
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$7.00 - $120.00
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.40 - $0.70 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Patches can be purchased in a sample pack with other CBD products
Cons
Low CBD dosage per patch
Mary’s Nutritionals offers a full-spectrum hemp patch that lasts 8-12 hours. Many promote this CBD transdermal patch for its ability to stick to any body part and stay there throughout its effects.
Unfortunately, these patches contain a rather low amount of CBD. For that reason, they may only be truly effective for those struggling with mild pain. If you are taking CBD to help you with chronic pain, you may find a patch with 30-50mg or higher to be more suitable.
On the plus side, Mary’s Nutritionals offers several other CBD topical products – including CBD beauty products. If you’re interested in these CBD patches alongside other CBD topicals, the company offers a sample pack of products for just $30.00.
Pure Ratios
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
40mg - 200mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
40mg per patch
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$18.00 - $75.00
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.37 - $0.45 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
On individual product's page
Flavor Variations
Number of flavors offered by the product or brand.
1
Potency Variations
Number of potency variations offered by the product or brand.
Pure Ratios is a distinct CBD brand as all their products are CBD topicals. With a focus on such products, they can develop and craft some truly amazing pain relievers, including their hemp extract transdermal patch.
Each patch comes with a rich 40mg of full-spectrum CBD that lasts upwards of 96 hours. According to reviews on Pure Ratio’s website, these patches are great for intense pains. One user even suggested cutting it up in order to get more use out of each purchase.
Luckily, if you enjoy how these CBD patches work, you can purchase them in a 5-pack for $75.00. This is a much better deal (comes out to only $0.37 per mg of hemp extract). Furthermore, Pure Ratios also offers a subscription service that allows you to save 15% with each purchase.
Due to its strength, we consider this one of the best CBD patches for arthritis.
CBD Living
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Broad-spectrum
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
60mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
60mg per patch
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$15.00
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.25 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
0.0%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Uses nano extraction technology to increase bioavailability of CBD
Cons
No bundles available for these patches
CBD Living’s nano hemp transdermal patch is one of the strongest patches on our list. Each patch is made with 60mg of broad-spectrum hemp extract – this means that there is absolutely no THC.
According to reviews on CBD Living’s website, these CBD patches have helped some users with pain to a greater extent than some prescription medications. Other users have even reported that it aided in women suffering from endometriosis, allowing them to better manage their symptoms and associated pains. Considering these patches are waterproof and last upwards of 96 hours, their effective relief can be expected to last over a long period of time.
The only downside to these patches is that you can only purchase one at a time (for $15.00). If you find yourself in need of these patches regularly, this may become an inconvenience. However, to get more out of each purchase, you can cut up these patches and use a single smaller piece at a time – stretching out the duration of a single patch purchase.
Still, even with this downside, there’s no denying this is one of the best CBD patches for pain.
Binger Labs
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Isolate
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
120mg - 240mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
30mg - 60mg per patch
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$45.95 - $64.95
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.27 - $0.38 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
0.0%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
None
Flavor Variations
Number of flavors offered by the product or brand.
3
Potency Variations
Number of potency variations offered by the product or brand.
Binger Labs stands apart from the other companies on this list as they specialize in CBD topicals. As a part of their CBD topical product line, they offer 3 different patches for 3 specific use cases.
The first is a CBD Cycle Patch meant to help with pain during the menstrual cycle. By combining 30mg of CBD isolate with a touch of menthol, these patches can help alleviate cramps and body aches.
They also offer the CBD Sport patch, the strongest of their products. Containing 60mg of CBD per patch, these are great for combating inflammation associated with chronic pain or post-workout aches. In our experience, this was a great CBD patch for back pain.
Finally, Binger Labs also offers a CBD Strength Patch containing 40mg CBD per patch. This type of patch is meant to act as a natural anti-inflammatory.
The only downside to Binger Labs is that they do not offer a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for their products. If you’re interested in their products but concerned about their lack of lab reports, we suggest contacting them at info@bingerconsult.com.
Envy CBD
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
150mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
50mg per wrap
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$39.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.26 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Patches made with a unique set of all-natural ingredients, including centella asiatica and polygonum cuspidatum root extract
Onset time is 45 minutes to 1 hour and total duration is 4-6 hours
Cons
Users have reported an unpleasant smell while using the patch
Envy CBD offers a 3-pack of full-spectrum CBD patches, each containing 50mg CBD. According to user reviews on their website, these patches are great for post-workout relief, fighting pain and inflammation, and simply relaxing. Due to that last point, this may be an ideal CBD patch for anxiety.
While Envy CBD’s patches contain several similar ingredients to others on our list (i.e. menthol), they also incorporate an additional set of all-natural ingredients. For example, each patch contains Centella Asiatica extract which promotes collagen production, increases new cell growth, and improves blood circulation.
Each patch also incorporates polygonum cuspidatum root extract, believed to help decrease oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, and scutellaria baicalensis root extract which may act as a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.
PureKana
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Extract Type
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
60mg - 180mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
60mg per patch
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$17.99 - $48.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.27 - $0.29 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Redeem code BESTCHOICE for 25% off your purchase (via CBDChoice.com)
Pros
Single patch can last up to 4 days
Can be purchased in a 3-pack for $48.99
Waterproof peel-and-stick application
Cons
Products do not ship to Idaho, Wyoming, and South Dakota
PureKana takes pride in the fact that its CBD transdermal patches are some of the longest-lasting out there (lasting up to 96 hours). Furthermore, these patches can be highly effective as each of them is loaded with 60mg of CBD.
PureKana may offer one of the best CBD patches currently on the market. Each patch is made with a variety of all-natural ingredients – including aloe vera and other essential oils to help with moisturizing the skin. While this makes the patches useful for more than just pain relief, they are also extremely effective at that!
If you enjoy these patches, you can purchase them in a 3-pack to save on a per milligram (mg) basis. Each purchase from PureKana also comes with free shipping.
RapidCBD
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
Not mentioned
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
Not mentioned
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$14.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
Not mentioned
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Not available on website
Flavor Variations
Number of flavors offered by the product or brand.
1
Potency Variations
Number of potency variations offered by the product or brand.
Redeem code SUPPORT10 for 10% off your purchase (nonbulk orders)
Pros
Each purchase comes with 2 patches
Free shipping on all U.S. orders
Cons
The amount of CBD within this product is unspecified
No certificate of analysis on website
RapidCBD’s Relief Patch is a fast-acting topical pain relief solution. Many have used these CBD patches to help with muscle aches, back pain, arthritis, and joint pain. Through the combination of lidocaine, menthol, and full-spectrum hemp extract, these Relief Patches penetrate the skin deeply and effectively to deliver their effects.
The only downside we found to RapidCBD’s Relief Patches is that there is no indication of how much CBD is in each patch. For the users who prefer to be aware of their dosage, these patches might not be ideal. Furthermore, while the website claims these patches are lab-tested, we couldn’t find any test results on their website.
Still, user reviews say this product was great for relaxation. As such, this may be an option if you’re looking for CBD sleep patches.
Papa & Barkley
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
30mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
30mg per patch
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
Not mentioned (only sold in stores)
Value ($/mg):
Not mentioned (only sold in stores)
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Certificate of analysis is only available upon request through help@papaandbarkley.com
Papa & Barkley offers a 30mg CBD Releaf Patch infused with menthol and camphor to provide extra pain relief. After a quick and easy application, you can expect this patch to last up to 12 hours. Many have used these patches to fight inflammation, mobility complications, and muscle soreness.
Interestingly, Papa & Barkley also offers CBD/THC patches for pain. The patches are classified by the ratio of CBD to THC within them. For example, one patch offers a 1:3 CBD to THC ratio and contains 30mg of cannabinoids.
The only downside to Papa & Barkley’s CBD patches is that they cannot be purchased online. To find the nearest place to purchase these products, we suggest you visit their website to see which stores near you have them for sale.
CBD patches are great for both targeting pain and providing long-lasting relief. If standard topicals and other consumption methods haven’t done you justice, look no further than CBD patches!
How Do CBD Patches Work?
CBD patches are so effective because of their deliberate design. Each patch contains a high concentration of cannabidiol. When given the opportunity, CBD will spread out onto other areas of your body. Therefore, when you apply the patch to your skin, the CBD will immediately spread around the targeted area.
Once on your skin, the CBD slowly makes its way into your bloodstream through transdermal delivery. In other consumption methods, CBD and other cannabinoids enter the bloodstream through the lungs or get broken down in the liver and stomach.
Once in your bloodstream, CBD holds the potential to help with several health conditions and users report success in managing an increasing number of symptoms. Current research has found CBD may be helpful for:
While CBD may have therapeutic value in other medical areas, a topical is ideal for certain conditions. If you struggle with an ailment and want to know what CBD product can best help you, we suggest doing research. Furthermore, we also recommend talking to your physician prior to medicating with CBD.
How Are CBD Patches Made?
CBD patches are made differently depending on the brand you purchase them from. However, across all brands, there are two main types of CBD patches available on the market:
Matrix Patches
A five-layer patch with the following:
A peel-off layer to protect CBD and keep it in concentration
A “matrix” layer where the CBD is concentrated
A separating layer
An adhesive layer
A protective back layer
Reservoir Patches
Reservoir patches contain similar attributes to the matrix patches and additionally contain a permeable release membrane. This addition allows manufacturers to control the delivery rate of CBD. When this layer is in place, CBD will usually come out at a steadier, more controlled flow and can last longer.
Our Criteria for CBD Patches
The CBD industry remains unregulated and there is an abundance of products on the market making numerous claims of unproven benefits. Therefore, having good criteria is necessary when looking for CBD products online. Here are some pointers we kept in mind when searching for the best CBD patches:
Certificate of Analysis (CoA)
Most reputable CBD brands are transparent about the safety and quality of their CBD. These brands demonstrate this through third-party lab testing. These test results reveal several aspects of CBD, such as its cannabinoid count and whether it contains any contaminants.
Extract Type
CBD comes in three different extract types. To come up with a well-rounded list, we made sure to include products made of different types. These extract types are:
Full-Spectrum – Uses all of hemp’s cannabinoids.
Broad-Spectrum – Uses all of hemp’s cannabinoids except for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
CBD Isolate – Purely cannabidiol and no other cannabinoid.
Hemp Source
Since CBD comes from the hemp plant, it is important that manufacturers use hemp that is grown in an organic, ethical manner and in line with industry standards for safety and growing methods.
Ingredients
CBD patches (and other CBD topicals) are made using various ingredients. We suggest you look at these ingredients before purchasing to ensure they’re safe for you to consume.
Potency
Every CBD patch you look at will have a potency measured in milligrams (mg). This number will indicate the amount of CBD you consume with each patch.
Safety and Side Effects of CBD Patches
You may find that CBD patches irritate if you have sensitive skin. While this isn’t always the case, it is possible that one or more of the ingredients in a CBD patch can trigger or further worsen existing skin irritation.
Furthermore, CBD has been known to cause mild side effects in some of its users. While these side effects are rare, they are important to keep in mind:
Additionally, if you’re taking any prescription medication, we strongly recommend consulting your doctor before taking CBD. While rare and unlikely, some pharmaceuticals have been found to negatively interact with CBD.
Finally, if you are pregnant or lactating, the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends entirely avoiding CBD. While there aren’t enough conclusive studies describing the long-term effects of CBD on pregnant or lactating users, it is safer to avoid it altogether if you’re in this group.
Featured Brand
If you’re interested in varying patch topicals that incorporate other all-natural medicines, we recommend checking out the Good Patch reviews.
Paul James is a seasoned cannabis and CBD writer and expert. He is a mental health blogger who advocates CBD as a natural alternative to prescription medications. You can read more about this and other natural alternatives on his blog: https://bedlamite.co/."
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! In fact, CBD patches are more effective than other CBD consumption methods in treating localized muscle and joint pain. The main reason is that they allow you to target specific areas of the body and last for a long period of time.
Our list offers the best CBD patches currently available online. While you may come across other patches that you like as you shop for CBD online, we recommend following our criteria when evaluating a potential purchase.
CBD patches will NOT get you high. In accordance with the 2018 Farm Bill, all CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC. This amount is so insignificant, it’s highly unlikely you’ll experience psychoactive effects. However, there are some patches out there that contain higher amounts of THC (like the Papa & Barkley patch on our list). If you live in an area where recreational cannabis has been legalized, we suggest doing further research into the patch you’re interested in before purchasing.
We only recommend using one patch per day. However, if you find it’s inefficient for your pain relief, you can use up to four at once.
Full-spectrum CBD products are best for pain. The hemp plant is most efficient when all its phytonutrients work together, creating the entourage effect.
