CBD products have rapidly gained popularity in the last few years and many consumers speak well of its numerous health benefits. In autumn this year, we received two muscle and joint gels (CBD HOT and CBD ICE) from the British company Hempe and put them to the test.
Using natural and sustainable ingredients, the products are designed to penetrate through the skin layer and affect deeper tissues. With over 60 years of scientific research and knowledge to formulate the products, we felt confident the Hempe gels would be first class.
Ingredients/Active Properties
CBD HOT contains aqua, menthol, Eugenia caryophyllus leaf oil (clove leaf), eugenol (clove oil) , hemp seed oil, vitamin E, and cannabidiol (CBD) in its list of several ingredients.
CBD ICE’s ingredients list includes aqua, menthol, hemp seed oil, mentha arvensis herb oil (wild mint) , mentha piperita herb oil (peppermint), vitamin E, cannabidiol (CBD), and pine.
All of the ingredients are vegan friendly, non-GMO and free from preservatives.
Consistency/Texture and Fragrance
If the strong smell of heat rubs is something you dislike, you’ll be pleased to know that the aroma of this Hempe product is rather pleasant. The orange coloured gel is easy to massage into your muscles and any excess left on your hands after applying is easy to wash off without leaving a trace.
Likewise, the CBD ICE gel is non-greasy, has a smooth consistency, and it’s easy to apply to the muscle groups which are aching or sore. As you’d expect from observing the ingredients, the cooling gel has a refreshingly minty smell.
Performance
Heat rubs and cold gels have been a mainstay in my life for close to two decades and I’ve used them on an almost daily basis. I’ve tried a huge array of these products, from ineffective budget ones to super intense ones that feel like they’re burning your skin. (IFBB Pro, Flex Wheeler also uses it for pain relief.)
I can safely say that I’ve never tried CBD hot or cold gel products and this would be a brand new experience for me. What is so different about these compared to the majority of other hot and cold gels?
Fast absorption and rapid delivery for immediate relief, quicker recovery, and CBD that acts as a strong natural anti-inflammatory are some of the benefits of these according to the company’s website.I would soon find out whether they were as good as they sounded.
Testing the Heat Gel
Naturally, testing the heat gel for a workout was a good place to start.
I applied the gel to several muscles on my upper and lower body. Only a couple of sets into the training session I could feel a gentle warmth on those areas. With the temperatures quickly dropping at this time of year, I was really pleased with this fast response from the gel. This in turn gave me a confidence boost and helped me to push a little bit harder in the workout.
Nice Subtle Smell
One thing I did notice was that, unlike many heat gels /rubs, it didn’t make my skin go bright red, nor did it have a stinging or burning feel that some strong heat products have. This felt good! The subtle smell of the product was something else worth noting.
The CBD ICE also proved to have a satisfying result. Applied after gym sessions, it was helpful in the important process of cooling down and it felt quite soothing; it would make an excellent addition to a post-workout routine. The gel also took care of any niggles or muscular soreness I had when I used it throughout the day and it most definitely took the edge off any pain (a much better option than using painkillers or medication for sure).
One spot I found it particularly effective on was my lower back and it took away the discomfort I occasionally feel after lifting weights. Its attractive blue colour and appealing smell was another bonus. A pleasing outcome.
Value
There are multiple pack sizes and package combinations available for purchasing the hot and cold Hempe products. Handy “Try before you buy” 3ml sachets are a good place to start and will only cost you £1.49 each.
The CBD HOT and CBD COLD 50ml bottles are priced at £21.99 each, and you’ll save 10% if you buy a duo pack (£39.58). If you intend to use the hot or cold frequently, the 150ml bottles could be the best option for you. These cost £59.99 each, or £107.98 if you purchase a duo pack.
Spending over £35 entitles you to free shipping in the UK. This free shipping and the ten percent reduction offer gives you good value for your hard-earned money.
Summary
Both of the Hempe products performed well when they were tested and felt so nice to use. It’s not just sportspeople and gym-goers who will benefit from using these gels; people with arthritis, people who suffer persistent joint/ muscle pains, and those in physically demanding jobs will all feel the benefits of these impressive products. The CBD joint and muscle gels are well-worth trying, you will not be disappointed.
