• CBD wax is a highly concentrated cannabidiol product. Similar to other CBD products, CBD wax may also be used to alleviate pain. 
  • CBD wax may be consumed through an inhalation method called dabbing(1).
  • Research from the Journal of Toxicological Sciences reported that administering CBD using the dabbing method provides users with immediate physiological relief(2)
  • However, consuming CBD wax using the dabbing method must be done with caution. The researchers suggested that dabs may have varying levels of contaminants(3).
  • CBD wax extracted with a chemical solvent may have residual solvents that are often toxic and should be a concern for the end-user(4). Therefore, consumers must consult a physician experienced in cannabis use before trying CBD wax.

What Is CBD Wax?  

CBD wax is a highly concentrated cannabidiol (CBD) product extracted from hemp, generally defined as Cannabis sativa. Hemp has a total THC of less than 0.3% dry weight in leaves and buds(5). It means that its THC is below the psychoactive threshold.

Under federal law, cannabis plants and derivatives with less than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis are no longer considered controlled substances(6)

The Better CBD Wax: Isolate, Broad-Spectrum, or Full-Spectrum? 

The effects of CBD wax on the user may depend on the form and type of CBD wax or concentrates consumed

The cannabis plant extraction process, such as carbon dioxide extraction, is preferred to create a safe CBD product(7)

There are three types of CBD extracts:

  • Full-spectrum CBD 
  • Broad-spectrum CBD 
  • CBD isolates 

A product is called full-spectrum CBD if all extracts of the cannabis plant including, flavonoids, terpenes, essential oils, and other cannabinoids, are utilized. Full-spectrum CBD’s level of THC should also be less than 0.3%(8)

On the other hand, broad-spectrum CBD is almost similar to full-spectrum except that it is nearly THC-free. Meanwhile, CBD isolates, generally harvested from Cannabis sativa, are a pure form of CBD(9)

Types of CBD Wax

Most CBD wax manufacturers do not usually list their products as CBD wax. Instead, these brands name their products based on their consistency(10).

  • CBD shatter looks like pieces of broken glasses(11). It has a honey-like texture. 
  • CBD budder is usually created by taking butane solvent and extracting the cannabinoid for a more potent CBD product(12). It has a creamy texture that is similar to butter. 
  • CBD crumble has two types. Wax crumbles have a smooth and slick surface, while sugar crumbles have a crystallized texture(13)
  • CBD live resin is made from fresh frozen cannabis. Some CBD brands use the flash-freezing method to preserve a high amount of terpenes and cannabinoids for an improved aroma and flavor. 

Uses of CBD Wax 

The potential effect of CBD concentrates is similar to that of other CBD products. Thus, CBD wax may also be used for pain relief

An animal study from the European Journal of Pain noted that applying CBD topicals may reduce pain and inflammation(14).

In 2020, a randomized controlled trial suggested that CBD oil topicals may provide pain relief for individuals with peripheral neuropathy(15)

The condition is a result of nerve damage located outside the spinal cord and the brain. It can also affect body functions, such as circulation, digestion, and urination(16).  

In addition, the American Academy of Dermatology hypothesized that CBD may improve skin conditions, like psoriasis, eczema, and acne, due to its anti-inflammatory properties(17)

Another study published in Clinica Terapeutica in 2019 suggested that CBD-enriched ointment is safe and may be effective for people with inflammatory skin conditions(18)

There is no specific research about the effectiveness of CBD wax in alleviating pain and inflammation. 

Most of the studies regarding the efficacy of cannabidiol utilized CBD topicals. Although the results are promising, they are inconclusive. 

Thus, it is recommended to consult a physician with experience in cannabis use before trying CBD wax or any CBD concentrates for any purpose. 

Dabbing and CBD Wax 

CBD Dabs are cannabis concentrates infamous for their significant amount of THC vaporized and inhaled for its effect(19).  

A Journal of Toxicological Sciences study stated that cannabis concentrates are increasingly being consumed using a new inhalation method called “dabbing(20).”

In this method, cannabis concentrates are volatilized via application to a hot platform. The vapor is then passed through a water pipe device inhaled by the user(21)

Benefits and Safety

The researchers hypothesized that dabbing offers users immediate physiological relief. However, recreational users seeking rapid and intense physiological effects may be more prone to substance abuse when using this particular inhalation method(22)

In 2017, Cureus published a study suggesting that dabs may have varying levels of contaminants and warning medical providers about the possible dangers of dabbing(23).

The researchers advocated for more studies on how THC concentrations in dabs may lead to adverse effects, such as cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and psychosis(24)

How CBD Wax Is Made 

 Four extraction processes can be used to make CBD concentrates(25)

  • Dry processing method
  • Water-based processing
  • Solvent-based extraction
  • Carbon dioxidebased method 

The dry processing method usually employs rubbing cannabis plant matter over a fine mesh screen. It is one of the oldest ways of producing concentrates(26)

Meanwhile, water-based processing uses ice-cold water to make the trichomes (appendages or fine outgrowths) on the cannabis plant matter brittle(27)

On the other hand, the solvent-based method is the extraction of plant matter using chemical solvents. The most common solvents used are naphtha, acetone, isopropanol, hexane, and ethyl alcohol available over the counter(28)

In this method, the cannabis is soaked in the solvent. After which, it is removed by straining. Subsequently, the solvent is boiled off in a crock-pot, and a sticky cannabis resin remains(29)

The residual solvents in the final product and the illegality of chemical extraction in California resulted in the utilization of sub-critical carbon dioxide-based methods(30).  

In this process, compressed CO2 is used as the extraction solvent. Therefore, it avoids toxic chemicals and flammable solvents(31)

How to Use CBD Wax 

Consuming CBD wax includes heating the wax and inhaling the vapor. The dabbing method requires a dab rig or a wax dab pen.

A dab rig is a water-filled device through which a person inhales the vapor. Individuals may also inhale CBD wax with a bong. In this method, a user places the CBD wax in a bong bowl, lights it up, and inhales the resulting vapor.   

Inhaling CBD oil using vape pens is the fastest method to benefit from the effects of the compound(32). However, vaping may irritate the lungs(33)

Thus, consumers contemplating vaping CBD for the first time must proceed with caution.

CBD products are also available in tinctures, edibles like gummies, and topicals, such as lotions, creams, and balms. 

Consumers may purchase these products from supermarkets and dedicated CBD stores. For individuals looking for high-THC wax, it may only be available at a registered medical marijuana dispensary

Usage Guidelines 

It is vital to select high-quality CBD products to ensure effectiveness and overall wellness. When choosing the best CBD wax or other cannabis products, here are some things to consider:

  1. Always check the ingredient list. If a consumer wants all the benefits of CBD, they may go for full-spectrum CBD. However, if they want pure CBD, they may choose isolates. 
  2. Support CBD companies that are transparent with their farming practices. Consumers may visit their websites to verify information about their testing methods and CBD extraction process.
  3. CBD products must also have certificates of analysis (CoAs). A third-party laboratory must also test the products to determine the levels of THC and the residual solvents

Legality 

The United States Congress ratified the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized the commercial use of industrial hemp and products as long as the THC level is not more than 0.3%(34).  

Still, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not recognize CBD as a medical treatment. Therefore, consumers are warned of its potential side effects

If individuals want to know the health benefits of CBD or hemp oil, they must speak with a physician experienced in cannabis use, especially if they are thinking of using CBD concentrates like CBD wax.  

What Is CBD? 

Cannabidiol or CBD is a naturally occurring type of cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. Generally, CBD is well-tolerated with an excellent safety profile(35)

CBD has a similar structure to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the predominant psychotropic substance in marijuana. THC causes an individual to experience a euphoric high. On the other hand, CBD is non-psychoactive(36).  

 Cannabidiol exerts multiple pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties(37)

CBD also interacts with the human body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). It is a system that plays a vital role in the human body’s survival(38).

 The ECS maintains homeostasis, a synchronic servo-mechanism that keeps a reasonably stable condition necessary to survive(39)

ECS is composed of CB1 and CB2 receptors that are configured to accept cannabinoids(40).

CB1 receptors are frequently found in the brain and the central nervous system (CNS). However, they are also present in other body parts, such as the liver, kidneys, lungs, and reproductive organs(41)

CB1 receptors play a significant role in pain sensation, mood, appetite, sleep, motor regulation, and memory processing(42).

Meanwhile, CB2 receptors are found on cells in the immune system. When these receptors are activated, they stimulate a response that fights inflammation(43)

The human body naturally produces endocannabinoids that interact with the receptors to maintain balance. However, phytocannabinoids, such as THC and CBD obtained from hemp plants, effectively stimulate the CB1 and CB2 receptors(44)

If there is a shortage of endocannabinoids, administering CBD and THC may help the ECS maintain its proper function(45)

Scientists are still examining whether supplementing human’s natural cannabinoid production with plant-based cannabinoids has a specific therapeutic effect on people’s health(46)

Therefore, individuals who want to try CBD for medical purposes must first consult a physician expert in cannabis use.

Conclusion 

CBD wax, like other CBD products, is non-psychoactive. Therefore, it is relatively safe for use(47).  

An advantage of CBD wax is its high concentration. Thus, it allows users to consume a small amount and still benefit from its optimal therapeutic relief. Moreover,  inhaling CBD has a fast onset of effect, suitable for alleviating pain(48)

However, to ensure safety, it is highly recommended to speak with a physician experienced in cannabis use if a consumer wants to try CBD wax via dabbing.


  1. To Dab or Not to Dab: Rising Concerns Regarding the Toxicity of Cannabis Concentrates
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5679763/
  2. Understanding dabs: contamination concerns of cannabis concentrates and cannabinoid transfer during the act of dabbing
    https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jts/40/6/40_797/_pdf/-char/en
  3. To Dab or Not to Dab: Rising Concerns Regarding the Toxicity of Cannabis Concentrates
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5679763/
  4. Understanding dabs: contamination concerns of cannabis concentrates and cannabinoid transfer during the act of dabbing
    https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jts/40/6/40_797/_pdf/-char/en
  5. Hemp & Cannabidiol: What is a Medicine?
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6140266/
  6. FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD)
    https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd
  7. Cannabidiol primer for healthcare professionals
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7340472/
  8. Ibid.
  9. Ibid.
  10. Butane hash oil and dabbing: insights into use, amateur production techniques, and potential harm mitigation
    https://www.dovepress.com/getfile.php?fileID=45908
  11. CBD OIL: AN INTRODUCTION
    https://www.projectcbd.org/wellness/cbd-oil-introduction
  12. To Dab or Not to Dab: Rising Concerns Regarding the Toxicity of Cannabis Concentrates
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5679763/
  13. Butane hash oil and dabbing: insights into use, amateur production techniques, and potential harm mitigation
    https://www.dovepress.com/getfile.php?fileID=45908
  14. Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4851925/
  15. The Effectiveness of Topical Cannabidiol Oil in Symptomatic Relief of Peripheral Neuropathy of the Lower Extremities
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31793418/
  16. Peripheral neuropathy
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352061
  17. Public, researchers demonstrate growing interest in cannabis treatment
    https://www.aad.org/news/topical-cannabis
  18. A therapeutic effect of cbd-enriched ointment in inflammatory skin diseases and cutaneous scars
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30993303/
  19. To Dab or Not to Dab: Rising Concerns Regarding the Toxicity of Cannabis Concentrates
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5679763/
  20. Understanding dabs: contamination concerns of cannabis concentrates and cannabinoid transfer during the act of dabbing
    https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jts/40/6/40_797/_pdf/-char/en
  21. Ibid.
  22. Ibid.
  23. To Dab or Not to Dab: Rising Concerns Regarding the Toxicity of Cannabis Concentrates
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5679763/
  24. Ibid.
  25. Understanding dabs: contamination concerns of cannabis concentrates and cannabinoid transfer during the act of dabbing
    https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jts/40/6/40_797/_pdf/-char/en
  26. Ibid.
  27. Ibid.
  28. Ibid.
  29. Ibid.
  30. Ibid.
  31. Ibid.
  32. How to Safely Use CBD: Should You Inhale, Spray, Apply, or Eat It?
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cbd/how-to-use-cbd-inhale-spray-apply-eat/
  33. Is It Safe to Vape CBD?
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cbd/is-it-safe-to-vape-cbd/
  34. H.R.2 – Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018
    https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/2/text
  35. CANNABIDIOL (CBD)
    https://www.who.int/medicines/access/controlled-substances/CannabidiolCriticalReview.pdf
  36. Immune Responses Regulated by Cannabidiol
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7173676/
  37. Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7023045/
  38. The Endocannabinoid System, Our Universal Regulator
    https://www.jyi.org/2018-june/2018/6/1/the-endocannabinoid-system-our-universal-regulator
  39. Homeostasis as the Mechanism of Evolution
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4588151/
  40. A Look at the Endocannabinoid System’s CB1 and CB2 Receptors
    https://echoconnection.org/look-endocannabinoid-systems-cb1-cb2-receptors/
  41. Ibid.
  42. Ibid.
  43. Ibid.
  44. Ibid.
  45. Ibid.
  46. Ibid.
  47. CANNABIDIOL (CBD)
    https://www.who.int/medicines/access/controlled-substances/CannabidiolCriticalReview.pdf
  48. WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO TAKE CBD?
    https://www.projectcbd.org/guidance/what-best-way-take-cbd
CBD Clinicals is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more