It’s easy to think that when it comes to pain relief, “stronger is always better,” but that’s not necessarily true. The most effective balm is the one that’s right for your specific needs. Both our Extra Strength and Maximum Strength formulas are incredibly effective, but they are designed for different levels and types of discomfort. The key difference lies in their cannabinoid profiles—one is THC-free, while the other contains the full spectrum of plant compounds. This article will debunk the myths around potency and give you a clear, straightforward guide on how to choose between extra strength and maximum strength balm by listening to your body and understanding your personal wellness goals.
Key Takeaways
- Your Choice Hinges on THC Preference: Extra Strength is your go-to for powerful, THC-free support, using a broad-spectrum extract. Maximum Strength includes a trace amount of THC in its full-spectrum formula to create what research suggests is an “entourage effect.”
- Match the Strength to Your Discomfort: Use Extra Strength for managing daily aches, muscle tension, and routine workout recovery. Reserve Maximum Strength for more stubborn, persistent, or deep-seated discomfort that requires our most comprehensive support.
- Remember the Power Players: The immediate cooling and warming relief you feel comes from the active ingredients menthol and camphor. Cannabinoids provide an added layer of plant-based support to enhance the overall formula and aid in recovery.
Extra Strength vs. Maximum Strength: What’s the Difference?
When you’re looking for relief, choosing the right strength can feel like a big decision. At Dragon, both our Extra and Maximum Strength formulas are designed to deliver powerful, targeted comfort right where you need it. The primary difference between them isn’t just about potency—it’s about the specific blend of cannabinoids working alongside our active ingredients, menthol and camphor. Think of it this way: both options provide fast-acting relief from those key terpenes, but the hemp extract in each formula offers a different kind of plant-based support. Let’s break down what sets them apart so you can find the perfect match for your body and your lifestyle.
Breaking Down the Formulas
Our Extra Strength formula is made with broad-spectrum hemp extract. This means it contains CBD and a range of other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes found naturally in the hemp plant, but it has been carefully refined to remove all detectable traces of THC. It’s a great middle-ground option that offers more support than our Regular Strength formula.
On the other hand, our Maximum Strength products feature full-spectrum hemp extract. This version includes the full array of cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant, including a small, federally legal amount of THC (less than 0.3%). Many people seek out full-spectrum formulas because research suggests the compounds work together in what’s known as the “entourage effect,” potentially enhancing the overall supportive properties.
A Look at the Key Ingredients
While the cannabinoid profiles differ, the core of both formulas remains the same: a powerful blend of menthol and camphor. These active ingredients are responsible for the immediate cooling and soothing sensations that help ease muscle and joint discomfort. The cannabinoids are there to provide additional, complementary support.
So, who is each formula for? Extra Strength is ideal for managing moderate daily aches, stiffness, and post-workout soreness. It’s a fantastic choice if you need consistent relief but prefer to avoid THC entirely. Maximum Strength is designed for more stubborn or persistent discomfort, making it a favorite among athletes, individuals with long-term joint issues, and anyone whose aches haven’t responded to lower-strength options. You can explore all our benefits and ingredients to see what goes into every jar.
Understanding the Cannabinoid Profiles
Choosing between these two really comes down to your personal needs and comfort level with THC. With the Extra Strength broad-spectrum formula, you get the supportive benefits of a diverse cannabinoid blend without any THC. This makes it a go-to for anyone with THC sensitivity or those who may be subject to workplace drug testing but still want more than just CBD isolate.
The Maximum Strength full-spectrum formula is for those who want the complete hemp plant profile. The trace amount of THC is not enough to cause psychoactive effects, but it is a key component for achieving the full entourage effect. This synergy is why many people find full-spectrum products offer a more comprehensive level of support for deep-seated discomfort. If you’re still unsure, our Choose Your Strength guide can help you decide.
Which Balm Is Right for Your Pain?
Choosing the right pain relief balm can feel like a big decision, but it really comes down to understanding your body and the type of discomfort you’re feeling. Whether you’re dealing with nagging soreness from sitting at a desk all day or more intense aches from an active lifestyle, there’s a formula designed to give you the support you need. The key difference between our strengths lies in the blend and concentration of cannabinoids, which work to support the fast-acting relief from our active ingredients, menthol and camphor. Let’s walk through which option might be the best fit for you.
When to Choose Extra Strength for Daily Aches
If you’re looking for a solid, everyday solution for moderate aches and stiffness, our Extra Strength balm is a great place to start. Think of it as your reliable go-to for post-workout recovery, tension in your neck and shoulders after a long workday, or that recurring joint discomfort that needs consistent attention. This Broad Spectrum formula contains a supportive blend of cannabinoids but is entirely THC-free. It’s designed for anyone who needs more support than a regular-strength product can offer but prefers to avoid THC. It’s the perfect middle-ground for managing daily discomfort and getting back to your routine.
When to Choose Maximum Strength for Deeper Discomfort
For those days when the discomfort is more stubborn, persistent, or intense, our Maximum Strength balm is the most powerful option in our lineup. This Full Spectrum formula is designed for athletes pushing their limits, individuals managing long-term joint issues like arthritis, or anyone with deep aches that haven’t responded to other solutions. It contains our highest concentration of cannabinoids, including a trace amount of THC (<0.3%), which research suggests may create an “entourage effect,” where the compounds work together to enhance the balm’s overall supportive properties. This is the formula you reach for when you need the most comprehensive support.
Finding the Right Fit for Athletic Recovery
As an active person, your recovery needs can change from day to day. So, which strength is right for you? For general muscle soreness after a typical gym session or run, Extra Strength is often the perfect fit. However, for recovery after a major competition, an intense training cycle, or when you’re dealing with a nagging injury, Maximum Strength can provide that extra layer of support. Both formulas are available in convenient roll-ups for your gym bag and jars for at-home use. To get a clearer picture of what might work best for your specific needs, you can check out our complete Choose Your Strength guide.
How to Choose Your Starting Strength
Finding the right balm shouldn’t feel like a guessing game. The best choice depends on your unique needs, your body, and the type of discomfort you’re feeling. Whether you’re dealing with minor stiffness after a long day or more persistent aches from an active lifestyle, there’s a formula designed to help. Let’s walk through how to pinpoint the perfect starting strength for you, so you can get back to feeling your best.
Start by Assessing Your Pain
First, take a moment to think about what you’re feeling. Is it a dull, everyday ache in your shoulders from sitting at a desk, or is it a deeper, more stubborn discomfort in your joints that sticks around? Your answer is the key to finding the right match. For general soreness or post-workout recovery, a lower concentration of supportive cannabinoids may be all you need. Our Extra Strength formula is a great starting point for this kind of daily support.
All our balms combine the power of active ingredients like menthol and camphor for fast-acting relief, but the cannabinoid profiles vary to offer different levels of support for recovery. For more intense or persistent aches, a higher concentration is often preferred.
Tips for First-Time Users
If you’re new to cannabinoid topicals, the golden rule is to start low and go slow. There’s no need to jump straight to the most potent option. Beginning with a lower-strength formula allows you to see how your body responds. You can always move to a stronger product later if you feel you need more support.
When you’re ready to apply it, start with clean, dry skin. Gently massage a thin layer of the balm into the target area. Using circular motions helps stimulate blood flow and ensures the formula absorbs properly. Give it a few minutes to work, pay attention to how you feel, and remember that you can reapply as needed. Our official Choose Your Strength guide can also help you find the perfect fit.
Consider Your Personal Tolerance
Everyone’s body chemistry is different, which means your ideal strength is entirely personal. What works wonders for your friend might not be the right fit for you, and that’s perfectly okay. Your tolerance can depend on factors like your body weight, metabolism, and previous experience with cannabinoids.
Think of it as finding your personal sweet spot. If you start with Extra Strength and find it’s not quite enough for your stubborn knee or back discomfort, you might consider trying our Maximum Full Spectrum formula. It’s designed for those who need the most powerful support for deep, persistent, or recurring aches. The goal is to listen to your body and choose the formula that provides the comfort and relief you’re looking for.
Full Spectrum vs. Broad Spectrum: What You Need to Know
When you’re looking at products with hemp-derived cannabinoids, you’ll often see the terms “full spectrum” and “broad spectrum.” Understanding the difference is key to picking the right formula for your body and lifestyle. Both types of extracts contain a range of beneficial plant compounds, but the main distinction comes down to one thing: THC.
Think of a full spectrum extract as the whole plant in a bottle. It includes CBD, minor cannabinoids, and terpenes, plus a trace amount of THC (always less than the 0.3% legal limit). Many people prefer this option because of a theory known as the “entourage effect,” where all the compounds are thought to work together, potentially enhancing the formula’s overall supportive properties. On the other hand, a broad spectrum extract offers a similar profile of cannabinoids and terpenes, but with one important change: the THC has been completely removed. This makes it a great choice for anyone who wants the benefits of multiple plant compounds without any THC. Choosing between them really depends on your personal comfort level and needs.
Our THC-Free Broad Spectrum Formula
If you’re looking for powerful support but want to avoid THC entirely, our Extra Strength Broad Spectrum formula is the perfect fit. We designed it for those who need a little more than our regular strength but have personal or professional reasons for choosing a THC-free product. This formula contains a rich mix of CBD and other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes that work in concert with active ingredients like menthol and camphor to soothe your aches. It’s an excellent option for managing daily discomfort, supporting post-workout recovery, and addressing more persistent soreness. You get the supportive benefits of a diverse plant profile, with total peace of mind.
Our Full Spectrum Formula with Trace THC
For those who need the most powerful support we offer, our Maximum Strength Full Spectrum formula is the answer. This option uses a whole-plant extract that includes CBD, minor cannabinoids, terpenes, and a trace amount of THC (less than 0.3%). When applied topically, this tiny amount of THC is not intoxicating and won’t cause a “high.” Instead, it works with the other compounds to create the “entourage effect,” which research suggests may enhance the overall effectiveness of the formula. This powerhouse blend is ideal for athletes, individuals with stubborn joint stiffness, or anyone dealing with deep, persistent discomfort that hasn’t responded to other options.
What This Means for Workplace Drug Tests
It’s important to be practical when choosing your formula, especially if you’re subject to workplace drug testing. While the amount of THC in our full spectrum products is federally legal and non-intoxicating, highly sensitive tests could potentially detect its presence. We believe in transparency, so we want you to have all the facts. If you have any concerns about drug testing, the safest choice is to stick with our THC-free broad spectrum products. You can find more details to help you decide by reading our Choose Your Strength guide, which breaks down each formula so you can select the best one for your needs with confidence.
Meet Your Pain-Relief Powerhouses: Menthol & Camphor
When you’re dealing with aches and discomfort, you want relief that’s both fast and effective. While our formulas are known for their unique cannabinoid profiles, the immediate soothing sensation you feel comes from two incredible, plant-derived terpenes: menthol and camphor. These are the active ingredients doing the heavy lifting right away.
Think of them as the first responders for your muscles and joints. They get to work the moment you apply the balm, delivering that signature cooling-warming feeling that tells you relief is on its way. Understanding how these two key ingredients work together is the first step in seeing why our balms are so effective for everything from post-workout soreness to daily stiffness. Let’s get to know them a little better.
How These Terpenes Deliver Fast Relief
Menthol and camphor are a true dynamic duo. As FDA-approved active ingredients, they create a powerful sensory experience that helps manage discomfort. Menthol provides an instant cooling effect by activating specific receptors in your skin, which creates a sensation that can override and distract from aches. It’s that crisp, cool feeling that immediately eases tension.
Shortly after, camphor joins in with a gentle warming sensation. This warmth helps to soothe the area, relaxing tight muscles and joints. This two-part approach is what makes topical relief so effective. You get the initial cooling rush followed by a deep, comforting warmth, a combination that addresses discomfort from multiple angles.
The Role of Supporting Cannabinoids
So, where do cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, and CBN fit in? While menthol and camphor provide that immediate surface-level relief, cannabinoids offer added support. Once absorbed through the skin, these compounds work with your body’s natural systems to encourage recovery and balance. Research suggests that cannabinoids have properties that can be beneficial for soothing the body.
Our different formulas allow you to choose your strength and cannabinoid profile based on your needs. Whether you opt for our THC-free Broad Spectrum formula or our Full Spectrum blend, the cannabinoids work in harmony with the terpenes to provide comprehensive support that goes beyond the initial cooling and warming effects.
How Long Does the Relief Last?
You can expect to feel the effects of menthol and camphor almost instantly. That initial cooling or warming sensation gets to work right away, providing immediate comfort to the area where you applied the balm. For most people, the full soothing effect sets in within about 15 to 20 minutes as the ingredients fully absorb and interact with your skin.
The duration of relief can vary from person to person depending on factors like the severity of your discomfort and your own body chemistry. You can reapply our balms and lotions as needed throughout the day to maintain comfort and keep your muscles and joints feeling their best.
Matching Your Balm to Your Lifestyle
Choosing the right pain relief balm is a lot like picking the right pair of shoes—what works for a marathon runner isn’t necessarily what you’d wear to the office. Your daily routine, the type of discomfort you feel, and how often you need support all play a role in finding your perfect match. Whether you’re dealing with screen-time strain, recovering from a workout, or managing persistent joint aches, there’s a formula designed to fit seamlessly into your life. Let’s look at a few common scenarios to help you decide which strength is right for you.
For Your Workday and Daily Activities
If your days are filled with long hours at a desk, running errands, or chasing after kids, you’re probably familiar with nagging aches in your neck, shoulders, and lower back. For this kind of moderate, everyday discomfort, our Extra Broad Spectrum formula is an ideal starting point. It offers more support than our Regular Strength balm, making it effective for muscle tension and soreness that can build up throughout the day. Because it’s made with broad-spectrum hemp extract, you get the supportive benefits of multiple cannabinoids without any THC, making it a great choice for daytime use when you need to stay focused and clear-headed.
Finding Relief for Age-Related Aches
For more persistent or stubborn discomfort, like the kind that comes with age-related joint stiffness or chronic aches, you may need a more powerful solution. This is where our Maximum Full Spectrum balm comes in. It’s designed for those who feel like they’ve tried everything and need the deepest, most long-lasting relief we offer. The full-spectrum formula contains a robust profile of cannabinoids, including a trace amount of THC (<0.3%), which work together to enhance the cooling effects of menthol and camphor. This synergy provides powerful, targeted support right where you need it most, helping you manage discomfort and move more freely.
How Often Will You Use It?
Consistency is key when it comes to managing discomfort. Think of it less as a one-time fix and more as part of your daily self-care routine. Applying your balm regularly—perhaps once in the morning and again before bed—can help you stay ahead of stiffness and soreness. For on-the-go relief during a busy day, a mess-free Roll-Up is perfect to keep in your bag or at your desk. If you plan to make the balm a part of your nightly wind-down, a Jar is great to have on your nightstand for easy access. By incorporating it into your daily habits, you give the active ingredients the best chance to provide consistent comfort.
How to Get the Most from Your Balm
Once you’ve chosen your ideal strength, you want to make sure you’re getting every bit of relief out of your balm. The right application can make a huge difference in how well the formula works for you. It’s not just about slathering it on; a little technique goes a long way in targeting discomfort and helping the active ingredients do their job. From choosing the best format for your lifestyle to understanding how our technology enhances absorption, these tips will help you feel the full power of your Dragon balm. Think of it as a partnership—you bring the right application, and the balm brings the fast-acting, terpene-powered comfort.
We’ll cover whether a roll-up or jar is better for you, how our unique technology gives you an edge, and the simple steps to apply your balm like a pro. Getting these details right ensures that the powerful blend of menthol and camphor can get to work quickly, providing that signature cooling-then-warming sensation right where you need it. Whether you’re recovering from a tough workout, dealing with a stiff neck from sitting at a desk, or managing daily aches, a proper application routine is your key to unlocking consistent and effective relief. Let’s get into the specifics so you can feel your best.
Roll-Up vs. Jar: Does It Matter?
The short answer is: it’s all about your lifestyle. Both our Roll-Ups and Jars contain the same powerful, terpene-driven formulas, but they’re designed for different moments. The roll-up stick is a fan favorite for athletes and anyone on the move. It’s perfect for tossing in a gym bag or keeping at your desk for a quick, no-mess application. Jars, on the other hand, are great for at-home use. They allow you to control exactly how much balm you use, making them ideal for covering larger areas or for a more hands-on massage to work the formula into your skin.
How Our Nano Technology Helps
Ever wonder why Dragon balms feel like they get to work so quickly? The secret is our Nano Boost Technology. We use a special process that breaks down the active ingredients—like menthol and camphor—into incredibly small, nano-sized particles. This allows the formula to absorb much faster and penetrate more deeply into your skin, delivering relief right where you need it most. This advanced Nano Technology means you’re not just getting surface-level comfort; you’re getting a more effective formula that works from within to soothe your muscles and joints. It’s a smarter way to get the fast-acting relief you rely on.
Tips for Applying Your Balm Correctly
Getting the application right is key to feeling the full effects. First, always start with clean, dry skin to ensure nothing gets in the way of absorption. Apply a thin, even layer of the balm directly over the area where you feel discomfort. Don’t just swipe it on and go—take a moment to gently massage the formula into your skin using circular motions. This simple step helps stimulate blood flow and allows the active ingredients to penetrate more effectively. You can apply your balm 3 to 4 times a day as needed, or use it before or after a workout to support your recovery.
What to Know Before You Apply
Before you dive in and start using your new balm, there are a few simple things to keep in mind. Taking a moment to consider these points will help you find the right routine and get the best possible results for your body. Think of it as setting yourself up for success from day one. From finding your ideal strength to making sure the formula is a good fit for your skin, these quick tips will ensure your experience is a great one.
Why You Should Start Slow
When you’re dealing with discomfort, it’s tempting to reach for the strongest product available. But when it comes to cannabinoid-infused topicals, a “less is more” approach is often the best way to start. Everyone’s body chemistry is unique, so the strength that works for your friend might not be your perfect match. If you’re new to CBD topicals, we recommend beginning with a lower-concentration formula, like our Extra Strength balm. Pay attention to how your body responds. From there, you can slowly work your way up to a higher strength if you feel you need more support. This allows you to find your personal sweet spot and ensures you’re using the ideal formula for your needs.
A Note on Skin Sensitivity
We formulate our balms with high-quality, plant-based ingredients designed to be gentle on your skin. However, just like with any new skincare or wellness product, it’s always a good idea to do a quick patch test first, especially if you have sensitive skin. Simply apply a small amount of the balm to a discreet area, like your inner wrist, and wait 24 hours to see how your skin reacts. This simple step can give you peace of mind before you apply it more broadly. You can always review our full list of ingredients to see exactly what goes into every jar and roll-up.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
Incorporating any new product into your wellness routine is a decision that’s best made with all the right information. Before you start using a CBD-infused balm, it’s a great idea to have a conversation with your doctor. This is especially important if you have any underlying health conditions or are currently taking prescription medications. Some compounds, including CBD, can occasionally affect how certain medicines work, so it’s always best to get a professional opinion. Think of it as a proactive step in managing your health and ensuring that your entire wellness plan works together seamlessly for you.
Debunking Myths About Balm Strength
When you’re dealing with discomfort, it’s natural to want the most powerful solution you can find. But when it comes to topical balms, the concept of “strength” is more nuanced than just picking the highest number. Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions to help you find the formula that truly works for you.
Is Stronger Always Better?
It’s easy to assume that a maximum-strength balm is the best choice, but that’s not always the case. The right strength is the one that matches your specific needs. Think of it this way: you wouldn’t use a fire hose to water a houseplant. For everyday muscle tightness or post-workout soreness, a mid-range formula like our Extra Strength balm often provides the perfect amount of relief without being overwhelming. The goal isn’t to find the strongest product available, but the most effective one for your body and your situation.
How Your Body Chemistry Plays a Role
Why does your friend swear by one formula while you get better results from another? The answer lies in your unique body chemistry. Factors like your metabolism, body weight, and even your personal sensitivity levels can influence how you experience a topical balm. Someone with a larger body mass might need a more concentrated formula to feel the same effects as someone smaller. This is why personal experience is key. We encourage you to choose your starting strength based on your needs and listen to your body to find the perfect fit.
It’s About More Than Just Cannabinoids
Many people focus solely on the cannabinoid content when judging a balm’s strength, but that’s only part of the story. The immediate cooling and warming sensations you feel come from powerful, FDA-approved active ingredients like menthol and camphor. These terpenes get to work right away to soothe sore spots. Cannabinoids like CBD, CBN, and CBG act as a supporting cast. While research suggests they have therapeutic properties, in our formulas, they provide added support for deeper, sustained recovery. Our blends are designed so all the ingredients work together, delivering comprehensive relief.
Ready to Choose Your Dragon Balm?
Making the right choice comes down to understanding your body and daily needs. Both our Extra Strength and Maximum Strength balms deliver powerful, terpene-driven relief, but they cater to different levels of discomfort. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t use a sledgehammer to hang a picture frame. The goal is to find the tool that’s perfectly suited for the job. Your personal pain levels and lifestyle play a part in this decision. Whether you’re dealing with a tough workout or managing persistent joint stiffness, there’s a formula for you. Let’s walk through a few final considerations to help you feel confident in your choice.
Match the Balm to Your Pain
The most important factor is the type and intensity of your discomfort. For everyday muscle soreness or moderate aches, our Extra Strength formula is an excellent starting point. It’s crafted for those who need reliable, consistent support without THC. However, if you’re dealing with more stubborn or persistent issues, it might be time for stronger support. Choose Maximum Strength if you have deep, recurring discomfort that hasn’t responded to lower-strength formulas. It’s a favorite among athletes and individuals managing long-term issues who need our most powerful relief.
Consider Your Budget and Usage
Your lifestyle and how often you’ll use the balm can also guide your choice. Both formulas are available in convenient Roll-Ups for no-mess, targeted application and in Jars for covering larger areas. If you plan on using your balm daily, consider our discounted bundles and packs to ensure you’re always stocked up while saving money. No matter which you choose, every product is made in the USA, third-party tested for purity, and backed by our 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can feel good about your purchase.
Knowing When to Switch Strengths
It’s okay if your needs change. If you find your current balm isn’t providing the level of relief you’re looking for, it may be time to consider a stronger formula. Listening to your body is key. Moving from Extra Strength to Maximum Strength is a common step for those whose discomfort becomes more persistent. Both formulas are powered by our Nano Boost Technology for deep, fast absorption, so when you switch, you’re getting a more potent blend of supportive cannabinoids to enhance the effects of the menthol and camphor.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the simplest way to understand the difference between Extra and Maximum Strength? Think of it this way: both formulas get their fast-acting relief from the power duo of menthol and camphor. The main difference is the type of hemp extract used for added support. Extra Strength is made with broad-spectrum extract, which is completely THC-free. Maximum Strength uses a full-spectrum extract, which includes a trace amount of THC to create what researchers call the “entourage effect,” potentially offering more comprehensive support for stubborn discomfort.
Will the Maximum Strength balm make me feel high? Not at all. The amount of THC in our Maximum Strength formula is less than 0.3%, which is the federally legal limit and is not enough to cause any intoxicating effects. When used topically, its role is to work alongside the other cannabinoids and terpenes to enhance the overall supportive properties of the balm, not to create a “high.”
I’m new to cannabinoid topicals. Which strength is the best place to start? If you’re just starting out, our Extra Strength formula is the perfect entry point. It allows you to experience the benefits of a potent, supportive cannabinoid blend without any THC. This gives you a great baseline to see how your body responds. You can always move up to our Maximum Strength formula later if you find you need a higher level of support for more persistent aches.
How do I know if I should switch from Extra to Maximum Strength? The best way to know is by listening to your body. If you’ve been using the Extra Strength balm consistently for your daily aches and find it’s no longer providing the level of comfort you need, it might be time to try Maximum Strength. It’s designed for those deeper, more stubborn issues that can benefit from the most powerful, full-spectrum support we offer.
Why do these balms feel like they work so quickly? That immediate cooling and warming sensation comes from our active ingredients, menthol and camphor. These plant-based terpenes get to work right away to soothe the area. We also use Nano Boost Technology, which breaks down the formula into tiny particles. This helps the ingredients absorb more quickly and deeply into your skin, delivering targeted relief right where you need it most.
