Cannabidiol, or CBD oil, has been anecdotally used by thousands suffering from both chronic and acute pain, with reportedly great success. While individual reports are not exactly science, research does exist that indicates that CBD may be able to help manage some of the underlying reasons why pain occurs in the first place.
In fact, multiple studies have supported the idea that CBD reduces inflammation. Inflammation is associated with a wide array of medical conditions, many of which do cause pain. Therefore, CBD may hold therapeutic hope for those suffering from certain types of pain.
CBD is derived from hemp as well as from cannabis, and itself is a class of cannabinoid because of where it is derived from. But while THC — another cannabinoid from the cannabis plant — causes a psychoactive “high,” CBD does not. This makes CBD a potentially useful alternative health aid that may prove beneficial for many users without risking any psychoactive side effects.
How CBD May Work to Tackle Chronic Pain
Research has shown that CBD may successfully manage pain by interacting with receptors in the brain and in the immune system. These same receptors are comprised of proteins attached to cells that receive chemical signals from various stimuli.
Once a signal is received, these receptors, in turn, enable the cells to properly respond by creating painkilling and anti-inflammatory effects that successfully help in the management and alleviation of pain. These receptors are part of the body’s endocannabinoid system that produces its own cannabinoids, called endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are thought to help regulate and support such physiological and biological processes as sleep, immune system responses, and pain.
Clinical studies have found that CBD may be effective in not only managing chronic pain, but also treating insomnia that stems from that chronic pain, and all without any serious adverse side effects. When CBD enters the system, it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid receptors, which may then both activate and inhibit other compounds within the system to prevent the body from taking on too much pain while alleviating the pain that the body is experiencing.
CBD and Arthritis Pain
A new study discovered that the topical application of CBD cream helped to alleviate pain and inflammation in lab rats without any adverse side effects. Rat biology closely resembles that of humans which is why studies often start with them. The results of this study are promising and may imply that people who use CBD oil or CBD cream for their arthritis may also relief from most all of the aches and pains associated with the condition.
CBD and Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis is a painful autoimmune disease that takes its toll on both the nerves and the brain. One of the most common and painful symptoms of the disease comes in the form of muscle spasms. One study recently discovered that short-term usage of CBD oil reduced pain levels in patients diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Even though the results were modest, many participants reported a significant reduction in the pain associated with muscle spasms.
CBD and Chronic Pain
That same study also found that CBD also alleviated pain in those with chronic pain, inflammation, and discomfort from other conditions. More importantly, researchers also concluded that regular use of CBD will not cause patients to build up a tolerance to the substance, so they would therefore not have to regularly increase their dosages.
Other Uses For CBD
CBD may also prove useful to improve the overall health and wellbeing of others as well. Currently, in the US, CBD oil’s legality varies from state to state. However, regardless of its legality, it continues to show promise for those suffering from:
Even though more research is required, in June of 2018, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), approved Epidolex, a form of CBD medication, in the treatment of Lennox-Gastaust Syndrome and Dravet Syndrome, two rare forms of epilepsy.
Dosing and Side Effects
Since the FDA does not regulate CBD for most medical conditions, dosing is left to the person using the CBD. For example, there may be a suggested dosage for CBD capsules, however, CBD cream and CBD oil may often be taken and dosed according to how the user feels after taking a certain amount. It is advised, however, that people seeking to use CBD speak with a doctor regarding how much CBD should be taken.
For the most part, people have a very good tolerance to CBD oil, however, patients should be advised of potential side effects that include:
Patients should also exercise caution when taking CBD along with prescription medications, as CBD may decrease or increase the effectiveness of prescription medication.
Closing Thoughts
CBD has shown great promise in the potential support, alleviation and regulation of pain and inflammation associated with certain medical conditions. In fact, CBD oil is considered especially promising because of its lack of intoxicating effects and limited adverse effects with prescription medication. When considering CBD always choose a high quality brand such as Rebel. While there are many positive studies out there regarding the effectiveness and safety of CBD, people should discuss using CBD with their doctor.
