Cannabidiol (CBD) is considered to be the “It-Medicine” of the moment in the health and wellness industry for numerous reasons. Cannabis has been used for ages by several people all around the globe as a medicine to cure diseases, as well as comes with thousands of other uses, making it versatile. Though in existence, CBD oil wasn’t as popular as it is now, and today, there’s a massive demand for it. However, one reason you must have heard repeatedly is the decisive manner in which cannabinoids help manage pain. According to recent research, 62% of people who use CBD for a medical condition might use it for pain relief.
CBD offers an option for treating different types of chronic pain. For many people experiencing chronic pain, Cannabidiol (CBD Oil) is steadily gaining popularity as a natural approach to pain relief. Cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in both hemp and the marijuana plant, is sometimes touted as an alternative to pain medication in the treatment of common conditions like arthritis and back pain.
Interestingly, a growing body of clinical research and a history of anecdotal evidence supports the use of cannabis for the relief of some types of chronic pain, including neuropathic pain and spasticity (i.e., stiffness or tightness) associated with multiple sclerosis.
In a recent comprehensive review of existing data on the health effects of cannabis and cannabinoids, the National Academies of Science concluded that adult patients with chronic pain who were treated with cannabis/cannabinoids were more likely to experience a clinically significant reduction in pain symptoms. Studies also suggest some efficacy for cancer-related pain, migraines, fibromyalgia, and other pain conditions.
For a better understanding, a few common types of chronic pain include:
- Cancer Pain
- Headaches
- Lower back pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Migraines
- Multiple sclerosis pain
- Neuropathic pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
- Epidermolysis bullosa
So, how does CBD help with pain-relieving effects?
Cannabis works by activating receptors in your brain. Cannabidiol (CBD) affects the receptors in the body in a different way. The human body has an endocannabinoid (ECS) comprising millions of tiny receptors, two different types. These receptors, which are small proteins attached to your cells, receive and translate signals from cannabinoids and help your body respond accordingly.
When CBD is bound to the receptors, the response creates anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects that assist with pain management. The ECS also helps regulate functions such as sleep and immune system responses.
To break it down, CBD oil has been observed to possibly provide pain relief for several medical conditions, including the following:
• Arthritis: This 2016 study inquired into the use of CBD in rats with arthritis. The researchers found that, after applying CBD gel for four days in a row, there was reduced inflammation and overall pain in the affected joints. Another 2017 study published in the Pain Journal found that treatment with CBD topicals reduced the development of joint pain in rats with osteoarthritis.
• Migraine: A 2017 study inquired into the treatment of migraine with CBD-based medications. Although the study looked at CBD when paired with THC and not when it is used alone, it was found that the compounds helped with migraine pain relief. At doses of 200mg of 9% CBD and 19% THC, participants in the study saw the frequency of their migraine attacks fall by 40.4%. Pain relief was also reported amongst participants with cluster headaches, but only if they had a childhood history of migraines.
• Chronic pain: A 2018 review of studies between 1975 and 2018 looked into the effects of CBD on chronic pain. The study, which focused on various types of pain, including fibromyalgia, found that CBD was effective in overall pain management.
• Multiple sclerosis: One report inquired into the benefits that CBD oil could have for multiple sclerosis. This autoimmune disease affects the myelin sheath of the brain and nerves throughout the body. The report found that CBD oil could reduce the frequency of muscle spasms that victims feel and a reduction in general symptoms.
• Neuropathic pain: This 2018 study explored the use of CBD in treating chronic neuropathic pain. The researchers reviewed 16 previously published studies testing the use of various cannabis-based medicines in the treatment of pain. CBD was found to be of benefit in treating the condition, which is a rare type of pain usually triggered by damage to the somatosensory system.
• Epidermolysis bullosa: In 2018, a report published in Paediatric Dermatology studied treating a rare, blistering condition with CBD. The symptoms, which affect children, were found to be significantly reduced after the application of CBD topicals, including oil, cream, and spray. There had been faster wound healing, fewer blisters, and overall improvement in pain. One of the patients was also able to wean off opioid analgesic pain medication altogether.
DOSAGE:
Dosages and medications are currently open to interpretation. It’s essential for people who wish to use CBD to first consult a doctor since dosages may vary from person to person.
SIDE EFFECTS:
If you’re wondering whether CBD oil will make you “high”, the answer is “No.”
As for other side effects, CBD does not pose any significant risks for users. However, specific side effects are still possible, which include:
• Fatigue
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in weight
• Diarrhoea
In addition to these, there is a risk that CBD may interact with some over-the-counter drugs, prescription supplements, or dietary supplements. It is always important to discuss your planned usage of CBD with your primary care physician.
Chronic pain is the most common reason for medicinal cannabis use, according to a recent survey. If you have a chronic pain condition and have not been able to manage it with standard treatment (or wish to avoid the adverse effects of other medications), you may be considering CBD oil for pain relief. Several studies have shown a favourable impact of CBD for reducing pain, making CBD oils one of the most viable options for those who suffer from inflammatory or neuropathic pain and may find CBD oil helpful in not only alleviating chronic pain but also treating associated symptoms such as depression or anxiety.
Disclaimer: This article is originally published on indiahemporganics
