CBD (Cannabidiol) is a cannabinoid compound found naturally in cannabis (marijuana and hemp) plants. CBD is not the cannabinoid that causes the “high” associated with recreational marijuana use – That honor goes to tetrahydrocannabinol, better known as THC. CBD, however, contains many medicinal properties and is the most scientifically researched cannabinoid for that reason.
One of the most well-known and researched health benefits of CBD is pain relief. Millions of people experience mild, moderate, and chronic pain daily. And while traditional pain killer medication can work, there are many associated issues, such as addiction, stomach problems, and other negative symptoms and conditions.
As people try to look for more natural and organic ways to cure themselves of debilitating pain, alternative methods are increasingly used. CBD, most often utilized in an oil form, is one of the most highly rated alternative pain relievers available, and there’s plenty of research and first-hand testimony to back this up.
Based on research and testimony, CBD oil is helpful in alieving:
● Mild, moderate, and chronic pain
● General inflammation associated with pain
● General pain-causing discomfort resulting from health conditions
It is important to note that anybody with chronic severe pain and other chronic conditions should always consult with a medical professional before starting alternative health treatment like CBD.
Let’s take a closer look at CBD oil for pain relief.
CBD & Chronic Pain Relief
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a cell-signaling system including endocannabinoid receptors in your brain and immune system. They are mainly involved in central nervous system development and regulation.
The receptors receive chemical signals from various stimuli and help your cells respond. It is widely believed that CBD oil, amongst other products, plays a significant role in improving the endocannabinoid system’s function and is therefore closely connected to chronic pain relief.
CBD & Arthritis Pain Relief
CBD has shown to be highly effective in relieving the pain symptoms associated with arthritis. However, as any sufferer will testify, arthritis pain is unbearable, and one of this condition’s biggest challenges is finding suitable pain relief.
The following extract is taken from a 2016 study examining CBD use in rats with arthritis:
“Researchers applied CBD gel to rats for four days in a row. The rats received either 0.6, 3.1, 6.2, or 62.3 milligrams (mg) per day. The researchers noted reduced inflammation and overall pain in the rats’ affected joints. In addition, there were no noticeable side effects.
Rats who received low doses of 0.6 or 3.1 mg didn’t improve their pain scores. The researchers found that 6.2 mg/day was a high enough dose to reduce the rats’ pain and swelling. In addition, rats who received 62.3 mg/day had similar outcomes to those who received 6.2 mg/day. Receiving a substantially larger dosage didn’t result in them having less pain.
CBD gel’s anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects could potentially help people with arthritis. However, more human studies are needed.”
CBD & The Relief Of Pain Associated With Cancer
Another condition that causes extreme pain is cancer. Unfortunately, much of the pain and discomfort associated with cancer comes from its treatment.
Although there have been studies on mice that show CBD potentially being linked to the shrinking of cancerous tumors, most of the triumphant human trials have indicated a link between CBD and cancer treatment-related pain.
The National Cancer Institute and several other trusted medical bodies, groups, and organizations have recognized the importance of CBD in helping alieve the following symptoms associated with cancer and cancer treatment:
● Extreme pain and discomfort during and after cancer treatment
● Nausea, vomiting, and severe stomach pain associated with cancer treatment
● Reduced appetite associated with cancer treatment
In a 2010 study on pain associated with cancer, subjects received oral sprays of a combination THC-CBD extract. This extract was used in combinations with opioids and showed that pain relief was increased when the two were used together.
There have been many other similar studies that have made the correlation between CBD oil and pain relief. However, more research is yet to be done.
CBD & Migraine Pain Relief
Studies on the correlation between migraine pain and CBD usage are not as common as the other studies of pain and CBD oils. However, some studies have made positive connections, and one from 2017 was particularly interesting.
Results from this 2017 study indicate that CBD and THC can lead to less acute pain and less intense pain for people suffering from migraine pain. The two-phased study had migraine sufferers taking a CBD and THC combination and milder low-dose CBD medicine with no THC. They were given 25 mg of amitriptyline in the second phase, a tricyclic antidepressant and migraine treatment.
The results showed that THC and CBD were more effective than amitriptyline, although the victory was only a fraction. Nevertheless, a natural and organic substance like THC or CBD could successfully compete with a laboratory-made drug was a tremendous victory for cannabinoids.
CBD Risks
While CBD is very effective in pain relief, much research is still being done. As such, caution should be taken when using it for pain relief, particularly if you are attempting to use CBD to replace prescribed medications.
This is extremely dangerous, and you should never change or add to your medication dosage without permission from a medical professional.
It is also important to note that while CBD is one of the most harmless substances when taken as prescribed, the following associated side effects are sometimes involved:
● Fatigue, lethargy, and demotivation
● Stomach cramps, bloating, and diarrhea
● Severe changes in appetite
● Fluctuations in weight
It is also important to note that CBD could interact with the following other substances:
● Some over-the-counter (OTC) drugs
● Some prescription medications
● Some dietary supplements
Pain Relief With CBD Oil
It is clear from personal testimony, anecdotal evidence, and some clinical studies that CBD can play a significant role in relieving all sorts of pain. While evidence suggests it can replace other clinical drugs as a method of primary pain relief is not conclusive, further studies are underway.
Most people, including medical professionals, agree that it can assist in pain relief and mood enhancement, improving the lives of patients and those suffering from mild, moderate, and chronic pain.
Use CBD products responsibly and never attempt to use CBD as a replacement for prescribed medication. If you suffer from chronic conditions, always consult with your doctor before incorporating any other treatment or drug.
