CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of over 100 compounds found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its cousin THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD doesn’t produce a “high” or psychoactive effect. CBD oil is extracting CBD from cannabis plants and combining coconut or hemp seed oil. The human body has an end cannabinoid system (ECS) that regulates various functions, including pain sensation, mood, and sleep. CBD interacts with the ECS by influencing its receptors, potentially reducing inflammation and altering pain perception.
Research suggests that CBD may help with different types of pain.
- Chronic pain
- Arthritis pain
- Neuropathic pain
- Multiple sclerosis-related pain
- Cancer-related pain
Benefits of using CBD oil for pain
- Reduced inflammation- CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate pain associated with arthritis.
- Neuroprotective effects CBD may protect nerve cells and reduce neuropathic pain.
- Minimal side effects– Compared too many traditional pain medications; CBD oil typically has fewer and milder side effects.
- Non-addictive -Unlike opioid painkillers, CBD is not addictive and does not carry the risk of dependence.
- Improved sleep- CBD oil may indirectly improve sleep quality by reducing pain, often disrupted in chronic pain sufferers.
Considerations before Using CBD Oil for Pain
- Quality matters- Look for CBD oils that have been third-party tested and have a certificate of analysis (COA) to ensure purity and potency.
- Dosage- CBD oil does not have a one-size-fits-all dosage. Start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the right amount for pain relief.
- Method of consumption- CBD oil can be taken orally, applied topically, or inhaled. The best method depends on your specific preferences.
- Drug interactions- CBD can interact with certain medications, especially those metabolized by the liver. Consult your healthcare before using CBD oil, especially if you’re taking other medications.
- Legal status- While CBD is legal in many places, regulations vary. Check your local laws on purchasing or using CBD oil.
Choose CBD oil for pain relief
When selecting CBD oil for pain management, consider the following factors.
- Full-spectrum vs. broad-spectrum vs. isolate– Full-spectrum CBD contains all cannabinoids found in the trace amounts of THC. Broad-spectrum CBD contains multiple cannabinoids but no THC, while CBD isolate is pure CBD.
- Concentration- Look for products that clearly state the amount of CBD per serving.
- Extraction method- CO2 extraction is the gold standard for producing high-quality CBD oil.
- Source of hemp- Choose CBD oils from organically grown hemp to minimize pesticide exposure to harmful chemicals.
- Additional ingredient- CBD oils include complementary ingredients like turmeric or ginger, which may provide additional pain-relieving benefits.
In spite of the positive experiences many people have had with cbd oil for pain management, it is not a miracle cure. The effectiveness of this treatment varies depending on the type of pain, the individual, and other factors. CBD oil may be of help if you’re suffering from pain, but it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if you have health conditions or are taking other medications.
