Over the last few years, researchers have tested CBD, and the results look encouraging. People use CBD oil for pain relief, decrease anxiety, manage sleep problems, etc. Humans and vertebrates have an endocannabinoid system (ECS), cannabinoids like CBD interact with. Experts haven’t fully understood the ECS. But they know it plays a role in various processes, such as mood, immune activities, and pain modulation.
Read on to learn more about CBD oil a CBD based product for various pain conditions. We’ll also discuss the possible side affects you should be aware of and different ways to use the oil. Here is Patchadam’s CBD edibles.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD is one of the many cannabinoids found in cannabis (marijuana and hemp) plants. These cannabinoids have different therapeutic effects, including analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
CBD is non-intoxicating, so it will not cause a high. The intoxicating effect of cannabis is caused by another cannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
People use CBD, in particular CBD oil, to manage different ailments. From pain and inflammation to a host of other health conditions.
CBD Oil for Various Pain Relief
Let’s look at CBD oil for pain relief in various conditions.
Arthritis & Joint Pain
Many studies have looked at the use of CBD for arthritis pain. For instance, a 2016 study examined the effects of CBD in rats with arthritis. Note that the researchers used CBD gel. They applied this gel to the affected areas consecutively for four days.
The rats were divided into groups. Each either received 0.6, 3.1, 6.2, or 62.3 mg daily. Results showed that topical CBD application is effective for arthritis. Moreover, 0.6 and 3.1 mg of CBD didn’t show any improvements. However, 6.2 and 62.3 mg of CBD were effective doses for pain relief.
The researchers pointed out that 62.3 mg had a similar effect as 6.2 mg. Thus, a higher CBD dose didn’t necessarily result in less pain. According to the Arthritis Foundation, some people who use CBD, but not all, report a significant decrease in pain.
Chronic Pain
People use CBD for chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia. A 2018 review evaluated how CBD oil for pain relief works for people with chronic illnesses. The authors of this review assessed studies carried out between 1975 and 2018.
The studies looked at the effects of CBD in conditions such as cancer pain, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain. The authors concluded, based on studies, that CBD is effective for pain management. They also noted that there were no severe side effects.
Backpain
Studies suggest that CBD may help with back pain by reducing inflammation, decreasing anxiety, and improving relaxation. CBD generally provides full-body relief, except for when you use topicals.
Topicals may be the best CBD for back pain since targeting a specific area.
Migraine Pain
Unfortunately, there are only limited studies on CBD and migraine. The current studies look at combinations of CBD and THC, not only CBD. A 2017 review showed that CBD and THC led to less pain for people with migraine. Overall, there is a need for more research in this area.
Neuropathic Pain
A 2020 study involved 29 patients with neuropathy. Each person received either CBD oil or a placebo.
The group that took CBD tolerated the product well. Also, they reported a significant decrease in pain compared to the placebo. While these results look promising, there’s a need for further studies using large populations.
Cancer-related pain
People with cancer also use CBD for pain relief. Most human studies have looked at the role of CBD in treating cancer-related pain.
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), CBD is a potential treatment for chemotherapy side effects. Some of these include pain, nausea, and lack of appetite.
CBD for Athletes
Athletes may find the pain-relieving effects of CBD beneficial. A 2020 review assessed the beneficial effects of CBD for athletes. It concluded that studies indicate CBD may reduce inflammation and pain. And these are helpful for post-workout relief.
CBD topical products such as balms and lotions provide localized relief. So, they may be a great pain management option. Also, you want to be cautious when taking CBD if you’re an athlete. Although CBD shouldn’t cause you to fail drug tests, there are no guarantees.
You can choose CBD Isolate products instead of taking the full spectrum. CBD isolate contains only CBD, and no other compounds are present.
How to use CBD Oil for Pain
You can use CBD oil for pain by sublingual application. Also, you can take one of the many CBD-oil based products directly through oral consumption or even topical application. Here are the different ways to use CBD for pain relief:
Sublingual CBD: You can absorb CBD directly into your bloodstream with CBD oil. Apply the oil sublingually by placing few drops of it under the tongue. Hold for about 60 seconds. You begin to feel the effects of the CBD in 15 to 45 minutes.
Also, we have other products you can take by mouth. These include capsules, pills, and CBD edibles such as gummies. When you take these CBD products, they go through your digestive tract. Thus, absorption will be slow, and the onset of effects may take about one to two hours.
Topical Products: The common topicals include lotions, balms, ointments, and creams. These products provide localized relief to the affected part of your body.
Manufacturers may add other ingredients such as menthol and camphor to the products. These added ingredients help provide soothing effects.
Generally, the recommended CBD dosage varies between individuals. It also depends on multiple factors such as body weight, health condition, and product potency.
Possible Side Effects
Reports show that CBD doesn’t pose significant health risks for the consumer. However, some side effects are possible. These include:
- Dry mouth
- Changes in appetite
- Diarrhea
- Changes in weight
Also, CBD can interact with certain medications you’re taking. Proceed with caution if you’re using prescription meds, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements. It’s always best to discuss with your doctor first before using CBD.
Conclusion
There is no conclusive evidence to support CBD as the preferred method for treating pain. However, researchers agree that CBD is a potential treatment option.
CBD products may provide relief if you have a pain condition. Most importantly, it’s a generally safe substance and doesn’t cause intoxication.
If CBD oil looks like something you want to try for pain relief, discuss it with your doctor. They can also provide professional advice about how much you should take.