CBD for pain relief is it effective, this is a tricky question. Pain can be dreadful in any form, more so if it is chronic or unmanageable. Often, pain can be incurable, as is the case of those suffering from end-stage cancer or other metabolic diseases. CBD has proved to be helpful to them. Though its use may not be able to identify, treat or improve the medical condition that is causing the pain, it can surely numb the pain to a large extent. Numerous studies draw the same conclusion and you will be able to see how, as you delve deeper into the article.
CBD is derived from the cannabis plant which is commonly known as hemp. It is especially preferred as it does not give the traditional “high” that is associated with the compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)
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What Is CBD Oil?
Cannabis oil is extracted from the cannabis plant. It is known to provide relaxation without the negative side effects usually associated with marijuana. It is not associated with mind alteration and is freely available in the market. In addition, it is found to be highly effective in treating all kinds of aches and pains.
CBD For Pain Relief
In general, doctors prescribe opioids to those suffering from chronic pain. This might be dangerous as it can lead to unhealthy opioid addictions that are worse than the cause of the pain itself.
CBD oil may lead to a reduction in:
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Generalised discomfort
Though there are no FDA-approved pain management CBD drugs available in the market, this hemp derivative is slowly but surely making its mark in the field of palliative care. Epidiolex is the only FDA-approved drug that contains CBD and is used for rare forms of epilepsy that do not respond to traditional medication.
Chronic Pain Relief And CBD
There can be multiple reasons for chronic pain, cancer being among the leading causes.
A review conducted in 2018 assessed how well CBD works to relieve chronic pain. It took into account studies conducted between the years 1975 and 2018. These studies examined various types of pain, including:
- Cancer pain
- Neuropathic pain
- Fibromyalgia
Researchers concluded that CBD was effective in overall pain management and didn’t cause negative side effects in any of the cases, in fact, it led to a positive outcome.
Though there is no research to prove it yet, some scientists are of the belief that CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors in the brain and immune system. This leads to anti-inflammatory and pain relieving effects on the overall body leading to a decrease in the amount of pain felt by an individual.
Arthritis and CBD
In 2016, a study was conducted, namely, Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis. The results of this study showed a significant reduction in pain and an increase in mobility of rats who were given a dose of 0.6 mg of CBD.
Though no conclusive evidence is yet available for CBD showing a decrease in pain in arthritis, it is only a matter of time before evidence of the same emerges as several studies on the subject are already underway.
Cancer Treatment Relief and CBD
A 2010 study, conducted on study subjects, suffering from cancer-related pain used traditional opioids on a group of test subjects while giving the other group a THC-CBD extract in conjugation with the traditional medication. The group that received the THC-CBD extract showed an improved response to pain tolerance in relation to the other group.
THC-CBD oral sprays were used in another study in 2013 and the results produced were similar.
The National Cancer Institute has also indicated that CBD can be helpful in reducing the ill effects of chemotherapy and radiation in those being treated for cancers.
Migraine Pain Relief and CBD
Migraine pains can be particularly debilitating as there is nothing much that can be done about it unless the exact cause is identified.
The results of an intense, two-phase study conducted in 2017 indicate that CBD and THC can lead to a reduction in acute pain caused by CBD and also decrease the intensity of pain associated with the condition.
A conjugation of both THC and CBD was found to be more effective than traditional anti-depressants used in such conditions.
Side Effects of CBD
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Changes in weight
- Changes in appetite
These are some of the side effects that might accompany regular CBD use. Again, there is no study that can associate any one of these with CBD.
It should also be kept in mind that different persons respond to CBD differently. So not everyone is likely to suffer from these side effects.
Is It Safe To Consume CBD With Traditional Medication?
You should proceed with caution if you are a first-time user of CBD. Since CBD is yet not under the control of the FDA, its regulation can be peculiar. What is best is to begin at the lowest possible dose and gradually work your way up.
Certain over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs and dietary supplements might interact with CBD. It is, therefore, best to consult your medical health practitioner before making CBD a part of your everyday life.
