CBD Oil and How it Helps with Pain
CBD Oil for pain has been a popular remedy recently. As a result, there have been increased calls for safer, non-opioid based pain medications. Studies involving the use of CBD oil for chronic pain, inflammation and anxiety have brought new hope to people living with these conditions. CBD oil has risen in popularity on account of its potential to treat a myriad of daily and chronic illnesses. Today, we will focus on the use of CBD oil for pain, the science behind it and the risks of consuming CBD.
About CBD Oil
CBD oil is a natural substance made by infusing hemp seed oil, coconut oil or another oil with cannabidiol (CBD). CBD has only recently made headlines everywhere despite being isolated and identified in the 1940s. Recent studies showed evidence of its efficacy in the management of chronic pain caused by cancer, arthritis or other musculoskeletal conditions.
CBD oil is consumed orally or through smoking and inhalation. However, there is no evidence to suggest that smoking or vaping CBD oil has any health benefits or pain-relieving effects. That is why it is recommended to stick to oral consumption of CBD oil. It is quickly absorbed and gets to work immediately. CBD interacts with the human endocannabinoid system (ECS) which is responsible for a number of physiological and cognitive functions. These include mood, perception of pain and pleasure, fertility, mood, appetite, and immunity.
Cannabis and the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The human ECS has two receptors, CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are located within the brain and nervous system. THC interacts with and directly binds to CB1 receptors. As a result, THC causes a high. CB2 receptors on the other hand, are associated with the immune system. CBD does not interact with or bind to CB1 receptors, but rather promotes the uncoupling of THC-CB1 complexes. This action dampens the psychoactive effects of THC.
CB2 receptors are associated with appetite regulation, immune response and pain management. CBDs interaction with CBD helps the body deal with inflammation and chronic pain that may be a symptom of an underlying condition. CBD oil blocks the degradation of anandamide, a compound associated with pain regulation. Elevated levels of anandamide in the bloodstream can help decrease the amount of pain a person experiences.
The human endocannabinoid system (ECS) is easily thrown off balance without the proper concentration of endogenous cannabinoids and neurotransmitters. Moreover, in this state, the body is unable to maintain homeostasis and deal with pain. To address this, CBD oil helps restore homeostatic balance by promoting the release of endogenous painkillers, hormones and neurotransmitters. This happens through the activation of CB2 receptors that contribute to a better immune response to pain and inflammation. Also, CBD has been noted to display anti-oxidant properties, which adds to its impressive list of benefits.
Additional Conditions CBD Oil Can Help Manage
- Arthritis
- Cancer pain
- Multiple sclerosis pain
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Scoliosis, neck pain, and pain caused by similar musculoskeletal problems
- Migraines
- Neuropathic pain
Finally, animal studies have demonstrated CBD’s effectiveness in the management of chronic pain without building up tolerance after prolonged use.
Side Effects and Contra-Indications
CBD oil doesn’t come without its share of unintended effects. CBD has had negative interactions with a number of medicines prescribed to manage pain and a host of other symptoms. Therefore, it is important to remember that CBD oil is NOT a substitute for seeking professional medical help. The rule of thumb is to seek your physician’s opinion prior to self-medicating with CBD oil. That said, there are some side effects which include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Abnormal changes in mood and appetite
- Vomiting
- Low blood pressure
Expectant women are advised against consuming any CBD products as this can harm an unborn child. Scientific studies are still ongoing on the effects and safety of CBD. Initial results look promising but nothing is conclusive at this point.
CBD and Pain
CBD oil has been documented numerous times to relieve chronic pain. That is why CBD oil has the potential to be the next big thing in organic herbal medicines. However, at the momIent, the FDA has approved only one CBD-based drug. That is why additional long term studies are required to shed light on the extent of the effects of Phytocannabinoids on the human body. But there’s much to be hopeful for.
CBD oil provides a holistic approach to treating chronic pain and inflammation. And with improved endogenous endocannabinoid production, your body can be healthy enough to deal with most pain, anxiety, and insomnia. Hopefully we’ve answered some questions you may have had regarding CBD and chronic pain. To conclude, we always we wish you and your loved ones good health and if you’re in the market for CBD oil, we are always here help with high quality products.
