How CBD can help with pain

Pain can be a great annoyance in day to day activities. It can disrupt even the most mundane of tasks, focussing all our attention on trying to alleviate it. It is the reason why so many products exist, offering pain-relief for muscle pain after exercise, a past injury or from chronic pain. And while over the counter products have proven useful, CBD is now an emerging pain relief solution. Here is how CBD can help with pain.

CBD and The Body

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a known analgesic (aids pain relief) and contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties. CBD is a hemp product from the cannabis plant and only contains 0.3% THC (psychoactive component of cannabis), if any at all. Cannabidiol is also a phytocannabinoid, a cannabinoid produced and extracted from the cannabis plant with a number of health benefits.

Uses for CBD in Pain Relief

As a phytocannabinoid, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), responsible for regulating the body’s immune system, mood, appetite, and other factors, including pain. By stimulating the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body’s nervous system, CBD enhances how the body’s organs and systems function and respond to stimuli.

In short, the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of CBD are boosted in and by the body to aid in pain relief. The growing research into using CBD for pain relief notes that,

“The endocannabinoid system is tonically (Restorative or stimulating to health or well-being) active in control of pain… The ECS is also active peripherally where CB1 stimulation reduces pain, inflammation and hyperalgesia (An increased sensitivity to feeling pain and an extreme response to pain).” ~ Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain

CBD for Chronic Pains

Topical CBD products are popular in treating and managing symptoms associated with chronic pain. Applying the topical cream or ointment directly on the affected areas helps reduce the inflammation and pain caused by chronic pains.

These same anti-inflammatory properties can also be helpful for skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

CBD in Relief for Cancer Treatment

Studies have gone into investigating the effect of CBD to manage pain relief in patients undergoing chemotherapy. The National Cancer Institute regards CBD as a possible alternative to help reduce pain, vomiting, and other side effects of chemotherapy.

CBD for Active Pain Relief

The endocannabinoid system is the core function at work within the body. Combined with CBD’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, the two work together, stimulating bodily healing and rejuvenation.

Ways to Take CBD

CBD is available in various forms, such as vape cartridges, oils, edibles, and topical creams. It is important to find a product that works best for your needs and situation. :

• Vaping/Smoking: CBD is absorbed into the body fastest through inhalation or smoking. This method sends the vapour or smoke directly to the lungs and bloodstream, where it is easily distributed and absorbed through the body.
• Capsules/Pills: In the same way regular pills travel down the stomach and small intestines to the liver, CBD capsules make the same journey. In the liver it breaks down and is released into the blood stream to be absorbed by the body.
• Edibles: Edibles work the same way as pills, but with better flavour of course. CBD can be infused into gummies, baked into cookies, or added to a healthy smoothie. Due to the digestive process, CBD effects can take up to 2 hours before activating.
• Sublingual Tinctures: This method involves placing 2-8 drops of CBD oil under the tongue, and leaving it there to be absorbed for at least 2 minutes. The CBD oil is absorbed under the tongue and into the bloodstream.
• Topical ointments: Topical CBD products are usually applied directly on the skin of the affected area. They come in forms of lotions, creams, balms, and transdermal patches. Since the skin is not permeable, most product suggest applying a liberal amount of topical ointment.

Pain relief does not always come easy. While medications and treatments often have negative side-effects, CBD may be the solution to managing and treating pains without the side effects. Take some time to read up on any CBD products you’re considering, to aid pain relief.