Pain is a complex issue to understand, but scientists, and especially the medical fraternity, have been able to provide us with drugs that reduce our pain. Pain is an unpleasant experience, and its subjective nature makes it difficult to quantify it. However, extensive research in the area means the development of many drugs that aim to reduce this unpleasantness. Pain relief is a much-talked-about phenomenon among researchers and medical practitioners. Over the years, issues related to pain relief and subsequently developing tolerance against frequently used pain medications have led to many looking for alternatives that could provide the answer to pain relief.
This growing interest in alternative and natural remedies has led to the increased popularity of CBD or Cannabidiol oil as a potential solution for various health concerns, particularly pain relief. CBD is derived from the cannabis plant and has gained plenty of attention from different quarters due to its potential to serve as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic product. If we are to use CBD oil as a pain-relieving agent, how will CBD manage to achieve this, and is it effective against pain relief?
This exploration delves into the current scientific understanding of CBD’s potential role in pain relief by examining existing research and shedding light on the considerations individuals should bear in mind when contemplating the use of CBD oil for managing pain.
What is CBD?
CBD oil, or Cannabidiol oil, is a product derived from the cannabis plant and is extracted from industrial hemp plants. It is different from its counterpart, the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is a psychoactive agent and often produces sensations of being “high”. CBD is one of many cannabinoids found in cannabis that interact with the endocannabinoid system in the human body. The endocannabinoid system consists of endogenous cannabinoids similar to cannabinoids but made by the human body.
These are vital for the maintenance of various bodily functions and are produced when needed. For this reason, researchers have failed to pinpoint the exact quantity ranges that may depict their presence in the body deemed normal. Two types of endocannabinoid receptors are mainly linked to the body’s nervous system. Endocannabinoids have various effects, one of which is relieving pain, which occurs when endocannabinoids bind with CB1 receptors in the spinal nerve.
The presence of endocannabinoids in CBD points towards a possible way to relieve pain amongst individuals upon consumption of CBD. The extraction process typically involves obtaining CBD from industrial hemp plants, which is a variety of cannabis plants artificially bred to maximize CBD levels and lower unwanted THC levels. After its extraction, CBD is diluted with some base oil, which could be coconut or seed oil, to create the final product.
Effects of CBD Oil:
CBD oil is renowned for its potential therapeutic properties and has been put under the microscope to find possible products for pain relief. Since its researched constituents point towards the presence of endocannabinoids, which mimic the bodily-produced neurotransmitters causing pain relief, CBD should be studied for its possible effects in relieving pain. According to Kolas.com’s Cannabis dispensary in Sacramento, the use of CBD isn’t limited to pain relief only, as it has been known to act as an anti-inflammatory substance while also resulting in the alleviation of anxiety and depression symptoms. Researchers also point toward an improvement in sleep cycles and sleep quality.
The beauty of CBD is that it comes in various forms, including tinctures, capsules, and even creams. CBD is also available in edible form, thus allowing users to use it at their convenience and desired method. It is important to note that the legal status of CBD varies from state to state; thus, you may be able to buy it in one state and fail to in another. Ensure you check the legal status of CBD oil in your region and the local regulations for its use.
How CBD Helps with Pain:
Our body has an endocannabinoid system that regulates several physiological activities, one of them being pain relief. CBD interacts with this system and provides comfort in various ways, some of which include:
- Anti-Inflammatory Relief: CBD oil is packed with anti-inflammatory compounds and helps comfort inflamed areas within the body. It also helps soothe the pain that stems from the inflammation.
- Reacting to Neurotransmitters: CBD may affect pain perception by interacting with neurotransmitters like endocannabinoids and serotonin.
- Neuropathic Pain Relief: According to research, CBD may help treat neuropathic pain due to harm or malfunctions in the nervous system.
- Arthritis Pain: Studies suggest that CBD may reduce inflammation and pain associated with arthritis.
It’s crucial to remember that even though some studies yield encouraging findings, additional investigation is required to comprehend the mechanisms and efficacy of CBD for pain reduction completely. Individual reactions to CBD can also differ, and its legal status may change depending on where you live.
It is advisable to speak with a healthcare provider if you are thinking about using CBD for pain management. Additionally, always opt for credible sources to guarantee quality and safety while purchasing CBD products.
