1. INTRODUCTION

Cannabidiol (CBD) has many health benefits and may help people manage pain. However, there is still some misunderstanding and confusion about how it works. Learning more about CBD can help people make informed decisions and overcome any stigma associated with it, whether they’re searching for weed delivery near me or looking for alternative ways to incorporate CBD into their wellness routine.

CBD oil comes from the cannabis plant. Some people use it to relieve pain, anxiety, depression, and sleep problems. 

This article explains how CBD oil works and how people use it to manage chronic pain.

2. EFFECTS OF CBD

CBD is one of more than 100 compounds found in cannabis plants. These compounds are called cannabinoids. Although cannabinoids exist in many plants, people most commonly associate them with cannabis.

Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which causes a “high” feeling, CBD does not have psychoactive effects. This means that it does not affect the brain in the same way THC does.

A mechanism known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS) exists in the human body. This system receives and processes signals from cannabinoids. Additionally, the body creates endocannabinoids, which are cannabinoids, on its own. The ECS helps control different functions, including sleep, immune system responses, and pain.

When THC enters the body, it attaches to the brain’s cannabinoid receptors, triggering the release of dopamine and causing a “high” feeling. CBD, on the other hand, does not attach directly to these receptors.

3. DOES CBD MAKE YOU HIGH?

CBD is very different from THC. It does not cause a “high” feeling or impair a person’s ability to function. However, it does influence how the body processes pain, stress, and inflammation.

study in 2015 found that CBD affects different receptor systems in the body and interacts with the ECS along with other cannabinoids. For example, CBD can increase levels of anandamide, a compound linked to pain relief and mood improvement. CBD may also reduce inflammation in the brain and nervous system, which could help people with pain, insomnia, and immune system disorders.

4. WHAT IS CBD OIL?

Cannabis plants, including hemp and marijuana, have different levels of CBD and THC. The way the plants are grown affects the CBD content.

Most CBD oil comes from industrial hemp, which contains more CBD than marijuana. Manufacturers extract CBD from the plant and mix it with a carrier oil to make CBD oil.

CBD oil is available in different strengths and can be used in various ways. Before using it, people should talk to a doctor to make sure it is safe for them.

5. BENEFITS OF CBD FOR PAIN RELIEF

According to the National Centers for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), some evidence suggests that cannabis and CBD may help relieve chronic pain. However, research is still ongoing, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not officially approved CBD for pain treatment.

A 2020 review suggested that CBD may help with chronic pain, improve sleep, and reduce inflammation. However, these effects may depend on the condition being treated. More research is needed to determine the best dosages and uses for pain relief.

6. TYPES OF PAIN CBD MAY HELP 

6.1 NEUROPATHIC PAIN

Neuropathic pain occurs when nerves are damaged. This type of pain is common in conditions like multiple sclerosis, nerve injuries, and infections such as shingles. More research is needed to fully understand how CBD can help with nerve pain and to determine the best dosages and possible risks.

6.2 ARTHRITIS PAIN

A 2016 study in the European Journal of Pain tested CBD on rats with arthritis. Researchers applied a CBD gel to the rats for four days and found that it reduced inflammation and pain without causing side effects.

While these results are promising, more studies on humans are needed to confirm whether CBD is effective for arthritis pain relief.

6.3 MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS)

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the nervous system and can cause muscle spasms. These spasms can be painful and affect a person’s daily life.

A study found that using CBD oil for a short time helped reduce muscle spasms in people with MS. Although the results were modest, many participants reported a reduction in symptoms.

6.4 CHRONIC PAIN

A separate study in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that CBD could help reduce chronic pain and inflammation. The study also suggested that people would not develop a tolerance to CBD, meaning they would not have to increase their dosage over time.

7. OTHER USES OF CBD

CBD is being studied for various other health conditions. Some of the potential benefits include:

  • Helping people quit smoking
  • Managing drug withdrawal symptoms
  • Treating seizures and epilepsy
  • Reducing anxiety and stress
  • Easing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
  • Supporting mental health in people with schizophrenia
  • Possibly helping with diabetes and cancer in the future

8. DOSAGE

There is no official guideline for how much CBD people should take. Dosages vary depending on the person and the condition being treated. It is important to talk to a doctor before using CBD, especially if taking other medications.

The FDA-approved CBD medication, Epidiolex, comes with specific dosage recommendations. However, for other CBD products, people should start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed.

9. SIDE EFFECTS OF CBD

CBD is generally well tolerated by most people, although certain persons may have adverse effects like: 

  • Fatigue
  • Diarrhea
  • Changes in appetite
  • Weight gain or weight loss

CBD may also interact with certain medications, making them more or less effective. Some research suggests that CBD could affect the liver’s ability to break down toxins, potentially leading to liver problems.

The FDA warns that Epidiolex, a prescription CBD product, may cause liver damage, drowsiness, and even mood changes. 

10. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

Most research on CBD for pain has been done on adults. Experts do not recommend CBD oil for children unless prescribed by a doctor for conditions like epilepsy.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using CBD because there is not enough research on how it affects the baby.

Additionally, people taking CBD oil with high-fat meals should be cautious, as high-fat foods can increase CBD absorption and the risk of side effects.

11. CONCLUSION

CBD oil is becoming a popular option for managing chronic pain, but more research is needed to fully understand its benefits and risks. While some studies suggest that CBD may help with conditions like arthritis, nerve pain, and multiple sclerosis, the FDA has not yet approved it for pain treatment.

People interested in using CBD should consult a doctor, especially if they are taking other medications. It is also important to choose high-quality CBD products, as the FDA does not regulate non-prescription CBD items.