Medicinal cannabis, also known as medicinal marijuana, is obtained from the cannabis plant and is used to treat various diseases and improve symptoms. With a prescription from a healthcare provider, medicinal cannabis can be used for pain management in various medical conditions. It contains three main components: cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical component of medical cannabis. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not cause a “high,” making it a safer option for medical use. CBD is most commonly found in oil, but it is also available as an extract and is often added to beauty products, food, and drinks.
Can CBD relieve chronic pain?
There is growing interest in CBD as a potential pain reliever. Some studies suggest that CBD may help combat chronic pain by reducing inflammation and improving sleep. While these findings are promising, more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of CBD for pain relief. To date, the FDA has not yet approved CBD as a treatment for pain.
Here are some of the potential benefits of CBD for specific types of pain:
Neuropathic pain
Neuropathic pain, caused by nerve damage, is a common symptom of conditions such as multiple sclerosis, herniated discs, and shingles. A 2017 review of clinical trials suggests that CBD may help in relieving neuropathic pain, offering hope to those suffering from this debilitating condition.
Arthritis pain
In 2016, an animal study published in the European Journal of Pain investigated the effects of CBD on arthritis. Rats with arthritis were treated with a topical CBD gel for four days. The results? Reduced inflammation and pain, without additional side effects. Although more research is needed, this study adds to the growing evidence that CBD can be a valuable tool in managing arthritis pain.
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and nerves, often leading to muscle spasms and chronic pain. A study on the short-term use of CBD showed that it may reduce muscle spasms and pain in MS patients. Many people with MS have reported similar results, although more studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Chronic pain
Chronic pain can be relentless, but CBD could offer some relief. Several studies have gathered evidence that CBD can reduce inflammation and pain. While these findings are promising, more extensive research is required to fully understand the role of CBD in chronic pain management.
How to use CBD oil for pain relief
CBD oil can be used in several ways to manage pain. Here are six basic methods:
- Tincture: Drop or spray CBD oil directly into your mouth or under your tongue for quick relief. The sublingual method ensures that CBD enters your bloodstream quickly, thanks to the many capillaries under your tongue. Hold the oil there for a few minutes before swallowing.
- Pill: CBD pills offer a consistent dosage, but they work more slowly because they must be digested first before entering your bloodstream.
- Smoothie: Not a fan of the earthy taste of CBD? Mask it with a morning smoothie! Add half a teaspoon of CBD oil to start your day with a potential pain reliever.
- Coffee: Some coffee brands now offer CBD-infused blends. CBD can help counteract the anxiety sometimes caused by caffeine, providing a more balanced start to your day. Not a fan of coffee? Try adding CBD oil to your milk.
- Salad: Drizzle a few teaspoons of CBD oil over your salad. It is an easy and tasty way to include CBD in your diet.
- Balm, gel, or rub: For targeted relief, you can try a topical CBD product. Rub it directly onto the area that causes pain for localized effects.
What is the safe dosage of CBD for chronic pain management?
Since CBD has not yet been approved or regulated by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for pain relief, there is no official dosage recommendation. This means it is up to you—and preferably your doctor—to determine the right dose.
The correct dosage depends on factors such as your weight, the condition you are treating, your body chemistry, and the concentration of CBD. A good starting point is 20 to 40 milligrams per day, increasing by 5 milligrams until you find the amount that works best for you.
What happens if you take too much CBD?
Although CBD is generally considered safe, too much of it can lead to unpleasant side effects such as vomiting, dry mouth, fatigue, nausea, headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, and changes in appetite. These effects are usually short-lived, but they remind us that it is wise to start with a low dose and increase it gradually.
Potential risks of using CBD for pain management
As with any treatment, there are potential risks associated with CBD. It can interact with other medications or supplements you are taking, and many CBD products are not yet approved by the EMA, meaning they have not been tested by third-party laboratories. Potential side effects include decreased alertness, loss of appetite, gastrointestinal issues, and mood swings; these have not been fully tested or reviewed by health authorities.
Tips for buying high-quality CBD products for pain management
To ensure you get a high-quality CBD product, consider the following:
- Choose hemp-derived CBD: Avoid products derived from marijuana, as they may contain higher THC levels and may not be legal in your area. Hemp-derived CBD is a safer, legally permitted option.
- Look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA): This document confirms that the product has been tested by a third party and provides evidence of its quality and safety.
- Check the ingredients: Ensure the product contains high-quality ingredients in the right amounts.
Conclusion
CBD shows promise as an alternative option for pain management, especially for chronic conditions such as neuropathic pain, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. However, it is important to be cautious. There is no standard dosage, and CBD is not yet fully regulated. Always consult a healthcare provider before adding CBD to your pain management plan, especially if you are taking other medications.
When buying CBD products, prioritize quality and safety by choosing hemp-derived products with third-party laboratory certificates. Start with a low dose, increase it gradually, and monitor how your body reacts. Although CBD may not be a one-size-fits-all solution, it can be a valuable part of your overall pain management strategy. Stay informed and responsible, and you might find that CBD provides the relief you were looking for.
