CBD (cannabidiol) has been recognized for its numerous health benefits, including potential relief from chronic pain. Understanding how CBD works can help dispel the misconceptions associated with its use.
CBD oil is derived from the cannabis plant and is commonly used for alleviating conditions like anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and chronic pain. However, due to ongoing restrictions on cannabis research, there is still limited evidence from human studies to fully support its benefits. Nevertheless, with the legalization of cannabis in various areas, research is expanding, and the results so far are promising.
This article explores how CBD oil may be used to manage chronic pain and what the current research says about its effectiveness.
How Does CBD Affect Pain?
CBD is one of over 100 compounds known as cannabinoids that are found in cannabis. Although cannabinoids are found in other plants, they are most commonly associated with cannabis. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD doesn’t produce a euphoric high, as it doesn’t activate the same receptors in the brain.
The body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) processes cannabinoids and plays a key role in regulating functions like sleep, immune responses, and pain. While THC binds to endocannabinoid receptors to create a “high,” CBD works differently by enhancing the body’s use of its own endocannabinoids, which may help regulate pain perception and reduce inflammation.
According to a study published in Neurotherapeutics in 2015, CBD influences multiple receptor systems within the body and can interact with the ECS to improve the body’s pain management processes. CBD has been linked to increased levels of anandamide, a compound associated with pain regulation, which can improve mood and reduce the perception of discomfort.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is extracted from different types of cannabis plants, such as hemp and marijuana. Hemp generally contains higher concentrations of CBD, making it a preferred source for most CBD oils. The extraction methods can vary, and the resulting oil is usually mixed with a carrier oil to create the final product.
The strength of CBD oil can differ based on the manufacturer, and people can use it in various ways. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting to use CBD oil to ensure safe and appropriate usage.
Can CBD Provide Pain Relief?
Some studies suggest that CBD may help alleviate chronic pain by reducing inflammation and interacting with the ECS. For example, the National Centers for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) reports that there is some evidence that cannabis products, including CBD, may provide modest relief for certain types of chronic pain.
However, while CBD shows promise, there isn’t enough conclusive research yet to prove its safety and effectiveness for pain management. The FDA has not approved CBD for pain treatment, so further studies are necessary to determine safe dosages and potential long-term benefits.
Potential Benefits of CBD for Pain Management
Based on research, here are some ways CBD might help with specific types of pain:
Neuropathic Pain
Neuropathic pain is caused by nerve damage and is common in conditions like multiple sclerosis, shingles, or herniated discs. A 2017 review found that CBD showed promise in reducing chronic neuropathy pain, though further research is needed to better understand its role and risks.
Arthritis Pain
A 2016 study conducted on animal models indicated that CBD could reduce arthritis-related pain and inflammation. The study involved applying a topical CBD gel to rats, resulting in noticeable improvements in pain levels without any significant side effects.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Pain
Multiple sclerosis can cause muscle spasms that are painful and difficult to manage. One study found that short-term CBD use reduced the frequency and intensity of muscle spasms in people with MS, though the results were modest.
Chronic Pain
Several studies have shown that CBD can be an effective option for managing general chronic pain. Research published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine suggests that CBD may reduce inflammation and pain in subjects without leading to tolerance, meaning users may not need to increase doses over time.
Other Uses of CBD
In addition to pain relief, CBD has been studied for a wide range of applications, including:
- Helping people quit smoking
- Managing symptoms of drug withdrawal
- Treating seizures and epilepsy
- Managing anxiety
- Reducing some symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
- Managing schizophrenia
- Potentially combating cancer and type 1 diabetes
Although these uses are promising, more research is needed to fully confirm CBD’s effectiveness for these conditions.
Dosage Considerations
Since CBD is not regulated by the FDA for most uses, determining the appropriate dosage can be challenging. Anyone interested in using CBD for pain relief should first consult a doctor to ensure it is safe and determine an appropriate starting dose.
The only FDA-approved form of CBD, called Epidiolex, is used to treat certain types of epilepsy, and dosages should always be followed according to a doctor’s recommendations.
Potential Side Effects of CBD
While most people tolerate CBD well, it can have some side effects, such as:
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Weight gain or loss
Additionally, CBD may interact with other medications and affect their effectiveness. For example, it can interfere with the body’s ability to metabolize certain drugs, including those processed by the liver enzyme cytochrome P450.
Safety Considerations
There is limited research on the long-term effects of CBD, particularly in areas like hormone regulation. High doses of CBD may also interfere with the body’s immune system response, potentially increasing the risk of infection. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and children should avoid using CBD unless otherwise directed by a doctor.
Is CBD Oil Right for You?
While there is promising evidence that CBD can help with chronic pain, more long-term human studies are needed to verify these findings. However, CBD’s lack of intoxicating effects and its relatively low risk of serious side effects make it an appealing alternative to traditional pain medications.
Before trying CBD, consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe for your specific needs, especially if you’re taking other medications.