How CBD Can Help Manage Chronic Pain

Chronic inflammation is a major health concern affecting millions of people worldwide, leading to various health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer (Gleeson et al., 2016). Fortunately, research has shown that cannabinoids, specifically cannabidiol (CBD), can help manage inflammation and alleviate chronic pain. In this article, we will explore the potential of CBD in managing inflammation and chronic pain and its safety for use.

Introduction

Cannabinoids are compounds naturally found in the cannabis plant, with CBD being one of the most prevalent and well-known cannabinoids. Inflammation is a natural response by the body’s immune system to injury or infection. While acute inflammation is a necessary defense mechanism, chronic inflammation can lead to several health issues. Chronic inflammation can affect various parts of the body, including the brain, heart, lungs, and joints.

Cannabidiol (CBD): What We Know and What We Don’t

CBD is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including pain management, anxiety relief, and anti-inflammatory properties (Bauer & Kelly, 2018). CBD has been used for many medical conditions, including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain. However, there is still much that we do not know about CBD, and further research is needed to fully understand its effects.

Understanding Cannabidiol

CBD is distinct from marijuana, cannabis, and hemp. It is a non-intoxicating compound that does not produce a “high.” CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors that play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including pain and inflammation (Russo, 2018). Understanding how CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system can help people appreciate its therapeutic potential.

The Legal Aspect of Cannabidiol

The legality of CBD varies by state and country. In the United States, CBD derived from hemp is legal at the federal level. Medical marijuana, which contains both CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is legal in many states but still illegal at the federal level (National Conference of State Legislatures, 2022). This makes it essential for CBD users to understand the legality of the substance in their region to avoid running into legal problems.

Cannabinoids and Inflammation

Research has shown that CBD possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it an attractive option for managing chronic pain and inflammation. Many patients have reported success in using CBD oil to replace traditional pain relievers like ibuprofen (Booz, 2011). The mechanism by which CBD acts as an anti-inflammatory agent is multifaceted, as it involves several pathways. CBD interacts with both the endocannabinoid system and the immune system to regulate inflammation.

Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of CBD in reducing inflammation. A study conducted on rats with arthritis showed that transdermal application of CBD reduced inflammation and pain-related behavior (Hammell et al., 2016). Another study indicated that CBD reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, which are two key components of chronic inflammation (Booz, 2011). While there is a need for more studies involving human subjects, the results of these studies are promising.

Cannabigerol

CBG, or cannabigerol, is a lesser-known cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. While it is not as prevalent as CBD or THC, recent research suggests that CBG may have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that make it a potential treatment option for chronic inflammation.

A study conducted on mice showed that CBG reduced inflammation in the gut, making it a promising option for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (Pagano et al., 2020). Another study found that CBG reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in mice with Huntington’s disease, a condition characterized by chronic inflammation and neurodegeneration (Valdeolivas et al., 2020).

While further research is needed to confirm these findings, the results suggest that CBG may be a promising treatment for chronic inflammation. As with any new treatment, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting CBG therapy to ensure its safety and efficacy for your specific needs.

CBD and Arthritis

Arthritis is a prevalent condition that causes chronic pain and inflammation. CBD has been shown to have potential as a treatment
for arthritis pain. Studies have shown that CBD can help alleviate pain and improve sleep quality in people with rheumatoid arthritis (Hammell et al., 2016). Additionally, CBD may be an attractive option for individuals suffering from arthritis since it has no psychoactive effects and few side effects.

Case Study: CBD’s Impact on Rheumatoid Arthritis

A recent study showed that CBD has the potential to kill inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts, which are cells that contribute to the development of rheumatoid arthritis. The study indicated that CBD could inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, as well as reduce the activation of immune cells that contribute to chronic inflammation (Schuelert & McDougall, 2018). Although confirming these findings requires further research, they indicate that CBD may hold promise as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.

CBD Usage and Safety

CBD is generally considered safe, with few side effects reported. However, it is essential to use CBD products from reputable sources and to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment. Additionally, CBD can interact with other medications, so individuals taking medication should consult with their healthcare provider before using CBD. Although CBD is considered safe, researchers are currently conducting studies to identify any potential long-term effects of its use.

It is also important to consider the dosage and method of CBD use. CBD dosage can vary based on a person’s weight, health condition, and the desired effect. It is best to start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed. Individuals can consume CBD in various forms, such as tinctures, capsules, edibles, and topical products.. It is important to choose a product and method that is most suitable for one’s needs.

Conclusion

CBD has shown promise in managing chronic inflammation and pain, particularly in conditions like arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a promising option for those looking to manage their chronic pain without relying on traditional pain relievers. However, it is essential to use CBD products from reputable sources and to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.

CBD is an exciting area of research, and its potential for managing inflammation and chronic pain has generated significant interest. While there is still much to learn about CBD, the evidence so far suggests that it is a safe and effective treatment option for individuals suffering from chronic inflammation and pain. As with any new treatment, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting CBD therapy to ensure its safety and efficacy for your specific needs.

FAQ

References

Bauer, B. A., & Kelly, J. P. (2018). Cannabinoid Use in Chronic Pain Management: An Overview of the Current Landscape. Mayo Clinic Proceedings: Innovations, Quality & Outcomes, 2(5), 499–511. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2018.07.001

Booz, G. W. (2011). Cannabidiol as an emergent therapeutic strategy for lessening the impact of inflammation on oxidative stress. Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 51(5), 1054–1061. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2011.01.007

Gleeson, M., Bishop, N. C., Stensel, D. J., Lindley, M. R., Mastana, S. S., & Nimmo, M. A. (2016). The anti-inflammatory effects of exercise: Mechanisms and implications for the prevention and treatment of disease. Nature Reviews Immunology, 11(9), 607–615. https://doi.org/10.1038/nri3041

Hammell, D. C., Zhang, L. P., Ma, F., Abshire, S. M., McIlwrath, S. L., Stinchcomb, A. L., & Westlund

Pagano, E., Capasso, R., Piscitelli, F., Romano, B., Parisi, O. A., Finizio, S., Lauritano, A., Marzo, V. D., & Izzo, A. A. (2020). Effects of Non-euphoric Plant Cannabinoids on Muscle Quality and Performance of Mice. Frontiers in Physiology, 11, 620. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2020.00620

Valdeolivas, S., Navarrete, C., Cantarero, I., Bellido, M. L., Muñoz, E., & Sagredo, O. (2020). Neuroprotective Properties of Cannabigerol in Huntington’s Disease: Studies in R6/2 Mice and 3-Nitropropionate-lesioned Mice. Neurotherapeutics, 17(3), 825–836. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-020-00857-w