CBD, short for cannabidiol and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), is the two most prominent chemical compounds found in cannabis. This has led to lots of scientific research into them both, especially the health benefits of CBD. One of the most significant health benefits of CBD is its pain-relieving effects. Where THC causes psychotic highs, CBD does not. Many online resources, such as CFAH have outlined the numerous benefits of CBD.
Is it legal?
Despite the evidence showing the health benefits of CBD, many people are concerned about the legalities of using CBD. Providing that THC levels remain below 0.2%, many countries have legalised the use of CBD. In the U.S, it’s legal in all 50 states.
How can you take CBD?
CBD is a plant extract that can be incorporated into many different types of products. The food, health and cosmetic industries have embraced it with open arms. You can find it in vapours, oils, oral sprays, edibles, creams, ointments, supplements and more. This is great because it means you can take it according to your needs and preference. For example, if you’re using CBD to treat muscle pain or skin problems, a cream might be the best option.
Regarding pain, this article takes a closer look into the specifics of how CBD works as pain relief.
CBD’s interaction with the Endocannabinoid (ECS) System
CBD is thought to relieve pain through its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system is our own body’s production of molecules called endogenous cannabinoids. Yes, we make our own cannabinoids. The
ECS system is responsible for regulating the body’s state of homeostasis, which is crucial for the digestive, immune and neurological systems to operate effectively.
CBD is a cannabinoid extracted from the cannabis plant. It’s thought that the different ways CBD interacts with our ECS system are the primary way CBD can help relieve pain.
Research has found that CBD can activate, antagonise, or inhibit our cannabinoid receptors. Specifically, our CB1 and CB2 receptors. The way CBD activates our CB2 receptors causes a reduction in oxidative stress and inflammation. Therefore, research has praised CBD for its anti-inflammatory effects on the body.
What pain conditions can CBD help?
The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD, which work on the CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties, have also been shown to relieve symptoms of IBS, such as stomach pain and constipation. Plus, the pain-relieving effects can help with arthritis’s chronic pain and symptoms.
Not only can CBD relieve you of physical pain but emotional pain too. Studies have shown how CBD can positively affect your serotonin levels in the brain, improving your mood and experience of negative emotions. Consequently, this can also help improve the negative feelings we associate with pain and help change our perception of pain.
