CBD oil for pain? Really?

Painkiller and opioid abuse is a serious problem in the United States, and many individuals who experience pain receive prescribed painkillers that can quickly lead to dependency and exacerbate your health problems.

Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is a chemical compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant, which many associate exclusively with the recreational drug marijuana. CBD does not cause a ‘high’ sensation, but it has been shown anecdotally and scientifically to aid in pain relief without causing addiction and withdrawal concerns that are common with prescription painkillers.

We’re going to discuss how CBD works and how you can use CBD oil for pain relief, as well as where to get high-quality, effective oil.              

Are CBD products legal?

Congress passed the Farm Bill in 2018, which legalized hemp production. Marijuana, however, is federally illegal, and the distinction Congress made between hemp and marijuana is that legal hemp can contain no more than 0.3% THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis.

Because hemp is legal, CBD, which is extracted from the plant, is also legal. In some states, marijuana and its associated products are also legal, and you may have access to a wider range of CBD products because the THC content can increase.

How CBD works

The body contains cannabinoid receptors, which essentially refers to the signaling system your brain uses to communicate processes related to metabolism, pain, and immune function, among other things.

The CBD compound has been found to affect these receptors and others, and research is ongoing to learn more about this process. When it comes to issues of pain, the body and brain have pain receptors and signals that tell you to feel pain. CBD can block some of these signals to give some respite from aches and inflammation.  

People who suffer from chronic pain are at risk from becoming dependent on prescription pain relievers, and CBD can be a viable, non-addictive alternative. The World Health Organization states that:

“In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential…. To date, there is no evidence of public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”

Chronic pain, arthritis, and inflammation

Early studies have shown promise when it comes to CBD and pain relief. A 2017 meta-analysis found that CBD relieved neuropathic pain in many participants, and a 2016 animal study showed relief of arthritis symptoms. More human studies are ongoing.

Research indicates that CBD may reduce inflammation, particularly when applied topically. It’s recommended that in instances of joint pain or body aches, apply CBD oil topically in a localized area.

CBD oil can also be taken orally by placing drops under the tongue (sublingual). It takes longer to feel the effects of CBD taken orally than when applied topically. Oral consumption can lead to total body relief, however.

How do I use CBD oil?

It’s important to note that not all CBD products are the same. Some manufacturers do not use third-party testing on their products to ensure consistency and potency. That’s why it’s important to choose a brand that’s reputable and independently tested, like EcoKino.

CBD oil dosing is a tricky matter, but the general rule of thumb is “low and slow”. Start at a low dose and wait to feel results, and also consider the dosing calculator for a baseline. In many cases of pain, topical application will work well, but the sublingual method mentioned above is another option.

Side effects and safety

If you’re taking other medications, you may want to consult with your doctor before starting CBD treatment. There is a possibility that CBD in certain doses may interfere with certain medications, like blood thinners, but research is unclear.

One side effect is dry mouth, particularly with oral application. Other side effects may include:

• Lightheadedness
• Drowsiness

In short, start at a low dose to see how you feel. Only take as much as you need to feel relief, and speak to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Conclusion

CBD is a non-addictive solution to pain relief. It has worked for many individuals, and it may work for you as well. Look for high-quality oil and be judicious in your application while you figure out the best dose for you.