Modern medicine uses analgesics, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve all kinds of pain. The problem? Some of these medications can be habit-forming and have side effects—and in some cases, they can even be addictive. CBD is now emerging as the perfect alternative to avoid these side effects. However, it’s natural to have questions about this innovative approach: Is there really a link between CBD and pain? Is CBD truly effective against pain?
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of the primary cannabinoids in cannabis. Along with tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, it is one of the two main components of medical cannabis. Although banned in France, THC may be present in CBD flowers, but only in very small amounts, as its concentration cannot exceed 0.3%. Cannabidiol is believed to act on certain natural receptors in the body that are part of the endocannabinoid system. This extensive network of endogenous cannabinoid receptors plays a major role in maintaining the body’s balance.
It is also believed to be involved in pain pathways and the immune system. It is thought to work in synergy with the cannabinoids naturally produced by the body. Furthermore, CBD is believed to stimulate the endocannabinoid system without causing any psychoactive effects. As a result, the therapeutic properties of CBD are sought after in many situations. Here are a few examples.
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Pain management: Thanks to its potential analgesic effects, CBD may help alleviate pain caused by migraines, rheumatism, endometriosis, or joint pain.
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Treatment of symptoms associated with chronic inflammation: CBD's anti-inflammatory properties are believed to be beneficial in treating psoriasis and eczema, Crohn's disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, etc.
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Managing Sleep Disorders: CBD's anxiolytic properties may help combat insomnia and anxiety.
- Care for patients with degenerative diseases such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease.
How does CBD work to relieve pain?
Thanks to its antioxidant properties, CBD may be a good choice for helping to relieve pain symptoms. Research on CBD and pain relief appears to be promising. CBD may be an excellent alternative for people who suffer from chronic pain and who rely on more dangerous medications that can be addictive.
Cannabidiol is considered an effective, well-tolerated, and, above all, safe component of medical cannabis. Cannabidiol is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antiepileptic, and antipsychotic properties without the significant side effects associated with psychotropic drugs. Any inflammatory response generates free radicals, which in turn trigger secondary reactions that can potentially damage tissues. Cannabidiol is believed to possess both strong antioxidant properties and analgesic mechanisms. This is why the health benefits of CBD are becoming increasingly popular and complementary to traditional medicine.
What effect would CBD have on pain?
Among the effects of CBD on the body, pain relief stands out as the most significant. In addition, CBD is said to have the following properties:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs;
- Pain relievers;
- Antispasmodics;
- Anxiolytics;
- Antispasmodics;
- Antiemetics.
The use of CBD may therefore be beneficial in alleviating many types of pain, such as joint pain, endometriosis-related pain, and chronic pain associated with rheumatism...
Joint pain
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD may help relieve joint pain, such as arthritis. As a result, CBD may:
- Inhibition of glutamate release causes pain;
- A decrease in the production of pro-inflammatory cells;
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Stimulation of the production of anti-inflammatory cells.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is an autoimmune disease characterized by the abnormal growth of endometrial-like cells outside the uterine cavity. According to statistics, this disease affects one in 10 women of childbearing age. Endometriosis therefore causes severe abdominal, pelvic, and back pain during menstruation. The standard treatment for this pain involves hormonal therapy or medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, or opioids, which can have bothersome side effects.
CBD may reduce or help reduce certain symptoms associated with endometriosis, including:
- Inflammation;
- Abdominal, pelvic, and back pain;
- Headaches;
- Anxiety;
- Fatigue;
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Irritable bowel syndrome.
Chronic pain, such as rheumatism
The term “rheumatism” refers to the aging of joints and connective tissues such as bones, cartilage, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This condition progresses in episodes of flare-ups. It causes chronic pain, most commonly in the neck, back, shoulder, elbow, wrist, fingers, hip, knee, and ankles. In this context, the standard methods of pain management are as follows:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs);
- Codeine-based medications;
- Corticosteroid injection.
CBD's anti-inflammatory effect is recommended for relieving rheumatic pain:
- Osteoarthritis;
- Soft-tissue rheumatism;
- Chronic back pain;
- Osteoporosis;
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Fibromyalgia.
Migraine Pain
Migraine is a chronic neurological disorder that affects 15% of the population. It manifests as severe headaches that occur in episodes. Several types of migraine can affect the quality of life of those who suffer from them. These include, among others:
- Migraine without aura, characterized by headaches accompanied by nausea and/or sensitivity to light and sound;
- Migraine with aura, characterized by a headache accompanied by neurological, visual, sensory, and motor symptoms, etc.;
- Ocular migraine, which corresponds to migraine with visual aura.
CBD's effect on migraines appears to occur on three levels: analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antiemetic (relief from nausea and vomiting).
Which CBD product should you choose for pain relief?
According to scientific studies, CBD is believed to be a pain reliever that has proven effective for many people. Depending on the condition to be treated and how quickly relief is needed, CBD can be taken orally, sublingually, or topically.
CBD Products for Consumption
Among the CBD products available for consumption, several options stand out. On our website, you'll find, in particular:
- CBD flowers;
- CBD oil;
- CBD Resins & Pollen
- CBD in the Diet;
- CBD herbal teas & infusions.
For long-lasting effects, choose our CBD products for oral use. After ingestion, the effects of CBD begin to be felt after at least half an hour. However, they last longer.
For fast-acting relief, you can choose to place CBD oil under your tongue. Sublingual administration of CBD is said to allow you to feel the beneficial effects of cannabidiol after just a few minutes. This method is recommended for painful episodes such as migraines, endometriosis pain, osteoarthritis, and so on. Two to four drops of CBD oil placed under the tongue before a meal, at the end of the day, or in the morning should be enough to provide quick relief.
If you've never used CBD before, start with a low-concentration CBD oil. Don't hesitate to consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
CBD Products for Topical Use
Among the CBD products designed for topical application, you can choose from:
- CBD cosmetics;
- CBD balms;
- CBD massage oils.
Topical CBD products work locally. They are applied directly to the skin to target a specific area. Their effects are felt 15 to 30 minutes after application. Topical application of CBD may relieve pain and symptoms associated with psoriasis and eczema. It is recommended for soothing chronic pain associated with rheumatism, joint pain, or arthritis. Topical application of CBD is also recommended to relieve cramps and pain and promote muscle recovery in athletes.
Does taking CBD cause side effects?
In 2018, the World Health Organization clarified its position on the side effects of CBD. It states that there are currently no serious side effects associated with CBD oil when used on its own.
Unlike some pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs, CBD is not addictive. However, it can cause fatigue, mild diarrhea, and possibly slight weight loss.
In addition, there are certain contraindications to CBD use. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using it because the active ingredients may affect the development of the fetus and the baby. People with heart conditions should also discuss its use with their doctor beforehand. Finally, it is not recommended to drive after taking CBD because it may cause mild drowsiness.
In conclusion, there is a real need for alternatives that could help patients suffering from chronic, intractable pain such as osteoarthritis. Opioids have shown their dark side: addiction, dependence, and dangerous side effects. Feedback from CBD users regarding its potential pain-relieving effects has opened up a world of opportunities and caught the attention of scientists! Research on CBD has revealed a synergy between cannabinoids and our body’s own regulatory system, which scientists have named the endocannabinoid system.
Please note, however, that CBD is not a medication and cannot replace medical treatment. We recommend that you consult a healthcare professional if you have any doubts.