CBD and Pain

CBD also known as Cannabidiol, is a molecule that is found in the hemp/cannabis that is well known for its medicinal benefits. CBD is one of over 120 compounds known as cannabinoids. CBD is very different from other cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) because it doesn’t give the user a psychoactive effect or the euphoric “high.” Also, CBD doesn’t affect the same receptors, such as THC.

The human body has an endocannabinoid system that is composed of endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors. CBD acts upon CB1 and CB2 receptors, by stimulating these receptors, CBD effects on the brain promotes homeostasis; CBD is being recognized for its ability to bring balance and harmony to irregularities in neural processes. 

The emergence of new research suggests that CBD for pain could provide a great alternative to individuals who are seeking a holistic approach. 

How does CBD help with pain?

Our body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that gathers and interprets signals coming from cannabinoids. This system also produces its own cannabinoids referred to as endocannabinoids. The ECS helps regulate functions like immune system responses, sleep, and pain.

Nerve Pain

Those that experience neuropathic pain are suffering from damaged nerves.  Our brain perceives this type of pain differently from usual pain that is experience through falling or scraping your knee.  CBD helps by minimizing the inflammation but also keeps your mind calm.  Disorders like nerve pain or neuropathy are stressful which can eventually lead to depression or anxiety if not addressed.

Opioids are a common medication used to treat nerve pain but unfortunately have many dangerous side effects and psychological symptoms and can be addictive.  CBD allows people to reduce their medications and in some cases remove them all together leading to a better, happier life.

Back Pain

CBD is a full body treatment as it doesn’t just target one area but rather the body as a whole.  Back pain is a very common health condition that many people face today whether they are experiencing back pain from physical activity or a lack of movement.

Studies on CBD have been shown to dramatically decrease inflammation and relax muscles which can help lessen back pain and any anxiety related to the pain.

Chronic Pain

CBD is proven to work directly with endocannabinoid receptors in your immune system and brain.  Receptors are tiny proteins attached to your cells. They receive signals, mostly chemical ones, from different stimuli and help your cells respond.

This response creates anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects that help with pain management. This means that CBD oil and other products may benefit people with chronic pain, such as chronic back pain.

One 2018 review assessed how well CBD works to relieve chronic pain. The review looked at studies conducted between 1975 and March 2018. These studies examined various types of pain, including cancer pain, neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia

Based on these studies, researchers concluded that CBD was effective in overall pain management and didn’t cause negative side effects

Conclusion

To conclude, CBD provides a great alternative for individuals that are looking for holistic approaches to health ailments. Generally, it is proven that pharmaceuticals are more likely to yield negative side effects. Holistic approaches to health treat the whole of a person, meaning, they take into account mental, social and physical factors rather than just the symptoms of a disease. The human body is codependent meaning that the body, mind and soul can have an effect on one another. CBD creates a holistic natural solution for the body, mind and soul for several different health issues.

By leveraging the endocannabinoid system, it is clear that various study results suggest that CBD will likely yield positive results on the human mind and body.