Given that chronic pain affects millions of people across the globe, it should come as no surprise that people are sometimes forced to look for alternative medicine that does not involve the use of conventional drugs. Of these alternative treatment options, one that is slowly getting recognized is the use of cannabidiol (CBD), which is an extract from the cannabis plant. Many studies bolster the health benefits associated with CBD including its use for treating pain. So, what does the evidence tell us about the effects of CBD on pain?
CBD Basics
CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of a number of cannabinoids. CBD does not evoke a euphoric state within users. It exerts its effect by engaging the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which has a hand in pain perception as well as other functions such as modulating mood and immune system responses.
Although much is still to be investigated on the mode of action of CBD, it is believed that the reaction with the ECS results in reduced inflammation, dampening of pain signals conveyed to the brain, and restoring any imbalance, which further promotes homeostasis. This makes it likely to be useful in the management of both acute pain and chronic pain.
What Research Says About CBD for Pain: CBD Benefits
A number of clinical investigations have assessed the potential of CBD in relieving various forms of pain emanating from diseases like arthritis. Here’s an overview of some of the findings that have stood out:
CBD for Chronic Pain
This type of pain is caused by diseases or conditions such as fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, or even chronic low back aches. Studies have indicated that CBD may assist in alleviating such pain in adults as it can help decrease inflammation as well as inhibit certain pain transmitting cells.
According to a review from 2018, a number of research papers suggest that CBD was effective to manage chronic pain from a number of conditions, including those of cancer and fibromyalgia, while fewer adverse reactions were noted as compared to some pain control medicines.
Research further stated that CBD has good potential for the treatment of chronic pain; however, the use of THC in combination with CBD can supersede its use. This is due to the fact that both Cannabinoids may complement and reinforce the analgesic power of each other and that of other active ingredients by the "entourage effect."
Help with Arthritis Pain
Arthritis is also a condition associated with pain and inflammation of the joint.
A 2016 article conducted an experiment on arthritic rats and tested the impacts of CBD administered via topical routes. They concluded that skin application of CBD would reduce pain and inflammation without toxic effects.
Research centered on humans is quite scarce; however, preliminary considerations or anecdotic evidence show that CBD creams can alleviate arthritic pain and increase joint mobility in patients with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Neuropathic Pain
This pain is felt along the nerves, usually due to diseases such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and injury.
Some studies done in the year 2012 suggest that upon application of CBD, a reduction in chronic pain in animal studies was seen due to the anti-inflammatory activity and the succumbing to the physical neurotransmitters.
Patients who received CBD in combination with THC in products similar to Sativex oral spray were shown to have improvement in symptoms of neuropathic pain.
Cancer Pain
Most of the time, patients diagnosed with cancer will report pain, which results from either the cancer or the cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy. At present, the addition of CBD in the management of pain associated with cancer has also been researched.
In 2022, a study aimed to establish the efficacy of CBD for the treatment of malignant cancer-related pains. During the process of this investigation, it was reported that usage of CBD led to pain reduction and an increase in levels of patients’ well-being and pain management. Although other studies need to be performed, these findings are promising for those with cancer.
Migraine and Headache Pain
Headaches and migraines are among the other uses of CBD, which has elicited research interest.
Based on a study of 2024, cannabinoids like CBD may help prevent or reduce migraines. Although the study infers that CBD is a possibly effective agent, more definitive studies are required to evaluate its efficiency and its actual contribution to migraine management.
Comparing CBD for Pain Management to Regular Pain Killers
Conventional pain treatments such as NSAIDs and opioids do have their disadvantages and include side effects, addiction being the greatest drawback. CBD, on the other hand, is well tolerated with minimal side effects. Side effects, if any, are mild and may involve drowsiness, increase or decrease in appetite, or even diarrhea, which resolve after cessation of drug therapy.
One of the most effective points about CBD with regards to chronic pain management is the fact that it is not addictive, hence a better approach for patients suffering from chronic pain where narcotic medications are not a sustainable option.
How Should You Take CBD for Pain Relief?
Many forms of CBD are available in the market, so they may be suitable for different kinds and degrees of pain as well as preferences. The most popular of these include:
- Tinctures: Such remedies are taken by placing the liquid containing the remedy under the tongue as it is likely to be absorbed through the mucosa quickly as compared to being swallowed.
- Capsules: This is used by people when the effect of the drug would need to be lasting, however, its action would be delayed.
- Topicals: Directly placed on the skin and effective for pain management in a specific site such as arthritis.
- Edibles: Slow-acting edibles such as gummies or other forms of CBD-infused treats.
- Vaping or Smoking: Quick relief can be achieved through this method. However, not all groups may respond well to it.
Dosage and Safety
CBD is not a one-size-fits-all medication, and the appropriate amount differs from one person to the next. Dosage also depends on various factors, including the patients’ weight, metabolism rate, and the type of pain. Experts advise beginning with a lower dose and increasing it stepwise until the required level is reached. It is sound advice to seek medical consultation concerning CBD usage, especially where a person is on other medications.
Future Research and Limitations
Although the initial research is supportive, more human trials are needed to inform fully how CBD can help with pain as well as to develop unified dosing recommendations. Furthermore, the potential efficiency of cannabidiols in the management of pain appears to be individualized in regards to the cannabinoid being used, the dose employed and whether it’s used as a monotherapy or in tandem with THC and other such compounds.
Conclusion
CBD has been considered a potential source of relief from pain. There is commendable research and personal experience to back the claim. No matter the reason, chronic pain, arthritis, or migraines, there is a possibility of using CBD in place of conventional painkillers that are addictive. Nonetheless, it’s necessary that a healthcare specialist be consulted regarding the particular formulation and quantity suited for you.