CBD may provide relief from arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other chronic pain conditions. Research suggests it’s non-psychoactive and doesn’t create dependence.
CBD may help relieve nerve-related discomfort from multiple sclerosis or HIV/AIDS as well as malignant diseases, potentially helping people avoid opioid medications altogether. Additionally, taking CBD can also help people avoid opioid dependence altogether.
Pain Relief
CBD may help alleviate pain from chronic conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia, though its main benefit lies in treating inflammation that causes it rather than directly relieving actual discomfort.
According to one study on CBD and pain relief, participants who took an oral spray containing both THC and CBD experienced more significant pain relief than those taking opioid medications alone. THC changes how we perceive pain while CBD targets its source.
CBD may help ease chronic pain by acting upon multiple receptors in our bodies. This interaction means it can have an effect on how our brains process pain signals as well as reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Furthermore, unlike opioids which contain addictive properties, CBD poses no such risks; making it an attractive solution during times of opioid crises.
Anti-Inflammatory
CBD is an anti-inflammatory that may help ease chronic conditions like arthritis. Additionally, CBD may alleviate neuropathic pain caused by nerve damage or dysfunction and is commonly seen among multiple sclerosis patients.
CBD works by activating cell signaling receptors within your body called the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). These tiny proteins attached to cells communicate with various chemicals outside, including those that signal pain and inflammation. CBD works through its interactions with this ECS system in your body.
CBD can be taken as either a capsule or cream that you apply directly onto the skin, though nonprescription CBD products aren’t regulated like prescription medicines; so read product labels carefully for dosage information and consider your pain severity when making this decision. Research indicates that higher doses of CBD provide superior pain relief; but for some individuals even smaller amounts may provide some benefit.
Anxiety Relief
CBD has been demonstrated to effectively ease anxiety and alleviate stress. One study examined how 103 adults with clinically significant anxiety and sleep disturbances who received CBD in a psychiatric clinic over six months experienced significantly decreased anxiety and improved sleep quality, with lasting effects. Results demonstrated how CBD significantly reduced anxiety while improving quality sleep over time.
Preclinical evidence of CBD’s anxiolytic properties at oral doses up to 600 mg supports its anxiolytic benefits without altering baseline anxiety levels or inducing sedation. Furthermore, one recent study on its use with PTSD patients shows it to decrease symptoms such as distressing thoughts, hyper-arousal, avoidance behavior as well as increasing extinction and blocking reconsolidation of fear memories.
CBD’s anxiolytic effects have been attributed to its ability to interact with various brain receptors. CBD has been found to modulate NMDA receptors and increase 5-HT1AR activation. Furthermore, SPECT analysis revealed that CBD decreased cerebral blood flow (rCBF) to limbic regions such as amygdala and prefrontal cortex regions that drive fear responses.
Sleep Improvement
Many people rely on CBD and other compounds from the cannabis plant to treat sleep disorders, but research on these supplements remains limited. One case study reported that CBD could improve sleep in people suffering from insomnia; this unblinded trial, however, cannot be verified with additional human trials. Other research into both THC and CBD from same plant family shows promise for treating substance misuse and anxiety but requires further human trials for confirmation.
When purchasing CBD products, look for those made in the U.S. using ingredients grown and processed domestically as well as those with certificates from an independent lab that use standardized testing methods (similar to what pharmaceuticals or dietary supplements require, but without federal requirements). Avoid smoking or vaping; these can damage lungs as well as lead to other side effects.
Cannabidiol (CBD), is becoming a trendy new supplement. Michigan Medicine experts discuss what’s known about potential benefits and risks related to CBD use.
