CBD shows promise as an aid for pain relief in some studies, although further investigation must take place. Available as oil for ingestion or skin application, you may take CBD directly for best results.
CBD administration successfully reduced mechanical allodynia in an animal model of nerve injury neuropathic pain, enhanced glycine currents and normalized 5-HT activity.
What is CBD?
CBD products can be found for sale at health food stores, vape shops and some pharmacies without needing a valid prescription. CBD can be taken orally, applied directly to the skin or inhaled. General recommendations advise starting off slowly before gradually increasing dose over time – although please bear in mind that many CBD products contain less of what they advertise than advertised; furthermore extra ingredients like THC may also be present.
A July 2024 research review examined all research on CBD for pain relief. It considered 16 pharmaceutical-supplied CBD randomized controlled trials using oral, topical or buccal/sublingual formulations with dosages between 6 mg to 1,600 mg administered from single dose to 12-week treatment durations.
Researchers found that CBD had no analgesic effect on chronic musculoskeletal pain in any of the studies they reviewed, with many having high risks of bias and failing to account for factors that might influence it, such as depression or anxiety.
How is CBD absorbed?
CBD is a large hydrophobic molecule with limited water solubility; when taken orally, only a fraction is absorbed. The remaining material undergoes first pass metabolism and lipophilicity processes leading to only 13-19% oral bioavailability (Huestis 2007; Millar et al 2018).
As there are various methods available to increase CBD absorption, including using lipid-based delivery systems that incorporate surfactants and co-solvents which emulsify it into microdroplets that can easily penetrate intestinal walls, there are ways of increasing its uptake.
One way to enhance bioavailability of CBD is through sublingual administration, which increases absorption by up to two-fold. Also known as sublingual administration, as the endocannabinoid system is highly interconnected, this method may quickly travel throughout the body helping relieve pain or symptoms – though its limited application due to being so invasive.
What are the benefits of CBD?
CBD may help ease anxiety and mood-related disorders. According to research published in 2022, it may also reduce neuropathic pain caused by certain conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS). A spray containing both CBD and THC known as Sativex was approved as treatment for MS-related spasticity.
Studies from 2019 indicate that yoga may help relieve some symptoms associated with cancer treatment and chemotherapy, including nausea and vomiting, as well as insomnia and anxiety. It could even provide support during recovery from illness.
Before using CBD products, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider. They can advise you as to whether CBD suits your lifestyle and can advise you as to the appropriate dose and frequency of use. They may also provide valuable advice regarding safe doses and precautions. If you are taking medications such as blood thinners and antiepileptics such as anticonvulsants, let your physician know prior to beginning any form of cannabis consumption as it could interfere with how the body breaks down these medicines and alter your liver function tests; especially with high doses use.
What are the risks of CBD?
CBD is generally safe, though it may cause drowsiness, changes to appetite or weight, and fatigue. Furthermore, it may interfere with how some medications are broken down by your liver and can interact with certain blood thinners, antiepileptic drugs, immunosuppressant medicines, as well as alter the results of liver function tests.
Notify your doctor immediately if you plan on using CBD, especially if any prescription medicines or vaccines are involved. CBD use could alter their effectiveness or have other unforeseen repercussions that require adjustment.
CBD may offer relief for some with chronic pain, while it has no impact on others. Doses of CBD vary between individuals; so, for optimal results, speak to your physician regarding an ideal dose for you. Furthermore, be aware of which form of CBD you use; topical cream may not penetrate as effectively into your bloodstream as capsules that you take by mouth.
