The cannabinoid CBD, or cannabidiol, is found naturally in the cannabis or hemp plant. Genetically low in another cannabinoid THC, it does not produce euphoria that is the “high” sensation you would experience with marijuana. Although THC does have a wide range of potential health benefits, we will focus on CBD and its effectiveness for pain.
Why Can CBD Oil Be Good for Pain?
People with mild to chronic pain are increasingly turning to holistic CBD products in lieu of traditional synthetic medications. Topically applied or ingested, CBD oil has been frequently reported to manage symptoms including:
- Inflammation
- Pain
- Overall discomfort related to various medical conditions
Research on pain management with CBD products using hemp seeds has been very promising for pain and inflammation.
Your body has a cell signaling system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Identified in the early 1990s by cannabis researchers, the ECS has been found to regulate bodily functions such as sleep, mood, appetite, memory, and reproduction fertility to name a few. Some researchers believe CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors in your immune system and brain. These receptors are small proteins attached to your cells that receive signals, from different stimuli.
The cell response to stimuli generates pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects which help manage pain. This means CBD oil and other CBD products could benefit people suffering with chronic pain and inflammation.
Why Does the Mechanism of CBD Administration Matter?
CBD works best when you take it in capsule or pill form if you are looking for a slower and longer lasting effect. Oral tinctures (CBD-infused oil) are good if you need faster results. There is also topical administration where CBD is applied directly to a specific area on your body such as your knees or elbows. Topical lotions or roll-ons are absorbed through the skin and target the area of concern.
Other choices of CBD include:
- CBD isolate (purest form)
- Full-spectrum CBD oil (below 0.3 THC)
- Broad-spectrum CBD oil (THC free)
It is best to start off with small doses to get acquainted with CBDs effects, and if needed, increase your dosage over a period of time until you experience the level of comfort you desire. Be sure to track your symptoms and dosages so you can get an idea if CBD is helping or not. From your log, determine if you should continue including it in your treatment plan.
Do not smoke or vape anything as this can harm your lungs. The CDC states vaping has been linked with a recent lung disease epidemic.
Best CBD Oil For Pain – CBD Products That Could Help With Your Pain
Some of the best CBD products include:
1. Topical lotions, salves, and roll-ons
Lotions and salves are a good way to target a problematic area without diluting CBD throughout your body. Effectively absorbed through the skin, topical CBD does not enter the bloodstream which allows it to target the application area without dilution. Topicals pack more of a punch when you only have small areas of concern. Lotions also can help with dry skin and have pleasant scents when mixed with different ingredients.
For those who do not desire lotions or salves, roll-ons are a good option as this allows for quick no-mess application. Roll-ons typically come in small application bottles that easily fit in the glove box, jacket pocket, or your purse.
2. CBD Therapy Capsules
Capsules are good for those who desire the additional benefits of CBD outside of just targeted pain relief. Typically infused into fiber, capsules help the CBD pass through the stomach where it is absorbed in the small intestine for increased bioavailability. Capsules may take an hour or so to be digested, however effectiveness will be longer lasting than a tincture.
Other reasons to take capsules include:
- Exact dose every time
- No chance of spilling oil on clothing
- Completely flavorless
- Very portable
3. Tinctures
Tinctures are great for those who also desire the additional benefits of CBD but want to feel the effects more quickly. Applied sublingually, CBD is quickly absorbed by the capillaries under the tongue and into your bloodstream where it is carried throughout the body. Tinctures are sometimes flavored to make them palatable as it must be held under the tongue for 30 seconds or more to allow for CBD absorption.