CBD FOR PAIN
Since the successful isolation of CBD from the cannabis plant in 1940, there has been an increased interest in the potential benefits it has to offer. There are several speculations and confirmation from research showing how CBD can play active roles as antioxidants, anticancer, anti-tumor, anti-depressant, anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial agent.
These activities are attributed to the successful interaction between CBD and the receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The endocannabinoid system consists of two important receptors (CB1 and CB2) that play active roles in modulating cognitive activities like appetite, pain sensation, internal balance (homeostasis), and immune responses. In this article, we shall discuss the potential benefits of CBD in eliciting anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Pain is an integral part of our existence as humans. It determines how we respond to injuries or the presence of an underlying condition in the tissue or cell. Response to pain ranges from mild to chronic, depending on the duration. While mild forms of pain may only last up to a few hours, chronic pains tend to span for several days, thus requiring medication for proper treatment.
The ECS plays a significant role in modulating the brain’s ability to respond to pain. It serves to attenuate synaptic response (or cell-to-cell communication) and has the potential to alleviate the transmission of nerve impulses, thus reducing the level of pain interpreted by the brain. When ECS interacts with cannabinoids like CBD, it tends to produce the following activities.
- Anti-inflammatory effects
The anti-inflammatory effects of CBD have been widely discussed by several scientists, thanks to the expression of CB2 receptors in the immune system. Since CBD produces modulatory effects, it can serve to balance immune responses making sure that only the right cells are attacked during immune responses. This helps to reduce the establishment of inflammation-induced diseases like arthritis.
- Promotes brain health
The role of CBD in triggering neurogenesis (the production of new brain cells) has been documented by several scientists. CBD can also trigger the release of feel-good hormones, and interact with Serotonin and GABA receptors to control mood.
- Internal balance
CBD possesses an excellent antioxidant profile capable of neutralizing the harmful effects of free radicals. The accumulation of free radicals in cells and tissues can create the best environment for chronic pain to thrive.
Is CBD Safe for Pain?
With the increased interest in the use of CBD as an alternative remedy for pain relief due to its non-psychoactive nature, adequate care must be taken to understand that CBD can trigger nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and negative drug interaction. This negative drug interaction occurs when it is administered concomitantly with prescription drugs like warfarin, aspirin, clobazam, and theophylline. These drugs depend on the enzymatic activity of Cytochrome P450, which can be inhibited by CBD.
CBD is safe for use regardless of age, sex, and health status. Its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects have been widely discussed by several researchers. CBD may also serve as an alternative medication for pain relief or depression.
I have some of my patients taking CBD on a regular basis to help with pain and inflammation and many of my patients report that it has helped with both pain reduction and surprisingly sleep! Personally, I been taking CBD tinctures every night at bedtime to help with sleep along with supporting my ECS.
