Pain management has become accessible over the past decade, all thanks to modern science. There were advances and innovation offering painkillers in many forms other than traditional tablets. Opioids and morphine have been made available to people suffering from acute problems and chronic conditions. However, in recent years, doctors are not that keen on prescribing these medications. One of the chief reasons behind this can be patients reporting fatal side effects with the long term use of such drugs.
Overuse of these medications can cause irreversible damage to our organs. It also exposes one to the risk of abuse and, in severe cases, even death. The search for a natural alternative has always been on the cards, and gladly, Cannabidiol (CBD) turns out to be a promising product. With amazing analgesic properties, CBD seems to be the future of the market.
CBD a Popular Compound.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabis derivative. The Discovery of this compound has been a tipping point for the medicinal use of marijuana. CBD is abundantly available in the stalk and leaves of the cannabis plant. Surprisingly, CBD does not show psychoactive properties rather analgesic effects, making it a breakthrough in the field of pain-relieving medication. A cross-sectional study conducted in 2018 reported CBD to be effective in managing chronic pain, arthritis as well as joint pains. Many people use CBD oil for sleep to release everyday pain and muscle tension.
Many internet polls have raving testimonials from the users sharing the fantastic healing journey. While markets are flooding with more CBD products, users’ basic curiosity to understand the science behind it stands consistent. Let us dig deeper and find out what science has to say about CBD.
What does Science say?
The human endocannabinoid system is a mesh of nerves, receptors, cannabinoids, and chemicals that comprehensively guide health and wellness. The ECS plays a regulatory role in our body by undergoing the process of homeostasis. Several components in our ECS unite to initiate and manage functions like appetite, sleep, mood, inflammation, and pain.
For each of these regulatory mechanisms, ECS releases a corresponding endocannabinoid on receiving any signal. These endocannabinoids are largely the chemicals that travel to the various CB receptors present in our body. There they bind with the receptors and produce a chemical that leads to associated function. After resolving the purpose of endocannabinoids, the body stops producing it.
Although CBD does not directly combine with the CB receptors, it inhibits the production of FAAH chemicals that hinders feel good cannabinoids like anandamide. It also interacts with receptors like vanilloid, GRP55, and serotonin receptors. These receptors play their role in managing ECS activities, including pain.
The chemical structure of CBD is similar to natural cannabinoids produced in our bodies. Therefore its interaction with any of the receptors does not cause any side effects. It develops long term relief; thus, there is no urge for more consumption or chances of addiction. CBD regulates the stimuli of the pain by binding with the receptors. Thus, reducing the sensitivity to respond that usually happens in the form of pain or inflammation.
CBD and Research
Though we are missing on a substantial clinical trial to declare pain-relieving properties in CBD, the initial research and several independent studies indicate a positive outcome. Research on rodents has shown pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. The human trials in patients who have rheumatoid arthritis have shown positive results. Several other studies also indicated stress reduction and sleep restoration in the participants. A study conducted on rats reveals CBD to be beneficial in managing arthritis by reducing pain and inflammation. CBD has also shown promising results in controlling pain symptoms in cases of chronic pain and multiple sclerosis. CBD not only reduces the pain symptoms but helps curb inflammation, one of the root causes of auto-immune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
CBD Consumption for Pain Relief
The best part about using CBD is that it can be administered in multiple ways. The use of CBD is not limited to oral consumption; vaping and the topical application are also an effective way to derive its benefits. However, make sure that you choose the right variety and dosage for maximizing your results. A full spectrum or a broad spectrum CBD oil is ideal for topical application. Since CBD is bindable with the receptors under the skin, massaging it can provide immediate relief.
The Bottom Line
Apart from alleviating pain, CBD also shows potential benefits in treating a wide range of health problems. Although we still need research work to validate its effects, CBD will remain a popular choice for its pain-relieving benefits. Pharmaceutical companies control other pain-relieving drugs so they remain to be expensive. Given the health hazards of such medication, there is an increasing likeability of the CBD. CBD does not lead to any intoxication or addiction. Even when grown organically, it is relatively cheaper than other analgesic medications in the market. These pointers all combine to make CBD a top trending product.
