CBD
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring chemicals found in cannabis plants. Cannabidiol (CBD), one of these chemicals, is gaining popularity in the wellness industry.
There are many CBD products available, including oils, tinctures, and balms. These can all be used to help with the pain.
This article will discuss how CBD products can help with chronic pain. A list of potential CBD products that may be effective is provided. These products have been subject to extensive third-party testing.
Can CBD be used to manage pain?
CBD and other cannabinoids work on cannabinoid receptors throughout the body. The endocannabinoid (ECS) is made up of these receptors and naturally occurring cannabinoids.
Complex cell signaling pathways are part of the ECS, which is located in both the central nervous system (CNS) and the immune system.
There are both endogenous as well as exogenous cannabinoids. Endogenous cannabinoids, which are naturally produced lipids, are lipids found in the body. Two of the most well-known endogenous cannabinoids are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol.
Exogenous cannabinoids are not produced by the body. These compounds are part and parcel of the cannabis plant. Exogenous cannabinoids are:
- Tetrahydrocannabinol, (THC).
- cannabichromene (CBC)
- cannabigerol (CBG)
Both endogenous, as well as exogenous cannabinoids, bind to endocannabinoid-receptors on cells. These receptors include cannabinoid 1 as well as cannabinoid 2. The binding action triggers cell responses that affect pain signaling pathways.
The CBD doesn’t bind well to endocannabinoid receptors. CBD may interact with neuronal receptors in the spinal cord that reduce chronic inflammation pain.
CBD for pain relief effects in seven patients who suffered from chronic pain following kidney transplants.
How to use
CBD can be found in many methods including:
- Tinctures and oils
- gummies
- Oral capsules and pills
- Creams, balms, and salves
- Topical patches
CBD capsules and gummies can be taken orally. Topical CBD products are only for external use. These products can be applied to certain areas of the body such as sore muscles and aching joints.
CBD oils and tinctures can be used in a different ways. Tinted glass bottles usually have a dropper and come in tinted glasses. You can add CBD oil to your favorite foods and beverages, or you can place a few drops under your tongue. This allows you to hold the oil for as long as one minute before swallowing.
Follow the instructions and dosage information for CBD products.
How to select the best CBD product
The Food and Drug Administration(FDA)Trusted Source regulates only one CBD-containing drug, Epidiolex to treat rare forms of epilepsy in children aged 2 and older.
The FDA doesn’t regulate CBD products that are commercially available. People should only shop for CBD products that are high quality from reliable manufacturers and retailers.
Third-party testing is done on high-quality products by independent laboratories. These labs test CBD products for:
- pesticides
- heavy metals
- Microbes
- harmful chemicals
Third-party testing of products will result in a certificate of analysis. This document contains information about the product’s CBD potency, THC content, and safety results.
