In recent years, CBD has been getting more and more attention as a natural way to manage chronic pain and inflammation. T Derived from the cannabis sativa plant, CBD may be a natural alternative to traditional pain management medicine. In this article, we will look into how CBD can help reduce inflammation, the best CBD options and its legal status.
What is inflammation?
Inflammation is the body’s natural defence mechanism against injury or infection, playing a crucial response in the immune response. There are two types of inflammation: acute and chronic. Acute inflammation is a short-term response that include redness, swelling, pain and loss of function, that gets better when the cause is addressed. Chronic inflammation persists over long period of time as is often caused by ongoing infections, autoimmune conditions or continuous exposure to irritants. Managing inflammation involves treating the root cause and may include lifestyle changes, medications, and natural remedies such as CBD, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
What is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids identified in cannabis and is the second most prevalent cannabinoid after THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not produce psychoactive effects, making it popular for its potential therapeutic benefits.
Why does CBD help with inflammation?
CBD is one of the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, known for its anti-inflammatory properties and other potential health benefits. Unlike THC, it does not have any psychoactive effects associated with the use of marijuana. Its broad anti-inflammatory properties can be helpful for people with different chronic pain conditions.
Research suggests that CBD may help reduce inflammation by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for the regulation of physiological processes, including immune response, pain sensation and inflammations. CBD contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may influence the immune system by potentially reducing the production of cytokines, proteins that initiate inflammation. By intervening in the cellular process, CBD may provide pain relief and address chronic inflammation caused by auto-immune diseases and chronic pain.
CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties
There are different types of inflammation that affect people. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel diseases are driven by an overactive immune response, which creates chronic inflammation. CBD may help modulate the immune system and reduce the inflammation associated with these conditions. Dermatological conditions like eczema or rosacea are inflammations on the skin. Topical CBD products can directly target skin inflammation, reducing redness, swelling, and discomfort.
Potential neuroprotective properties of CBD
CBD’s potential neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects might offer relief and slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. CBD’s potential neuroprotective and anti-inflammation effects might offer relief and slow the progression of these diseases.
CBD’s analgesic properties
While CBD shows potential to help provide pain relief for these conditions, the effect depends on the individual, the CBD potency and the severity of the condition. As with any other supplement or treatment, consulting with a healthcare provider before starting CBD is advisable to ensure it’s suitable for your specific health situation.
CBD products with anti-inflammatory effects
There are many different non-prescription CBD products in the market, including specific prescription CBD products like Epidiolex and cannabis extract sprays such as Sativex (GW Pharmaceuticals), that may be helpful to reduce inflammation and help with treating pain. Different types of products have different CBD potency, from full spectrum CBD to CBD isolate and therefore have different effects. The most common are:
CBD oil
CBD oil is the most popular way to consume CBD. There are many different options to choose from – from a CBD isolate to a full spectrum CBD oil. CBD oil is consumed sublingually (under the tongue) so it can be used on its own or can be added to foods or beverages.
Topical CBD products
If you are looking to relieve muscle, joint pain or skin conditions like acne, topical CBD products like creams may be the best option because they can be used directly on the area to provide targeted pain relief.
CBD gummies
They are a popular option because it is a convenient way to use a specific dose of CBD extract. Like CBD oils, gummies can contain full spectrum CBD or a CBD isolate. CBD gummies take longer to feel the effect but you will feel them for longer, which is a good option for people suffering from chronic pain.
Benefits of Using CBD against Inflammation
Natural alternative to synthetic drugs
CBD is derived from the hemp plant, making it a natural option for those seeking to manage inflammation without resorting to synthetic drugs. Its organic origin appeals to individuals who prefer natural remedies over pharmaceutical interventions. Unlike many traditional anti-inflammatory medications that may contain synthetic chemicals, CBD offers a plant-based approach to health and wellness. CBD can help manage inflammation associated with chronic diseases, providing a natural alternative to synthetic drugs.
Non-psychoactive alternative
One of the significant advantages of CBD over THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is that CBD does not produce a psychoactive effect. This means users can experience the anti-inflammatory benefits without the “high” associated with THC in marijuana. This makes CBD suitable for use throughout the day without impairing cognitive function or daily activities. For individuals who need to maintain focus and clarity, such as professionals or students, CBD offers a way to manage inflammation without compromising mental agility.
Versatility
CBD is available in multiple forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles (such as gummies and chocolates), topicals (creams, balms), and vape products. This variety allows individuals to choose the method of consumption that best fits their lifestyle and preferences. For those who prefer not to ingest CBD, topical applications can provide targeted relief directly to inflamed areas, such as joints and muscles.
The legal status of CBD
California was the first state to legalise using medical cannabis in 1996. Now the medical use of cannabis sativa plant is legalised in 40 states. Medical or recreational use of industrial cannabis plants has been approved in 24 states and the District of Columbia.
In 2018, The United States Farm Bill legalised the cultivation of cannabis sativa plants and its derivatives like a CBD extract or topical CBD creams, as long as the CBD products have >0.3% THC, according to the Controlled Substances Act. Full spectrum CBD oils and other CBD products meet this requirement. However, the FDA restricts adding CBD to food or selling it as a dietary supplement, and individual states might ban the use of CBD, so check your local laws before purchasing any CBD products. The legality of CBD varies by state, and there are safety concerns and discrepancies in the commercial CBD market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use CBD with other anti-inflammatory medications?
Before using nonprescription CBD products with other medication for inflammation, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider. CBD can cause a decrease in blood pressure, and can interact with various drugs by influencing the enzymes responsible for their metabolism, potentially altering their effectiveness and concentration in your body. Consulting with a healthcare provider ensures that dosages are appropriately adjusted and that the combination is both safe and effective for your specific condition.
How should I use CBD to help with inflammation?
CBD is available in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals, and vapes. The choice of form depends on personal preference and the specific condition being treated. For localized pain, topicals may be most effective, while oils, tinctures, and capsules are better for systemic inflammation.
How can I ensure I’m buying high-quality CBD products?
Look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency. Check for lab reports, certifications, and product labels that provide detailed information on CBD content, ingredients, and extraction methods. Purchasing from reputable brands and retailers can also help ensure product quality.
Can CBD interact with other medications?
Yes, CBD can interact with certain medications or dietary supplements. It can affect the efficacy of blood thinners, anticonvulsants, and some antidepressants. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using CBD, especially if you are taking other medications.
References
- Burstein, S. (2015). Cannabidiol (CBD) and its analogs: a review of their effects on inflammation. Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry, 23(7), 1377-1385.
- Nagarkatti, P., Pandey, R., Rieder, S. A., Hegde, V. L., & Nagarkatti, M. (2009). Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs. Future medicinal chemistry, 1(7), 1333-1349.
- Peyravian, N., Deo, S., Daunert, S. and Jimenez, J.J., 2022. The anti-inflammatory effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on acne. Journal of inflammation research, pp.2795-2801.
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