CBD Oil also known as hemp oil is made up of CBD extracts sourced from cannabis plants. Recently, a few studies have linked cannabidiol oil to relieving pain from arthritis. Here is what you need to know.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD is a cannabinoid, a chemical usually found naturally in cannabis plants. It is not a psychoactive chemical. Currently, there are many CBD oil products available in the market with varying degrees of CBD quantity. Note that, many people use cannabis as a recreational drug so there is increasing controversy on using CBD oil for medicinal purposes.
CBD oil is extracted from the CBD found in hemp plants and not marijuana plants. However, both of them are cannabis plants but the marijuana plant has more THC that is what gets people euphoric. Many people use CBD oil to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Recently, research has been released to reveal that CBD oil might prove useful for pain relief and other types of conditions.
Does CBD Oil Work For Arthritis?
Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability in America affecting millions of people every day. The 2 most common types of arthritis include the following.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis – As an autoimmune disease, RA affects the immune system which in turn attacks the joints causing inflammation. It affects the hands and feet and people suffering from it will experience swollen, painful and stiff joints.
- Osteoarthritis – It is a degenerative disease that affects the bones and joint cartilage causing stiffness and pain. OA affects the knees, hips and thumb joints.
A few studies have revealed that CBD oil can be used to treat arthritis and relieve the associated pain from inflammation. A lot of studies were conducted on rats and other animal species. Currently, there isn’t enough scientific evidence to prove conclusively that CBD is good enough as an arthritis treatment for humans. The findings from various studies are encouraging but more research is required to confirm that CBD oil is an effective treatment for pain caused by arthritis.
What You Need To Know About CBD Oil And Chronic Pain
CBD, and other cannabinoids, usually attach themselves to specialized receptors in your brain and immune system. One of these receptors, the CB2 receptor, has a huge role in the immune function since it manages inflammation and pain. Researchers have discovered that when CBD gets in your body, it will attach to the CB2 receptors.
Additionally, the CBD might cause the body to produce a natural cannabinoid that attaches to the CB2 receptors. As a result, CBD affects how the receptors respond to any signals received thus reducing pain and inflammation.
How To Use CBD Oil For Maximum Results
CBD is sold as a powder or oil; thus it’s possible to be added to gels and creams that people who have arthritis often use. CBD is also available in capsule or spray form. You need to consult your doctor before using CBD oil. Additionally, you need to do a lot of research on the local laws regarding the use of CBD oil. That’s because cannabis products are not legal everywhere.
Note that, there are some side effects of using CBD, just like any other products. A few studies have revealed that a lot of people tolerate CBD very well, but some people might experience some side effects that include the following:
- a) Exhaustion and trouble sleeping
- b) Nausea
- c) Irritability
Note that, the FDA hasn’t approved CBD oil as a medical treatment for arthritis. However, it has approved it for the use in the treatment of 2 rare types of arthritis, an approval which was received in June 2018. A few people might have an allergic reaction to using CBD. That’s why it’s prudent to apply it to a small area of the skin first before using it entirely. Just like any other alternative treatment, it’s advisable to ask your doctor before using it.
CBD oil has proven to be useful for the treatment of arthritis pain from a few scientific studies. However, more research needs to be done before the treatment is adopted for mainstream use, especially for people who have arthritis. You can purchase CBD oil in various merchant shops or online sites.
