Arthritis, a chronic condition affecting millions, often brings debilitating pain and stiffness. While orthodox treatments offer relief, many people are turning to alternative options like CBD. But is CBD truly effective for arthritis pain? Let’s get into the details.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a substance found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, another well-known cannabis compound, CBD won’t get you high. Some people might feel a little sleepy after using it. Most CBD products come from hemp, a type of cannabis plant.
Does CBD help with Arthritis?
Arthritis is an umbrella term for disorders that push joint inflammation. Two common types are osteoarthritis (wear and tear on cartilage) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition). Both can lead to significant pain and reduced mobility.
Individuals with Arthritis frequently try CBD because it might aid with pain and inflammation. While some investigations on animals and a few small human studies show promise, we need more analysis to know for sure. Many people with Arthritis say CBD helps with pain, sleep, and feeling less anxious, but others don’t notice any difference.
Is CBD Safe?
We still know little about utilizing CBD for Arthritis. So far, it seems safe when used in normal doses, but it could induce liver problems or fertility issues. Side effects like dry mouth, fatigue, and changes in appetite can also occur. Also, CBD can interact with some medicines, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before trying it, especially if you take other medications.
Important things to remember:
- CBD products can vary in quality and strength.
- Be careful about buying CBD products online, as they might not be what they claim.
Potential Benefits of CBD for Arthritis
- Pain Relief: Some studies suggest CBD can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to reduce pain perception.
- Inflammation Reduction: CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate joint swelling and discomfort.
- Improved Sleep: Arthritis-related pain can disrupt sleep. CBD might promote better sleep quality.
- Reduced Anxiety: Anxiety often accompanies chronic pain. CBD’s potential anxiolytic effects could benefit those with Arthritis.
Are products containing CBD legal?
Under the federal Controlled Substances Act, hemp-derived CBD products are no longer classified as Schedule I narcotics, but they are still in the legal murky area. Although CBD products are legally available for purchase in almost all states and online, developing and enforcing state and federal rules and regulations may eventually affect their legal position. People using legal CBD products, for instance, may still have THC in their urine.
Shall I try CBD for Arthritis Pain?
Doctors have not been able to determine who could benefit from CBD, who probably won’t benefit from it, and who should avoid it due to a lack of high-quality clinical investigations on CBD and Arthritis. How much or what form of it would be helpful is unknown. Nonetheless, there is consensus on several issues:
- When treating inflammatory Arthritis, disease-modifying medications such as CBD cannot be substituted.
- Before experimenting with CBD, those interested should speak with the medical professional who treats their Arthritis. Together, they may discuss what has previously worked or not worked, whether there are any alternative possibilities to try first, how to do a trial run, any red flags, and the best time to schedule a follow-up appointment to assess the outcome. To monitor effects, keep a journal of your symptoms and dosage.
- High-quality CBD products can be costly, particularly if they are used often. To prevent wasting money, make sure the product helps with the symptoms.
- Unfortunately, CBD products are not very tightly regulated, and there is a lot of discrepancy between what is listed on the label and what the product contains.
What kind of CBD products need to be taken into account?
Products containing CBD can be inhaled, administered topically, or consumed orally. Each has benefits and drawbacks.
Consumables. Because of the unpredictable nature of CBD dosage and the general negative effects of added sugar on health, experts advise against using CBD through edibles like candy, cookies, and flavored beverages. Although they are kid-friendly, they don’t come in childproof packaging. Like any medication, edibles should be kept out of children’s eyes and accessible.
Tines and sprays. By keeping a liquid from a spray or tincture—dosed with a dropper—under the tongue for 60 to 120 seconds, CBD may be absorbed straight into the circulation. That might not be a very nice flavor. It may take 15 to 45 minutes to feel the effects. When ingested, sprays and tinctures usually have effects akin to those of foods or capsules.
The capsules. Any type of CBD that is consumed is absorbed through the digestive system. Due to recent meals, uncertain effects of stomach acids, delayed onset of action (one to three hours), sluggish absorption, and other considerations, dosage might be challenging. Once an appropriate dose has been determined, capsules can be used daily.
On the skin. Topical treatments, such as CBD Oils, balms, and lotions, are administered topically to the skin over a sore joint. It is unclear if these products provide CBD under the skin. A few small trials using transdermal CBD solutions revealed reductions in arthritis-related hand discomfort, but no statistically meaningful improvement was observed in another experiment. It could be challenging to distinguish between the beneficial effects of topical treatments and those caused by popular over-the-counter chemicals like menthol, capsaicin, or camphor.
Breathed in. A vaporizing pen, often known as a vape pen, can inhale CBD. However, there are hazards associated with inhaling vapor oils and chemical byproducts, especially for those with inflammatory Arthritis. Certain vaping products—particularly those bought online instead of from state-licensed dispensaries—may also include substances like vitamin E acetate that have the potential to seriously harm the lungs. As a result, vaping is usually not advised and should be done carefully.
How Much CBD Should You Use?
Start low, go slow. This is the best advice when starting CBD.
- Begin with a small amount: Try 5-10 milligrams of CBD under your tongue twice daily.
- Increase gradually: If you don’t feel enough relief after a few days, add more CBD. Do this slowly over several weeks.
- Watch for side effects: CBD usually has few side effects, but stop using it and talk to your doctor if you notice any problems.
- Don’t overdo it: High doses of CBD can be expensive and aren’t always better.
- Consider THC (if legal): If CBD alone doesn’t work, talk to your doctor about trying a very small amount of THC with CBD. But be aware that THC can cause you to feel high.
- Give it time: CBD might not be right for you if you don’t feel better after a few weeks.
Conclusion
While promising, the use of CBD for arthritis pain requires further research. If you’re considering using CBD, begin with a quality product, consult with your doctor, and be very patient. As people respond individually to CBD, it may take time to find what’s right for you.
Remember, managing Arthritis is a multi-faceted approach, including dietary and exercise regimens for lifestyle modifications. CBD might offer additional relief for some.