In contemporary medical practice, one emerging trend involves leveraging natural remedies to confront various health challenges. Traditionally, we have depended on prescription drugs to manage conditions like chronic pain. But as more research enters the limelight, patients and doctors alike are increasingly seeking alternative medicine to deliver effective, non-addictive pain management solutions. Undoubtedly, one such solution at the forefront of holistic wellness is Cannabidiol (CBD) oil.
Extracted from the hemp plant, a cousin of the marijuana plant, CBD oil is revered for its therapeutic properties. Despite misconceptions, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t cause a ‘high.’ Yet, it seems to boast remarkable potential in managing pain and reducing inflammation.
One of the significant CBD benefits that science has begun to corroborate is its potential to affect the body’s endocannabinoid system. By engaging with this system, CBD oil can alter pain perception and inflammation, ultimately promoting wellness. Crucially, research is ongoing, but the early evidence looks promising.
A 2018 review assessed how well CBD works to relieve chronic pain. The review looked at studies conducted between 1975 and March 2018, examining various types of pain, including cancer pain, neuropathic pain, and fibromyalgia. According to researchers, CBD was effective in overall pain management and didn’t cause negative side effects(source).
In another study, researchers found that cannabinoids, including CBD, could be effective in treating pain associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and multiple sclerosis (MS)(source).
Besides its function as an analgesic, CBD oil also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects that can be beneficial in managing conditions such as arthritis. Rather than simply masking the pain as NSAIDs do, CBD targets the root cause of the problem and reduces inflammation at the source(source).
Aside from these physiological benefits, one of the appealing factors of CBD oil for pain management is the reduced risk of side effects and addiction that are often associated with conventional pain medication. A report by the World Health Organization confirmed that, in humans, CBD shows no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential(source).
For people suffering from chronic pain, exploring CBD oil as a natural remedy might be worthwhile. However, as with all wellness strategies, it’s crucial to consult with a health professional before beginning a new treatment regime. This is especially the case with chronic conditions or if you are currently taking other medications.
Widespread social and medical recognition of CBD’s benefits has been somewhat delayed by controversy due to its source. But change is afoot; research is progressing, laws are shifting, and stigma is fading. With promising evidence arising about CBD oil’s role in pain management and inflammation reduction, this natural remedy is carving out a place in the world of holistic wellness.
As trials continue, using CBD oil for pain management looks increasingly like a viable alternative medicine strategy. The evidence supports the idea that people living with chronic pain may find relief through this natural remedy, thereby improving their quality of life and overall wellness.
Sources:
NCBI – An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol
NCBI – Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain
NCBI – Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs
World Health Organization – Cannabidiol (CBD) Critical Review Report
