The use of marijuana products for pain relief dates back thousands of years. The first reports were in Asia about 2727 BCE, when the emperor used it in his tea. CBD, however, is a more recent discovery uncovered in 1940 by a University of Illinois professor. His research has since been expanded to understand its profound effect on pain.
In addition to medical interest, CBD has increased in popularity because of the wider legalization of the product. And fortunately, this legalization has allowed even more clinical research, where they’re discovering more benefits than ever before. What study after study has found is that CBD is a safe and effective treatment for a great many conditions, not the least of which is pain management. Here’s what you need to know.
What is CBD oil?
CBD (cannabidiol), is one of many chemical compounds found in the marijuana or hemp plant. It’s extracted from the plant with heat and pressure and made into products that are easily consumable. To make CBD oil, the extracted compound is usually mixed with a carrier oil, such as hemp seed oil. This allows the CBD to stay on the surface longer so it can better permeate the skin. Not to be confused with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not contain the psychoactive properties that make people high.
How does CBD work for pain management?
Interestingly enough, our bodies come equipped with a system that’s ready made to interact with CBD. This endocannabinoid system that’s in charge of functions such as pain and inflammation is in the central nervous system and the periphery. Once the molecules from the CBD hit those receptors, they inhibit the signals that cause the pain to be sent through the body.
How to use CBD
Using CBD oil for pain is fairly simple, and to date, there are no known cases of fatal overdoses on the substance. However, if you’re not used to taking it, it can cause nausea because you’re body is not accustomed to it. For this reason, it’s best to start with very small amounts and work your way up as necessary. This also helps keep your body from building up a tolerance to it.
To ensure extra safety and effectiveness, be sure to choose a quality product. Quality companies are reviewed online for products such as Select CBD oil. Once you’ve purchased your CBD oil, you can begin using it for pain management. The most common way to apply it is topically near the area where you’re experiencing pain. There are other CBD products you can use as well, including edibles, vape liquids, and powders, but the oil seems to work the best for pain.
Using CBD with other treatments
Most people find that CBD oil alone is a highly effective treatment for all types of pain. There are, however, benefits to using it in conjunction with other methods. Launchfit, for example, is a chiropractic practice specializing in pain from sports injuries. It offers a variety of treatments ranging from spinal adjustments to laser therapy. Receiving treatments like these in addition to using your CBD oil on your own can be an extremely effective way to alleviate pain.
Another way to supplement your pain management regime with CBD oil is to use it in conjunction with your prescription medication. This method is helpful because it can prolong and boost the effects of that medication. Some patients also find that doing this allows them to cut back on the amount of medication they use, reducing the risk of addiction or overdose.
