Plus, our top picks for the best CBD for pain management below.
A quick cheat sheet for CBD dosage:
How we picked
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant.
This full array of intrinsic botanical bioactives is thought to facilitate the “entourage effect.”
These extracts are sometimes referred to as “THC-free” products.
CBD isolate:CBD isolate products have a single cannabinoid: CBD.
Can CBD help with pain management?
Discovered in the 90s, the ECS is a cellular-level communication web connection.
The ECS is made up of cannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and specific enzymes.
Cannabinoids can either be produced by the body (called endocannabinoids) or introduced from plants.
The latter are called phytocannabinoids.
CBD is just one of the more than 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.
This is important because low cannabinoid levels have been linked to a variety of health concerns, including migraines.
(Read more about endocannabinoid deficiencies here.)
Outside factors like nutritional deficiencies, stress, and environmental toxins can all cause low cannabinoid levels.
For example, stress causes the body to create an enzyme that breaks down cannabinoids.
A2017 study2found that a localized injection of hemp CBD could help with joint comfort in rats.
“Some people appear to benefit more from the oral preparations,” says Bliss.
Unlike topical applications of CBD, oral ingestion will allow the hemp to slide in your bloodstream.
As a result, it can encourage a more even mood along with promoting pain relief.
Both are more targeted types of pain that are felt just under the skin.
As a result, a more pinpointed tactic should offer relief faster.
(Uncover more CBD products for nerve pain here.)
What other ingredients should you look for in pain management?
When it comes to topical products, some added ingredients may provide additional comforting effects.
Often these are botanical ingredients linked to specific benefits.
For instance, popular cooling ingredients include menthol and camphor for pain relief.
Some brands also add ingredients expected to support your body’s inflammatory response, like turmeric and arnica.
Similarly to topical products, other botanicals may be added to oral tinctures for additional benefits.
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With oral tinctures, you should also look at what is used for flavoring.
Many brands add artificial additions, including sweeteners.
We recommend searching for the simplest formulas possible and avoiding unnecessary excipients.
Are there any side effects of CBD oil?
These include dry mouth, fatigue, and some digestive issues like loose stools.
FAQ
Can CBD be used as a pain killer?
Which is the best CBD for pain relief?
The best CBD for pain relief will vary by individual and the punch in of pain you are experiencing.
Options include topical CBD products and oral CBD tinctures.
Consult with your medical care provider to help determine the best options for your needs.
What are the cons of CBD for pain?
CBD affects people in different ways.
What works for one person may not work for another.
Do CBD gummies work for pain?
CBD gummiesmay provide benefits that help offer relief.
Anecdotally, some reviewers of CBD products have self-reported that gummies help with pain.
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
