CBD Products for Pain Relief: Does It Work?

While many, if not most, researchers have no doubt that cannabinoids and cannabinoids are capable of producing profound pain relief, they have been slow to pinpoint the exact chemical compounds that are responsible.

Also known as phyto cannabinoids, these molecules are plant-based, and they include a complex family of over 80 compounds collectively called cannabinoids. Among them are the biologically active compounds Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), known for its psychotropic properties, and can nabidiol (CBD), which is non-psychoactive, but has vast potential in pain relief.

Because of their powerful effects, some have likened them to being the most active neurotransmitters in the human body.

That much is now well established, and research, both basic and applied, continues to explore the role of the endocannabinoid system, the body’s endocannabinoid system, in controlling the acute and chronic pain that humans experience.

Such a profound effect is even more remarkable when you consider that there are no known receptors for cannabinoids in the body. But, the body has receptors, called CB1 and CB2, for THC and CBD.

Both are naturally occurring in the cannabis plant, but THC is far more concentrated, and therefore, more toxic. CBD, on the other hand, is not a psychoactive compound, but it does have powerful properties, including the ability to reduce pain.

Research on the possible use of CBD products to alleviate pain is at a relatively early stage. But, it is also among the more promising areas of research.

Because the endocannabinoid system plays such a key role in the control of pain, it is logical to assume that it, or compounds within the system, would be part of any treatment that sought to relieve pain.

The evidence is piling up, and, as it does, it is driving the momentum of research in both Europe and the United States.

CBD Oil and Pain Relief

CBD oils are the most common form of cannabis derived medicine, but oils containing THC are being used, too. That was the case for many years, in fact, and it was because of their use that CBD was first isolated in the early 1980s.

CBD oil can be taken orally, but it is most often taken sublingually, which is the process of placing the oil under the tongue, and allowing it to dissolve for a few minutes. The oil is then swallowed, which can be a problem if swallowing is difficult, which it often is for older people, and those with swallowing difficulties, such as cancer patients.

The solution is to apply the CBD oil to the inside of the cheek or under the tongue. Then, you have to allow the CBD to dissolve. But, it is worth it, because the effects are profound.