Can CBD Oil help me treat my Arthritis?

Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is a product that is extracted from the cannabis plant. It is also referred to as hemp oil. CBD unlike 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is not psychoactive. THC alters mental state and makes people feel ‘high’.

Using CBD to treat Arthritis

It has been suggested that CBD oil is useful in the treatment of arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that is characterized by inflammation of one or more joints. This often results in joint swelling and pain. Arthritis affects more than fifty million people in the United States (US). It is actually the most common cause of disability in the US. It varies ranging from autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis to degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis.

A number of studies have been carried out recently to determine the role of CBD oil in the management of patients suffering from arthritis. The scientific evidence behind its use has also been explored. Most of these studies have been carried out in animals. A study conducted in 2011 revealed that CBD modifies the response of pain receptors to their stimuli hence reducing the inflammatory pain. Another study done in 2014 revealed that CBD is effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis. This was followed by a study in 2017 that demonstrated the safety of CBD oil in the treatment of Osteoarthritis.

How CBD works to treat Arthritis

The receptors for CBD are present in the brain and the immune system. An example of these receptors is CB2. Activation of this receptor is vital in the management of joint inflammation and pain. When CBD is administered, it can either bind and activate the CB2 receptors or increase the production of endogenous cannabinoids in the body. The effects produced by either of these mechanisms are important in the management of chronic pain. Low doses of CBD oil are recommended in the relief of pain that is associated with arthritis.

CBD oil is generally well tolerated by most people. A few people, however, experience mild side effects such as nausea, irritability, tiredness and sleep disturbances. It is important to note that CBD oil has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the US in the medical treatment for any type of arthritis. It is therefore important to consult a physician before using it.

Conclusion

The use of CBD oil in the treatment of arthritis is promising. Its effects on the receptors in the immune system and the brain have a role in reducing joint inflammation and pain. CBD oil also has a good safety profile as evidenced by few and mild side effects. It is an important alternative therapy for arthritis that could be more effective than the current medications. It could complement other modes of therapy to ensure fast relief of symptoms and prevent complications. However, more research needs to be carried out to establish with certainty the effectiveness and the scientific evidence behind the use of CBD oil in arthritis.

If you would like to learn more about CBD and its benefits come visit our learning center here.