‘Is CBD oil really an effective treatment option for joint pain?’ This question is being asked by more and more health professionals. CBD oil, which is rapidly gaining popularity in Lithuania, is recognised and appreciated for its many unique properties, from cosmetic benefits for the skin to positive effects on the nervous system. Another indisputable benefit of CBD, or cannabidiol, is its ability to relieve pain.
Research and experience show that CBD oil helps in the treatment of joint pain and arthritis symptoms. How does it work? We will answer all your questions!
What is CBD oil?
Before discussing its benefits for joints, it’s crucial to learn what cannabidiol (CBD) is and what it does.
CBD oil is extracted from the hemp plant. However, unlike other components (cannabinoids) found in the hemp plant, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not have psychoactive effects and does not cause hallucinations that many people often associate with hemp use.
Once in the body, CBD interacts with brain receptors CB1 and CB2, which affect pain and inflammation. Cannabidiol is valued for its cosmetic and therapeutic effects, has an anti-inflammatory effect, is completely safe and can be used not only for humans, but also for pets.
How does CBD oil relieve pain?
Research has shown that CBD affects the responses of receptors in the brain to incoming signals. In this way, pain and inflammatory processes in the body can be reduced. This is especially relevant when experiencing chronic pain and suffering from joint diseases such as arthritis.
Here is how CBD oil works on different forms of arthritis.
While over 100 types of arthritis have been described, about 95% of the cases are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis:
- Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can occur due to genetic factors, frequent joint trauma or the ageing process of the body. Its most common symptoms include painful, stiff and immobile joints. In 2017, a study conducted by US scientists showed that CBD was extremely effective in treating the symptoms of osteoarthritis and could even stop the progress of the disease;
- Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that damages joint tissue. Its symptoms include joint pain, inflammation, swelling and stiffness. This disease is also often accompanied by general fatigue, fever, weight loss and anemia. CBD has a positive effect on the immune system, reduces inflammation, pain, fatigue and fever. Studies show that CBD oil for joints can significantly slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
Using CBD oil
CBD products for joints provides the best results when taken regularly, according to the brand’s instructions, usually with food and water.
You can also add some CBD oil to the gel, cream or lotion you apply to the affected joint – this can help you relieve particularly severe pain faster.
If you are considering CBD oil for relieving joint pain or arthritis symptoms, use only certified, officially approved products with the cannabidiol concentration of at least 5%. In this way, you will be sure that the CBD oil will provide the maximum, yet safe, effect on the joints.