Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve heard about people trying CBD oil for pain. It seems like just another trendy idea, like weight loss pills or cream to regrow hair. But there’s actually science behind the use of CBD to help regulate spikes in pain.
What is CBD?
Short for cannabidiol, CBD is a chemical compound found naturally in the cannabis plant. It’s one of many cannabinoids found naturally in marijuana. Another is called THC, which is also what is responsible for that euphoric high associated with cannabis. There are more than 100 different chemicals that science has discovered in cannabis.
The reason that CBD is so interesting to doctors, scientists, and people who are looking to address their pain is how the human body uses it. All mammals have what is known as the endocannabinoid system. Its job is to support the body’s endocrine system, which is in charge of the production and regulation of hormones secreted from our glands.
Research has shown that the body naturally produces cannabinoids that are used in the endocannabinoid system. Many recent studies have demonstrated the benefits cannabis has on bodily functions, including mood regulation, sleep patterns, weight maintenance, and chronic pain.
How Do You Take CBD Oil for Pain?
Because the endocannabinoid system was only discovered by science 30 years ago, all this research is relatively new. That’s why it seems like such a fad. However, many people who have tried CBD oil consider it a breakthrough in science.
There are many different ways to take CBD oil. It is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, although there are recent proposals for more federally approved research of these products. Some cannabis products are made from strains that have much higher CBD percentages than others.
Often, the higher quality products are made from organic, certified ingredients. They cost more. These products might come in the form a tincture, capsules, salves and creams, vape pens, and edibles. Which method of intake depends greatly on your situation. For example, if you have a localized issue, you may want to apply CBD topically to the direct area.
How Do You Know CBD Is Safe?
Since the federal laws are different from California laws regarding cannabis, it can be difficult to know the right amount to take. To be safe, you should start with a small amount. There are no official dose sizes. Instead, experts recommend starting with a half-dropper once a day. Take careful note of how you feel and increase your serving size after a week or two.
Since science is just starting to understand exactly how cannabis benefits the human body, taking CBD oil can feel like an experiment. Of course, pain-relieving narcotics, like opioids, have many risks as well, including addiction. Last year, the National Institute on Drug Abuse reported nearly 2,200 overdose deaths by opioids in California alone. That’s why so many people are open to other pain relief options.
When considering CBD oil, you can reduce your risk by purchasing products from reputable dispensaries. Talk to experts about the products so you can learn how they can help, so you can feel better and live with less pain.