Cannabidiol is a popular natural
remedy used for many common ailments. Better known as CBD, it is one of more
than 100 chemical compounds called cannabinoids that are found in the cannabis
plant, Cannabis sativa (1Trusted Source). Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the
main psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis, which means it causes the
sensation of getting high that’s often associated with cannabis. However,
unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive.
CBD oil is made by extracting CBD
from the cannabis plant and then diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut
oil or hemp seed oil. CBD can be found in a variety of products online and in
stores, including dietary supplements, bath soaks, drinks, and food. It
continues to gain momentum in the health and wellness world, with some
scientific studies finding that it may ease symptoms of conditions such as
chronic pain and anxiety. But is it the right choice for you?
Cannabis has been used to treat
pain since as far back as 2900 B.C. More recently, scientists have discovered
that certain components of cannabis, including CBD, are responsible for its
pain-relieving effects. The human body contains a specialized system called the
endocannabinoid system, which is involved in regulating a variety of functions,
including sleep, appetite, pain sensation, and immune system response. The body
produces endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid
receptors in your nervous system.
Studies have shown that CBD may
help reduce chronic pain by affecting endocannabinoid receptor activity,
reducing inflammation, and interacting with neurotransmitters. Some research
suggests that CBD may be effective for certain types of pain, including nerve
pain and back pain, when used on its own. Several human studies have found that
a combination of CBD and THC is effective in treating pain related to multiple
sclerosis (MS) and arthritis. Although researchers are cautiously optimistic
that CBD may be helpful in the treatment of some types of pain, especially when
combined with THC, more high quality studies are needed to determine its
effectiveness in pain management.
