When treating common health conditions and relieving pain, people often resort to using alternative medicines as natural remedies. Among the alternative medicines used by people to treat common health conditions is cannabidiol (CBD) oil.
CBD is among the cannabinoid compounds found in the cannabis plant species, Cannabis Sativa, also known as hemp. CBD oil is obtained from the entire plant. The flowers, leaves, stems, and stalks of the plant contain the highest concentration of cannabinoid content; hence, the oil comprises cannabidiol and other cannabinoids, such as terpenes and flavonoids. When these cannabinoids work together, they can provide superior results and maintain homeostasis in the user’s body, enhancing their overall well-being.
Though CBD is a cannabinoid, it does not produce a “high” effect or any intoxication that impairs an individual’s judgment or functioning, often caused by other cannabinoid compounds like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD and THC affect different receptors in the body: THC affects the endocannabinoid receptors in the brain, and CBD affects the cannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system, which helps regulate functions such as pain management, immune-system responses, and sleep.
As CBD tells the body to use its endocannabinoid system more effectively, various studies have stipulated that the cannabinoid is beneficial for chronic pain, indicating that products infused with the compound are promising options for pain relief.
According to a 2020 review, CBD provides relief to a plethora of conditions and improves the body’s well-being: it alleviates chronic pain and arthritis pain, improves the quality of sleep, stops inflammation, helps in neuropathic pain management, and reduces levels of muscle spasms (one of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis).
To know more information about the benefits of CBD and the best CBD-infused products for pain and other conditions, see this infographic from CBD Guide Australia.