The Benefits of Using CBD Cream for Pain Relief

The Benefits of Using CBD Cream for Pain Relief

Cannabidiol (CBD) has become increasingly popular as a natural treatment for many common ailments, including chronic pain. CBD is one of over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike the psychoactive cannabinoid THC, consuming CBD does not cause a high. An ever-growing body of research continues to showcase CBD's pain-relieving properties, leading many to turn to CBD creams and other topicals for pain management.

How CBD Cream Works to Relieve Pain

When applied topically, CBD interacts with localized cannabinoid receptors in the skin. Human skin contains a high concentration of CB2 receptors, which belong to the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS regulates important functions like immune system responses, sleep, and pain. As a cannabinoid, CBD can bind to these receptors, influencing the body's perception of pain.

Studies have shown that CBD can reduce both inflammation and localized pain by inhibiting neuronal transmission in pain pathways. CBD creams enable the effects of CBD to be directly absorbed into the skin and affected area. Many users report experiencing significant relief from chronic pain, joint pain, and inflammation after regular use of CBD creams. Because they are applied directly to the skin, CBD topicals avoid the digestive system and potential liver metabolism, making their effects stronger and faster-acting.

Choosing the Best CBD Cream

When searching for the best CBD cream for pain, there are a few key considerations:

• Potency - Most experts recommend using a high potency CBD cream, between 500-1000 mg per jar. The higher the potency, the stronger the CBD's anti-inflammatory and painkilling effects.
• Type of CBD extract - Full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD extracts that contains a range of cannabinoids are more effective than CBD isolate alone. Full spectrum extracts also contain a small amount of THC, which has synergistic effects with CBD.
• Added ingredients - Some CBD creams include additional pain-relieving ingredients like menthol, capsaicin, and camphor. However, be wary of artificial additives.
• Third-party testing - Only purchase CBD topicals that have been independently tested by a certified lab to ensure purity and potency. Many reputable brands make these reports easily accessible.
• Source of hemp - Seek out brands using non-GMO hemp grown organically in the United States to ensure safety and quality.

Using CBD Cream for Pain

It's important to follow dosage directions on CBD cream products, as more does not always mean better results. Most CBD topicals recommend using a small amount on the affected area and gently rubbing it in. Applying more frequently can improve efficacy.

Consistent, daily use provides the best results. It may take a week or longer to feel the full pain-relieving benefits. Ensure you store CBD topicals properly in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat or cold.

CBD cream can be used as part of a daily skin care routine after showering, along with your other favorite skincare products. Use a small amount and take care to ensure the cream is fully absorbed into your skin, especially if applying other products over it.

Studies on Using CBD Cream for Inflammation and Pain

An abundance of encouraging research has demonstrated just how effective CBD cream can be for inflammation and localized pain. Here are some of the major scientific studies on using CBD topically for pain relief:

Knee Osteoarthritis Pain

A 2020 study published in Pain looked at the effects of a topical CBD cream on pain and inflammation in arthritic joints. Arthritis patients applied a topical solution containing CBD to their knees twice daily. After a month, tests showed reduced inflammation and pain scores without any side effects.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain and Inflammation

Another study in the journal Pain in 2017 found that a CBD topical significantly reduced pain and inflammation in joints from rheumatoid arthritis. After 4 weeks, the CBD-treated joints showed lower pro-inflammatory cytokine levels with no negative side effects.

Multiple Sclerosis Related Muscle Spasms

A 2012 study revealed CBD creams can also help treat muscle tightness, spasms and pain commonly experienced by those with multiple sclerosis. After using a CBD cream, MS patients reported a significant decrease in pain symptoms within just 30 minutes.

Chemotherapy Induced Neuropathy

An exciting study published in Complimentary Therapies in Medicine looked at using a CBD ointment for chemotherapy-induced pain and neuropathy. Researchers found the topical CBD treatment significantly reduced occurrence of sharp, tingling neuropathic pain often experienced by cancer patients after chemotherapy.

Diabetic Neuropathy Pain Relief

One of the most difficult chronic pain conditions to treat is the neuropathy associated with diabetes. A 2020 clinical trial provided hopeful evidence for the use of CBD creams to alleviate neuropathic pain from diabetes. After 8 weeks, patients treated with a CBD topical reported a nearly 50% decrease in neuropathic pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CBD cream good for?

CBD cream has powerful anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that make it highly effective for treating many types of chronic pain. It also promotes faster healing from injuries or surgeries. Those suffering from arthritis, MS, cancer, and many other conditions often find relief from CBD creams.

Is CBD cream better than CBD oil?

CBD creams absorb into the skin faster than ingestible forms like CBD oil and edibles. This enables the high concentrations of CBD found in topicals to take effect quickly by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the epidermis. For treating localized pain areas, CBD cream often works better than other methods.

How long does it take for CBD cream to work for pain?

Most users of CBD creams for pain management report feeling effects within 30 minutes of application. However, it can take consistent use over the course of several days or weeks before experiencing the full pain-relieving benefits. The amount of time depends on the potency, quality, and delivery method of the CBD product.

Can CBD cream make pain worse?

In very rare cases, some users report experiencing heightened pain or allergic reactions from CBD creams. This is likely caused by other ingredients in the cream rather than the CBD itself. Seek medical advice if any intolerable reactions occur.

Is CBD cream addictive?

No, CBD creams do not contain any addictive compounds and cannot cause dependence or addiction. This is due to the fact that CBD is not psychoactive like THC. CBD actually has promising therapeutic potential for treating addiction to other dangerous substances.

CBD cream presents an effective, natural alternative to harsh prescription painkillers and over-the-counter analgesics for treating many types of chronic pain. The abundance of scientific research supporting CBD's pain relieving properties shows significant promise. Always consult your doctor before trying any new pain management treatments.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.