CBD & Chronic Pain: A Natural Approach to Relief

One fifth of the UK population struggle with chronic pain. Chronic pain is the main cause of insomnia, which can in turn cause depression, increase inflammation, and reduce immunity. Many find that prescribed medication does little to combat the pain, and in some cases, causes uncomfortable side effects. For example, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen inhibit your COX1 & COX2 enzymes, which can cause gastrointestinal ulcers and inflammation — contributing to the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

CBD as a Natural Alternative

In recent years, CBD has become a popular alternative to conventional pharmaceutical painkillers. One reason for this rise in popularity is that CBD has only been legally available to the public in the UK since January 2019. Since then, the stigma surrounding CBD has reduced, and the majority of the public now understand that taking CBD is an effective way of treating motoneuron diseases without experiencing a ‘high’ from any THC content. All full-spectrum oils contain only a small amount of THC (<0.2%), which is not enough to cause any psychological effect. Broad-spectrum oils are available for those who want 0.0% THC.

Evidence and User Experiences

In a survey conducted by Project CBD (a U.S.-based non-profit medical cannabis education site) of 3,506 CBD users, 2,202 reported using CBD oil to manage chronic pain. Of these, 90% found that the frequency and duration of bouts of chronic pain reduced, and 60% reported feeling lessened pain during these times.

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, specifically by binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors located throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and spinal cord, while CB2 receptors are mostly located in immune cells. This interaction helps to modulate pain signals and reduces inflammation throughout the body.

Comparing CBD to Conventional Medicines

Some patients find CBD to be more effective than conventional medicines. Often, patients experience fewer or lessened side effects compared to pharmaceuticals such as ibuprofen, which can cause stomach issues and kidney problems. Although it is rare for CBD to cause problematic side effects, it can sometimes cause reduced appetite, drowsiness, dry mouth, or diarrhoea. It is important to be aware that CBD can interfere with other medications, as many drugs are broken down by enzymes in the liver. For this reason, we recommend consulting with your medical consultant before using CBD, especially if you are currently taking other medications.

Supporting the Endocannabinoid System

Taking CBD helps regulate the endocannabinoid system, which in turn affects sleep, digestion, mood, and the nervous system. In some cases, CBD addresses the root cause of pain rather than simply masking symptoms. For example, if pain is due to nervous system damage, regular painkillers may only numb the sensation, whereas CBD can positively regulate the nervous system, providing broader neurological benefits.

CBD, CBN, and Better Sleep

The CBN content in CBD oils can help people achieve more restful sleep. By tackling insomnia with CBN, the body is better primed to repair and regulate itself during sleep, which can help alleviate the underlying causes of pain.