Instead of reaching for traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, millions of Americans are starting to turn to cannabis cream for pain management and relief instead.
Why the switch, and how exactly does CBD ointment provide instant relief for users with various pain afflictions ranging from chronic back pain to joint pain and muscle soreness?
The following is a beginner’s go-to guide to understanding the how and why of using CBD oil for pain management.
What is CBD?
CBD or Cannabidiol is one of the many chemical compounds – also called cannabinoids – that are found in the various plants of the Cannabis genus. CBD, in particular, is found in the greatest abundance in the hemp plant, or Cannabis sativa.
CBD is not associated with inducing psychoactive effects in users, which is one of the main reasons that the regulations in place regarding its use for medicinal purposes is so much more relaxed in the U.S. than the use of THC.
Various studies indicate that CBD offers users potential pain relief and anti-inflammation effects. In fact, it has even been linked to providing pain relief by affecting the user’s mood, which can then have a significant effect on perceived pain.
What are CBD ointments?
Due to the recent relaxation of laws regulating their sale and the popularity and endorsements that they are experiencing on the web, you can find CBD-infused oils, drinks, lotions, supplements, vape pens, drops, and other products just about anywhere these days.
But what form of CBD oil application is right for you? That all depends on your specific pain. By far, the most popular applications are CBD oil supplements and CBD pain relief rubs, or ointments.
CBD infused lotions, ointments, and creams are popular for many reasons. First, they allow for localized pain relief, and users can apply their ointment directly to the afflicted muscle, joint, or general region for targeted relief.
This is in contrast to taking a supplement, which will provide full-body relief. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, there is no real point to medicating your entire body when you are experiencing pain in one, localized area.
CBD ointments come in various potencies and can be endlessly reapplied to treat your pain. There is no required dosage per hour or strict schedule that must be followed for the pain relief to take effect.
Finally, top quality CBD lotions and creams contain natural, skin-soothing ingredients that won’t irritate sensitive skin and may even provide potential further benefits to skin health, including improving its texture, look, and feel.
How does CBD work to provide pain relief?
CBD ointments feature dual pain-fighting mechanisms to relieve various types of pain, from mild to severe.
First, the chemical compound itself works within the endocannabinoid system of the human body, a vast network of neurotransmitters and receptors that regulates homeostasis. CBD bonds to the endocannabinoid receptors that exist on cells and work to inhibit the body’s reaction to pain signals.
This is particularly important for individuals who suffer from issues with chronic pain or autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, in which the body’s immune system is compromised.
CBD has also been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Athletes who suffer from chronic joint and muscle inflammation can benefit from the use of a CBD ointment as a means to lower inflammation and reduce recovery time.
What are the benefits of CBD over traditional NSAIDs?
Unlike traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids, which have been the go-to for individuals who suffer from chronic and debilitating pain, CBD is non-habit-forming.
In addition, the body also does not develop a tolerance to the effects of CBD, and users will continue to experience the same amount of pain relief without having to increase the dosage of CBD no matter how often the product is used.
The takeaway
Cannabis cream for pain management can be a useful and effective tool to add to any pain-fighting arsenal. Talk to your doctor and see if this natural pain reliever is the right choice for you.
