A detailed guide to CBD OIL for Osteoarthritis (OA):
Does CBD Work for Osteoarthritis?
Cannabis Sativa contains a compound called CBD, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can ease arthritis symptoms.
- An article published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences demonstrated anti-arthritic effects of CBD in the case of collagen-induced arthritis in mice.
- In a study published in Neuroscience Letters, CBD reduced inflammation and arthritis pain in rats. This is because it alters how the receptors for pain respond to stimuli
- Evidence of CBD’s effects on pain relief for arthritis-related ailments is based mostly on animal studies. It is imperative to conduct more research to study CBD’s potential benefits in osteoarthritis.
Why People Are Turning to CBD for Osteoarthritis:
In the United States, 54.4 million adults have arthritis, and one in four children have it.
One of the more common types of arthritis is osteoarthritis. Other forms of arthritis are fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.
The Osteoarthritis is the degeneration of joints and impairment of mobility caused by the loss of protective cartilage. It can affect any joint, but it usually occurs in active joints, such as hips, knees, and hands.
Osteoarthritis symptoms can include pain or stiffness, aching, swelling, and reduced flexibility or range of motion. It can also lead to reduced performance and impairment, as well as difficulty in performing regular tasks or work.
A preliminary study shows that Sativex, a combination of CBD and THC, relieves joint pain due to rheumatoid arthritis. NIH research suggests that Sativex may also be effective in treating spasticity and neuropathic pain associated with multiple sclerosis.
CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties were studied in a 2017 study on rats. Researchers found CBD’s use in local applications reduces pain and stops nerve damage and pain in these joints.
These results suggest CBD might be a reliable and effective treatment for joint pain due to osteoarthritis.
A subsequent study demonstrated that topical CBD could relieve arthritis-related actions and inflammation without any apparent side effects.
Researchers in Neuroscience Letters found that CBD also decreased inflammation in a rat model.
Although the Arthritis Foundation noted anecdotal evidence that CBD reduced pain, improved sleep, and reduced anxiety,
Studies in animals have also shown CBD to be beneficial for joint pain. Research on CBD in humans is underway.
How CBD Oil Alleviates OA Symptoms?
CBD is a part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) that regulates pain, immune response appetite, mood, sleep metabolism, memory, and sleep.
The ECS comprises two kinds of receptors. CB1 as well as CB2 receptors.
A CB1 receptor is found in the brain, central nervous system, lungs, liver, and kidneys. These receptors play a role in bodily functions such as motor regulation, memory processing, craving, pain sensation, mood, and sleep.
Additionally, CB2 receptors are located within the immune system as well as its related structures. When activated, CB2 receptors trigger a response that fights inflammation, which reduces pain and limits damage to tissues.
These anti-inflammatory properties are useful in the treatment of inflammation-related ailments like Crohn’s disease, arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
In a 2019 study published in The Current Opinion of Rheumatology, cannabinoids affect inflammation by activating CB2 receptors.
CBD also stimulates TRPV1 and GPR55 receptors. These aid in regulating pain perception and inflammation.
A study in 2019 revealed that CBD can reduce anxiety via the serotonin receptor 5-HT1A activation. SERTONIN, the “happy chemical,” plays a critical role in mood regulation, anxiety levels, appetite control, and cognitive function.
Another study demonstrated CBD’s ability to stimulate the ECS to create more natural cannabinoids such as anandamide.
CBD Oil’s Pros and Cons for OA:
The Pros:
- People generally accept regular use and a high dose of up to 1,500mg CBD daily.
- CBD is a natural anti-inflammatory ingredient that can help relieve arthritis-related pain.
- A study on animals conducted in 2017 revealed CBD as a non-toxic treatment for joint pain caused by osteoarthritis.
- CBD applied topically can relieve arthritis pain and inflammation (without obvious side effects).
- CBD doesn’t give users a feeling of euphoria in contrast to the psychoactive compound known as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
The Cons:
- The latest data available on CBD usage and arthritis-related ailments are mostly based on animal studies. There is no scientific evidence of CBD’s efficacy in humans.
- There are no FDA approvals for using CBD oil to treat osteoarthritis.
- Despite CBD’s uses as an analgesic and therapeutic in conditions like schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis, depression, and anxiety, it also has side effects like fatigue, diarrhea, drowsiness, and weight fluctuation.
- CBD could interact with other drugs. These interactions with drugs alter how the body breaks down certain drugs.
With the lack of research available, CBD’s efficacy to treat arthritis in humans can’t be confirmed.
Users can start with small doses of CBD, but consulting with a physician is crucial.
How CBD Oil Compares to Alternative Treatments for Osteoarthritis:
NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and duloxetine are prescription medications that offer pain relief to osteoarthritis sufferers.
Most often, mild to moderate pain is treated with NSAIDs like ibuprofen. It is common to take NSAIDs along with antidepressants. Duloxetine is an approved treatment for chronic pain.
However, these medications can cause negative side effects including stomach ulcers, stomach upset, heart problems, cardiovascular issues, and liver damage.
Meanwhile, CBD is a natural treatment option without adverse side effects.
CBD for Osteoarthritis: How to Choose the Right Product:
Vegan CBD Oil Tincture is a powerful type of CBD for osteoarthritis thanks to its rapid absorption into the system. The anti-inflammatory effects of CBD can last a long time
Using topical CBD products on the skin can also provide relief from joint pain and other symptoms of arthritis.
Alternative CBD forms, such as vaping and gummies, are available for users based on their preferences and needs.
Types of CBD Products Available:
CBD-based products are available in a variety of forms: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, CBD isolates, etc.
Full-spectrum CBD contains CBD, THC, terpenes, flavonoids, as well as other minerals found in cannabis plants.
Terpenes contribute to the distinctive aroma of cannabis plants. Flavonoids are the reason for their vibrant colors.
An “entourage effect” occurs when all the ingredients complement each other, suggesting they are more effective together than individually. It is therefore the most effective type of CBD oil to use.
But people who don’t need the euphoric effect of THC could opt for broad-spectrum CBD.
Broad-spectrum CBD also has an entourage effect. However, consumers can obtain pure CBD isolates that are isolated from the other compounds. A fine example of broad spectrum CBD Product is Milk of the Gods Gelato CBD Cartridge.
Although CBD isolates don’t produce the entourage effect, people might choose to purchase CBD isolates instead of CBD supplements. This is to be sure they receive CBD’s maximum benefits without the euphoric buzz.
No matter what CBD product consumers decide to use, they must follow these steps:
- Law studies on the legality of cannabis-related products in the state.
- Make sure that the CBD product is organic and GMO-free hemp.
- Examine the certification of analysis (COA) at the website of the brand. The COA will show the exact CBD amount and the absence of pesticides or other harmful contaminants.
- Compare the product’s label and certificate of analysis. A high-quality CBD product is likely to contain more CBD than their labels claim.
- Consult your doctor before buying CBD items, especially if it is your first time.
CBD Dosage:
CBD dosages for osteoarthritis are not standardized. Medical experts consulted by the Arthritis Foundation recommended the following:
- CBD oil products contain CBD extracts mixed with carrier oils. As such, consumers must know the amount of tincture or oil they will use (the dosage) as well as the CBD quantity in each dose.
- Take CBD in small doses. Aim for two sublingual doses of CBD in a day.
- However, patients can raise the dose in the same manner if relief remains insufficient after a few days.
- Increase the dosage over a few weeks. However, full-spectrum CBD oils can still produce the sensation of euphoria even though they have very little THC.
- Speak with a medical professional to ensure your safety. Do not use if there isn’t any improvement or relief visible after several weeks of usage.
How to Take CBD Oil for Osteoarthritis?
Users can consume CBD oil for Osteoarthritis & other CBD products by mouth apply them to the skin or inhale them according to their individual needs.
Taking CBD Orally:
Users can take CBD products orally, by taking them via capsules, food, or liquid. They are simple and easy, particularly for novices.
The kinds in CBD are absorbed via digestion. In addition to slow absorption and difficult dosages, stomach acid, recent meals, and other influences can affect effectiveness (about 1 to 2 hours after administration).
Experts also advise against using CBD edibles due to the uncertainty of dosage.
Users can take CBD in a sublingual manner or even under their tongue. CBD is absorbed directly into the bloodstream after 60 to 120 seconds of contact with the liquid. In contrast to chewing gum and other CBD flavored products, the effects can be noticed within 15 to 45 minutes.
So, CBD oil tinctures are best suited to those looking for quick results.
Taking CBD Topically:
Those with discomfort in particular parts of their bodies may benefit from topical CBD products, such as balms, lotions, and creams.
CBD can target specific groups of receptors when applied topically instead of interfering with the ECS in general.
But, some other topical CBD products are made up of common ingredients such as menthol capsaicin or camphor. It is therefore unclear whether CBD or any other ingredient has positive effects.
Inhaling CBD:
CBD hemp oil can be inhaled via vaping a pen. Vaping is among the best methods for absorbing CBD because it enters the bloodstream without the body having to process it.
Effects can be seen within a few minutes. However, the effects only last for almost one hour.
Furthermore, it’s difficult to know exactly the amount of CBD in every vape. Even though CBD oil vape products show how much CBD is in each inhalation, the amount may differ for each individual.
So finding the right dosage requires some kind of experimentation. Inhaling vapors and chemical byproducts can also pose unknown dangers, particularly for people suffering from inflammatory arthritis.
In addition, CDC is also studying whether vaping contributes to numerous hospitalizations and lung-related deaths. Vaping is, therefore, discouraged.
Conclusion:
Some studies have proven CBD’s benefits for relieving pain along with benefits for wellness and anti-inflammatory properties. This is why more people turn to CBD to treat the underlying causes of osteoarthritis-related symptoms.
The available research regarding CBD usage as well as arthritis-related pain relief relies on studies conducted with animals. Therefore, further studies are needed to verify CBD’s efficacy in humans.