CBD News Supplement
CBD is one of the
The human body contains a complex network of neurotransmitters and cannabinoid receptors known as the
Is CBD effective in pain management?
There are endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids. Endogenous cannabinoids are naturally occurring lipids that the body produces. Two of the most well-known endogenous cannabinoids are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol.
The body does not produce exogenous cannabinoids — these compounds are part of the cannabis plant. Examples of exogenous cannabinoids include:
- CBD
- THC
- cannabichromene
- cannabigerol
Cannabinoids, both endogenous and exogenous, bind to endocannabinoid receptors attached to cells. These include cannabinoid 1 and cannabinoid 2 receptors. This binding action stimulates different cell responses that influence pain signaling pathways.
CBD does not bind very well to endocannabinoid receptors. However, one study on mice found that it may interact with neurological receptors in the spinal cord that suppress chronic inflammatory pain. CBD may also
According to a small 2018 study, researchers evaluated CBD’s pain-relieving effects in seven people who experienced chronic pain after having kidney transplants. Six of the seven participants reported improvements in pain. One of the participants experienced more pain at higher CBD doses but achieved the best pain control at lower CBD doses.
In a
While more research, such as large-scale, high-quality clinical trials, is still necessary, these preliminary studies suggest CBD may help manage pain. A
CBD comes in several different forms, including:
- oils and tinctures
- gummies
- oral capsules or pills
- creams, balms, and salves
- topical patches
CBD gummies and capsules are for oral ingestion. On the other hand, topical CBD products are for external use only. People can apply these products to specific areas of the body, such as sore muscles or aching joints.
CBD oils and tinctures are more versatile than other forms and usually come in tinted glass bottles with a dropper. People can either add a few drops of CBD oil to food or beverages or place a few drops under their tongue, where they can hold the oil for up to 1 minute before swallowing.
Individuals should follow the directions and dosage information on the CBD product label.
Learn more about CBD dosages.
The
This means that the FDA does not regulate commercially-available CBD products. People should look for high-quality products from reputable manufacturers and retailers when shopping for CBD. These companies test every batch of their products via an independent third-party lab for purity, showing that the product does not contain harmful levels of metals or toxins.
High-quality products undergo third-party testing by laboratories without affiliations to the manufacturer. They test CBD products for:
- pesticides
- heavy metals
- microbes
- harmful chemicals
Products that undergo third-party testing will have a certificate of analysis, a document that contains information about the product’s CBD potency, the presence of THC and other cannabinoids, and safety test results.
A person can also consider the following when buying a CBD product for pain management:
- Strength: CBD products come in a range of strengths. People who have not used CBD products before should start with a low-strength product and build up until they get the needed effects.
- THC content: Hemp products with less than 0.3% THC are legal on a federal level. A person should check the THC content before making a purchase.
- Hemp source: A person can consider CBD products from companies that source their hemp responsibly. Many companies use hemp that is grown in the U.S.
- Form: CBD products can come in oils, ointments, creams, patches, or gels. A person can consider how convenient their chosen product will be to apply, whether it is suitable for different skin types, and how long the product will last.
- Cost: Some CBD products can be expensive. People should consider how often they will need to use their CBD product and choose a product that will fit their budget and be cost-effective.
- Unproven medical claims: A person should research the medical claims made by CBD manufacturers. The
FDATrusted Source has only approved one CBD prescription drug for medical use. The FDA states that people who buy CBD products claiming to treat serious conditions such as cancer, mental health conditions, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease should not delay receiving care from a healthcare professional. - COA: A person should consider products from companies that provide a certificate of analysis (COA) detailing the ingredients in their CBD products. A person can find COAs on a brand’s website or by contacting the brand directly.
Read our complete buyer’s guide to CBD.
Side effects of CBD
- tiredness
- diarrhea
- changes in appetite
- weight changes
More severe side effects include:
- liver damage
- fertility problems in males
- potentially severe interactions with alcohol and certain medications
Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:
- Ingredients: Products contain safe and high-quality ingredients, and their labels state all ingredients clearly. They should also confirm they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
- Dosage: Products contain or recommend a serving size of a safe CBD dosage. The label also clearly states the dosage.
- Third-party labs: Products undergo third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
- Available certificate of analysis: The company demonstrates transparency and shares a product’s certificate of analysis (COA) following lab results.
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