The Anti-Inflammatory Effects of CBD Explained

Inflammation is a key player in nearly every chronic disease, affecting more than 40% of the entire United States population. Those with inflammation or chronic pain likely know how difficult it can be to remedy. Luckily, there are certain treatments that can offer some much-needed relief.

Key takeaways

• CBD is an important component of cannabis and can offer therapeutic effects to the user.
• There is plenty of gray area concerning the legality of CBD. However, in general, CBD products are legal if they have less than 0.3% THC by weight.
• Though there isn't a lot of research done on the effects of CBD on inflammation, there are plenty of anecdotal reports that suggest its effectiveness.
• Inflammation is a natural reaction from your immune system to things like injury, infection, or bacteria.
• CBD may be able to help support your body's endocannabinoid system, meaning it may also be able to interact with your immune cells.
• Certain CBD products may also help with chronic pain management.
• The best way to use CBD for inflammation is through topical products, as they can better treat localized pain or inflammation through the skin.
• Though CBD can potentially offer some health benefits, it can also come with side effects like drowsiness, nausea, dry mouth, or vomiting.

It is believed that CBD has certain anti-inflammatory properties that can effectively be used to boost the immune system. Cannabidiol may be able to help support the endocannabinoid system and provide some physical comfort and relaxation for those with inflammation.

Keep reading, and we'll let you know everything you should keep in mind about CBD when it comes to inflammation.

See Related: Can Delta-8 THC Ease Inflammation?

#1. What exactly is CBD?

The cannabis plant has countless active elements, including hundreds of cannabinoids. Cannabidiol, otherwise known as CBD, is one of the most important parts of cannabis and is often used in CBD-based products.

Some people might believe that the active compounds in cannabis are what serve to get you "high."

However, CBD isn't responsible for that well-known feeling of euphoria. That's what THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, does!

THC is behind the main psychoactive effects of cannabis, while CBD can't actually get you "high."

The effects of CBD

Instead of producing intoxicating effects, CBD serves to provide more therapeutic feelings. However, CBD can also come with side effects ranging from general drowsiness to reduced appetite.

CBD comes from hemp, which is a variety of cannabis. It's extracted in order to produce the many CBD products that are available on the market today.

#2. Are CBD products legal?

In 2018, the Agriculture Improvement Act, otherwise known as the 2018 Farm Bill, was passed. This removed hemp from the federal Controlled Substances Act.

So, because CBD comes from hemp, it was essentially legalized.

However, there is still plenty of gray area when it comes to the legality of cannabis and CBD. The legal status of products may vary on both the state and federal levels depending on how laws are developed and enforced.

Simply put, CBD products can only have up to 0.3% THC by weight.

#3. Using CBD for inflammation or chronic pain

There is plenty of research underway that is evaluating the safety of CBD. At this point, there isn't too much that is known about the specific effects of CBD when it comes to medical issues or concerns.

There are certain studies that have shown that CBD might be able to help reduce inflammation in the body by interacting with your system's endocannabinoid system (ECS).

However, this unique relationship is still being researched, and it will likely take some time for a deeper general understanding to develop.

What is inflammation, and how is it caused?

Inflammation plagues millions of people worldwide, and finding ways to ease the stress and strain on your body might be a challenge. Because everyone's situation is unique, it's likely that your body might only react well to certain approaches or treatments.

Inflammation is a function of your immune system that occurs when your body is trying to protect itself against threats like injury or infection.

Anything from allergies or chronic disease often shows up as inflammation.

Acute inflammation versus chronic inflammation

Sometimes, inflammation can be good! It means your body is working as it should and is merely trying to fight off bacteria or heal a wound.

However, too much inflammation can sometimes spell disaster. It's important to be aware of the difference!

Most of the time, inflammation can be broken down into two categories: acute inflammation and chronic inflammation. Acute inflammation appears as redness, swelling, and even pain, which often comes after a minor cut, a sprain, or the flu.

How does CBD work?

An anecdotal study has found that 62% of participants have used CBD at one point in order in treating pain, anxiety, depression, or another condition. Certain preliminary research suggests that CBD can potentially be used in order to help reduce inflammation.

CBD works by interacting with your body's endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating plenty of your body's natural functions, including sleep, appetite, pain, and even the response of your immune system.

Some studies have suggested that CBD is able to help support your overall endocannabinoid system function, thus working to promote better balance in your body. However, most of the scientific evidence for this comes from animal studies or small human trials.

CBD may be able to positively react with your body's immune system

There's a general idea that cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory properties. Because CBD interacts with your body's endocannabinoid system, it also intermingles with your immune system.

However, research has shown that CBD and delta-9 THC can enhance the production of interleukin (IL)-2, thus activating T-cells and serving to regulate inflammation instead of stopping it altogether. This means that CBD might be able to treat inflammation in a healthy and safe way.

And by not ceasing inflammation altogether, CBD might be able to help support your body's natural functions better. Remember, some inflammation can be a good thing sometimes!

Bonus: CBD For Depression And Anxiety: Does It Actually Work?

Can CBD be used for arthritis pain?

One of the most common conditions associated with chronic inflammation is arthritis. This inflammation of the joints affects over 58 million adult Americans and can be difficult to deal with for many.

Though there are no FDA-approved CBD-based medications that can be used to treat inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, there are still plenty of anecdotal reports showing how much CBD can relieve chronic pain.

Many people, including seniors, opt to use CBD products in order to reduce the effects of inflammation in their lives.

The key here is to find the right way to incorporate CBD into your life!

#4. The best ways to incorporate the medical benefits of CBD into your life

CBD's popularity has only been growing. But because of that, you need to be sure that you're only selecting safe, high-quality products with CBD if you're looking to ease inflammation or pain.

CBD-based products are usually taken orally, topically, or inhaled.

Finding the right way to use CBD for inflammation

CBD products can show up in a multitude of different forms. Popular choices include CBD oil and tinctures, capsules, or food or beverage products like edibles.

CBD gummies or edibles are absorbed through your digestive tract, but it can be difficult to find the right dosage as the onset time can take up to one to three hours.

Keep in mind that CBD is relatively safe to use for adults in general, but it can come with possible side effects. For example, some users may find that CBD leads to things like fatigue or changes in appetite.

The best way to use CBD to fight inflammation

Oftentimes, if you're looking to ease joint pain, you're best off with a topical CBD product. Lotions, balms, and creams may be able to provide some much-needed relief to the areas of your body that are inflamed or suffering.

CBD-based creams or lotions are likely more effective for localized pain or inflammation in comparison to other CBD-based products like vapes or gummies.

A CBD muscle rub made with natural ingredients is your best bet. Coconut oil and hemp seed oil can help nourish your skin while relieving the stress your joints have been feeling!

#5. Potential side effects of using CBD

Though CBD-based products may likely be able to offer some relief when it comes to pain or inflammation, it's important to also consider the possible side effects of it.

There is not enough research done on the long-term effects of taking CBD daily. Many health experts and medical professionals caution that more research needs to become available before CBD is widely used as a permanent treatment option for things like chronic inflammation, pain, or arthritis.

Though CBD can offer some potential health benefits, there are also a few common side effects that might show up if you decide to indulge in CBD-based products, including:

• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Drowsiness
• Changes in appetite

Keep in mind that your CBD dosage may also play a role in any side effects. CBD may also potentially interact with medications like blood thinners and certain anti-epileptic drugs. Be sure to consult with a medical professional before if you are taking any medications.

Wrapping up

If you suffer from inflammation or pain, it's time to find a remedy that will help your body truly feel its best again. It's important to take into account your unique needs and consider how you feel on the inside.

Whether you opt for CBD or another healing method, you deserve to live life pain-free!

Keep Reading: When Is The Best Time To Harvest Cannabis?

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