CBD oil is a product made from cannabis. It’s a type of cannabinoid, a chemical found naturally in hemp plants. It doesn’t cause the “high” feeling often associated with cannabis, which is caused by a different type of cannabinoid called THC. Cannabidiol (CBD) oil may reduce pain, inflammation, and overall discomfort related to a variety of health conditions.
Researchers think that CBD interacts with receptors in your brain and immune system. Receptors are tiny proteins attached to your cells that receive chemical signals from different stimuli and help your cells respond. This creates anti-inflammatory and painkilling effects that help with pain management. This means that CBD oil may benefit people with chronic pain, such as chronic back pain.
One 2008 review assessed how good CBD works to relieve chronic pain. The review looked at studies conducted between the late 1980s and 2007. Based on these reviews, researchers concluded CBD was effective in overall pain management without adverse side effects. They also noted that CBD was beneficial in treating insomnia related to chronic pain.
CBD oil is also used by some people who have cancer. Many human studies have involved research into the role of CBD oil in managing pain related to cancer and cancer treatment. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has pointed to CBD as a possible option for relieving symptoms caused by chemotherapy.
Overall, CBD products might be able to offer relief for many people who have chronic pain, all without causing intoxication and dependence. The anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects of the CBD gel could hold promise for people with arthritis. The authors of the study also noted that CBD was most helpful in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) as well.