Is CBD Cream Good for Pain? Benefits for Pain Relief

In recent years CBD has been touted as a solution for many health issues including managing pain. Among the many CBD products out there CBD cream has become popular for its ability to relieve pain when applied topically. This article will explore the benefits of CBD cream for pain relief, its mechanism, effectiveness and overall advantages.

What is CBD and How Does it Work

What is CBD?

CBD is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC CBD is non-psychoactive meaning it won’t get you high like marijuana. CBD is often extracted from hemp a cannabis variety with low THC levels and is added to various products including oils, edibles and topicals like creams.

How?

CBD works with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) a complex system that regulates many physiological processes including pain, immune response and inflammation. The ECS is made up of endocannabinoids (cannabinoids produced by the body), receptors (CB1 and CB2) and enzymes that break down endocannabinoids. CBD is thought to affect the ECS by interacting with CB2 receptors which are mostly found in the peripheral nervous system and immune cells.

CBD Cream

What is CBD Cream?

CBD cream is a topical product that is infused with CBD extract and applied directly to the skin. These creams usually contain a blend of CBD, carrier oils (coconut or hemp seed oil) and other ingredients that are good for the skin and pain relief.

How does CBD Cream work?

When applied to the skin CBD cream targets localised pain by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the skin. This localised action reduces inflammation and relieves pain without entering the bloodstream making it a great option for those who have chronic pain in specific areas like joints, muscles or nerves.

Benefits of CBD Cream for Pain Relief

Non-Psychoactive and Safe

One of the biggest benefits of CBD cream is that it’s non-psychoactive. You can use it throughout the day without worrying about impairment. Plus since CBD cream is applied topically it has minimal absorption into the bloodstream reducing the risk of systemic side effects.

Targeted Pain Relief

CBD cream provides targeted pain relief making it great for conditions where pain is localised. For example if you have arthritis you can apply the cream directly to the affected joint, if you have muscle pain you can target specific muscle groups. This localised approach can be more effective than systemic treatment for certain types of pain.

Anti-Inflammatory

CBD has anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce inflammation and swelling in painful areas. By reducing inflammation CBD cream can relieve pain and improve mobility making it great for conditions like arthritis, tendonitis and muscle strains.

Minimal Systemic Side Effects

Since CBD cream is applied to the skin it doesn’t have the same systemic effects as oral CBD products. This localised application reduces the risk of side effects associated with oral CBD like gastrointestinal issues or interactions with other medications.

Moisturising and Skin-Nourishing

In addition to pain relief CBD cream often contains moisturising and skin-nourishing ingredients. Carrier oils like coconut or hemp seed oil and other natural extracts can hydrate the skin, improve its barrier function and overall skin health.

Scientific Evidence for CBD Cream for Pain Relief

Arthritis Pain

A study in the European Journal of Pain found that topical CBD application reduced pain and inflammation in an animal model of arthritis. The results suggest CBD cream could be a treatment for arthritis pain in humans.

Neuropathic Pain

A study in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that CBD suppressed chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain in rodents. The results suggest CBD cream could be good for people with neuropathic pain conditions.

General Pain Management

A review in Frontiers in Pharmacology found CBD to be a potential treatment for chronic pain including pain related to multiple sclerosis and cancer. More human studies are needed but existing research and anecdotal evidence supports CBD cream for various types of pain.

How to Use CBD Cream

1. Clean the Area: Wash and dry the area where you will be applying the cream.
2. Apply a Small Amount: Start with a small amount and massage it in.
3. Monitor Effects: See how your body responds. You can increase the amount if needed.
4. Consistency is Key: For chronic pain consistent application as per the product’s instructions may be more effective.

Summary

CBD cream seems to be a good option for localised pain. Its benefits non-psychoactive, targeted relief, anti-inflammatory and minimal systemic side effects make it a great alternative to traditional pain management. Scientific research and anecdotal evidence supports it for arthritis and neuropathic pain.

But make sure to choose a good one and talk to a healthcare professional. Then CBD cream can be a great addition to your pain management.