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The cannabis plant produces over 100 cannabinoids, or compounds. Tetrahydrocannabinolis (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two of these natural compounds, and they’re what you’ll see most often when researching medical cannabis.
Although THC and CBD have many similar potential medical benefits, they can have different effects. The main difference is that THC can produce a ‘high’, while CBD doesn’t. And remember, whilst there is evidence to give a general idea of how both THC and CBD may react with the body, they can affect every individual differently.
Both compounds work by interacting with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a messenger and receptor system that is integral to homeostasis (the management of balance) within the human body. The ECS influences and modulates pretty much every single function within your body, directing, correcting and managing your overall health, as well as regulating pain.
One of the core components of the ECS are the cannabinoid receptors, which includes CB1 and CB2. They’re one of the main reasons behind why medical cannabis works so positively on so many different conditions. Many experts believe that, by consuming compounds like CBD or THC, it’s possible to interact with these receptors.
Both THC and CBD are available for medical use in several forms, including as an oil. They can each be mixed with a carrier oil, like coconut, olive or hemp seed oil, to make CBD oil or THC oil. And with the help of licensed clinics like Alternaleaf, people suffering from arthritis, and 50+ other conditions, can get a medical cannabis prescription.
We’ll be exploring the possible ways CBD oil benefits arthritis, THC oil benefits arthritis, consumption methods and potential side effects below.
Understanding Arthritis: Prevalence and Impact in the UK
Millions of people, old and young, suffer from arthritis in the UK. It’s when the joints become inflamed, causing pain. There are lots of different types of arthritis, but two of the most common types are osteoarthritis followed by rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis
This usually develops in people in their mid-40s or older, and is more common in women or people whose family have a history of the condition. It mostly affects the hands, spine, knees and hips, initially impacting the smooth cartilage lining of the joint, which eventually roughens and thins out. The tendons and ligaments then have to work harder, which causes swelling and extra growths of bone tissue known as osteophytes.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
This is most common in women between the ages of 30 and 50 and involves the body’s immune system targeting joints, which leads to pain and swelling.
How CBD & THC Oil Can Provide Relief for Arthritis Symptoms
When it comes to CBD for arthritis, there’s evidence to suggest this cannabinoid can bring wide-ranging symptom relief to patients. In a 2022 study, CBD had a pronounced impact on pain, although participants also reported improved sleep and physical function. CBD also has the potential to ease inflammation. Such findings are backed up by more studies, whereas other data implies a mix of THC and CBD may also prove effective.
In reality, both can play a lead role on certain health conditions. THC for arthritis and inflammation is valid in its own right, whereas CBD and THC can sometimes be greater together, due to a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
Key Benefits of CBD & THC Oil for Arthritis Sufferers
Below are some potential tetrahydrocannabinolis and cannabidiol benefits that you might want to make a note of if you’re looking for a prescription for arthritis:
- Reduction of joint pain and swelling: more and more research is being conducted to provide evidence on the potential benefits of CBD oil for joint pain and THC oil for joint pain.
- Improved sleep and overall quality of life: there’s research that implies THC can induce sleep. And other research suggests that CBD may alleviate the symptoms of insomnia.
- Medical cannabis comes with minimal side effects compared to many traditional medications: Most commonly prescribed traditional treatments like opioids come with a chilling set of risks – like high tolerance, dependency, or even death.
We dive deeper into some of the above on our Cannaverse blog, so have a look through if you’re interested in learning more.
How to Properly Use CBD & THC for Arthritis Relief
When it comes to medical cannabis, the way you consume is down to personal preference and your clinicians recommendation. They’ll advise a method of consumption based on your symptoms and condition, but they’ll also work with you to find what you’re comfortable with. Remember, you may not choose the right form at first, so speak to your clinician if you have any questions or preferences. Below we’ve got a brief explanation of different ways to use CBD and THC oil for arthritis relief:
- Cannabis Edibles & Capsules: Consuming cannabis-infused ‘edibles’, like pastilles, or soft gel capsules, results in slower onset of effects, which can take between 1 to 2 hours. This method is ideal for longer-lasting relief.
- CBD & THC Oils/Tinctures: Placing cannabis oil or tincture under the tongue provides a faster onset than edibles, usually within 15 to 30 minutes, and, like edible options, relief tends to last longer than they do for inhaling.
- Cannabis Topicals (Creams, Balms, Patches): Applying cannabis-infused products directly to the skin targets localised pain and inflammation. This method does not produce psychoactive effects. Please note, you should only ever apply a medication topically if it has been advised by your doctor. The majority of medical cannabis products available for prescription are for consumption via inhalation or sublingually only. There are currently no topical products available for prescription at the time of writing this article.
When it comes to THC oil for arthritis and CBD oil for arthritis the strain and THC/CBD content can vary from person to person. From personal factors such as your past use, physiology and health condition, to you as an individual, this really can be completely different for everyone. It’s best to speak to your clinician about strain and dosage. They’ll take all of the above into account, as well as your own preferences and opinion.
And remember you may not get it right the first time. Medical cannabis can affect everyone differently. And just because someone you know has a certain experience, doesn't mean the same will happen to you. Your body, and everyone else's, is different.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Every medication comes with potential side effects, and medical cannabis is no different. However, some side effects are rare and can vary depending on personal factors such as your past use, physiology and health condition, as well as consumption method (for example oil, vaporiser, edible), and THC and CBD content.
Don’t worry too much, and if you’re ever concerned, speak to your doctor. They’ll explain everything in detail ahead of prescribing any medication. But, some potential risks and side effects to keep in mind include:
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in weight
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry Mouth
- Increased Appetite
- Psychoactive Effects. However, the ‘high’ feeling cannabis can be associated with is much more controlled with medical cannabis due to guided dosing
Also keep in mind that medical cannabis could potentially interact with other medications.
Summary
So, can medical cannabis help with arthritis? Whilst there’s some evidence to suggest both THC oil and CBD oil have the potential to ease pain and inflammation that can be a result of arthritis, a lot more research is needed. And it’s always important to speak to your Doctor or clinician to discover what works best for you. This includes strain, frequency of use, and whether medical cannabis is even right for you or not.
If you have any questions, or want to learn more about medical cannabis and the potential benefits, head to the Alternaleaf website. Medical cannabis can be prescribed for 50+ conditions, so it may be worth completing our 30-second eligibility questionnaire, even if it’s not arthritis you suffer from.