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So many people live with chronic pain. So many others have experienced a serious injury. And any type of pain has a massive impact on day-to-day living, and quality of life.
The potential benefits of cannabis for pain can be remarkable. Put very simply, medical cannabis works by harnessing cannabinoids (compounds found in the cannabis plant) to bind to pain receptors and nerve cells. This slows down the pain response, in turn easing discomfort.
The cannabis plant produces over 100 cannabinoids, but the two that you’ve probably heard of are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is psychoactive and cannabidiol (CBD) which is non-psychoactive. We’ll be exploring CBD and THC benefits for inflammation below.
How CBD and THC May Help with Inflammation
The endocannabinoid system, or the ECS, is 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. THC and CBD can interact with the (ECS), and this includes reducing inflammation.
One of the core components of the ECS are the cannabinoid receptors. This includes cannabinoid 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid 2 (CB2), and they’re one of the main reasons behind why so many different conditions react so positively to cannabis.
CB2 receptors, found in the immune system, help manage inflammation. THC and CBD can interact with these receptors, which is why they can help calm inflammation and relax muscles. In other words, patients can use THC and CBD for pain relief, and muscle relaxation and recovery through reduced inflammation.
CBD and THC for Specific Conditions Related to Inflammation
Arthritis
There’s evidence to suggest the effectiveness of CBD for arthritis pain. A 2022 study found that CBD had a pronounced impact on pain. And more and more evidence continues to show it provides patients with symptom relief. Other data implies a mix of CBD and THC for arthritis and joint pain may also be effective.
Autoimmune Conditions and Gut Inflammation
Various studies support the claim that medical cannabis is an effective anti-inflammatory. It has been known to ease symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus and IBS..
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic illness that affects the central nervous system, leading to symptoms like pain, muscle spasms, and fatigue. This study highlights the benefits of CBD for inflammation - it found that CBD significantly reduced muscle spasticity and pain in MS patients.
Types of CBD and THC Products for Inflammation
There are many different types of medical cannabis, allowing patients to choose the option that is right for them.
Oral
Placing cannabis oil or tincture under the tongue allows for quick absorption into the bloodstream. This results in a fast onset, usually within 15 to 30 minutes. It’s a discreet method and much easier to control the dosage. CBD oil for inflammation also tends to provide longer-lasting relief, which is great for people suffering from chronic pain.
Topical
Applying cannabis-infused products directly to the skin targets localised pain and inflammation. This method does not produce psychoactive effects, making it suitable for patients seeking relief from conditions like arthritis or muscle pain and also provides relief without inhalation or ingestion.
There are a number of topical cannabis based products that are available over the counter. However, keep in mind that 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.
Edibles and Gummies
It can take between 1 to 2 hours before you feel the effects of cannabis-infused ‘edibles’. The effects are strong and can last anywhere between 4 to 24 hours. Edibles are a convenient option for mild inflammation because some people with chronic pain conditions find that they provide longer and more pronounced relief.
Vape
This inhalation method typically takes effect within minutes, making it suitable for immediate relief of symptoms such as pain or sudden anxiety attacks. Doctors will always recommend using a dry herb vaporiser, as smoking can irritate the lungs, and is illegal. Vaping is considered a less harmful alternative to smoking.
Risks of Using CBD and THC for Inflammation
Medical cannabis is the same as any other medication in that there are potential risks. Although rare, it’s important to be aware of them, as well as possible side effects. These can vary depending on THC and CBD content, and how you consume. It’s also important to remember that your body is individual, and the way you react to medication may not be the same as how someone else might. Things like your past use, physiology and health condition could also play a role.
But if you’re worried at all, speak to your clinician. They’ll explain everything you need to know in detail, ahead of prescribing any medication.
Possible side effects
Alongside its many uses and benefits, patients can experience side effects when using medical cannabis. These can include:
- Brain fog
- Drowsiness
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Paranoia
- Dry mouth
If you’re on any other medication, let your clinician know. They’ll advise you on what is safe or not safe to consume alongside medical cannabis. It’s also important to always remember to start low and slow.
Other research has suggested that smoking cannabis can lead to lung damage. For this very reason, UK doctors do not prescribe cannabis flower to be smoked. Instead, they advise safer methods which we’ve explored above.
Summary
Whether you’re living with chronic pain, or suffering with the long term impact of an injury, there’s evidence to support the potential benefits of CBD and THC as an anti-inflammatory agent.
It’s why cannabis has been prescribed for this condition. The plant's pain management properties can provide some relief for those with chronic pain.
But, while there are benefits, there are also risks. It’s important to weigh everything up - and speak to your clinician when you’re unsure. If you’re wanting to explore further, we have lots of other articles on THC and CBD for chronic pain relief on our Cannaverse blog. And there’s lots more help and information on the Alternaleaf website. We’re also always here to help with any questions you may have.