CBD Topical For Joint Pain & Arthritis

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, most commonly referred to as CBD, is molecular compound found in the cannabis and hemp plant that is 100% non-intoxicating, unlike THC. CBD has been scientifically proven to modulate and repair many physiological systems in the human brain and body, through the endocannabinoid system. Found in all mammals, the endocannabinoid system is made up of several receptors that react only to cannabinoids, such as CBD and the more well known compound, THC. This is why these plant based compounds have been known to provide therapeutic relief for a wide host of issues.

CBD has become an increasingly popular topic across the world and is being touted by many, from athletes to celebrities, as a natural alternative to reduce inflammation and pain.

Before we dive in lets go over the two most common types of arthritis:

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - a condition where the body attacks its joints, causing inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis can most commonly be found in hands and feet, leading to swollen, stiff, painful joints.

Osteoarthritis (OA) - which is a degenerative condition in joint cartilage and bones. It is most commonly found in the hip, knees and thumbs.

Topically, CBD’s most alluring attributes are its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant antimicrobial, and analgesic (pain- relieving) properties. Your skin is the largest organ you have, it also has the highest amount and concentration of cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are not only found on your skin but also throughout your body, together they make up The Endocannabinoid System. This system regulates many bodily functions your body requires to achieve homeostasis, including mood, pain & inflammation, appetite, sleep, hormones and immune function.

Using CBD in a topical form allows for direct application of CBD to a specific part of the body that is inflamed and in pain. Many of those that have suffer from conditions like Arthritis or Osteoarthritis where specific parts of the body are affected find great relief using CBD creams

A study taken place in 2016 stated that "topical CBD application has therapeutic potential for relief of arthritis pain-related behaviors and inflammation without evident side-effects"

Another study that occurred in 2017 stated that "CBD treatment prevented the later development of pain and nerve damage in these OA (Osteoarthritis) joints. These findings suggest that CBD may be a safe and useful therapeutic aid for treating OA joint neuropathic pain."

If you are someone who is experiencing aches and pains all over your body than going with an oral method of consumption such as CBD oils or capsules is the best way to go but if your someone who suffers from conditions like Arthritis or Osteoarthritis where specific parts of the body are affected, than going with a CBD cream would be more effective and therefore, the better choice.

Sources

Distribution of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2) on sensory nerve fibers and adnexal structures in human skin.

Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis

Attenuation of early phase inflammation by cannabidiol prevents pain and nerve damage in rat osteoarthritis.