The interesting ways CBD can be used for pain relief

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the many chemicals found in Cannabis sativa or the marijuana plant. Interestingly, CBD does not cause a "high" by itself as it does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana that produces a high, explains the Mayo Clinic.

According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential in humans. "To date, there is no evidence of public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD," the report claims.

In addition, CBD has become a popular remedy for anxiety, epilepsy, and pain management in recent times. In fact, there are a wide range of CBD products available in the market. In India, the government has allowed the use of CBD since 2019 under Ayurvedic medicine. However, it discourages the use of flower and flower extracts of cannabis.

While there is still a lot of ongoing research around CBD, read on to find out the many interesting ways it is used for pain relief.

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Cannabidiol oil or CBD oil is an extract derived from the cannabis plant and diluted with a carrier oil like coconut oil or hemp seed oil. It does not contain etrahydrocannabinol [THC] or terpenes, but has CBD as the active ingredient. While it’s not psychoactive, it does contain an effective sedative and hallucinogenic substance that may help in reducing inflammation and pain.

Usually CBD oils come in bottles that have glass droppers attached to them. You need to squeeze in the needed CBD oil into the dropper and put it under your tongue. Hold for around 60 seconds. The extract will get absorbed through the tiny capillaries in your mouth right into the bloodstream.

CBD gummies have become extremely popular in recent times. These are sweet candies infused with cannabidiol, or CBD, extracted from the hemp plant. These edibles are said to support overall wellness and are linked to better sleep and pain management. Studies have shown that taking CBD edibles can make you go through something called the “first pass effect," during which CBD is partially broken down by the liver and digestive tract. This means that the CBD can take up to two hours to kick in, and you’ll absorb about 20 to 30 percent of it, as per the database from the National Institutes of Health.

Generally, the best form of CBD depends on your individual preferences. That said, you can take CBD in capsule form or oil form, depending on your needs.

As far as CBD capsules are concerned, they contain the same hemp extract and carrier oil, but unlike CBD oil, capsules have no flavour or odor. They are covered in soft gel and are supposed to be swallowed. Compared to the oil, capsules take longer to kick in and the effects are usually noticeable within 30-120 minutes.

CBD oral sprays come in a bottle and are meant to be sprayed directly into the mouth. They come with an applicator on top of the bottle and are very easy to use. They are often flavoured so can be a good choice for people who don't like the taste of the weed.

A CBD patch is a small patch that is meant to be stuck to the skin. It contains CBD, which is said to treat localized pain. The CBD properties are absorbed through the skin and are directly transferred into the bloodstream.

CBD gel or cream is a transparent, quick-drying skin product infused with cannabidiol. Research suggests it is beneficial for relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression.

All you need to do is apply CBD gel or cream directly to an affected area of the body. It can help provide relief at both the surface and deeper muscle levels. They may also promote relaxation to help an individual sleep.

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The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for physician's advice. Please consult your treating physician for more details.