CBD Oil for Pain Relief: Is it Effective?

Written by: Daniel Fayad, Subject Matter Expert and Website President
Published: March 15, 2024; Last updated: April 6, 2024

Experiencing pain can derail your day, and you may be curious if CBD oil for pain relief could offer the help you need. This article directly tackles the relief potential of CBD oil, its interaction with the body, and practical advice on selection and use. Without hype, we’ll provide the insights you need to make an informed decision about using CBD oil for pain management.

Key Takeaways

• CBD oil is derived from the cannabis plant. It is thought to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to modulate pain and inflammation, offering the potential for chronic pain relief despite limited evidence and lack of FDA approval for treating pain.

• Topical and sublingual administration of CBD oil are standard methods for pain relief, with sublingual offering fast absorption and topical application providing localized relief; dosage varies, and starting with lower doses is advised.

• Besides oils, alternative CBD forms for pain relief include gummies, capsules, and creams, with specific product types offering varying benefits like convenience, controlled dosing, and targeted relief.

Understanding CBD Oil and Pain Relief

CBD oil is a natural remedy extracted from the cannabis plant. It’s gaining recognition for its potential in chronic pain management and additional benefits for anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. The human body contains an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate pain perception. CBD oil interacts with this system, modulating inflammatory and neuropathic pain systems, possibly contributing to its potential pain-relieving effects. However, be aware that CBD is not currently approved for treating pain in the United States, and only limited evidence from human studies supports the benefits of CBD oil for pain relief.

CBD oil’s effects for managing chronic pain accumulate over time, providing pain relief within a few minutes when administered sublingually. Its effects continue to develop over about an hour. This makes CBD oil a potential alternative to traditional pain medications, especially for those seeking a natural remedy.

Next, we will discuss how CBD works for pain relief in more detail.

How CBD Works for Pain Relief

At the heart of CBD’s potential for pain relief is its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS has a significant role in regulating various bodily functions ³, including:

• Learning

• Memory

• Emotions

• Sleep

• Temperature regulation

• Immune responses

Most importantly for our discussion, it also modulates pain and inflammation, contributing to the health benefits of CBD oil.

In addition to interacting with the ECS, CBD has the following effects:

• Increases levels of a compound called anandamide, a natural ligand for CB1 receptors

• Anandamide has a significant role in controlling pain perception

• Higher levels of anandamide can reduce pain perception and enhance mood

• These effects may be beneficial for conditions like multiple sclerosis.

CBD also reduces inflammation by activating anti-inflammatory pathways, potentially providing relief for conditions like cancer pain, and with the increasing awareness of CBD legal status, more people are considering it as an option.

Types of Pain CBD Oil Can Help With

CBD oil has shown promise in potentially alleviating various types of pain. Human studies have indicated that CBD may have the potential to relieve chronic neuropathic pain. Note that we need more research to thoroughly understand the role of CBD in managing chronic neuropathic pain ¹, including its risks, benefits, and optimal dosages.

Evidence from clinical trials suggests that CBD can notably enhance pain during movement, pain at rest, and quality of sleep for individuals with arthritis. It has also shown promise in managing joint pain.

A small trial in 2019 indicates that a combination of CBD and THC may offer benefits for individuals with fibromyalgia. However, further research is necessary to validate these findings and explore the potential of CBD for chronic pain ¹.

Top 5 CBD Oils for Pain Relief

After discussing the basics of CBD and pain relief, we will focus on some of the top-rated CBD oils. The selection criteria for these oils were based on their ability to provide long-term relief and short-term effectiveness. Customer reviews primarily focused on the experiences of individuals with different types of chronic pain, highlighting the potential of medical cannabis-derived products like CBD oil.

Each of these oils has unique features and benefits, and they’ve been curated to offer various options to suit different needs. Whether you’re looking for a full-spectrum oil that leverages the entourage effect, a broad-spectrum oil without THC, or a CBD isolate that’s pure CBD, you’ll find a product that fits your needs.

Product 1: Name and Description

First on our list is GreenIVe Relief CBD + CBC is first on our list, one of the hemp-derived CBD products containing MCT oil, full spectrum CBD oil, and CBC isolate. It can help alleviate arthritis pain in the hips, knees, hands, and feet.

The recommended dosage is one to two mL per day, as needed. Note that the legality of CBD products can vary based on the location and the specific product formulation.

Product 2: Name and Description

The second product on our list is renowned for its pain relief, relaxation, and stress relief properties without causing any mind-altering effects. The manufacturing process commonly involves the CO2 extraction method, using supercritical carbon dioxide in a closed-loop extractor.

The primary active component in this CBD oil is cannabidiol (CBD).

Product 3: Name and Description

Product 3 offers pain relief and relaxation without causing any mind-altering effects. In addition to CBD, it contains anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain.

The manufacturing facility for Product 3 CBD oil is located in Bristol, UK.

Product 4: Name and Description

Product 4 is a full-spectrum CBD product that incorporates a variety of compounds from the cannabis plant, such as:

• CBD

• Terpenes

• Flavonoids

• Essential oils

• Other cannabinoids

All of these compounds have the potential to work together to amplify the effects of the product.

It contains omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, terpenes, and flavonoids, which play a role in its pain-relieving effects and overall health advantages.

Product 5: Name and Description

Finally, we have CBDfx. This CBD oil contains additional ingredients for pain relief, including:

• Clove oil

• Eucalyptus oil

• Peppermint oil

• Tea tree oil

• Lavender oil

• Frankincense oil

• Arnica extract

• Palmarosa oil

Factors to Consider When Choosing CBD Oil for Pain Relief

Selecting the appropriate CBD oil for your pain relief requires a careful evaluation of several factors. The potency of CBD oil is determined by the amount of CBD present in the product. Higher potency can increase the likelihood of achieving pain relief since a more significant amount of CBD can modulate the body’s pain pathways more effectively.

Another critical factor is the dosage of CBD oil. The correct dose can contribute to reducing pain, hyperalgesia, or allodynia. Proper dosage can elevate the body’s anandamide levels, decreasing pain perception and potentially enhancing mood. Next, we will discuss the importance of potency and dosage, the type of CBD, and additional ingredients.

Potency and Dosage

Selecting the appropriate potency and dosage of CBD oil is significant for achieving adequate pain relief. The potency of CBD oils can vary from 100mg to upwards of 4,000+mg for a single 30 mL (1 oz) bottle. The correct dosage can significantly influence the effectiveness of CBD oil for pain relief. For example, increasing anandamide levels can reduce pain perception and enhance mood.

Individuals who are new to using CBD oil are advised to begin with a less potent oil and take a smaller dose, such as 10 mg CBD. Purchasing a more powerful CBD oil allows individuals requiring a larger dose to take a smaller amount.

Full Spectrum vs Broad Spectrum vs Isolate

When selecting a CBD oil, you should also consider whether it’s:

• Full spectrum: encompasses all cannabis plant compounds, potentially providing improved pain relief through the entourage effect

• Broad spectrum: contains various cannabinoids and plant compounds, excluding THC, offering a balanced option for comprehensive pain relief without psychoactive effects.

• CBD isolate: the pure form of CBD, suitable for individuals looking for a THC-free option

Broad-spectrum CBD can help pain relief by leveraging its anti-inflammatory properties and elevating the body’s levels of anandamide, which is recognized for reducing pain perception and improving mood. Importantly, it achieves this without causing the psychoactive effects typically linked to THC.

Additional Ingredients

Additional ingredients in CBD oil, such as anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving compounds, also enhance pain relief. These ingredients have been linked to regulating pain and improving mood by increasing the body’s levels of anandamide. This may reduce pain perception and enhance overall well-being. Furthermore, combining CBD with other compounds can also have an anti-nociceptive effect, further enhancing its pain-relieving properties.

Some additional ingredients commonly found in CBD oil that can enhance pain relief include:

• Turmeric: known for its anti-inflammatory properties

• Ginger: has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects

• Boswellia: reduces inflammation and pain

• Lavender: has calming and pain-relieving properties

• Peppermint: provides a cooling sensation and can help relieve pain

By incorporating these additional ingredients, CBD oil can provide even more effective pain relief.

Typical supplementary components found in CBD oil for pain relief include:

• Carrier oils such as coconut oil or hemp seed oil

• Ingredients like menthol or arnica enhance pain relief

• CBD itself, THC, and CBG, which are commonly combined anti-inflammatory ingredients with CBD oil

Research indicates that CBD, whether used alone or in combination with other compounds, has shown promise in providing pain relief. This suggests a significant synergistic effect that can enhance the overall potential for pain relief.

How to Use CBD Oil for Pain Relief

Understanding the correct usage of CBD oil is significant for effective pain relief. There are several methods of CBD oil, but the two most common are sublingual administration and topical application. Sublingual administration involves dispensing CBD oil under the tongue, enabling direct absorption into the blood vessels and quicker pain relief. The recommended frequency for taking CBD oil for pain management is typically once or twice per day. However, the optimal frequency can differ based on the individual’s pain condition and their response to CBD.

Next, we will discuss these two methods in more detail.

Sublingual Administration

Sublingual administration of CBD oil entails placing the oil or tincture under the tongue, allowing quick absorption into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes. This method provides benefits such as increased absorption, more rapid onset of effects, and avoiding first-pass metabolism in the liver. It has been reported to improve pain relief, sleep, and anxiety for conditions like arthritis.

The most effective method for sublingually administering CBD oil for pain relief is to place a few drops under the tongue and hold it there for one to two minutes. This allows for quicker absorption into the bloodstream compared to other methods.

CBD oil taken sublingually is recognized for its quick absorption, providing higher bioavailability, and its effects are usually experienced within 15-20 minutes, leading to more immediate pain relief.

Topical Application

The topical application of CBD oil is another effective method to treat pain. This approach involves applying CBD oil directly to the skin on the area experiencing pain. CBD creams and balms can:

• Provide pain relief and reduce inflammation

• Aid in recovery

• Soothe sore muscles

• Offer relief for conditions like arthritis

To apply CBD oil topically for pain relief, it is recommended to follow these steps:

1. Apply a thin layer of CBD cream to cover the desired area.

2. Adjust the amount of cream applied according to your needs.

3. Massage the cream into the skin in circular motions for better absorption.

Alternative CBD Products for Pain Relief

While CBD oil is a commonly preferred choice for pain relief, there are alternative CBD products that align better with your preferences. These alternatives include CBD gummies, capsules, and creams. Each product offers a unique way of consuming CBD, with pros and cons.

CBD gummies are a type of candy that contains CBD, providing a flavorful and practical option to CBD oil for alleviating pain, as they come in pre-measured doses. CBD capsules are soft gels that contain CBD oil, providing a discreet and travel-friendly solution for pain relief.

CBD creams and balms can be applied directly to the skin for localized pain relief and reduced inflammation.

CBD Gummies

CBD gummies are a type of CBD-infused edible that has the potential to offer pain relief. They provide a convenient and discreet way to consume CBD and offer easily controlled dosage. These gummies may have potential benefits for anxiety, stress, and pain management.

When selecting CBD gummies for pain relief, it is essential to consider factors such as the potency of the gummies, whether they are full-spectrum or isolate, and the brand’s reputation. It is recommended to start with a lower dosage of around 10-25 mg of CBD and adjust as needed.

CBD Capsules

CBD capsules are another alternative to CBD oil for pain relief. These capsules are composed of plant-based capsules with a higher concentration of CBD, typically made from organic full-spectrum CBD and hemp seed oil.

CBD capsules, as dietary supplements, have the potential to relieve chronic pain, anxiety, and inflammation. They can be beneficial in managing conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia due to their properties that help reduce pain and inflammation.

Some reputable brands known for producing quality CBD capsules for pain relief include Social CBD, CBDfx, NuLeaf Naturals, and Charlotte’s Web.

CBD Creams and Balms

Lastly, CBD creams and balms provide another alternative for pain relief. These topical applications offer benefits such as:

• reducing centralized pain

• curbing inflammation

• aiding in recovery

• soothing sore muscles

Applying CBD creams and balms involves:

1. Massaging the product directly onto the skin in the affected area.

2. This allows the CBD to be absorbed directly into the affected area, utilizing its anti-inflammatory properties for localized relief.

3. Relief can generally be experienced within minutes to hours of application.

4. The effects of CBD creams or balms may last for up to six hours.

Summary

In conclusion, CBD oil presents a potentially effective alternative for managing different types of chronic pain. It works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate pain perception and modulates inflammatory and neuropathic pain systems. It’s important to note that while there are promising results, more research is needed to fully comprehend the role of CBD in managing chronic pain, including its risks, benefits, and optimal dosages.

When choosing a CBD oil for pain relief, it’s essential to consider factors such as potency, dosage, CBD type, and additional ingredients. It’s also crucial to choose the method of administration that best suits your needs, whether that’s sublingual administration, topical application, or alternative CBD products such as gummies, capsules, or creams. As with any health decision, it’s always important to consult a healthcare professional before starting a new treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CBD oil an effective painkiller?

CBD oil shows promise as a treatment for pain and has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, according to some studies and anecdotal evidence. Still, more research is needed to validate its effectiveness in humans.

What is the best method of CBD for pain?

The best method of CBD for pain is to take it in pill or capsule form for slow, extended-release or as an oral tincture for faster effect onset. It’s essential to start with a small amount and gradually increase your dosage until you experience relief over a few weeks.

How does CBD oil take away the pain?

CBD oil can alleviate pain by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate functions like pain sensation. Research suggests that CBD exerts its pain-relieving effects through the modulation of various systems in the body.

What is the downside of CBD oil?

CBD oil can cause side effects such as dry mouth, low blood pressure, drowsiness, and interactions with other medications, making it essential to use it with caution. Additionally, the purity and dosage of CBD in products can be unreliable.

What types of pain can CBD oil potentially help with?

CBD oil has shown promise in alleviating various types of pain, such as chronic pain, arthritis, and neuropathic pain. It might be worth considering for these conditions.

References

Villanueva, M. R. B., Joshaghani, N., Villa, N., Badla, O., Goit, R., Saddik, S. E., Dawood, S. N., Rabih, A. M., Niaj, A., Raman, A., Uprety, M., Calero, M., & Khan, S. (2022). Efficacy, Safety, and Regulation of Cannabidiol on Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review. Cureus, 14(7), e26913. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.26913

Schilling, J. M., Hughes, C. G., Wallace, M. S., Sexton, M., Backonja, M., & Moeller-Bertram, T. (2021). Cannabidiol as a Treatment for Chronic Pain: A Survey of Patients’ Perspectives and Attitudes. Journal of pain research, 14, 1241–1250. https://doi.org/10.2147/JPR.S278718

Frane, N., Stapleton, E., Iturriaga, C. et al. Cannabidiol as a treatment for arthritis and joint pain: an exploratory cross-sectional study. J Cannabis Res 4, 47 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-022-00154-9

Written by Daniel Fayad - Subject Matter Expert and Website President

Dan Fayad is a results-driven healthcare administration expert and content writer. With a Master of Health Administration from the University of Southern California, he’s carved a niche for himself in the dynamic world of healthcare and business development. Dan uses his experience to educate and empower people on their wellness journeys.