Cannabis and chronic pain: what the research says

The cannabis plant has been used for thousands of years by different cultures around the world to treat various conditions, including pain. In recent times, legalization and changing attitudes toward cannabis have led to more research into, and medical use of, the plant, especially in treating chronic pain. But what type of cannabis is best suited? How should CBD be taken for this purpose? And what’s the right dose? We address these questions below.

Table of Contents

What type of cannabis is used for pain?

There are many varieties of the cannabis plant, but they fall mainly into two types: Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica. Both types contain compounds known as cannabinoids, with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) being the most studied and best known.

For the treatment of pain, especially chronic pain, strains with a high CBD content are the most recommended. This is because CBD has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, without producing the psychoactive effect that is typical of THC. Although some people may benefit from a combination of THC and CBD, depending on the nature and source of the pain, CBD is generally the compound of choice for the treatment of pain without psychoactive side effects.

How to take CBD for chronic pain?

CBD can be taken in different ways depending on the user’s preference, the condition being treated and how quickly the compound needs to act. Some of the most popular forms include:

Oils and tinctures

These are liquids containing a certain concentration of CBD. They can be administered sublingually, i.e. by placing a few drops under the tongue, allowing rapid absorption into the bloodstream.

Capsules and pills

Ideal for those who want a precise dosage and do not prefer the taste of oil.

Creams and ointments

They’re mainly used for localized pain, such as joint or muscle pain, since they let you apply CBD directly to the affected area.

Vaporizers

These devices heat the CBD oil to turn it into vapor, which is then inhaled. It is a way to get quick relief, although its duration may be shorter than other forms of administration.

How many CBD drops for neuropathic pain?

Determining the exact dosage of CBD can be challenging, as it depends on several factors, such as the individual's body weight, the concentration of the oil and the nature of the pain. Neuropathic pain, which results from nerve damage, can be especially difficult to treat and may require higher doses of CBD compared to other types of pain.

However, it is always advisable to start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the amount that provides relief. For example, one could start with 5-10 mg of CBD per day and increase in increments of 5 mg each week until the desired effect is achieved.

When it comes to drops, it’s essential to check the product label to find out how many mg of CBD each drop contains. If, for example, one milliliter contains 30 mg of CBD and there are 30 drops in a milliliter, then each drop would contain 1 mg of CBD. On that basis, a starting dose of 5 mg would be equivalent to 5 drops.

Cannabis, and in particular CBD, has shown to be a promising option for the treatment of chronic pain. As with any treatment, it is crucial to consult with a physician or healthcare professional before beginning to use CBD, to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for each individual's specific condition.

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