Is CBD Good for Inflammation?

The CBD conversation is abuzz with health claims ranging from helping with headaches to solving your pet’s anxiety. Another widely touted benefit of CBD is anti-inflammation, but does it have merit?

Exploring the Science of CBD and Inflammation

Due to cannabis prohibition, many claims lack scientific support. However, a substantial and growing body of research indicates that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties, potentially useful for arthritis and other conditions triggered by inflammation like Crohn’s disease and migraines.

With inflammation and the diseases it leads to impacting so many individuals, we felt this was information worth sharing, so we’re spilling the green tea.

Chronic Inflammation and CBD

Inflammation is a natural bodily response used by the immune system to identify and remove harmful stimuli like pathogens and damaged cells. While inflammation is part of the healing process, it can become problematic if excessive or persistent. 

Chronic inflammation — inflammation that lasts for months or years — can lead to tissue damage and the onset of various diseases.

Due to its widespread and long-term effects, chronic inflammation is a major focus of CBD research.

Our scientific understanding of how CBD counters inflammation is largely limited to pre-clinical research in humans and animals (with some exceptions). “Pre-clinical” means researchers are trying to determine how useful CBD may be before conducting larger-scale clinical tests.

Here are the results so far.

Uncovering the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of CBD

CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties have been traced back to the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps operate or control many of the body’s functions.

The ECS exerts great influence on inflammatory and immune responses.

Here are some key findings about CBD, the ECS, and inflammation:

• CBD's antioxidant activity helps reduce oxidative stress, which is closely linked to inflammation.
• CBD can inhibit the signaling pathway that controls the expression of genes involved in the inflammatory response.
• CBD can activate TRPV1 receptors, which are involved in the perception of pain and the regulation of inflammation.

These combined effects contribute to CBD's ability to regulate immune response and reduce inflammation.

CBD for Persistent Pain

Numerous studies have verified that CBD has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can chip away at inflammatory pain. However, studies turn up mixed results, leading experts to agree more research is needed to suss out how and why CBD is reducing different aspects and markers of chronic pain from inflammation.

Combining CBD with THC appears to offer the most benefits, suggesting that full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD, as well as high-CBD marijuana strains for those needing more THC, may be preferable.

Arthritis

According to the Arthritis Foundation, nearly 80% of people with arthritis have used or considered using CBD products, primarily for pain relief. Users report additional benefits, including improved physical function, better sleep, and increased mobility. 

Although large-scale clinical studies on arthritis and CBD haven’t been completed, a trial with 58 people found that a cannabis extract spray resulted in reduced inflammation and pain as well as better sleep.

Another study found that a topical CBD gel reduced joint pain and inflammation in rats.

Immune Response

Given inflammation is an immune response, it stands to reason that CBD oil may assist in the functioning of the immune system and ease autoimmune conditions associated with it, such as inflammatory bowel disease and multiple sclerosis. 

Most available evidence indicates that CBD is an immunosuppressant. In this capacity, it helps modulate immune function to fend off or reduce symptoms from immune conditions.

The Safety Profile of CBD

One thing scientists look at in the preclinical research phase is a substance’s safety profile.

CBD checks a lot of positive boxes in that department:

• It isn’t psychotropic (it doesn’t cause a high).
• It isn’t known to increase the risk of birth defects.
• It doesn’t appear to cause genetic mutations that can lead to diseases such as cancer.

However, recent studies suggest potential liver enzyme elevations and drug interactions.

This doesn’t mean CBD is off the table for further research. Instead, it has experts focused on developing safe and effective alternatives derived from CBD.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of CBD — They’re Not Puffed Up

As someone who has been using cannabis to manage chronic pain for over seven years, learning about CBD’s verified anti-inflammatory properties was not only validating but hope-inspiring. This is a stepping stone toward a better understanding of how cannabis can fit into care plans and wellness routines. 

As with all cannabis research, there are still some stones that need turning over, but what we know so far helps lead us toward making more informed choices on the road to new information and more definitive answers.

How Do I Choose the Best CBD Oil for Inflammation?

Although more research is needed before we know what type of CBD is best for inflammation, consider these preliminary conclusions and best practices:

• Opt for full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD. Research suggests that the combination of CBD and THC can amplify the therapeutic effects. Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD may contain trace amounts of THC (up to the federally permitted limit of 0.3%). 
• Check for purity and potency. Reputable companies provide certificates of analysis (COAs) that confirm the cannabinoid content and check for contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and solvents.
• Find a highly bioavailable CBD product. Higher bioavailability means your body can easily absorb it. Nano CBD, CBD oil, and tinctures are great options with high bioavailability. 
• Keep it organic. Opt for CBD oil derived from organically grown hemp to avoid exposure to pesticides and other chemicals.
• Think about your preferences and lifestyle. Consider factors like flavor, ease of use, and whether you prefer oil, capsules, or other forms of CBD.

CBD Inflammation FAQs 

Is CBD good for inflammation?

CBD has exhibited significant anti-inflammatory effects. There’s a lot of high-quality research supporting CBD’s ability to combat inflammation.

Does CBD reduce inflammation or just pain?

Many high-quality studies have shown that CBD is effective at decreasing both pain and inflammation. However, everyone’s body responds differently, so keep in mind that your results may vary. 

How much CBD is good for inflammation?

A lot goes into finding the right CBD dosage for your inflammation. As such, it’s suggested to start with the guidelines on your CBD oil product package or with the amount/frequency recommended by your healthcare provider.

What is the downside of CBD oil?

The downsides of CBD oil can include potential side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, and changes in appetite or mood. Additionally, CBD can interact with certain medications and may affect liver enzyme levels.

Does CBD help inflamed muscles?

Yes, CBD may help alleviate muscle inflammation and pain through its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, CBD can help modulate pain and inflammation, potentially providing relief for sore or inflamed muscles.

What medications should not be taken with CBD?

CBD can interact with medications metabolized by the liver, particularly those involving cytochrome P450 enzymes. This includes certain blood thinners, anticonvulsants, and some antidepressants. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before combining CBD with any prescription medications.

Is CBD oil safer than ibuprofen?

CBD oil is generally considered to have a better safety profile compared to ibuprofen, which can cause gastrointestinal issues, kidney damage, or increased risk of cardiovascular problems with long-term use. However, CBD can still have side effects and potential interactions, so check with your doctor for personalized advice.

Does CBD help with arthritis?

CBD may help with arthritis by reducing inflammation and alleviating pain associated with the condition. Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD can improve symptoms like joint pain and stiffness, though more clinical studies are needed to fully validate its effectiveness.

How does CBD reduce inflammation?

CBD reduces inflammation by interacting with the endocannabinoid system to modulate immune responses, inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines, and reduce oxidative stress. Its antioxidant properties also help decrease cellular damage caused by inflammation.