For those who suffer from chronic pain, finding relief can be a difficult and sometimes impossible task. Prescription medications often come with a host of undesirable side effects, and even over-the-counter options can fall short. CBD gummies are becoming an increasingly popular option for those looking for natural pain relief. But do they really work? Let’s take a closer look.
How CBD Gummies Work
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of many compounds found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its more famous cousin THC, CBD does not produce any psychoactive effects. That means you won’t get high from taking CBD gummies, no matter how many you eat.
The body contains an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is involved in regulating a variety of functions. These functions include sleep, appetite, pain, and immune system response. The body produces endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in your nervous system.
Some research suggests that taking CBD can help reduce chronic pain by impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity and reducing inflammation. A study in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that rats given CBD had lower levels of inflammatory pain than those who were not given the supplement. The researchers believe that this effect is due to the action of CBD on endocannabinoid receptors located in the brain and spinal cord. Another study showed that rats given transdermal patches containing CBD experienced less pain than those who received oral doses of the drug.
Do CBD Gummies Really Work?
There is still much research to be done on the efficacy of CBD as a treatment for pain. However, early studies have shown promise. A 2019 study published in Frontiers in Neurology found that CBD may help to reduce inflammation and pain in patients with arthritis.
Another study published in The Journal of Experimental Medicine found that CBD was effective at reducing both inflammation and pain in rats with osteoarthritis. These studies suggest that CBD gummies for pain may help to relieve pain in some people, though more research is needed to confirm these results.
Conclusion
CBD gummies are a popular form of CBD edibles. They are convenient and easy to take with you on the go, but there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that they can relieve pain. Some rodent studies suggest that taking CBD may reduce inflammation and pain sensations by impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity; however, more research is needed in humans before any concrete conclusions can be drawn about their efficacy for pain relief. If you’re interested in trying them for yourself, be sure to speak with your doctor first so you can discuss any potential risks or side effects.