Rheumatism and cannabis

Researchers have recently begun investigating the effects of CBD oil on several painful conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic inflammatory rheumatism. So far, the results are promising. Keep reading to learn more about what recent studies suggest about CBD oil, as well as tips on how to use it.

What the research says

The first controlled trial to evaluate the use of a cannabis-based medicine to treat rheumatoid arthritis took place in 2006. The researchers concluded that after five weeks of use, a cannabis-based medication called Sativex reduced inflammation and significantly improved pain. Participants also reported improved sleep, and most side effects were mild.

A review of 2008 on the use of CBD to treat chronic pain similarly concluded that CBD reduced pain and improved sleep without any negative side effects.

Visit 2016, Another study was carried out using CBD gel on rats. The researchers again found that CBD gel reduced both joint pain and inflammation without any side effects.

While all this research is very promising, the existing studies have been relatively small. Many more studies, including large numbers of human participants, are still needed to fully understand the effects of CBD oil and other cannabis-based treatments on RA symptoms.

How does it work?

CBD affects brain activity, but not in the same way as THC, marijuana's main psychoactive ingredient. CBD interacts with two receptors, called CB1 and CB2, to reduce pain and the effects of inflammation.

CB2 also plays a role in your immune system. RA involves your immune system attacking your joint tissues. This relationship with the immune system could therefore explain why CBD oil seems to work well for RA symptoms.

What's more, CBD's anti-inflammatory effects could also help slow or halt the progression of RA, which causes permanent damage to your joints over time. These effects could also reduce several other inflammation-related RA symptoms, such as fatigue and fever.

How is CBD oil used?

CBD oil comes in the form of a liquid or a powder. CBD capsule. You can take a capsule orally, or add CBD oil to food or water. You can also mix CBD oil with your favorite lotion and apply it directly to your skin to relieve stiff, painful joints. Some brands also offer therapeutic ointments that you can apply directly to your skin.

Work with your doctor to determine the best dosage for you. It's best to start with a very small dose to see how your body reacts. If you don't notice any side effects, you can try slowly increasing your dose.

When choosing one, make sure it comes from a trusted supplier and includes a complete list of ingredients.

CBD oil can also be applied topically, and many products in cream or lotion form are now available for sale.

Are there any side effects?

CBD oil comes with no serious potential side effects. However, you may experience some mild side effects, especially when using it for the first time. If you've been taking antidepressant medication for some time, these side effects may be more significant. They include:

• nausea
• fatigue
• diarrhea
• changes in appetite

If you're considering trying CBD, it's important to talk to your doctor first. CBD may interact with your current medications or supplements.

Both CBD and grapefruit interact with enzymes important for drug metabolism, such as cytochromes P450 (CYP). Be very careful if any of your medications or supplements carry a grapefruit warning.

In a study conducted on mice, taking a CBD-rich cannabis extract was associated with an increased risk of liver toxicity. However, some of the mice studied had received very large quantities of the extract by gavage.

Is it legal?

Cannabis and cannabis-derived products, such as CBD oil, are legal for medicinal or recreational use in some parts of the United States.

If cannabis is only legal for medical use in your state, you'll need a recommendation from your doctor before you can buy CBD oil. If cannabis is also legal for recreational use, you should be able to buy CBD oil in dispensaries or even online.

Consult this map to find out what laws apply in your state. Also check the laws in force in places you may be visiting.

Can't get CBD oil in your area? Discover other alternative treatments for RA symptoms.

To conclude on CBD and rheumatism

So far, studies investigating the benefits of CBD for people with rheumatism are promising. However, larger-scale human studies are needed to fully understand its effects.