CBD oil has been proven to regulate the endocannabinoid system of patients living with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Clinical studies and trials have shown that CBD can alleviate the symptoms that primarily afflict those with Arthritis, pain, and discomfort. And because Rheumatoid Arthritis is often characterized by extreme pain response (hyperalgesia) to stimuli, experts clarify that CBD oil is best suited as an alternative treatment because it reduces a patient’s hypersensitivity to pain receptors.
CBD Oil and Its Medicinal Value
CBD (Cannabidiol oil) is a medicinal extract derived from cannabis. Most chemical compounds contained in cannabis are cannabidiol, but CBD oil is an exception as it lacks THC – the compound responsible for making marijuana enthusiasts ‘high.’
For the past few decades, researchers have started focusing on the effectiveness of CBD oil on several pain-causing conditions, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Clinical experiments and trials have been conducted on genetically modified mice, and results revealed a significant reduction in pain response for mice who had CB1 pain receptors implanted in their bodies.
The CB1 receptors were used because they play a big role in regulating the body’s nervous system, especially how the central nervous system (CNS) perceives pain. In doing so, CBD has been shown to activate cannabinoid receptors that alter how one’s nervous system interprets pain stimuli. So far, results from those clinical trials are promising. That said, let’s explore more on CBD, what research has shown to suggest its potential to alleviate the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis, and how patients can use it.
Causes and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Over 2 million U.S citizens suffer from one form of rheumatoid Arthritis or the other. Classified as an autoimmune disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis is characterized by a self-aggressive immune system that attacks one’s joints, resulting in heightened discomfort, pain, and inflammation. In other cases, the inflammation can become severe and can damage cartilages. Eventually, the numerous cartilages in your body may break down and cause joint spaces between your bones. In such cases, a patient may suffer from loose and less stable joints, with consequent loss of mobility in the worst-case scenarios.
The symptoms of Arthritis vary in severity and from one person to the other. And so far, physicians have identified over 100 symptoms that afflict patients with Arthritis. However, Rheumatoid Arthritis – a form of Arthritis characterized by multiple symptoms that go beyond joint pain and inflammation – is classified as an autoimmune condition. And persons with rheumatoid arthritis experience joint pain and swelling around the:
- Hands
- Elbows
- Wrists
- Knees
- Ankles.
And while rheumatoid Arthritis commonly attacks the joints, other symptoms that may manifest in patients include but are not limited to:
- Pain and discomfort.
- Extensive fatigue.
- Stiffness.
- Weight loss.
The symptoms of rheumatoid Arthritis can be apparent and may differ in severity from patient to patient, but currently, there is no established cure for this condition. That’s why it is important to identify a treatment plan that works for you to alleviate symptoms associated with this condition. And while the market is flooded with therapeutic options, many people continue to turn to CBD products to improve their quality of life.
Typical Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Why People Are Opting for CBD Oil
Traditionally, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) solutions have been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Such medications include aspirin and ibuprofen. However, clinical studies have shown that long-term use of such prescriptions can cause side effects from heartburn and stomach ulcers to liver and kidney problems. For patients with severe cases of Arthritis, Methotrexate (Trexall) can be prescribed, albeit with side effects such as nausea, stomachaches, and vomiting.
So, if the above medications have been shown to treat rheumatoid Arthritis, why are people opting for CBD products instead? Well, traditional solutions to rheumatoid Arthritis, as mentioned above, don’t come without their fair share of side effects. And to avoid such inconveniences, the past few years have seen most people turn to CBD oil to relieve inflamed and painful joints.
Traditionally, cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes, from ancient Greece to China. Still, it is only recently that experts have proposed it as an effective health supplement for a variety of conditions. The trick has been to explore the technology that can allow the extraction of therapeutic CBD from the cannabis plant while removing the intoxicating element of cannabis in the form of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This way, patients can relieve arthritic pain and discomfort using CBD without the THC-associated side effects.
How Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Can Take CBD Oil
When you are already hooked to the traditional prescription for Rheumatoid Arthritis such as Methotrexate, aspirin, and ibuprofen, the decision to switch to an alternative kind of treatment can be daunting, not to mention the centuries-long stigma associated with cannabis and cannabis-derived products. However, and thanks to research, education, and the general state of progressive minds, that stigma is disappearing. As such, professionals in the medical sector are beginning to understand that CBD helps to mage pain and alleviate symptoms associated with several chronic complications.
Regardless, it is general knowledge to consult your physician before trying out alternative medication. That way, you can get a heads up about the concerns, use, and possible side effects to your body if you plan to try CBD oil. That said, clinical trials have found CBD to be relatively safe with little or no side effects. Besides, you can take it alongside other prescriptions and supplements.
But once you have the green light from your doctor to take CBD, consider the various forms it comes in. That’s because your specific symptoms should determine the method you choose. Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis manifested in the hands and feet, for instance, could use a topical cream to apply in the specific joints for the therapy to be effective.
Best CBD Products for Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Whatever your scenario is, you may want to opt for a certain form of CBD relief as long as you have chronic Arthritis. Fortunately, there are numerous CBD products on the market, all with forms suitable for your symptoms and needs. For those looking to relieve inflammation, blue cream, granddaddy purple, and gorilla glue are the best route to go. If you seek instant pain relief around your joints, you will get comfort from using CBD products such as girl scout cookies or death bubba.
