CBD pain relief oil has emerged as a powerful option for pain relief. But how does it work? The answer lies in the endocannabinoid system, a molecular signaling system in the body that regulates many functions.
Our immune system swings into high gear to protect us from additional harm when we are hurt. This results in swelling, redness, and heat around the area of injury (also known as inflammation). Our body also produces an endocannabinoid chemical, which interacts with systems to help us maintain homeostasis. Sometimes this delicate balance can be out of whack, and CBD may be a great alternative.
Let’s look at how CBD for pain interacts with the endocannabinoid system to help relieve pain.
What is an Endocannabinoid System?
Our bodies have an entire mechanism to facilitate the usage of plant cannabinoids- known as the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). CBD works with your body by stimulating the endocannabinoid system to promote homeostasis — a state of balance within your body. This can help ease pain and inflammation.
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) comprises three main parts: your cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids (cannabinoids produced by your body), and enzymes. Your cannabinoid receptors are located throughout your body, but mainly in your brain, immune system, and nervous system. They’re responsible for maintaining homeostasis by regulating pain sensation, mood, memory, appetite, and more.
Endocannabinoids are the molecules that bind to these receptors, triggering different physiological processes that contribute to overall good health. Enzymes break down these endocannabinoids after being used up in a process called “metabolism.”
CB1 and CB2 are the two types of cannabinoid receptors found in the human body. CB1 receptors are found in the spinal cord and the brain, while CB2 receptors are primarily located in the immune system and related issues such as the spleen.
What Happens When Cbd Interacts With CB1 and CB2 Receptors?
CBD does not bind to the body’s Cannabinoid receptors; instead, it works indirectly by increasing your body’s natural production of cannabinoids called endocannabinoids. This increase in endocannabinoids helps lessen pain and inflammation associated with chronic pain.
CBD works by preventing the body from absorbing anandamide, a compound that regulates pleasure, pain, and motivation. When CBD prevents its reabsorption, it allows anandamide to remain active longer, reducing inflammation and pain.
When CBD interacts with CB1 receptors in the brain, it stimulates the release of dopamine — a neurotransmitter that helps control movement, mood, and pain perception. When CBD attaches to CB2 receptors in your immune system, it helps regulate inflammation and pain signals from your peripheral nervous system (the part of your nervous system outside your brain).
The non-intoxicating effects of CBD effectively manage pain from conditions like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, muscle or joint pain, post-operative recovery, or chemotherapy.
Summary
It’s becoming clear that the endocannabinoid system manages pain, especially chronic pain. And with CBD oil easing pain without getting users high, it should give individuals a viable alternative to typical pain management options like prescription drugs. CBD is helpful in people managing pain, especially those with acute or chronic pain that can often be hard to treat. You’ll find CBD pain relief oil used by athletes and patients with cancer or chronic pain.
