Pain relief and mental health: is Cannabidiol a solution?

Published on: Monday, August 26, 2024

By: Dennis Relojo Howell, FMT

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With more and more people seeking natural remedies for chronic pain and mental health issues, many are turning to CBD products. (Envato Elements pic)

Cannabidiol, or CBD, has become a popular topic of conversation when it comes to health and wellness. Derived from the cannabis plant, it is known for its potential therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects associated with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

In 2022, the health ministry said it would be embarking on a framework for the registration of certain CBD products in Malaysia. And indeed, with more and more people worldwide seeking natural remedies for chronic pain and mental health issues, many are turning to such products for help.

But are they truly a useful and healthy natural alternative?

Understanding CBD

CBD is a compound found in cannabis alongside over 100 other cannabinoids. Unlike THC, another well-known cannabinoid, CBD does not have psychoactive effects, meaning it does not make you high.

Many are finding CBD to be an attractive option for alleviating various conditions without experiencing the mind-altering effects associated with marijuana or pharmaceutical drugs.

In countries where CBD use is permitted, topicals are commonly applied as a natural remedy for pain relief. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, reducing inflammation and pain signals.

Several studies suggest that CBD can manage different types of pain, including:

arthritis pain: research published in the European Journal of Pain showed that CBD, when applied to the skin, could lower arthritis pain and inflammation;

chronic pain: findings suggest that CBD may reduce chronic pain by impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity, reducing inflammation and interacting with neurotransmitters;

neuropathic pain: cannabidiol has shown promising potential in alleviating neuropathic pain from nerve damage.

Mental health benefits

Mental health issues like anxiety and depression are common and debilitating. Many people are seeking natural ways to manage these conditions, which is why CBD has garnered attention as a potential option.

CBD is believed to interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, which plays a crucial role in mood and anxiety disorders. Some studies have indicated that CBD could reduce anxiety and enhance mood in people with these conditions:

generalised anxiety disorder: studies have shown that CBD can reduce anxiety in patients, and has also been shown to reduce panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder;

post-traumatic stress disorder: CBD has been found to reduce symptoms, including nightmares and the replaying of negative memories;

social anxiety disorder: CBD is believed to help sufferers feel more comfortable by reducing fear and anxiety associated with public speaking, job interviews, and in social situations.

So, is CBD a solution?

Even though CBD shows promise for both pain relief and mental health, it is wise to approach it with caution. Here are some key points to consider:

research is still ongoing: while growing evidence supports the benefits of CBDs, further research is needed to understand its full efficacy and potential side effects;

quality matters: As not all CBD products are the same, it’s important to choose high-quality products from trusted sources to ensure they are safe and effective;

consult a healthcare professional: if you’re in a country where using CBD is permitted, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional before commencing any treatment, particularly if you’re currently taking other medications.

Read more articles by Dennis Relojo-Howell here.

Dennis Relojo-Howell is the managing director of Psychreg and host of ‘The DRH Show’. Connect with him on X (Twitter) at @dennisr_howell.

Keywords:
Cannabidiol