Reduce Arthritis Inflammation With CBD Oil

Cannabidiol is a chemical component of the cannabis plant. Though its medicinal uses date back thousands of years, modern science is now beginning to substantiate historical and traditional claims. CBD can be helpful in treating a number of conditions due to the role it plays in the body’s endocannabinoid system. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation, thereby diminishing arthritic pain and swelling.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is the term used for numerous conditions that result in joint inflammation. It is possible to get arthritis in one or multiple joints. Common symptoms include:

•         Joint pain and tenderness
•         Swelling
•         Stiffness
•         Redness
•         Inhibited range of motion

Typically, the onset of the disease occurs slowly; however, symptoms can sometimes develop suddenly. The severity of the symptoms is often worse in the mornings and increases with age.

What Causes Arthritis?

Though there are several types of arthritis, each with different causes, osteoarthritis is the most prevalent. This form arises from wear and tear to the cartilage in the joints. Cartilage is a protective substance that covers the ends of bones and forms the joint between bones.

Use and injury cause this cushion of cartilage to break down. Without the protective coating, bones begin to grind against one another, changing bone structure and leading to pain and a decreased range of motion. Impairment extends to the connective tissue between muscles and bones at the joint. Inflammation occurs as the body tries to deal with the damage.

How Can CBD Help?

Research indicates that cannabidiol has anti-inflammatory properties. CBD interacts with two molecules to prevent or reduce inflammation. It is thought that it inhibits an enzyme called COX2, which is responsible for signaling the body’s inflammatory response. It also may lower the effects of the cytokine molecules, thus reducing swelling. One recent study found that localized CBD application specifically reduced inflammation from osteoarthritis. Additionally, it acted as a neuroprotector, decreasing pain and nerve damage associated with the disease.

How To Use CBD Oil

There are a couple of ways to use CBD oil. It can be applied topically or ingested. To treat arthritis, CBD can be applied directly to your skin, targeting the affected joint. Topical cannabidiol is often infused into a carrier substance. It can be found in oils, salves, creams or lotions. Ingesting cannabidiol may also help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, though relief is typically delayed for up to two hours.

Cannabidiol may be a safe and effective treatment for those suffering from arthritis. Finding the correct dosage of CBD oil for arthritis inflammation is a matter of trial and error. Be sure to start with a low dose and take it slow until you find what works for you.