
ACHES & PAIN
Muscle pain is a common ailment that affects millions of women in the USA annually. Whether it's from overexertion, injury, or chronic conditions, muscle pain can significantly impact daily life and overall well-being. Muscle pain is typically characterized by inflammation from minor tears, pulls, sprains, knots, and injury sites. While exact statistics vary, it's estimated that up to 80% of adults experience muscle pain at some point in their lives, with women often reporting higher rates of chronic muscle pain.
5 MIN READ/ WRITTEN BY THE OUI SHOP / FEBRUARY 15, 2024
Cannabis: Soothing Relief for Aches and Pain
The top three causes of pain include
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Overuse or injury from physical activity
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Stress and tension
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Underlying medical conditions (such as fibromyalgia or autoimmune disorders)
Cannabis has emerged as a potential solution for those seeking relief from pain. Its natural compounds interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, offering anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. In addition, the skin contains both CB1 and CB2 receptors, allowing transdermal patches and lotions to target pain directly at the site. This localized approach can provide more focused relief for specific areas of discomfort like joints, or old injury sites.
Let's explore how cannabis can help alleviate pain
CBD for Inflammation: Cannabidiol (CBD) is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce swelling and inflammation associated with muscle injuries or chronic conditions, promoting faster healing and pain relief.
THC for Pain
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is effective in managing pain perception. It interacts with the body's pain receptors, potentially reducing the intensity of muscle pain and discomfort.
Localized Relief
Cannabis-infused topical products like patches, tinctures, and balms can provide targeted relief for specific areas of muscle pain. These are particularly useful for recovering from minor injuries or addressing localized discomfort.
Long-term Management
For chronic or long-lasting pain, cannabis supplements can help manage ongoing inflammation and discomfort, potentially improving quality of life.
How Cannabis Can Help
Cannabis interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in regulating pain sensation, inflammation, and muscle function. For those suffering from muscle pain, this interaction can potentially help manage symptoms and improve overall comfort.
The main cannabinoids in cannabis affect pain in different ways
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CBD helps reduce inflammation, which is often the root cause of most pain. It may also help relax muscles and reduce tension which can exacerbate muscular pain, or skeletal pain.
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THC binds directly to cannabinoid receptors and can help alleviate pain perception, potentially providing relief from acute and chronic pain.
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CBG, another cannabinoid, shows promise in reducing inflammation and may work synergistically with CBD for enhanced effects.
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THCa, this cannabinoid is the mother of all anti-inflammatories and some are adding THCa extract to their morning smoothies for an anti-inflammatory companion all day.
Cannabis shows promising anecdotal and scientific evidence in supporting those with pain. For localized pain, topical applications of CBD-rich products can provide targeted relief. For more widespread or chronic muscle pain, a combination of CBD and THC, either through oral supplements or inhalation methods, may offer more comprehensive relief. The addition of THCa to daily routines may provide ongoing anti-inflammatory support.
Stay tuned – OUI is committed to staying abreast of the latest research and will regularly update this guide with trustworthy information you can share with your healthcare providers and friends.
