The 9 Best CBD Edibles for Chronic Pain: Guide and Tips
Of all the cannabinoids used as pain relievers, CBD has drawn the most interest clinically. As such, there is already a CBD-based treatment that has gained approval in New Zealand and Canada for Multiple Sclerosis and cancer-related pains.
Though the United States has not yet formally approved CBD as a pain treatment, the research looks very promising and the recent legalization of hemp is good news for those whose chronic pain could improve from using CBD.
Keep reading to find out where CBD comes from, why edibles could be an ideal vehicle for pain remedy, the different types of edibles, and how to choose which is best for you.
What You Should Know About CBD (Cannabidiol)?
CBD is a natural compound that comes from cannabis plants. Though it’s present in high-THC marijuana, there’s significantly more CBD in low-THC hemp. Because of this, most producers source CBD from cannabidiol-dominant, low-THC cannabis plants.
The body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) uses CB2 (immune system) and CB1 (nervous system) cannabinoid receptors to process CBD and other cannabinoids and balance the body.
The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of cannabis are its most significant similarities to THC, CBG, CBN, and CBC. All of the above, with the exception of CBC, also appear to work as muscle relaxants. CBD can decrease the psychoactive effects of THC by modulating the CB1 cannabinoid receptors.
Whether it originates from marijuana or hemp, CBD alone does not contain any THC, nor does it have any of the psychoactive effects of THC. However, some CBD products, such as full-spectrum CBD, do contain other cannabinoids like THC.
Full Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD is thought to be more effective due to phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. By combining all the natural compounds of the hemp plant, full-spectrum CBD brings the advantages of multiple cannabinoids, flavonoids, and aromatic oils called terpenes together.
However, THC is present in full-spectrum CBD, which causes hesitancy in many due to THC’s psychoactive effects, varying legal status, and the fact that drug tests screen for it.
Broad Spectrum CBD
For broad-spectrum CBD, manufacturers isolate multiple cannabis compounds before re-combining them. This way, the customer benefits from phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects and is able to choose whether or not they want a product to contain THC.
CBD Isolate
Isolate or ‘pure’ CBD doesn’t contain any other cannabinoids or compounds. This may be preferable for people who want the most predictable effects from their CBD or those trying cannabinoids for the first time.
What Are CBD Edibles, and How Do They Work Against Chronic Pain?
Many people with chronic pain find themselves looking for an effective, fast-acting, and natural relief with few risks or side effects.
Some might find relief in CBD edibles. Edibles are snacks or sweets infused with cannabinoids. The most popular options are candies and gummies, though other snacks are available, too.
By consuming CBD in the form of edibles, users can experience reduced inflammation and pain. Due to the entourage effect, edibles that have other cannabinoids in addition to CBD can increase the efficacy and introduce other possible effects of cannabis like proper sleep support.
Please add an internal link to the pillar post once it’s published: pros and cons of cbd oil for pain
The Potential Medical Benefits of CBD Edibles Against Chronic Pain
Chronic pain isn’t always just a nagging, dull ache. It can take on many forms, stemming from a range of medical conditions and circumstances.
Chronic musculoskeletal, inflammatory, and neuropathic pain and resulting increased sensitivity can be related to traumatic injuries, autoimmune and degenerative diseases, fibromyalgia, and/or osteoarthritis.
There is research supporting CBD’s ability to manage myofascial (musculoskeletal), inflammatory, and neuropathic pain. This gives hope to patients with arthritis, R.A, fibromyalgia, TMD, nerve damage, cancer, migraines, and many other conditions.
CBD can be delivered through various vehicles like capsules, softgels, tincture oils, gummies and edibles, and topicals.
Arthritis and R.A.
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis both involve inflammatory joint pain, which CBD edibles may address by reducing inflammation.
Fibromyalgia
Flawed pain signaling from fibromyalgia causes broad-sweeping musculoskeletal pain, tension headaches, TMD, IBD, and other unpleasant symptoms. CBD’s anti-nociception, or the interruption of pain perception, could be helpful in this context.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy is common in the older population and patients with HIV, diabetes, and cancer. It’s the result of damage or destruction of peripheral nerve cells called neurons. It can feel like pins and needles, sharp, electric pain, burning, stabbing, or throbbing. CBD might relieve this type of pain through anti-nociception.
Muscle Pain
Muscle pain is present in many medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, injuries, and neuromuscular disorders. There is some evidence that CBD can have analgesic effects against muscle spasms and muscle pain.
Migraines
It’s hypothesized that migraines come from a type of inflammation called neurogenic inflammation. CBD might aid in controlling migraines as well.
Best CBD Edibles For Treating Chronic Pain
Here are some examples of CBD edible products and how they compare to one another.
CBD Capsule
CBD capsules can contain different amounts of CBD depending on what dosage you ingest. Before deciding on a dosage, consider your body size, tolerance, and how frequent you may need to be taking CBD.
CBD Isolate Capsules 1500mg – Best CBD Capsule for Chronic Pain
This isolated CBD capsule is a good place to start in trying to manage generic chronic pain. It has the most predictable effects because it only contains CBD and no THC. At 50 mg per serving, the dose is still typically more than enough to begin working for most people.
RelieFX Capsules 750mg CBD + 750 CBG – Best Full-Spectrum CBD Capsules for Pain
This 25mg per serving CBD from full-spectrum hemp extract includes the addition of CBG for heightened efficacy and to benefit from the mood and clarity improvements caused by CBG. Plus, Curcmin C3 complex adds inflammation control with glucosamine and chondroitin to support achy joints.
Full Spectrum Softgels 1000mg CBD – Best-Tasting CBD Softgels
At 35 mg per serving plus 2 mg of other cannabinoids, these CBD softgels come in two flavorful options: orange and peppermint. The full spectrum formula contributes to a well-rounded health and wellness regimen.
CBD Gummies
CBD gummies provide about the same dosage control as capsules, but with an extra dose of flavor.
Full Spectrum Gummies 6000mg CBD – Best CBD Gummies for Chronic Pain
Each of these sweet CBD gummies has 50 mg CBD plus 18 mg of other cannabinoids for the strongest pain relief around.
Full Spectrum Gummies 3000mg CBD – Best CBD Gummies for Moderate Pain Relief
For those who don’t need CBD as often, such as those seeking exercise recovery or relief from minor aches and pains, this smaller bottle of 50 mg gummies will do the trick.
Full Spectrum CBD Gummies 1500 mg – Best CBD Gummies for First-Timers
Customers trying CBD for the first time will want to start with the smallest, 30-serving bottle of 50 mg gummies.
CBD Oil/Tinctures
CBD tincture oils give you maximum customization for easily adjusting daily dosages to your most current level of discomfort. This is great if you don’t have the sweet tooth for gummies or candy, because you can easily mix CBD oil into any food or drink.
Full Spectrum CBD Oil 2000mg CBD + 360mg CBG – Best CBD Oil for Chronic Pain
One full-dropper serving has 67 mg CBD plus 12 mg CBG for enhanced mood and focus as well as 9 mg of other minor cannabinoids for powerful pain relief. Administering via the dropper allows you to scale your dose back as needed.
3:1 Ratio – 1000mg Full Spectrum CBD Oil – Best Sleep Support CBD Oil
This oil has 33 mg CBD, 12 mg CBG, 12 mg CBN, and 5 mg other cannabinoids for a restful sleep uninterrupted by pain.
Isolate CBD Oil- Best CBD Oil for Relaxation on the Go
For anytime pain and stress relief from CBD alone, with no THC or other cannabinoids, try CBD isolate oil with a mild 17 mg per serving.
How to Choose the Right CBD Edibles for Chronic Pain
For chronic pain sufferers curious about CBD edibles, there is a lot to think about before making a purchase. Here are some final tips for buying CBD.
Hemp Source
Even though recreational and medical marijuana with high-THC is legal state-wide in some parts of the U.S., federal law still only allows industrial hemp and its derivatives with less than 0.3% THC.
For those living in restrictive states or who are worried about federal legality or drug testing, look for CBD edibles from hemp with under 0.3% THC.
THC Content
Another reason many people may wish to avoid THC is its psychoactive effects. THC can be significantly intoxicating and may cause anxiety and/or paranoia.
On the other hand, some people in states with legal marijuana may favor higher THC content if they find it relaxing or sleep-promoting, especially if they have experience with similar products.
Unproven Medical Claims
There is one CBD medication approved for seizures in the U.S. and one CBD medication approved for pain in certain patients in New Zealand and Canada. This does not mean, though, that those proven medical uses carry over to any non-prescription CBD products.
CBD products purchased online are not official medical treatments for any condition and you should not use them in place of any existing prescription medications. As with any new treatment option, talk to your doctor first before starting CBD.
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
Your best chance at getting the results you want without any unpleasant surprises, is to obtain CBD products from a trusted source.
Before purchasing, verify the product’s contents and quality by getting a Certificate of Analysis from third-party lab testing. Also, use a company backed by scientific research and FDA-approval.
FAQS About CBD Edibles for Long-Term Pain
Do CBD gummies help with pain?
Yes, many people report that CBD gummies help manage pain.
What is the best CBD for chronic inflammation?
CBD products with other anti-inflammatory cannabinoids may provide the best inflammation relief.
Does CBD reduce inflammation or just pain?
CBD can reduce both inflammation and pain.
What are the side effects of taking CBD edibles for pain relief?
Taking too much CBD can lead to side effects like an upset stomach, dry mouth, grogginess, dizziness, or changes in appetite.
Is CBD good for chronic arthritis?
Yes. By blocking pain perception and reducing inflammatory joint pain, CBD may offer relief from chronic arthritis.
What is the best medical marijuana CBD/THC ratio for treating chronic pain?
There’s no definitive answer to this, unfortunately. The entourage effect can give cannabinoid combinations higher potency, but THC is not legal everywhere and is not suitable for everyone.
How to stay safe while taking marijuana edibles?
Marijuana edibles come from high-THC cannabis, not low-THC hemp. Marijuana and its derivatives can cause a high and are illegal federally as well as in some states. That being said, use precaution when deciding to purchase and/or consume marijuana edibles. Hemp-based CBD edibles are legal and safer.
Are CBD gummies and edibles legal?
Yes, CBD gummies and edibles are legal.
What kind of CBD edibles are you interested in trying?
Many people with chronic pain report feeling better from taking edible CBD. Between various concentrations, doses, cannabinoid combinations, types and flavors of supplements, there are a lot of options to choose from.
Compare the best CBD options for yourself and shop CBD edibles from Nature’s Legend.
