You may have heard that CBD is a catch-all option to address many disorders. Although it is related to marijuana, this substance does not have the same effects. Like most medications, it has both benefits and drawbacks. If you have chronic pain, anxiety or cancer, examine the pros and cons of CBD oil for pain and other conditions.
Pros and Cons of CBD Oil for Pain: What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is a derivative of the hemp plant. It does not contain the drug THC, so technically it is not marijuana but a part of the plant itself. It is distilled into an oil that is then sold as a vapor, extract or capsule.
Many people choose to use CBD oil because it does not give the high that THC does. It can help control certain medical conditions but without the impairment of being high.
Although research is still ongoing, scientists and doctors believe that CBD interacts with certain receptors in the central nervous system as well as some parts of the immune system. This produces a calming effect, and CBD has been used to stop seizures in patients that do not respond to traditional treatments.
Pros of CBD Oil for Pain
There is not a lot of real-world evidence that CBD is completely effective for pain. There is, however, preliminary evidence that it has both pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. It is currently being tested as a treatment for several conditions along with chronic pain:
- Neuropathy
- Arthritis
- Anxiety
- Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease
- Insomnia and PTSD
There are many other conditions that researchers are looking into, and research into CBD’s exact properties and effects is ongoing.
Cons of CBD Oil for Pain
Like most medications, CBD oil has a downside as well. It may possibly produce several unpleasant but not permanent side effects. The most dangerous of symptoms is an increase in blood thinning. It is not recommended that you take CBD oil if you are on any form of blood thinner. In high doses, it might cause liver damage, although there is no concrete evidence of this, and research is ongoing.
The most common side effects are relatively benign:
- Diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness with the inability to sleep
These are mild compared to CBD’s cousin THC. However, it is still important to check with your doctor if you take any other supplements or medications before taking CBD oil. While it is legally sold as an unregulated supplement, before buying CBD oil in Milwaukee, WI, it is always wise to discuss taking it with a healthcare professional.
Where To Find CBD Oil for Pain
After reading about the pros and cons of CBD oil for pain, you might want to try it if you are suffering from chronic pain, arthritis or insomnia. Since CBD oil is legal in Wisconsin, it is fairly easy to obtain. Check out our CBD oil products, or contact us if you have any questions. We are always happy to help.
