According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 20% of American adults live with chronic pain. [1]
That’s 1 in 5 people.
If you’re one of the people affected by this daily discomfort – whether it’s stemming from your back, neck, or joints or manifesting as headaches – you know that it makes every day a challenge.
Chances are, you’ve heard of CBD as a natural form of relief. This is because users are reporting that it helps reduce their pain, with one survey finding that 67.6% of those questioned reported that CBD actually helped them reduce their medications. [2]
But you may be wondering about the mechanisms behind CBD providing natural relief.
Well, you’re in luck.
In today’s blog, we cover the top 5 ways CBD reduces discomfort in the body, allowing you to find natural relief.
Let’s jump right in!
1. Anti-inflammatory effects
CBD has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can contribute to its potential to reduce discomfort. Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many types of discomfort, such as pain caused by arthritis or injuries.
Clinical studies have confirmed that CBD reduces the levels of pro-inflammatory cells within the body while regulating the immune system for a more leveled inflammatory response. [3]
By reducing inflammation and regulating the body’s immune system, CBD may help alleviate discomfort associated with a wide range of conditions.
2. Interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS)
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating various physiological processes, including pain sensation. In fact, researchers now believe that the ECS is one of the key systems regulating pain sensation and has responsibilities at all stages of pain processing pathways. [4]
Researchers also believe that the natural cannabinoids made by the body to interact with the ECS and its receptors may be breaking down too quickly in people’s bodies, causing an “endocannabinoid deficiency.” This may result in pain to occur more often or more intensely than it should be. [5]
Thankfully, CBD has been shown to increase the amount and lifespan of natural endocannabinoids within the body, allowing for a more balanced and functional ECS. [6]
Because the ECS is so critical when it comes to pain management, allowing it to thrive can help reduce unnecessary discomfort throughout the body.
3. Neuropathic relief
Neuropathic pain, which is often chronic and caused by nerve damage, is a major clinical issue that can be difficult to treat.
Thankfully, some studies suggest that CBD may help manage neuropathic discomfort by affecting the way pain signals are transmitted and perceived by the nervous system. [7]
More research is underway in this area, but millions of people could find natural relief for this type of discomfort with CBD.
4. Anxiolytic effects
Discomfort isn’t always purely physical. Anxiety and stress could be bringing you a great deal of discomfort. Not only that, painful conditions can be exacerbated by anxiety and stress.
CBD has been investigated for its anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects with incredible results. For example, one study found that just after one month of use, nearly 80% of participants reported decreased anxiety. [8]
Researchers believe that CBD’s interaction with the ECS could play a role here as well. [9]
By promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, CBD might indirectly help reduce discomfort related to stress-induced tension.
5. Calms joints and muscles
One of the largest reasons people have daily pain is because of sore muscles or achy joints, often due to a range of health conditions. It’s no surprise, then, that these are also two of the top reasons why people take CBD.
Research has shown that CBD can provide a significant drop in inflammation and other signs of discomfort when applied topically to areas affected by arthritis. [10]
Another study with topical CBD showed that elite athletes who applied it to their muscles following a workout experienced significantly reduced discomfort, improving all areas of their everyday life. [11]
Relief for you
Speaking of topical CBD…
Rolling CBD oil directly onto your skin may be the fastest and easiest way for instant relief.
With SomaLeaf Soothe, you can do just that. Our formula is fast-acting and doesn’t leave an oily or sticky residue like other topical relief formulas. Plus, it smells great!!
