Being in pain isn’t something that anyone wants to live with, and for many, it can be a temporary thing. However, some people live with pain constantly, and that can be detrimental to both physical and mental wellbeing if there’s nothing they are taking to deal with it.
Choosing between CBD and THC for pain relief is an option that many people consider, but the one you pick will depend on the type of pain you have and your tolerance for psychoactive effects.
There are also legal regulations to consider. While THC is considered more effective for severe, acute, or nerve pain, it has its intoxicating effects. CBD works differently and helps reduce inflammation without causing impairment.
The Use Of CBD for Pain
CBD is a non-intoxicating chemical and acts more subtly on the body’s endocannabinoid system. It works to largely reduce inflammation. There are plenty of pros to using CBD and potential side effects to think about.
CBD can manage pain without having to interfere with daily tasks. It can also be useful for improving sleep, as well as reducing anxiety, which can often accompany chronic pain.
When it comes to localized joint pain, general aches, fibromyalgia, and inflammatory conditions like arthritis, the use of CBD is what suits these types of pain best.
There are some potential side effects from using CBD, which include mild drowsiness, diarrhea, or a reduced appetite.
The Use of THC for Pain
THC binds directly to the CB1 receptors within the central nervous system. It’s one that directly reduces the pain signals to your brain.
As a pro, it’s a potent analgesic and muscle relaxant. The euphoric effect that it provides can make it a lot easier to cope with when it comes to severe, constant pain.
THC is best for those with chronic nerve pain, as well as severe pain. It may also help with cancer-related pain, as well as nausea. Of course, you do have psychoactive effects like intoxication, increased heart rate, memory loss, and dry mouth to consider for downsides.
Key Factors Before Choosing
Before choosing a product with either of these chemicals, you’ll want to consider these key factors.
Legality
In many places, CBD needs to have a low level of THC for it to be legal and available over-the-counter. THC-rich products will often require a doctor’s prescription, too, or are only available in authorized dispensaries.
Method of Delivery
There are different methods of delivery to choose from. Topicals like creams and balms are best for localized arthritis or muscle pain. Oils and tinctures are fast-acting and placed under the tongue. Edibles and capsules have a slower onset but provide longer-lasting relief.
Drug Testing
Using full-spectrum CBD or THC products results in a positive drug test, even when the product is legal. So it’s important to be mindful of any job you have where this could negatively impact performance and the ability to do your job safely.
It’s worth weighing the options and understanding what works better for you when it comes to selecting between CBD and THC.
Photo by CRYSTALWEED cannabis on Unsplash
