If you suffer from chronic pain you may be considering cannabis for pain relief. But how do you choose between THC and CBD for pain relief? While they are both derived from cannabis, they are different compounds. Lets look at the benefits of THc vs. CBD for pain relief.
Cannabis for Pain Relief
People who deal with chronic pain are turning to cannabis products for relief from their symptoms. This includes pain, fatigue, insomnia, and anxiety. In fact, a recent study showed that 57% of patients with arthritis had tried marijuana or CBD for a medical reason. 90% of these patients claim that it helped.
Truthfully, there are many different varieties of cannabis and while they are all complex, nearly all of them contain some combination of two medically important compounds. These are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
THC vs. CBD for Pain Relief
THC is responsible for the “high” that people typically get from marijuana. This may also play a role in pain relief. In contrast, CBD does not cause an intoxicating feeling. However, research still suggests that it may help ease pain and other symptoms.
While they may both ease pain, they work in different ways. CBD and THC activate different cannabinoid receptors in the body. These receptors stimulate or inhibit brain chemicals and cause certain effects.
THC
THC activities certain cannabinoid receptors, one of which is the nerve cells. The other is in the immune cells. When THC activates the nerve cell receptors, it reduces the sensation of pain. Furthermore, the high that THC gives may also play a role in the way people experience pain.
CBD
Researchers don’t know as much about CBD as THC but there is anecdotal evidence that it may help relieve pain for some people. While more research is needed, there is a theory that CBD might interfere with the serotonin and influence glycine receptors. Many people are studying CBD to find out exactly how it works.
THC vs. CBD for Pain Relief | Which is Best?
There really is no right answer here. Either one could help relieve your symptoms. Or you may decide on a combination of the two. Researchers think that together, this duo could relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Furthermore, CBD may be able to help with anxiety. Consequently, this could affect the patient’s perception of pain and make them more comfortable.
To learn more about the benefits of THC vs. CBD for pain relief, please visit Dispensary Works Maryland.
