EXPLORING CANNABIS FOR PAIN RELIEF: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

Pain is a big deal, affecting 100 million adults in the United States, -- more than diabetes, cancer, heart disease, stroke, congestive heart failure combined.

In recent years, the therapeutic potential of cannabis for pain management has gained increasing attention, sparking a surge in research to understand the components responsible for its analgesic (pain-reducing) effects. This is great news, since a study of 2455 pain patients over 17 studies showed that 11% misused their opioids. Opioid use is an epidemic, in the US and around the world.

As more states and countries legalize cannabis for medicinal use, an increasing number of individuals suffering from chronic and acute pain are seeking alternative solutions to opioids and other Big Pharma products that have been pushed on us. 

In this blog, we will delve into the scientific studies that shed light on the pain-relieving properties of cannabis, and help you decide which products, terpenes, cannabinoids, ratios, doses, and frequency might help you with managing both chronic and acute pain. Let’s dive in!

The Science Behind Cannabis and Pain Relief

Cannabis contains over 100 different cannabinoids, (!), -- with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) being the most well-known.

These compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body, modulating neurotransmitter release and influencing pain perception.

In addition, scientific studies have shown that cannabinoids, especially THC and CBD, possess analgesic properties. A study published in the Journal of Pain Research found that cannabinoids can effectively manage neuropathic pain, a type of chronic pain caused by nerve damage. Another study in the European Journal of Pain highlighted the anti-inflammatory effects of cannabinoids, indicating their potential in treating inflammatory pain conditions

Products and Methods

When it comes to using cannabis for pain relief, there are a variety of consumption methods and products available. The choice really depends on individual preferences and the nature of the pain. Here’s a quick run-down of each:

Inhalation

Smoking and vaporizing are popular inhalation methods because they are quick to onset, and you can easily dose more or pause. You can get strains with the cannabinoid and terpene profiles that are designed for pain and sample various products affordably to find strains that suit your needs. Note: Prerolls have lesser-quality cannabis, so rolling your own (even with a machine), or using a pipe (or vaporizer), is recommended.

Edibles

Digesting cannabis provides a longer-lasting, more embodied and sedating effect, and may be more effective at targeting chronic pain, inflammation, and stomach and menstrual pain. Avoid edibles with sugar or artificial ingredients and colors, as these may trigger inflammation. 

Topicals

Balms, creams, and patches infused with cannabinoids can be applied directly to the affected area for localized relief. Menthol or other aromatherapy oils may be added to enhance the analgesic effects. Topicals are great for acute pain and burns, though the transdermal patches also target chronic pain and inflammation.

Suppositories

These topical cannabis products are inserted vaginally or anally to treat menstrual cramps, digestive pain, reproductive and sexual pain, or lower back pain. I create my own infused coconut oil, then freeze it in ice cubes, cut the frozen squares into small rectangles, and use  as needed for pain.  

Terpenes and Cannabinoids

Terps:

Terpenes and other compounds in cannabis contribute to the pain relieving capability of cannabis, potentially through aromatherapy and through the synergistic effects they have with the cannabinoids.

Myrcene and linalool are terpenes commonly found in Indica strains, and they have muscle relaxing effects. Limonene and beta-caryophyllene are found in hybrid and Sativa strains, and can contribute to the analgesic effects.

Cannabinoids:

Studies have shown that cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in pain regulation. This interaction can lead to reduced pain perception and inflammation.

Specifically, THC-dominant strains have been shown to treat chronic pain conditions such as neuropathic pain and arthritis.

A THC:CBD ratio of 1:1 can be beneficial for treating pain, though each individual’s chemistry (and the other terpenes available in the strain) will make a difference. Some people will prefer 2:1 (two parts THC to one part CBD), some might want 4:1 or 8:1 or 12:1. 

CBD-dominant products are suitable for acute pain, and treat pain without the psychoactive effects of THC.  Strains with a CBD:THC ratio of 20:1 or higher are commonly recommended for people who want to avoid THC’s effects.

Dosing and Frequency

Determining the right dose and frequency is a highly individualized process, and it's advisable to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed.

Chronic Pain:

• Dose: Begin with a low to moderate dose of THC, or a balanced THC/CBD product, or a product

• Frequency: Regular use, such as once or twice daily, may provide sustained relief

Acute Pain:

• Dose: Low to moderate doses of CBD or a blended CBD/THC product is recommended for acute pain management

• Frequency: As needed, depending on the intensity of pain

Conclusion:

Cannabis has shown promising results in alleviating both chronic and acute pain, backed by scientific studies highlighting the analgesic properties of cannabinoids. Studies have shown cannabis’ effectiveness for specific chronic pain conditions like neuropathic pain, multiple sclerosis pain, and cancer-related pain. Of course, the pain relief effects can vary significantly between individuals, due to factors like genetics, pain type, and cannabis product composition

The variety of products, terpenes, cannabinoids, ratios, doses, and consumption methods allow individuals to customize their approach to pain management, and as the field of cannabis research continues to expand, we can expect more targeted and personalized approaches to utilizing this natural remedy for pain relief.

While cannabis may not be a cure for pain, the many combinations of consumption methods, terpenes, cannabinoids, and dosing options make it a viable option for people seeking to treat both chronic and acute pain. Have you used cannabis for pain? If not, maybe now you’ll give it a try! 

Interested in learning more?

I’ll be going LIVE on Instagram twice-per-day every Tuesday in March to discuss ways to use cannabis, and on the 5th at 12:00pm pst we’ll be discussing how we use cannabis for chronic and acute pain.

Join myself and May Ganja Yoga Training Zoom-hostess, Mel, as we discuss the  products, terpenes, methods, cannabinoids, ratios, dose, and frequencies we’ve used for chronic and acute pain.

Then at 4:20pm pst we’ll go LIVE again to discuss using cannabis for yoni (female reproductive) health.

Everyone who tunes in for the 20 minute chats can enter to win free virtual admission to the May Ganja Yoga Training, so roll one up and tune in on IG….