The cannabidiol, better known as CBD, is a natural substance derived from the hemp (or cannabis) plant, like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
Often the victim of prejudice, CBD nevertheless does not have the same psychoactive properties as its cousin THC, which is famous for the euphoric effects associated with cannabis use.
It is not classified as a narcotic, and has been available over the counter online and in specialized shops since late 2020, in various forms: oils, capsules, infusions, or in bulk.
Valued for its relaxing properties, CBD is often recommended to ease tension and relieve stress. But what about its effectiveness against temporary or chronic pain? Here I analyze what scientific studies say on the subject.
📚 Read also | Our review of the best CBD oils
How does CBD act against pain?
Through its action on the endocannabinoid system
CBD acts on three levels to reduce pain signals, as shown by this study.
The body has a so-called endocannabinoid system (ECS), composed of CB1 and CB2 receptors as well as ligands (molecules that bind to an atom or a protein to trigger a biological reaction) that attach to it. This ECS acts as a major control center for cardiovascular function, mood, memory, immunity, etc.
Fortunately, this works out because CBD is a phytocannabinoid, meaning that it can act on CB1 and CB2 receptors just like other molecules in the body.
However, it has an indirect action and does not bind directly to these receptors. In the case of its action against pain, CBD would increase the levels of the molecule anandamide in the body, which itself is responsible for reducing the perception of pain signals.
Thus, the more anandamide there is in the body, the fewer pain signals there are!
By binding to vanilloid receptors
Vanilloid TRPV1 receptors are known to be nociceptors, in other words pain receptors.
When they are activated by certain vanilloid molecules, they allow the transmission of a nerve signal resulting in a painful response and inflammation.
CBD acts by binding to these TRPV1 receptors, making them less sensitive to painful stimuli thereafter, and reduces the inflammatory response.
Studies are mixed
Effects on chronic and muscle pain
Several scientific studies have shown the potential of CBD to reduce pain related to certain conditions or pathologies.
A review from 2022 notably shows a short-term improvement in chronic pain.
Another study reaches the same conclusion for musculoskeletal pain.
A recent study highlights its ineffectiveness
But these studies have their limitations, and I think that further, larger-scale work is needed to confirm these benefits.
There are also recent scientific studies that claim these products are ineffective.
How to use CBD for pain
Choosing the right product
If you have pain, several formulations are available: oils, creams, capsules, or CBD-based infusions can be considered.
They may be useful depending on your type of pain. I recommend:
- the fast-acting sublingual oils (within 15 to 30 minutes) for acute pain
- the creams and other topical balms for muscle and joint pain
- the extended-release capsules for slow-acting relief in chronic pain
- the infusions, with gentler effects, for mild pain and a relaxing effect
Dosing your CBD correctly
If CBD is new to you, I advise starting with a low dose before gradually increasing according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
If you are on medication, it is essential to discuss it in advance with a healthcare professional. Use is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to lack of long-term data.
Sources and scientific studies
- Bisogno T et al, 2001, Molecular targets for cannabidiol and its synthetic analogues: effect on vanilloid VR1 receptors and on the cellular uptake and enzymatic hydrolysis of anandamide.
- McDonagh MS et al., 2022, Cannabis-Based Products for Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review.
- Boehnke KF et al., 2022, Cannabidiol (CBD) in Rheumatic Diseases (Musculoskeletal Pain).
- Moore A et al., 2024, Cannabidiol (CBD) Products for Pain: Ineffective, Expensive, and With Potential Harms.
