What’s the Latest on Hemp CBD Offering Effective Relief to Fibromyalgia Sufferers

Fibromyalgia sufferers may be able to relieve their pain, sleep issues, body stiffness, and mental health symptoms with hemp CBD oil. The latest in research has found some evidence to suggest this natural treatment may act on several systems to accomplish this. And while it isn't a cure, or even a guaranteed treatment, those sufferers who have yet to find something that works may want to give it a try.

The Endocannabinoid System and Pain Sensitivity

Numerous studies have found a link between the endocannabinoid system and pain. The endocannabinoid system, or ECS, works with the central nervous system to control pain sensitivity and perception. Experts believe that when this system becomes weak, which is suspected to be the cause of fibromyalgia in some patients, patients begin to experience wandering pain, soft tissue stiffness, mood disorders, and sleep issues. Some evidence suggests CBD may also work in concert with fatty acids to act as an anti-inflammatory to provide additional pain relief.

To test these theories, participants were given CBD oil or marijuana followed by regular pain and mood assessments. After only a short time using these treatments, researchers found pain sensitivity and intensity declined. Participants also reported having better mental health due to reduced pain. Should these results continue outside the laboratory, CBD hemp oil could energize the endocannabinoid system enough to reduce sick days and pain symptoms overall.

Mental Health and the Effects of CBD

When all else has failed, many middle-aged fibromyalgia sufferers turn to marijuana and hemp CBD oil to relieve the negative effects the condition can have on mental health. Anxiety and depression are two of the most common complaints. A consistent feeling of drowsiness and bouts of insomnia are also common among sufferers. While the subject requires further study, research published so far has found evidence to suggest that hemp CBD oil and other CBD products can significantly improve these symptoms.

Doctors usually prescribe amitriptyline and duloxetine for these symptoms. They're designed to relieve depression, anxiety, and stress. However, studies suggest marijuana and hemp CBD oil may have better results. Experts believe this is due to the treatment's interactions with the endocannabinoid system, the hippocampus, the limbic, and paralimbic areas of the brain. It could also act on 5-HT1A receptors to increase serotonergic and glutamate signals. In other words, CBD oil works on brain regions that make people relaxed, calm, and happy.

Insomnia, Sleep Issues, and Fibromyalgia

Those dealing with insomnia and other sleep-related issues often choose an indica strain of marijuana. However, consuming these strains in large amounts can actually stimulate sufferers to keep them awake due to the THC content. In these instances, hemp CBD oil offers a safe alternative. Sufferers can relax, but the reduction in anxiety and stress can also promote a good night's sleep.

Hemp CBD oil appears to work best when it's taken orally just before bed. Once the fibromyalgia patient takes it regularly and begins to sleep better, they should also find they're more awake during the day. Some study participants even reported feeling energized. This would be a welcome benefit for many who have had a long battle with this condition.

While much of this requires more research and larger sample sizes, the results look promising. Many fibromyalgia sufferers want desperately to replace toxic drugs, harsh narcotics, and sleeping pills that only offer partial relief. If CBD hemp oil can give these people a chance to live a normal and happy life, it's a small price to pay.

References

• Russo, E. B. (2016). Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency Reconsidered: Current Research Supports the Theory in Migraine, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowel, and Other Treatment-Resistant Syndromes. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 1(1), 154-165.
• Fiz, J., Durán, M., Capellà, D., Carbonell, J., & Farré, M. (2011). Cannabis Use in Patients with Fibromyalgia: Effect on Symptoms Relief and Health-Related Quality of Life. PLoS ONE, 6(4), e18440.
• A. R. Schier, N. P. Ribeiro, A. C. Silva, J. E. Hallak, J. A. Crippa, A. E. Nardi, and A. W. Zuardi, “Cannabidiol, a Cannabis sativa Constituent, As an Anxiolytic Drug,” Revista Brasileira de Psiquiatri 34, suppl. 1 (2012): S104-S110. PubMed PMID: 22729452.
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