More than 3.7 million Americans are affected by fibromyalgia; you may be one of them.
However, the condition is still often poorly understood as research is ongoing. Associated with chronic pain, fatigue, mood imbalances, and memory problems, fibromyalgia is, thankfully, not life-threatening. (1)
The discomforts associated with fibromyalgia are persistent enough to push sufferers to search for relief. We have some great news… the natural properties of CBD oil may provide this long sought-after relief!
How Does CBD For Fibromyalgia Work?
The pain epidemic in the U.S. is leading individuals to find relief through whatever means necessary. And, because the root cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown, many treatments are prescribed to lessen the side effects and provide a better quality of life, without actually treating the source. (2)
Treatments such as pain medications, sleeping pills, antidepressants, and anti-seizure drugs are often considered “go-to” options. All of these treatments come with their own side effects and problems ranging from mood changes and appetite changes to dependence and more.
CBD comes with endless benefits, minimal side effects, and can be used to treat pain, fatigue, anxiety, and more. Other benefits that can be achieved using CBD include the treatment of:
- Depression
- Nausea and Appetite Changes
- Skin Conditions
- Insomnia
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Bacterial Infections
- …and more.
For fibromyalgia, in particular, CBD is effective in reducing inflammation and returning the body to homeostasis. As Very Well Health explains, “fibromyalgia also involves something called endocannabinoid deficiency.” Because of this, CBD products are a promising treatment in supporting the body’s natural endocannabinoids. (3)
With all of this great news, you’re probably wondering what kind of side effects come from using CBD. The answer? Not many! Some people may experience drowsiness depending on the strain that’s consumed.
There’s also a chance for low blood pressure and dry mouth. However, compared to many of the side effects that traditional treatments create, individuals are generally willing to tolerate the side effects of CBD.
What Is CBD?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is derived from the cannabis plant. Don’t worry… it won’t give you the “high” feeling that its counterpart THC gives.
CBD’s Benefits For Fibromyalgia
boil down to two key components: it’s a natural anti-inflammatory and also a natural antioxidant.
CBD as an Anti-inflammatory
As CBD interacts with receptors in the body, its therapeutic and non-psychoactive properties allow the body to rebalance and repair itself.
CBD as an Antioxidant
CBD is filled with Omega 3 and Omega 6 – two important fatty acids for the body that are excellent antioxidants.
CBD oil can be used in a variety of ways, each of which allows it to interact with both receptors. This is advantageous, as it allows users can find what works best for them. It can be inhaled, swallowed in a capsule, placed under the tongue using a tincture, eaten in food, or used topically.
So… What Is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a disorder that causes widespread pain, fatigue, sleep imbalances, and mood issues. The symptoms associated with fibromyalgia are persistent and can be mysterious. Complicating the issue is the fact that no single test can definitively lead to a diagnosis. Some of the symptoms include: (4)
- Widespread pain
- Fatigue
- Cognitive difficulties
- Irritable bowel syndrome and similar symptoms
- Migraine and other headaches
- Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ)
- Painful bladder syndrome
Furthermore, people with rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus are at a higher risk for fibromyalgia. And, women are more likely than men to suffer from fibromyalgia.
As always, we encourage you to talk to a trusted medical professional before making CBD a regular part of your treatment.
Pain relief without the side effects? Sounds good to me!
