Using Cannabis For Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is one of the most common reasons why people turn to medical cannabis. Chronic pain can not only affect people physically but also mentally. Thankfully, cannabis may be able to help. Anecdotal and clinical evidence indicates that cannabis may be able to help people better manage certain kinds of pain. How?
Pain & The Endocannabinoid System
It’s believed that cannabis produces many of its effects through interactions between cannabinoids and cell receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The endocannabinoid system is a physiological network that is thought to be responsible for helping to keep the body in balance by regulating key functions such as sleep, appetite, stress, and even pain. One study found that the ECS worked to regulate pain sensations, “with modulatory actions at all stages of pain processing pathways”.
When cannabinoids enter the human system, they are thought to interact directly and indirectly with cell receptors and ion channels in the ECS in order to produce system-wide effects.
What Does The Research Say?
Support for the use of cannabis for chronic pain doesn’t just come from anecdotal evidence. Several studies have also indicated that cannabinoids like CBD and THC may be beneficial in the treatment of certain kinds of pain.
Research indicates that cannabinoids may have anti-inflammatory properties that may help them to relieve inflammatory pain. It’s believed that cannabinoids may have the potential to suppress T-cell mediated immune responses by “reducing apoptosis and suppressing inflammatory cytokines and chemokines”.
Additionally, research also suggests that THC and CBD may be able to alleviate neuropathic pain. A 2007 study found that THC was able to reduce some of the pain caused by HIV-induced nerve damage. Furthermore, another study found that THC and CBD were also able to alleviate some of the nerve pain caused by multiple sclerosis.
Cannabis For Chronic Pain: Best Strains
When it comes to using cannabis for chronic pain, some strains are better than others. Usually, the most recommended strains for managing pain are those that have a hefty dose of both THC and CBD. Strong indica strains that are high in THC are also sometimes recommended.
Here are a few strains to keep an eye out for next time you visit our dispensary.
Cannatonic
This 50/50 hybrid features a 1:1 to 2:1 THC:CBD ratio alongside small amounts of CBD and CBN, two cannabinoids that may boost its relaxing and sedating effects.
Afghan Kush
A pure indica strain known for its intensely sedating and relaxing full-body buzz. When grown well, this strain can have a healthy amount of CBD, sometimes reaching as high as 5%–6%.
Harlequin
This sativa-dominant strain features a THC:CBD ratio of anywhere from 1:2 to 1.5:1. It’s mind-altering and euphoric effects are held back by its CBD content. That makes it a great choice for those looking to medicate without too much intoxication.
Master Kush
Thanks to its strong sedating effects, Master Kush is commonly cited as a strain for pain. Alongside its impressive THC content, this strain also features roughly 1% of CBD and 1% of CBN. Its high THC content may also help to promote sleep.
You can find these strains and more at one of our shops: