06 Jan How Quickly Does CBD Work to Relieve Pain?
How Quickly Does CBD Work to Relieve Pain?
If you’re seeking relief from chronic or acute pain, you may have considered using CBD as a natural option. One question that often arises is which method of CBD consumption will provide the quickest relief for pain. In this article, we’ll explore the various forms of CBD for pain relief, including CBD creams, tinctures, pills, and vapes, and discuss how quickly each one works. But first, let’s delve into how CBD actually helps alleviate pain in the body.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a type of cell signaling present in all humans. When you take CBD oil for pain, it interacts with receptors in the brain and immune system. These receptors, called proteins found on the surface of cells, pick up chemical signals and help the cells respond. This response has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making CBD useful in the treatment of chronic pain. In a 2018 study, CBD oil was found to be effective for pain relief and had no negative side effects.
The speed at which CBD begins to work for pain relief can vary depending on a number of factors, including personal chemistry, age, weight, and other medications being taken. The type of pain being treated, the method of consumption, and the serving size also play a role in how quickly CBD takes effect. Below is a list of common CBD methods for pain relief, in order of the speed at which they begin to work:
CBD Vape: One of the quickest ways to experience the benefits of CBD is by inhaling it through a vaporizer. Because the CBD goes directly into the lungs and circulates throughout the body without going through the digestive system, the effects can be felt within a minute or two of inhalation and last for a few hours. It’s important to start with a lower dosage of less than 10 milligrams if you’re new to inhalation.
CBD Tinctures: Taking a CBD tincture under the tongue with a spray or dropper bottle is the second fastest way to receive the benefits of CBD. The effects can be felt within 30 to 90 minutes of consumption and typically last for four to six hours. Like inhalation, this method allows the CBD to enter the bloodstream without going through the stomach or liver.
Topicals: CBD creams, balms, lotions, oils, and salves applied externally can have anti-inflammatory properties and may also protect the skin from free radical damage. They work by attaching to CB2 receptors near the skin and activating them without being absorbed into the bloodstream. Because the skin absorbs cannabinoids slowly, the effects of topical CBD products may not be felt for an hour or more. However, they can provide localized relief from muscle and joint discomfort and last for several hours.
Pills and Softgels: CBD pills and softgels can be an easy and convenient way to consume CBD, but they take longer to take effect because they must first go through the digestive system. The effects can be felt within an hour or two and last for several hours.
It’s important to keep in mind that everyone’s body is different and the speed at which CBD works for pain relief can vary. It may take some trial and error to find the best method and dosage for you. Consult with a healthcare professional before adding CBD to your pain management routine.