When the term inflammation comes up, it’s usually made in reference to the body’s immune system’s response to an injury or an infection. If something is wrong in the body, inflammation is a good thing. Areas that become injured may become red and swollen. This is due to a whole army of white blood cells that flow to the area to fight infection and promote healing. The response is the same when parts of the body encounter a virus or is battling infection. The problem is that oftentimes, the immune response is triggered when it shouldn’t be. Exposure to toxins, chronic stress, autoimmune disorders, or obesity can trigger an inflammatory response. When this occurs, instead of healing the problem so that the body returns to normal, inflammation continues. When inflammation continues chronically, it can lead to many other health problems, including depression, arthritis, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, IBS, and cancer.
Inflammation and Pain
Most of the time, inflammation and pain go hand in hand. Traditional medicine treats both pain and inflammation with anti-inflammatory medications. Both steroid and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications are commonly used. However, most medications present various risks and adverse side effects. Many people adopt a preventative approach to battling inflammation, including supplements and dietary changes. Although more research is needed, CBD shows a lot of promise as a natural approach to treating inflammation.
How CBD Reduces Inflammation
Cannabinoids like CBD are naturally anti-inflammatory. Presently, there is more research needed to see exactly how CBD works and to find which applications are best for the various types of inflammation. CBD works with the body’s endocannabinoid system to promote health, homeostasis, general wellbeing, and manage inflammation. CBD can also help reduce stress levels and improve sleep; both help lower inflammation. CBD is an all-natural option for helping manage inflammation. It’s not a cure for inflammation, but it can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with common conditions such as arthritis, menstrual cramps, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Inflammation is complicated. The process involves numerous signaling pathways in the body. Signaling molecules called eicosanoids initiate the body’s inflammatory response. CBD helps reduce inflammation by blocking COX2, and eicosanoid enzyme. This is what NSAIDs like aspirin or ibuprofen do to help manage pain. CBD does so naturally. CBD can also affect cytokines, which is a special class of molecules essential to the inflammation process. CBD reduces the effects of cytokines, which are pro-inflammatory, so that inflammation is minimized.
How to Use CBD for Inflammation
CBD products come in a variety of consumable forms. How you choose to take it depends on your personal preference, and what works best to help you achieve your goals.
- CBD Gummies. Gummies are a favorite way to consume CBD. They are tasty, and easily chewed and swallowed. It takes time for them to work through the digestive system and take effect. Regular use helps.
- CBD Topicals. CBD topicals are not consumed, but applied to the skin, topically. Our Dermal CBD is in a roll-on applicator, so that it can be applied directly to an area affected by inflammation or pain. There are also topical creams that can be applied for relief.
- CBD Capsules. Many people prefer to take CBD supplements in capsule form. They should be taken daily for the maximum benefit.
- CBD Oils. CBD oils are placed under the tongue using a dropper. This is the fastest way to get CBD into your system.
Benefits of CBD
While CBD can be helpful for relieving inflammation and pain, it also helps in many other ways. CBD can help you get better sleep, manage stress, reduce anxiety, or live well. If you are just experimenting with CBD products and are not sure where to start, Brio Nutrition is here to help. We can help make sure you get the dosage and CBD product designed to help you manage or alleviate your symptoms, and we can also help you choose how to take or apply products so you get the maximum benefit.