CBD
While walking down Santa Monica Blvd in Los Angeles, I accidentally tripped on a hole in the sidewalk and fell. Distracted by trying to find a song on YouTube, I missed seeing the hole. Shocked by how such a small fall could leave me unable to get up, I was soon surrounded by kind strangers who helped me call an Uber to get home. By the time I arrived, my foot had swollen and was throbbing in pain. I had sprained it.
This was my first encounter with CBD cream. My family gently massaged it into my foot, and to my surprise, it worked like magic. Within a few days, the swelling started to decrease, and so did the pain. That was the moment I discovered the healing potential of CBD.
CBD (cannabidiol) has gained a lot of attention recently for its potential health benefits, even though more research is needed to fully understand its effects. CBD is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce muscle inflammation, which often causes pain after physical exertion or injury. By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, it may lower the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which promotes faster recovery. It can also help relieve pain from muscle soreness and cramps and act as a muscle relaxant, reducing spasms and tension. This makes it potentially helpful for those with chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia or post-exercise soreness.
Topical CBD products—such as creams, balms, or gels—are particularly effective because they can be applied directly to an area for targeted relief. This method allows CBD to interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, which helps target sore or injured muscles. And, with minimal side effects, these creams are generally well-tolerated.
Curious to learn more, I started researching CBD’s broader uses. CBD has applications beyond pain relief, including reducing inflammation throughout the body, alleviating anxiety, stress, and depression, and promoting better sleep. It may help with inflammatory conditions like arthritis, neurological disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, eyes, heart, brain, and even skin issues and cancer.
However, CBD can interact with certain medications, and its effects vary widely from person to person, so consulting a healthcare provider before starting CBD treatments is essential.
CBD and Cancer
Current research is also examining CBD’s role in alleviating symptoms related to cancer or cancer treatment.
For example, CBD, especially when combined with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), may help manage cancer-related pain—particularly for patients whose pain doesn’t respond well to strong painkillers like opioids. This combination has also shown promise in reducing nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy. Additionally, CBD may improve appetite in cancer patients dealing with weight loss and a lack of interest in food, although this effect is generally more associated with THC. Furthermore, CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate inflammation associated with cancer or its treatments, potentially supporting immune health.
While CBD shows potential in managing cancer symptoms and side effects, it should never replace traditional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Always consult a healthcare provider, especially an oncologist, before using CBD as part of a cancer care plan.
CBD is commonly used in various forms—topically, orally, or even in a bath for relaxation. With relatively few side effects, it’s becoming more widely accepted in countries like the U.S., Canada, and parts of Europe, where governments are making it legal for certain uses. Nonetheless, consulting a healthcare provider remains essential before adding CBD to your wellness regimen.
By Asha Bhansali