Cannabidiol (CBD)
Cannabidiol (CBD) as it relates to Chronic Pain in Health report: COMT and Chronic Pain Susceptibility
Cannabidiol (CBD) for Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be debilitating and have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. Many individuals turn to alternative treatments, such as Cannabidiol (CBD), to help manage their chronic pain.
CBD is a compound found in the cannabis plant that has been shown to have analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. It interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain, among other functions.
Research has shown that CBD may be effective in reducing chronic pain by reducing inflammation, modulating pain signals, and interacting with neurotransmitters. It has been studied for various types of chronic pain, including arthritis, neuropathic pain, and fibromyalgia.
Many people prefer using CBD for chronic pain because it is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the "high" associated with THC, another compound found in cannabis. CBD is available in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, and topical creams, making it easy to incorporate into a pain management routine.
It is important to note that while many people report positive effects of using CBD for chronic pain, more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action and effectiveness. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment for chronic pain.
Supplements for Chronic Pain
Here are some dietary supplements related to the content in this report. Click the shopping cart to purchase the supplement from our partners.
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Curcumin (turmeric)
Shown to inhibit COMT activity and increase dopamine levels in the brain. Also has anti-inflammatory effects.
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Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil):
May reduce inflammation that contributes to pain. Also may protect neurons that use dopamine.
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Magnesium
Required for COMT enzymatic reactions. Supplements may help for those deficient.
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Rhodiola rosea
Herb that may inhibit COMT, especially in the Met/Met genotype. May prolong dopamine effects.
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SAM-e
Supplement that provides methyl groups needed for COMT methylation reactions. May support COMT function.
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Devil's claw
Natural anti-inflammatory that may reduce inflammatory pain. Also thought to interact with neurotransmitter systems.
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Cayenne/Capsaicin
Compound found in hot chili peppers that depletes substance P, a neurotransmitter involved in pain signaling.
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Valerian root
Herbal anxiolytic that may increase GABA, a neurotransmitter associated with reduced pain perception.
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St. John's Wort
Herb that may inhibit COMT activity similar to some pain medications. Also boosts serotonin which improves mood.
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Peppermint oil
Menthol is a COMT inhibitor. Peppermint oil applied topically may enhance painkilling dopamine effects.
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Boswellia
Anti-inflammatory herb that may disrupt cytokine signaling implicated in pain hypersensitivity.
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Cannabidiol (CBD)
Compound from cannabis that affects endocannabinoid receptors involved in pain processing.
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DLPA
Supplement containing amino acids that may prevent breakdown of endorphins for natural pain relief.
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5-HTP
Supplement that increases serotonin levels which may help with fibromyalgia and comorbid depression.
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Ginger
Contains anti-inflammatory gingerols that may inhibit pain-causing prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
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Arnica
Homeopathic pain remedy used topically that may reduce inflammation and impact serotonin.
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