For those suffering from cancer symptoms or the painful effects of chemotherapy, MyAccess Clinics may be able to provide some relief with medical cannabis prescriptions. The way that CBD can provide pain relief is the way that it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. If you are unfamiliar with the system, below is an explanation of how it works.
Our body’s endocannabinoid system is composed of three main components:
- Cannabinoid receptors, namely CB1 and CB2. The CB1 receptors are predominantly found in the central nervous system which is made up of the brain and the spinal column. The CB2 receptors are more common in your immune cells and peripheral nervous system, referring to any other nerves that aren’t included in the central system, such as those in your arms and legs.
- Endogenous cannabinoids (the cannabinoids that your body produces)
- Enzymes (naturally occurring substances that facilitate the breakdown and use of cannabinoids).
In cases of injury and inflammation, your body may release endocannabinoids that bind to cannabinoid receptors and can help to reduce pain.
CBD itself does not bind to receptors but can work through components of the cannabinoid system. Evidence suggests CBD also has antioxidant properties, helping to decrease inflammation. This is how it can provide pain relief in some patients.
There are many different ways that CBD can be administered. Including:
- Capsules
- Tinctures, or
- Oils.
CBD is:
- anti-inflammatory, meaning it has the potential to reduce joint pain associated with arthritis, as shown in several animal studies.
- anti-oxidative, so it may reduce systematic inflammation by fighting oxidative stress and decrease symptoms of autoimmune conditions like lupus
- antiemetic, meaning it can decrease vomiting and nausea associated with cancer treatments
- antipsychotic, so it can ease symptoms of anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- neuroprotective, meaning it may help to slow the progression of neurological disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Relieving cancer and cancer associated pain
Both cancer and its treatment can lead to pain due to things like inflammation or nerve injury. CBD may help to reduce this pain through its effects on inflammation and the endocannabinoid system.
So if you are suffering from cancer-associated pain and are interested in CBD for pain relief in the UK. Consider getting in contact with My Access Clinic for more information on how CBD may be able to provide some relief.
