Are you suffering from chronic pain? Bogged down with expensive prescriptions and seeking a natural solution? In this day and age, many people are turning to natural remedies to help ease the pain of frustrating symptoms.
More than 3 million cases of gout are recognized in America each year. This popular form of arthritis can lead to severe joint pain. Many of those with gout have turned to CBD oil to help ease the pain.
Using CBD oil for gout has become an increasingly popular choice. In this article, we'll break down the benefits of using CBD oil for gout. CBD oil could just be the relief you've been looking for.
What is Gout?
Gout is a complex, but relatively common form of arthritis. Notoriously high in red meat and low in vegetables, the traditional western diet can lead to the development of gout. Gout can present itself in episodes of extreme joint pain.
Most often found in the big toe, gout has been called "the disease of kings." This is due to its association with many European royals throughout history. Often, gout can be an unfortunate cause of chronic pain.
Gout occurs when an excess of uric acid deposits in the joints. Uric acid comes from rich foods, such as red meats and alcohols. When uric acid levels get too high, gout develops leading to frequent pain.
Gout Risk Factors
Gout is most commonly found in individuals who:
-
Have diets high in purines (red meat, fructose, alcohol)
-
Have a family history of gout
-
Take certain medications, such as diuretics for high blood pressure
-
Are male
-
Are obese
-
Have kidney disease
-
Underwent recent surgery
-
Experienced recent trauma to a joint
Gout Symptoms
Gout often first presents as an acute attack of extreme joint pain. This initial attack can last up to 12 hours. Though it most commonly affects the joint at the base of the big toe, gout can occur in any bodily joint.
After the initial attack, most people will experience lasting pain in the joints. Subsequent attacks can occur. Other common symptoms of gout may include:
-
Red, swollen, or warm joints
-
Severe pain that worsens with movement
-
Fatigue
-
High fever
Gout Treatments
Traditionally the treatment of gout includes anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and steroids. Doctors also often prescribe certain lifestyle changes. Sometimes, physical therapy is also involved.
But, many of those diagnosed with gout are now seeking out a more natural solution for the management of their pain and inflammation. Enter, CBD oil.
There are few studies about the effectiveness of CBD for gout specifically. However, research shows that CBD has been quite effective as a treatment for other arthritis pain. Thus, more and more of those diagnosed with gout are seeking out CBD oil as a natural treatment.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is the non-psychoactive part of the Cannabis plant. CBD is a chemical compound, one of two that makes up marijuana. The other, THC, is psychoactive and results in the traditional "high."
CBD won't get you high, but it does have plenty of health benefits. Since it's legalization in 2018, CBD has taken America by storm as a natural pain and anxiety reliever. Many Americans have found great comfort thanks to CBD.
In fact, there are some studies that show CBD can have long-term health benefits. It relieves pain and anxiety. But, it may also help you feel and appear younger for longer.
Traditional gout treatments, such as pain killers, can have harmful side effects. In addition, these medications are becoming increasingly expensive. And, many of those with gout find they only relieve some of their pain.
CBD, on the other hand, typically has no real side effects. It is a natural substance that has been used since roughly 2800 B.C. for the treatment of pain. This makes it an incredibly attractive option for many of those with chronic pain.
CBD Therapy for Gout
You might be asking yourself, "How does CBD oil work for gout?" The answer lies in our endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for relaying the levels of pain we feel within our central nervous system.
The cannabinoids found in CBD products can stimulate the cannabinoid receptors found in our bodies. This leads to our bodies perceiving less pain within our nerves. It's also been shown to reduce inflammation.
CBD as an Anti-Inflammatory
Research on CBD is relatively new. However, some studies have shown that CBD can be a pretty potent anti-inflammatory. Scientists have found that CBD is effective at reducing TNF and IL-12, inflammatory chemicals found in the joints.
In addition, CBD has shown signs that it is an effective immune system modulator. The immune system is responsible for creating inflammation in the body. With CBD, inflammatory responses are more easily controlled.
In conditions such as gout, inflammation can be a major source of pain. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it's safe to assume CBD can work wonders on chronic pain.
CBD Oil for Gout: What Does the Research Say?
At present, there have been no major studies on the effectiveness of CBD for gout specifically. But, evidence has been found for its effectiveness in treating other forms of arthritis. Research suggests CBD is especially useful for pain relief, which is promising for gout treatment.
Certain animal studies have also given evidence of CBD's effectiveness. These studies have suggested that CBD has many pain-relief and anti-inflammatory properties. While there haven't been large-scale studies for humans, the outcome looks promising.
Anecdotal evidence is also relatively promising. Many people with various types of arthritis, including gout, have reported positive effects from the use of CBD. These include pain relief, anxiety reduction, and sleep improvements.
Is CBD Safe To Use?
There are many studies underway about the long-term effects of CBD use. However, most studies have found no major health concerns associated with the use of CBD. The long-term effects of CBD look promising.
If you are taking certain medications, talk to a physician before beginning CBD therapy for gout. Your physician will be able to help ensure your long-term health when using CBD products.
CBD oil alone will likely not prevent all gout flare-ups. Again, it is recommended you speak to your physician before beginning any new therapies. But, the effects of CBD as a pain-reliever and anti-inflammatory are supported by ample evidence.
How To Take CBD for Gout
CBD products come in many different forms. Our online store is full of topical and oral oils, smokeable herbs, oral capsules, gummies, and even coffees and teas. It is important to invest in quality CBD products for maximum efficiency.
Various ways to consume CBD for gout flare-ups include:
Topical Oils
A popular way to use CBD oil for gout is as a topical oil. This works best in the middle of an active gout attack.
To use CBD this way, first, wash and dry the affected area. Then, take a bead-sized amount of CBD oil and apply it to the area where you feel the most pain. Using a circular motion, massage the oil until it is completely absorbed into the skin.
Typically, you'll begin to feel relief in roughly 20-30 minutes. This relief will likely last you 3-4 hours. CBD oil can be reapplied 2-3 times a day as needed.
Oral Consumption
You can also consume CBD oil orally. You can either consume it as a CBD oil tincture or take it in a capsule form. We offer both in our online store.
To consume CBD as a tincture, simply squeeze a dose of oil into your mouth. Then, hold it under your tongue for 30 seconds and swallow. If you're taking it as a capsule, simply swallow the capsule with a glass of water.
You can also take CBD gummies. Much like gummy vitamins, simply chew a dose. Or, if consuming CBD as a coffee or tea, drink your dose.
When consumed orally in this way, the effects will typically begin in roughly 30-60 minutes. Generally, the relief lasts up to 4 hours.
Usually, oral consumption will relieve pain throughout your entire body. This might make this a less effective form of CBD for gout attacks. However, when consumed once daily, it may be an effective long-term preventative gout treatment.
Smokable CBD
CBD also comes in herbal form. This herbal form can be smoked. This is the least recommended CBD treatment for medical conditions, due to smoking's effect on the lungs.
However, the effects can come on quickly. It is also useful for whole body pain or sleeping irregularities. But, it might not be the most effective for gout attacks specifically.
Ultimately, the type of CBD you consume for your gout pain is a matter of personal preference. Certain treatments may be more effective for you than others. Again, speak to your doctor before beginning any CBD therapy.
CBD for Gout: The Natural Treatment
When taking CBD oil for gout, the effects might be surprising. some people say CBD could help pain, inflammation, and anxiety that could come with a gout diagnosis. If you're looking for a natural alternative with possibly very few side effects, CBD just might be the perfect answer.
You can schedule a virtual CBD consultation today. One of our experts will help you build the perfect CBD treatment plan for your gout pain and answer any questions you may have. Natural relief is just a click away!
