In certain states in the United States, the use or ownership of cannabis, also known as marijuana, is strictly prohibited. Despite this, cannabis contains numerous components that have potential for treating different health conditions, leading to its use as a medicinal substance. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the most well-known cannabis ingredients recognized for their medicinal benefits.
Let’s examine how cannabis or medical marijuana can be used as a natural remedy for managing fibromyalgia pain and its related symptoms. Before delving into that, let’s define what fibromyalgia is.
What Is Fibromyalgia Pain?
Fibromyalgia is a neurological condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, sleep disturbances, cognitive issues, mood changes, and persistent tiredness. Healthcare professionals suggest that the disorder impacts the brain’s processing of pain signals.
By changing this procedure, the sensation of pain is intensified in individuals suffering from fibromyalgia.
People with this condition typically start showing symptoms after going through significant physical trauma, a life-changing event causing extreme psychological stress, surgery, or an infection. In other cases, the symptoms may gradually develop over time without a specific triggering incident.
Fibromyalgia is more common in women than in men, and those affected may also have symptoms such as irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, headaches, depression, and temporomandibular conditions. Although there is no definitive cure for fibromyalgia, natural remedies, medications, and lifestyle changes like using cannabis, regular exercise, and stress management techniques can help alleviate symptoms.
Medical Marijuana and the Treatment of Fibromyalgia
People with fibromyalgia have the option to use medical marijuana, as two of its components, THC and CBD, have shown to effectively alleviate many symptoms associated with the condition.
CBD
In contrast, CBD does not cause a psychoactive response and does not attach to the body’s cannabinoid receptors. By using CBD, you can experience the advantages of cannabis without the intoxicating effects typically linked to THC.
THC
The THC compound is similar to the natural cannabinoid chemicals produced by our bodies. These compounds activate the cannabinoid neurons and receptors in the brain, which can then reduce pain levels by triggering the brain’s reward system and enhancing psychoactivity.
Cannabis and Other Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Although there is limited peer-reviewed research on the effectiveness of marijuana for treating various symptoms of fibromyalgia, there is a wealth of anecdotal evidence supporting its benefits. Many people have used marijuana for centuries to alleviate mood swings, anxiety, headaches, migraines, and muscle stiffness.
How to use cannabis to treat fibromyalgia
There are multiple methods for consuming marijuana, but ultimately the decision on how to use it is up to you and your personal preferences.
Smoking
Some people choose to consume marijuana by smoking it, as it provides quick pain relief. Alternatively, you can use a vaporizer to avoid potential side effects associated with smoking. Vaping is another option to consider.
Ingestion
Another common method of using marijuana is through oral consumption. These products, known as edibles, include items like ice cream, biscuits, and cookies. The effects of edibles typically last longer compared to smoking marijuana, but they also take longer to take effect.
Topicals
Finally, you have the option to use it externally. This approach enables you to experience pain relief without experiencing the psychoactive effects. By using oils or lotions infused with marijuana, you have the ability to choose which specific area of your body to apply the product on.
