CBD for Osteoarthritis: A Comprehensive Guide
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease affecting millions of people worldwide. Cannabidiol (CBD), a compound derived from cannabis, is attracting growing interest as a potential treatment. In this article, we'll explore in depth what osteoarthritis is, how CBD could alleviate this condition, the scientific evidence behind it, and the different methods of CBD consumption.
Understanding osteoarthritis
Arthrosis, or osteoarthritis, is the most common form of arthritis, affecting mainly the elderly, although young people can also be affected. It results from degradation of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in the joints. This degradation leads to pain, stiffness and loss of mobility.
Pathological processes
Osteoarthritis is characterized by a series of degenerative processes:
- Cartilage degeneration: articular cartilage gradually wears away, reducing the joints' ability to absorb shock.
- Bone remodeling: In response to cartilage loss, bones can develop bony outgrowths called osteophytes.
- Synovial inflammation: The synovial membrane surrounding the joint can become inflamed, contributing to pain and swelling.
CBD: What is it?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the many cannabinoids found in cannabis. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD has no psychoactive effects, meaning it doesn't induce euphoria. CBD is extracted mainly from industrial hemp, a variety of cannabis containing less than 0.3% THC.
Mechanisms of Action
CBD acts on the human body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters involved in the regulation of many physiological functions, including pain and inflammation. The two main SEC receptors are :
- CB1: Mainly present in the central nervous system, they are involved in the modulation of pain and cognitive functions.
- CB2: Found mainly in immune system cells, they play a crucial role in regulating inflammation.
To find out more, read our article All you need to know about CBD.
How CBD Can Help Relieve Osteoarthritis
CBD's potential to relieve osteoarthritis symptoms is based on several mechanisms:
Anti-inflammatory effects
CBD has well-documented anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the European Journal of Pain showed that topical application of CBD significantly reduced inflammation and pain in rats with arthritis .
Pain Modulation
CBD interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors to modulate pain perception. A study conducted by the University of Kentucky demonstrated that transdermal administration of CBD reduced pain and inflammation in animal models of arthritis.
Cartilage protection
Research suggests that CBD may also play a role in protecting cartilage. A 2017 study found that CBD could inhibit the production of certain inflammatory mediators, reducing cartilage degradation .
Scientific evidence on the benefits of CBD for osteoarthritis
Preclinical studies
Animal studies have provided convincing evidence of CBD's beneficial effects on osteoarthritis. For example, a 2016 study showed that CBD treatment in rats with induced osteoarthritis reduced pain and improved mobility without significant side effects .
Clinical Studies
Human clinical trials are still limited, but preliminary results are promising. A 2018 study published in the journal Pain reported that arthritis patients using a CBD ointment reported a significant reduction in pain and improved quality of life .
Patient testimonials
Many osteoarthritis patients report noticeable improvements after using CBD. For example, a 2019 survey found that 62% of arthritis patients who used CBD observed a reduction in pain .
Read our article on a scientific study on the benefits of CBD for osteoarthritis and arthritis.
CBD products for osteoarthritis
CBD comes in various forms (oil, capsules, lozenges) and can be more or less concentrated. Each type of CBD product has its advantages and disadvantages, but some are particularly interesting for pathologies such as osteoarthritis.
CBD oil is the best-known cannabidiol-based wellness product. Its sublingual absorption route provides one of the best bioavailabilities of CBD. Available in various concentrations (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 30% and 40%), it offers excellent background support for both light and heavy pathologies. CBD oil can be administered directly under the tongue, for rapid, effective absorption.
CBD capsules are also highly prized for their support of multiple pathologies, including chronic inflammatory diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis. Capsules offer a precise dose of CBD, and are often formulated with other plants with multiple benefits for an overall action on the body.
Used topically, CBD creams and balms provide highly effective local action for inflammation problems or after sport. Our anti-inflammatory CBD cream is formulated with Arnica Montana for optimal dual action. We recommend massaging into the affected area for greater effectiveness.
Presentation of Our CBD Capsules for Osteoarthritis
Product description
Our CBD joint capsules are specifically formulated to combat joint inflammation and problems linked to the destruction of cartilage. They reduce inflammation and pain for greater everyday comfort. Thanks to the triple anti-inflammatory action of CBD Full Spectrum, turmeric and ginger, these capsules act on several fronts: inflammation, pain and joint movement.
The Benefits of CBD and Herbs for Joint Diseases
By acting on the endocannabinoid system, CBD plays two main roles in the management of joint pain: anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving. Its beneficial effects on sleep and anxiety provide additional general well-being in the face of pain. Turmeric and ginger, recognized for decades for their anti-inflammatory benefits, reinforce the effectiveness of CBD in these capsules.
- CBD (50mg per capsule): Known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving action, CBD reduces sensitivity to pain by interacting with TRPV1 receptors in the central nervous system .
- Turmeric extract: Used since ancient times for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, turmeric has been proven effective in reducing joint pain.
- Ginger extract: Used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger helps reduce pain by inhibiting the enzymes responsible for inflammation.
Full Spectrum Oil and Entourage Effect
Our capsules are formulated in France with Full Spectrum CBD oil, obtained by supercritical CO2 extraction. This method preserves all the components of the cannabis plant (cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes), enabling a powerful entourage effect. The components act synergistically to deliver maximized benefits.
Also read: What is CBD Full Spectrum?
Dosage and use
The recommended daily dose of CBD is 50mg for mild conditions. For severe conditions, such as severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, two to three capsules a day (100 to 150mg of CBD) are recommended. Start with one capsule a day, then gradually increase if necessary after 10 days.
Please note that CBD is not a medicine and should never be used to replace medical treatment. Always consult a health professional before use. Find all the information you need in our dedicated guide.