Is Cannabis Effective in Managing Chronic Physical Pain?

Photo credit: Blackday

Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, Ph.D., CTC, CNHP in ECS and Naturopathic Medicine, is a cannabis therapy consultant, founder and education director of the Cannabis Holistic Institute. 

As a holistic health practitioner and naturopath, I firmly believe in the power of plant medicine to support healing and overall well-being. One of the most talked-about natural remedies for chronic pain is cannabis, a plant that has been used medicinally for centuries. But how effective is it, and how can we incorporate it into a holistic pain management plan? Let’s explore cannabis for chronic pain relief, along with complementary herbs, essential oils, and holistic methods to enhance its benefits.

Understanding Cannabis for Pain Relief

Cannabis contains over 100 active compounds, with cannabinoids like THC and CBD being the most studied for their pain-relieving effects. These cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain, inflammation, and nervous system function.

Research on Cannabis and Pain:

• A 2016 study published in The Journal of Pain found that cannabis significantly reduced chronic pain in participants, particularly those suffering from neuropathic pain and conditions like fibromyalgia.
• A review in Frontiers in Pharmacology concluded in 2018 that cannabinoids could provide pain relieving effects by reducing inflammation and modulating pain perception in conditions such as arthritis, migraines, and multiple sclerosis.
• Another study in The Lancet Public Health in 2022 noted that long-term medical cannabis use improved pain intensity, sleep quality, and overall well-being in chronic pain patients.

Possible Methods of Using Cannabis for Pain Relief

The best method for using cannabis depends on the type and severity of pain, as well as personal preferences. Here are the most common ways to use it:

Tinctures and Oils

• Sublingual application (under the tongue) allows for quick absorption.
• Offers long-lasting effects (4-6 hours).
• Useful for chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia or neuropathy.

Edibles

• Takes longer to work (30-90 minutes) but provides sustained pain relief.
• Great for arthritis, back pain, or post-surgery recovery.
• It’s important to ensure proper dosing as edibles can be potent.

Topicals (creams, balms, salves)

• Ideal for localized pain (joint pain, muscle soreness, inflammation).
• Non-psychoactive (does not enter the bloodstream).
• Best for conditions like arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and sore muscles.

Dosage Guidelines

Finding the right dosage is crucial and varies from person to person. A holistic approach encourages starting low and going slow:

• Begin with 2.5-5 mg of THC or CBD (especially for edibles and tinctures).
• Gradually increase every few days until desired relief is achieved.
• Microdosing (taking small amounts throughout the day) can be effective for conditions like chronic nerve pain and inflammation.
• Balanced ratios (1:1 THC to CBD) work well for moderate to severe pain, while higher CBD ratios (e.g., 10:1) help with inflammation without psychoactive effects.

Other Herbs for Pain Relief

In addition to cannabis, many other herbs can support pain management naturally:

• Turmeric: Potent anti-inflammatory, great for arthritis.
• Ginger: Helps with muscle pain and inflammation.
• Willow Bark: Nature’s aspirin, excellent for joint pain.
• Ashwagandha: Adaptogen that reduces stress-related pain.

Essential Oils for Pain Relief

Essential oils can be combined with cannabis for a synergistic effect:

• Lavender: Reduces muscle tension and nerve pain.
• Peppermint: Provides a cooling effect for sore muscles.
• Eucalyptus: Soothes joint pain and inflammation.
• Frankincense: Supports deep tissue healing.
• Rosemary: Improves circulation and relieves stiffness.

Holistic Lifestyle Practices to Enhance Pain Relief

Using cannabis alongside holistic therapies can amplify its effectiveness:

• Acupuncture: Stimulates the body’s pain-relief mechanisms.
• Massage Therapy: Increases circulation and reduces muscle stiffness.
• Yoga and Stretching: Eases chronic tension and improves mobility.
• Hydrotherapy: Warm baths with Epsom salts + CBD oil reduce inflammation.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Helps manage pain perception and reduces stress.

Choosing the Best Cannabis for Pain Management

• Full-Spectrum and Whole-Plant Medicine: Opt for full-spectrum cannabis over isolates, as the entourage effect enhances pain relief.
• Regenerative, Sun-Grown Cannabis: Organically grown, sun-fed cannabis contains higher terpene and cannabinoid profiles, offering superior medicinal benefits.
• Strain Selection:
  • Indica-dominant strains: Best for relaxation and nighttime pain relief.
  • CBD-rich strains: Great for daytime use and inflammation.
  • THC-CBD balance: Provides a well-rounded approach to pain relief.

Cannabis is an incredibly powerful tool in managing chronic pain, especially when combined with other holistic therapies and lifestyle changes. As a natural health advocate, I encourage choosing high-quality, organic cannabis and complementing it with herbs, essential oils, and sustainable wellness practices. Pain relief doesn’t have to come from pharmaceuticals alone—nature offers us profound healing remedies, and cannabis is one of the most promising.

For those who are considering cannabis for pain management, consult with a healthcare provider knowledgeable in holistic and plant-based medicine to find the best approach.

All information in this article is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources. Please check with your Cannabis Educated Primary Health Care Physician or Educated & Trained Cannabis Therapy Consultant before beginning any new diet or lifestyle change.