Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common forms of rheumatism today. Unfortunately, however, it is a chronic disease with few drug treatments. Considering that the drugs available are not always effective and some may even have unwanted or dangerous side effects. Fortunately, a growing body of research is showing potential for natural remedies such as CBD oil as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and other forms of rheumatism:
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
With over 23 million people worldwide affected by it, according to the WHO, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most common chronic disorders in the world today. It is a long-term (or chronic) autoimmune disorder that mainly attacks the joints. Some of the most audible symptoms of RA are stiff, painful, hot and swollen joints – significantly affecting mobility in most cases. These symptoms can be worsened by lack of exercise. Although the disorder could also affect other parts of the body. Like most autoimmune diseases, there is more than one way they are expressed in the body. Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause low red blood cell counts and inflammation around the lungs and heart.
Although the disorder is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, it remains unclear exactly what causes rheumatoid arthritis. However, we know that it triggers the immune system to overreact – like most autoimmune diseases – causing the body to unnecessarily attack its joints. This leads to inflammation and swelling of the joint – which can be very painful and reduce joint mobility.
Although there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, there are some treatments available to reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients with arthritis. The majority of these focus on reducing pain and inflammation. For example, steroids and NSAIDs are used to reduce the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Other commonly used drugs are thedisease-modifying antirheumaticdrugs (DMARDs). Although this commonly used medicine is not always as effective. In addition, some even have serious side effects ranging from possible addiction to severe life-threatening toxicity.
CBD as a possible treatment for rheumatoid arthritis
Fortunately, Cannabidiol (CBD) appears to be one of the natural treatments capable of helping to effectively treat disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. However, we cannot make claims about the effectiveness of CBD in treating the disease. That’s why we are pleased to present a number of studies showing promising results for cannabinoid therapy against rheumatoid arthritis and similar autoimmune disorders.
Firstly, CBD has been shown to possess powerful anti-inflammatory characteristics. It turns out from this research from the University of Kentucky, cannabidiol can reduce the inflammation and pain associated with rheumatism. Most importantly, it does so without the unwanted and potentially dangerous side effects associated with some of the most commonly used drugs. Ultimately, CBD is a natural and safe to use plant substance, free of unwanted side effects.
Cannabinoids from industrial hemp can also offer significant improvements in mobility and associated pain, reducing pain at rest and providing better night-time rest. As evidenced by another controlled study, conducted by the Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Disease in the UK. Considering the fact that sleep and rest are extremely important for the body’s ability to recover. CBD can be very welcome for patients who are experiencing rheumatoid arthritis. Especially when combined with a healthy dose of exercise – of course within the limits of each individual.
Effects of CBD on the body
The fact that CBD appears to be such an effective treatment for rheumatic disorders comes from its unique interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This is a communication network consisting of CB1- and CB2-receptors that spread throughout the body. These exist to interact with neurotransmitters that our body has to produce naturally and regulate almost all the processes in our body that are needed to keep us alive. Including pain, hunger, your body temperature and certain emotional responses – to name a few.
However, in some cases, this CSF is distorted. This can cause your body to break down these neurotransmitters very quickly, for example. Or not producing enough of them, causing all kinds of illness and suffering. In such cases, it may be useful to supplement your body with phytocannabinoids (plant = herbal), the ones we know from the cannabis plant. This can help restore the necessary balance your body needs to thrive. So it’s not CBD therapy or the treatment of ailments. It is a boost from nature that allows your body to heal and recover better.
CBD products for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
CBD products based on industrial hemp in many different forms, sizes and possibilities. They all offer different effects on the body and mind. So if you’re new to CBD, this can be a little confusing. Fortunately, we are happy to share our professional advice and customer experience to help you find the right product for your personal needs.
The first CBD product that comes to mind when searching for something to treat RA, is our signature CBD oil 8%. This is the most common form of CBD on the market today, and has more than just Cannabidiol. Considering this full-spectrum CBD oil is also rich in all the other cannabinoids found in industrial hemp – for example CBG, CBC and CBN – providing the best cooperative action.
However, this may not be the most effective product due to its limited absorption by the body. Because cannabinoid molecules are fatty substances, they are weakened once they penetrate the oral tissue. Thus, most of Cannabidiol must travel through the digestive system and pass through a ‘first pass’ before it reaches the bloodstream. A process that leads to a huge loss of cannabinoids.
One way to avoid this loss is to use our water-soluble CBDactive+. As this product carries Cannabidiol (CBD) which is already bound to a lipoprotein. This means that it is much easier to be absorbed by the body and provides the highest possible bioavailability, close to 100%! The fact that it is water-soluble makes the product easy to use, mixing it in a glass of water or tea, for example.
Another CBD product that may be beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis is Dutchnaturals topical CBD patches. With slow absorption of the active ingredients through the skin, to ensure long-term relief. Initially, CBD Patches provide local relief where they are applied, which slowly spreads to the rest of the body. So you can either place them around the affected area – or choose a hairless spot with thin skin to place a patch. Depending on various environmental factors, the CBD Patches offer at least 12 and up to 36 hours of relief. According to their users, Dutchnaturals CBD Patches work extremely well against chronic pain – making it a promising form of CBD for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Source: dutchnaturalhealing.com