Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition commonly characterized by widespread body pain of an unknown cause. Over the years, researchers have concluded that fibromyalgia syndrome is a neurological disorder that causes pain signal amplification.

Research into the effects of cannabinoids has led many investigators to conclude that fibromyalgia, as well as several other challenging medical conditions, could be caused by endocannabinoid deficiencies. In this article, we will learn how using CBD for fibromyalgia may potentially help to alleviate the symptoms of this often debilitating condition.

The Benefits Without the High

CBD is just one of many potentially beneficial compounds found in cannabis extract. There are two main sources of CBD: hemp and marijuana. Most of the CBD products available to the average consumer are extracted from non-psychoactive industrial hemp.

While hemp and marijuana both contain a significant amount of CBD (cannabidiol), marijuana contains high levels (5-30 percent) of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Hemp oil does not. Full-spectrum hemp oil contains .3 percent THC or less. CBD isolate products are typically THC-free. You cannot get high from either product.

RELATED: What is CBD? A Primer for Beginners

Hemp CBD Provides Endocannabinoid Support

Your endocannabinoid system was named for the plants that led researchers to its discovery. Investigations into the effects of cannabis led investigators to a complex network of messengers and receptors responsible for regulating nearly every essential function in your body. Just a few of the numerous functions regulated by your endocannabinoid system include:

Pain perception and inflammation

Memory, learning, and emotional responses

Sleep and sleep cycles

Immune system function

Energy and metabolism

Neuroprotection and muscle movement

Endocrine system function

Thermal regulation and stress responses

The two main messengers of your endocannabinoid system are anandamide and 2-AG. Your body makes these essential neurotransmitters as needed to interact with their corresponding receptors. Under the influences of injury, stress, or illness, your body may need more messengers than it can provide.

The impact of the resulting deficiencies could have a significant influence on your health and wellbeing. Researchers now believe that endocannabinoid deficiencies could cause fibromyalgia, chronic migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, and some neurodegenerative disorders.

Supplementing the Messengers of the Endocannabinoid System with CBD Oil

CBD mimics the functions of your endocannabinoid messengers and interacts with the receptors of your endocannabinoid system, potentially alleviating the impact of endocannabinoid deficiencies.

The information supporting the use of CBD is based on laboratory testing, animal studies, and the testimonies of those who claim relief from numerous symptoms. Just a few of the many reported benefits of hemp oil for the symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

Reducing or alleviating widespread pain

Improving memory and cognitive abilities (reduction of “fibro fog”)

Improving sleep quality

Reducing the symptoms of depression and anxiety

Decreasing digestive disturbances

Since so many essential functions in your body are regulated by your endocannabinoid system, CBD has the potential to alleviate many seemingly unrelated symptoms, including the multiple symptoms associated with fibromyalgia.

While hemp CBD is a natural dietary supplement, it could interact with some medications, particularly antidepressants. Consult with your physician before adding hemp oil supplements to your current treatment plan.

Sources:

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3736954/

physiology.org/doi/pdf/10.1152/physrev.00002.2016

rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Fibromyalgia

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5576607/

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