How Cannabis Can Help Treat Fibromyalgia: Benefits of CBD and THC

Medicinal Cannabis for Fibromyalgia Treatment: A Natural and Effective Approach

Cannabis has been used for pain relief for thousands of years, with one of the earliest records dating back to 70 AD, which describes its use for earaches. Today, medicinal cannabis is considered one of the most effective treatments for chronic pain, with studies suggesting it may be more effective than opioids, as it does not cause serious side effects such as overdoses or liver problems. This includes conditions like fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic rheumatologic syndrome characterized by widespread body pain. Despite not having a clear understanding of its exact causes, it often leads to additional symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. It most commonly affects women between the ages of 30 and 55, with an estimated 2% of the global population suffering from it. Even though it is not a common condition, it significantly impacts the quality of life of those affected, and despite standard treatments, the pain remains frequent, severe, and unpredictable.

Cannabis contains phytocannabinoids such as CBD and THC, which provide therapeutic benefits. These compounds are known for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, and they also help with insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Although these treatments are natural and generally have fewer side effects, medical supervision is essential to ensure proper use. The reaction to cannabis can vary from person to person—while THC may cause anxiety in some, others may experience relaxation.

Both CBD and THC have shown effectiveness in treating chronic pain, including fibromyalgia. A double-blind clinical trial conducted by the Federal University of Santa Catarina in Brazil, published in the journal Pain Medicine by the University of Oxford, investigated the effectiveness of a cannabis oil with 10% THC. The results were promising, showing significant improvement in the symptoms of fibromyalgia, such as “feeling good,” “pain,” “work,” and “fatigue,” as measured by the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ). During the eight-week treatment, the cannabis oil group experienced a significant reduction in fibromyalgia severity, from 75 to 30 on a scale from 0 to 100, while the placebo group saw a reduction from 70 to 61.

This study reinforces the idea that THC, contrary to popular belief, is medicinal and can help improve the quality of life for patients suffering from fibromyalgia and chronic pain.

Cannabis is not only beneficial for fibromyalgia but can also treat a wide range of other pain conditions, whether related to other medical conditions or not. Cannabis is commonly used to treat headaches and menstrual cramps, with topical cannabinoid-based products such as creams, lubricants, and suppositories designed specifically for local treatment of menstrual symptoms. Athletes, both professional and amateur, can also benefit from cannabis in treating pain resulting from physical activity or sports-related injuries. The plant’s therapeutic effects extend beyond pain relief, providing benefits that synthetic medications alone cannot. For athletes, cannabis products such as topical creams, lotions, and even bath bombs infused with CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids offer natural relief.

In conclusion, cannabis offers a natural, effective alternative for those suffering from fibromyalgia and chronic pain. The growing body of scientific evidence supports its role in alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and improving overall quality of life for patients.

Summary:

• 2% of the global population is affected by fibromyalgia.
• Cannabis provides pain relief with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, relaxes muscles, and reduces fatigue.
• Scientific evidence is still evolving, but cannabis is showing promising results in treating fibromyalgia symptoms.

If you’re seeking alternative treatments for fibromyalgia or chronic pain, True Wellness offers tailored solutions to help manage symptoms with the support of medicinal cannabis. Consult with our experts to explore how cannabis can improve your quality of life.