CBD for Neuropathy

Christine Bell • January 29, 2019 • About CBD, Conditions

More than 20 million people in the United States are currently suffering from neuropathy. This chronic disease can cause sharp, stabbing pains, burning, and numbness, and can even lead to gangrene and amputation. Today, let’s delve into the topic of using CBD for neuropathy…

CBD for Neuropathy at a Glance

What the claims are: CBD can help relieve the symptoms of neuropathy, such as burning, inflammation, pain, and numbness. CBD can also address complications and underlying causes of neuropathy in a way that can either prevent or mitigate the progression of this disease.

What the studies show: Research shows that CBD may be able to help manage the pain and other neuropathy symptoms, including inflammation. Research also shows that CBD substantially lowers incidences of diabetes in non-obese mice. This is notable as diabetes is one of the most prevalent causes of neuropathy.

What the facts say: Until comprehensive clinical trials on CBD for neuropathy are done, we have to rely on early data and anecdotes to determine its efficacy. At this time, though, both indicate that CBD for neuropathy shows both therapeutic and preventative potential.

What is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy, also sometimes called “peripheral neuropathy,” is essentially damage done to the peripheral nerves. It affects the hands and feet most often, but it can also affect other areas of the body. Symptoms can include spreading numbness or tingling of extremities; sharp or burning pain; sensitivity to touch; lack of coordination; muscle weakness or paralysis; heat intolerance; bowel, bladder, and digestive problems; and changes in blood pressure.

While more than half the people diagnosed with diabetes develop neuropathy to some degree, there are also many other potential causes, including:

Alcoholism
Autoimmune diseases
Exposure to poisons
Medications
Infections
Inherited disorders
Nerve trauma or pressure
Tumors
Vitamin deficiencies
Bone marrow disorders

Complications of neuropathy can result in urinary tract infections, joint damage, digestive problems, and even the loss of a toe, foot, or leg if cuts become severely infected due to lack of feeling and awareness.

While neuropathy is irreversible, symptoms can be managed and, in some cases, it can be prevented. It’s important to address the underlying cause as soon as possible in order to mitigate the potentially life-altering complications of this condition.

Can CBD Be Used for Neuropathy?

CBD for neuropathy can be used in a number of ways. One of the most interesting is its use as a potential preventative measure. Studies indicate there seems to be a correlation between the compounds in the cannabis plant and lower levels of fasting insulin, as well as a smaller waistline. Since obesity is a leading risk factor for type 2 diabetes, which is a known cause of neuropathy, this is very exciting news.

We’re also seeing people adopting a CBD regimen and finding relief from their neuropathy symptoms.

And, finally, CBD seems to accelerate wound healing for some people. For those with diabetic neuropathy, this can be a game-changer as this condition can result in wounds that won’t heal and can become infected.

What Do Medical Studies Tell Us So Far?

Preliminary data on CBD for neuropathy appears promising. Not only because CBD can potentially alleviate the pain and discomfort of the condition itself, but also because it seems to assist with a lot of the diseases that cause neuropathy in the first place. With an irreversible condition like this, prevention is key, so addressing the underlying causes can be invaluable.

A report published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) states the following:

“Although there is much controversy in the field of EC [endocannabinoid] research, experimental evidence and clinical trials have clearly shown that ECs plays a key role in the development of primary diabetes and various diabetic complications.”

A second report shows that CBD can be used to mitigate inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases that are known underlying causes of neuropathy.

While the preliminary evidence is promising, more research is needed to determine conclusively whether CBD is effective for neuropathy. We look forward to more clinical studies and trials to determine the long term efficacy of CBD for neuropathy, and the benefits it might provide for those suffering from this potentially debilitating condition.

Potential Downsides

CBD doesn’t typically cause side effects, but those that can present are minor, including diarrhea, tiredness, or change in appetite. Research suggests CBD alone wouldn’t be to blame in the case of most side-effects and that “reported adverse effects may be as a result of drug-drug interactions between CBD and patients’ existing medications.”

It’s important to ensure that you read the labels and do some research on the CBD products before you buy to ensure you’re getting quality ingredients. It’s also crucial to use the product as directed and give it a chance to work. That said, no matter how diligent you are with the quality of the product you purchase, there is a chance that CBD for neuropathy might not alleviate or improve your symptoms.

As for major risks or downsides, though, CBD is thought to be both safe and non-habit forming.

Is CBD for Neuropathy the Right Choice for Me?

Based on our research, CBD seems to be helping ease the symptoms of this condition for many people. It also appears that it can address a number of underlying conditions from and complications of neuropathy. For those reasons, CBD for neuropathy could be an excellent option for you. But it is important to remember that more studies are needed to determine anything conclusive. And, as always, you should consult with your primary care physician before making changes to your healthcare routine.