As recent stories about the extent of the opioid crisis in the United States make clear, Americans are in a world of hurt. (A recent government study found that approximately one in five US adults suffers from chronic pain). For 8% of the population, that pain is so severe it interferes with their ability to work or live a normal life. Fortunately, there are natural ways to deal with pain. One of the most promising is hemp and its best-known extract, CBD.

Hitting the Pain Off Switch

CBD and the other beneficial substances in hemp, known collectively as phytocannabinoids, act in a manner similar to the body’s own endocannabinoids, or endocannabinoid system (ECS). Cells contain endocannabinoid receptors; this allows the ECS to act as a master switchboard, helping to keep the body in a healthy state of balance.

Things don’t always run smoothly, however. Endocannabinoid deficiency can occur for reasons ranging from stress to poor diet.

Researchers believe that deficiencies in the ECS are linked to fibromyalgia, migraines and other painful conditions. Poor ECS function may also account for ongoing low-level inflammation, a contributing factor in arthritis and overall achiness.

That’s where hemp comes in. CBD and the other phytocannabinoids can fit into the ECS receptors on cells in joints and other tissues, which helps to regulate the perception of pain. What’s more, hemp affects the activities of other receptors and enzymes as well, enhancing its effectiveness.

Phytocannabinoids have been found to ease mild to moderate pain, especially when inflammation is present. Hemp may even help reduce the need for the kinds of powerful painkillers that can foster drug dependency.

This article is provided by Energy Times Magazine November 2019.

This article is for information only. Do not make any changes in your diet or lifestyle without first consulting with your preventive healthcare provider. As always, we continue to pray for your health and prosperity, 3 John 2, blessings, Donna.