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CBD products are increasingly popular as over-the-counter pain relief treatments. For individuals suffering from chronic pain, these may seem like miracle products. There are several different options for CBD pain relief. Be sure to check out the lab grade Spruce 2,400 mg CBD Oil for pain and joint inflammation. We’ve reviewed 10 of the best to help you find one that works for you.
Best CBD for Pain
CBD can be an effective option for pain management, whether dealing with chronic pain, migraines, or arthritis. Let’s look at each of our recommendations in more detail.
1. Spruce 2,400mg Lab Grade CBD Oil – Best CBD Oil for Pain Overall
Pros
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High potency
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Sustainably sourced, organic, vegan, gluten-free ingredients
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Family-owned business
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Quality customer service
Cons
Who Is Spruce CBD Oil Best For?
Spruce CBD oil is suitable for anyone seeking relief from pain, regardless of the cause. It has been reported to help relieve migraines, chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety, and inflammation.
Interestingly, some studies suggest that CBD oil is most effective for helping patients with moderate to severe pain but has little effect on mild symptoms [1].
With 2,400 mg of CBD, this is one of the highest potency oils available. While there is no single definition of a “strong” CBD oil, higher potency usually offers greater effectiveness.
Most research covers doses between 600 mg and 1,500 mg per day. Findings suggest that higher dosages have better results [2].
Who Should Avoid Spruce CBD Oil?
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Pregnant or nursing women
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Those on medications that interact with CBD
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Those with severe cardiovascular or kidney disease
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Those with unstable psychiatric conditions
Potential Side Effects
Summary
Spruce CBD oil is a high potency oil ideal for treating moderate to severe pain. The CBD is high-quality, organic, and sustainably sourced for conscientious consumers. Its high CBD content also makes it one of the best CBD for anxiety.
>> Check out the best price for Spruce 2,400mg Lab Grade CBD Oil
2. Spruce Strongest CBD Cream – Best CBD for Knee Pain
Pros
Cons
Who Is Spruce’s Strongest CBD Cream Best For?
Spruce Strongest CBD Cream is excellent for muscle and joint pain and relieves neuropathic pain and arthritis.
The effectiveness of topical CBD for nerve pain is well-studied, and there is statistically significant pain reduction in patients using a transdermal application [2].
A CBD cream is the best option for individuals suffering from joint problems, arthritis, chronic muscle pain, and neuropathic pain. Patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy have been shown to experience significantly reduced pain when using CBD cream [3].
Who Should Avoid Spruce Strongest CBD Cream?
Spruce Strongest CBD Cream may be too intense for individuals with sensitive skin. It’s also not recommended to use CBD cream on broken skin.
Spruce also warns that if you are subject to regular drug testing, there’s a chance you might test positive for marijuana, even though the cream contains less than 0.3% THC
Potential Side Effects
Summary
Spruce Strongest CBD cream is an effective topical treatment for knee and joint pain. The potent formula of this cream can also alleviate neuropathic pain.
>> Get relief from knee pain with Spruce Strongest CBD Cream
3. Spruce CBD Gummies – Best CBD Gummies for Pain
Pros
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Vegan, gluten-free, organic ingredients
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Great tasting option for individuals who don’t tolerate oils or tinctures
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Third-party tested for quality
Cons
Who Is Spruce CBD Gummies Best For?
Spruce CBD gummies are a great alternative for anyone who has difficulty taking tinctures or oils. These gummies contain no artificial ingredients. Many other gummies are made with a CBD isolate, whereas Spruce gummies contain full-spectrum CBD.
To get the full effect from gummies, you’ll need to chew them for a full minute to allow absorption of CBD through the capillaries in your mouth.
Who Should Avoid Spruce CBD Gummies?
Individuals who are required to submit to regular drug testing for any reason should not take CBD gummies. Although they only contain 0.3% THC and do not provide a “high,” there is a possibility that consumption of Spruce CBD Gummies will result in a positive test for marijuana.
Potential Side Effects
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Dry mouth
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Diarrhea
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Reduced appetite
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Drowsiness or fatigue
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Medication interactions
Summary
Spruce CBD Gummies offer an alternative to traditional CBD oil treatments and are effective for general pain relief. The gummies come in a range of flavors to suit various tastes.
>> Get pain relief while enjoying the great taste of Spruce CBD Gummies
4. NuLeaf Full Spectrum CBD Balm – Best CBD Lotion for Pain
Pros
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Transparent about ingredients
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Limited ingredients make it safe for individuals with allergies
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Independent lab tested
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The lotion is easy to apply
Cons
Who Is NuLeaf Full Spectrum CBD Balm Best for?
NuLeaf Full Spectrum CBD Balm is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an easy-to-apply topical CBD formula. Since it has limited ingredients, it’s also a good option for individuals who suffer from allergies.
NuLeaf Naturals CBD products use independent labs to ensure its products are free from harmful chemicals. The brand also tests each and every batch to ensure the levels of CBD are reported accurately.
Who Should Avoid NuLeaf Full Spectrum CBD Balm?
CBD balms are generally safe to use as long as they aren’t marked as transdermal, in which case it could interfere with certain medications. Avoid using CBD balm on broken skin.
Potential Side Effects
Summary
NuLeaf Full Spectrum CBD Balm offers targeted pain relief in a limited ingredient formula. Since each batch is tested for CBD levels, you can count on an effective lotion for pain relief.
>> Relieve pain with NuLeaf Full Spectrum Balm
5. NuLeaf Full Spectrum Multicannabinoid Oil – Best CBD Oil for Pain
Pros
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Takes advantage of multiple pain relief methods
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Available in different concentrations
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Benefits beyond pain relief
Cons
Who Is NuLeaf Full Spectrum Multicannabinoid Oil For?
NuLeaf Full Spectrum Multicannabinoid Oil can be used by anyone seeking pain relief. As an oil, it is absorbed systemically and can help with all types of pain.
Cannabinol, or CBN, offers benefits like neuroprotection and sleep improvement and has antibacterial properties. CBC or Cannabichromene is the newest cannabinoid on the scene and shows great potential. While the research is limited, CBC is thought to provide analgesic benefits and promote neuroprotection as well as neuroregeneration [4].
Combining different cannabinoids to maximize pain relief earns NuLeaf Full Spectrum Multicannabinoid Oil a position among the best CBD oils in the market today.
Who Should Avoid NuLeaf Full Spectrum Multicannabinoid Oil?
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Pregnant or nursing women
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Those on medications that interact with CBD
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Severe cardiovascular or kidney disease
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Unstable psychiatric conditions
Potential Side Effects
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Dry mouth
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Diarrhea
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Reduced appetite
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Drowsiness or fatigue
Summary
NuLeaf Full Spectrum Multicannabinoid Oil provides relief for all types of pain and offers maximum relief via multiple pain control actions.
>> Get fast pain relief with NuLeaf Full Spectrum Multicannabinoid Oil
6. Charlotte’s Web Peppermint Hemp-Infused Roll-On with CBD – Best CBD Roll-On for Pain
Pros
Cons
Who Is Charlotte’s Web Peppermint Hemp-Infused Roll-On With CBD Best For?
Charlotte’s Web Peppermint Hemp-Infused Roll-On with CBD is recommended for anyone seeking targeted pain relief. The roll-on formula is easy to apply to aching joints, even for individuals with limited mobility.
While it is difficult to determine the exact dose of CBD you are using with topical products, roll-ons and sprays have been shown to be effective in treating chronic pain [5].
Who Should Avoid Charlotte’s Web Peppermint Hemp-Infused Roll-On with CBD?
According to the official website, Charlotte’s Web roll-on may be too strong to use on the face due to the strong menthol odor.
Potential Side Effects
Summary
Charlotte’s Web Peppermint Hemp-Infused Roll-On with CBD offers an easy-to-apply formula for pain relief from aching joints or muscles.
>> Check out the best price for Charlotte’s Web Peppermint Hemp-Infused Roll-On
7. Charlotte’s Web Back and Neck Pain Relief Ointment – Best CBD for Back Pain
Pros
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Highly concentrated hemp-derived CBD product
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Easy to apply topical ointment
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Inexpensive compared to other products
Cons
Who Is Charlotte’s Web Back and Neck Pain Relief Ointment Best For?
Charlotte’s Web Back and Neck Pain Relief Ointment is recommended for anyone looking for temporary relief from back, neck, and shoulder pain.
It contains CBD combined with other products to provide relief from tight muscle knots and muscle soreness.
Who Should Avoid Charlotte’s Web Back and Neck Pain Relief Ointment?
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People with wounds or damaged skin.
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Pregnant or nursing women
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Those on medications that interact with CBD
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Severe cardiovascular or kidney disease
Potential Side Effects
Summary
Charlotte’s Web Back and Neck Pain Relief Ointment effectively relieves nerve pain and muscle soreness in your back and neck.
>> Soothe neck and pain with Charlotte’s Web Back and Neck Pain Relief Ointment
8. Charlotte’s Web Arthritis Aches & Pain Relief Ointment – Best CBD Cream for Arthritis
Pros
Cons
Who Is Charlotte’s Web Arthritis Aches & Pain Relief Ointment Best For?
Charlotte’s Web Arthritis Aches & Pain Relief Ointment is ideal for anyone suffering from minor joint pain related to arthritis and who wants quick relief.
The ointment might not be strong enough if your pains are moderate to severe.
While more studies are needed, topical products have been shown to provide adequate relief on a short-term basis for individuals who are not receiving proper pain relief from their regular arthritis medications [5].
Who Should Avoid Charlotte’s Web Arthritis Aches & Pain Relief Ointment?
Anyone prone to skin sensitivities should avoid this product.
Potential Side Effects
Summary
Charlotte’s Web Arthritis Aches & Pain Relief Ointment offers relief from minor arthritic pain. The ointment is water-based and is quickly absorbed into the skin for immediate relief.
>> Relieve aching joints with Charlotte’s Web Arthritis Aches & Pain Relief Ointment
9. Charlotte’s Web Active Sport Pain Relief Stick – Best for Post-Workout Soreness
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Pros
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Easy to apply
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Inexpensive
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Fast results
Cons
Who Is Charlotte’s Web Active Sport Pain Relief Stick Best For?
Charlotte’s Web Active Sport Pain Relief Stick is ideal for active individuals seeking relief from muscle soreness resulting from training. It can be used as part of your recovery plan to provide on-the-go relief and keep sore muscles from impacting your performance.
Its portability, effectiveness, and ease of application earn its rating as the best CBD for post-workout soreness.
Who Should Avoid Charlotte’s Web Active Sport Pain Relief Stick?
Charlotte’s Web Active Sport Pain Relief Stick should not be used on wounds or damaged skin. It’s also not recommended for individuals with skin sensitivities or allergies.
Potential Side Effects
Summary
For those seeking relief from activity-induced aches and pains, Charlotte’s Web Active Sport Pain Relief Stick offers an on-the-go solution to stop sore muscles from impacting performance.
>> Get back to the gym pain-free with Charlotte’s Web Active Sport Pain Relief Stick
10. Medterra Pain Relief Cream – Best CBD Cream for Neuropathic Pain
Pros
Cons
Who Is Medterra Pain Relief Cream Best For?
Medterra Pain Relief Cream is best for anyone seeking topical pain relief for neuropathy pain. The formula combines CBD with menthol and arnica to provide cooling and deep pain relief. The cream also includes jojoba and aloe for additional soothing effects.
Who Should Avoid Medterra Pain Relief Cream?
Avoid using Medterra Pain Relief Cream if you have sensitive skin. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with a physician before using the cream.
Potential Side Effects
Summary
Medterra Pain Relief Cream offers topical pain relief for nerve pain in a cooling gel formula. It also contains arnica, menthol, jojoba, and aloe for increased effectiveness.
>> Calm neuropathic pain with Medterra Pain Relief Cream
Side Effects, Risks, and Contraindications
While many CBD distributors propose CBD pain-relief products are side effect free, this isn’t entirely accurate. Any product containing medicinal ingredients has the potential for side effects, and CBD is no exception.
CBD has the potential to interact with immunosuppressive drugs that are typically used in transplant and chemotherapy patients. For patients taking Warfarin, CBD has the potential to increase the medication’s anticoagulation effects. Other medicines with the possibility of severe reactions include Amiodarone, Levothyroxine, and seizure medications like Clobazam, Lamotrigine, and Valproate [6].
Topical forms of CBD are less likely to interact with medications than inhaled or edible forms, as they accumulate lower levels of CBD in the bloodstream. Unfortunately, there is no way to determine just how much CBD is absorbed via topical medications, so the potential for reactions still exists.
Serious adverse reactions to CBD can include liver damage, oversedation, suicidal ideation, and allergic reactions. CBD use can also alter kidney function and cause anemia [5].
The majority of side effects experienced by CBD users are mild. These include:
Using CBD for Pain Relief
Research suggests that CBD has a significant analgesic effect when compared to placebos. It is preferable to many other pain relief methods as it has fewer side effects.
The majority of side effects are mild and dissipate over time. Cannabinoids are now being recommended as a safe and moderately effective treatment for neuropathic pain and pain from malignant diseases [7].
Ingesting Oils or Edibles
The route of administration may play a role in the effectiveness of CBD for pain management. However, research on the efficacy of these different routes is sparse. Most research primarily targets medicinal marijuana, not THC-free hemp-based products.
Available research shows that the amount of CBD matters when treating chronic pain. Doses of CBD under 15 mg don’t provide pain relief and the amount needed is different for each person [8].
CBD oils placed under the tongue are considered very effective because they are highly concentrated. On the other hand, edibles are absorbed through the digestive tract and take a bit longer to take effect. It can take up to two hours to receive pain relief. However, edibles can also have longer-lasting results than oils [9].
Applying Gels, Creams, and Ointments
Topical products, including gels, creams, and ointments, are most effective for localized pain relief. These products are best for inflammation and joint pain, regardless of the cause. Some caution should be used when applying topical CBD products, as it is unclear how much CBD is absorbed into the body [9].
CBD for Pain Relief: How Does it Work?
How CBD provides pain relief isn’t clear. Scientists speculate that it blocks inflammatory agents in the body, which dulls pain symptoms like tingling and burning. Patients with neuropathy often experience these sensations.
Some theories state that CBD may interact with CB2 receptors in the immune system. These receptors are responsible for the pain and inflammation response. This type of pain response is associated with conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, migraine, back and muscle soreness, and multiple sclerosis [9].
Method of Application
CBD oil has been found to be the most effective method of using CBD for pain relief. This is followed by edibles like gummies or liquid CBD.
Edible CBD may have longer-lasting effects but takes longer to work. Topical products are most effective for spot-treating localized pain [8].
THC vs. THC Free CBD Products for Pain
CBD and THC are both natural compounds originating from plants of the Cannabis genus. CBD can be extracted from either the cannabis plant or hemp plants. To be considered a hemp-based, THC-free product, it must contain 0.3% THC or less.
THC is the psychoactive compound found in cannabis that produces a “high.” While it is most often consumed through smoking, it is also available in edibles, tinctures, capsules, and oils.
While both THC and THC-free CBD interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, they do so in very different ways. Both compounds provide medicinal benefits and pain relief from the same conditions. However, CBD doesn’t offer the euphoric effects that THC does. For this reason, many people prefer to use CBD [10].
Different Types of CBD Oils and Pain
There are three primary types of CBD found in oils. The efficacy of each of them is still up for debate, but here is a quick review of each type.
CBD isolates refer to products only composed of CBD compounds extracted from a cannabis plant. They can be taken from hemp and non-hemp species. However, those born from non-hemp plants can only be sold in dispensaries where marijuana is legal.
Some CBD isolates are synthetic. These can be found in the FDA-approved pharmaceuticals Marinol and Syndros, medications used to relieve chemotherapy-induced nausea and improve appetite in AIDS patients.
Full Spectrum CBD products contain a variety of other cannabinoids in addition to CBD, including THC, CBDa, CBG, and CBN. This is thought to provide greater pain relief than isolate products.
Broad Spectrum products maintain all of the ingredients of the cannabis plant, with the THC removed [11]. However, trace amounts of THC may still be present.
How Long Does It Take to Get Relief?
CBD products can take anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour to take effect. On average, the effects last between two and six hours, but this is dependent on a variety of factors.
CBD is fat-soluble, meaning it’s stored in fat cells. That suggests body fat can impact its action.
Frequency of use and CBD dosage also have an impact on its effectiveness. If you continue to use CBD on a regular basis, it will have heightened effects compared to occasional use.
CBD topical products provide almost immediate pain relief to the area of application. Many people opt for this route of administration because of its fast-acting properties. The effects of topical CBD can last up to six hours [12].
How We Chose the Best CBD Products for Pain
Our recommendations are chosen based on the effectiveness of the product, ingredients sources and quality, manufacturer reputation, and the range of products available.
Hemp Source
Where product ingredients are sourced from is important. All of the products on our list are sustainably sourced from hemp plants.
Quality Manufacturer
We research the companies behind the products and selected manufacturers with good reputations who perform third-party testing on their products and are transparent about their ingredients and manufacturing processes.
Additional Ingredients
The products we recommend have a limited ingredient profile with natural ingredients. They are free of artificial additives or ingredients that could cause potential side effects.
Range of Products (Topicals and Edibles)
We’ve provided a range of different CBD products to help you find the best one for you. Other types of pain require different product applications. For example, creams, lotions, and ointments are good for localized pain relief, whereas oils and gummies are better suited for general pain relief.
Guarantees
Many of the products on our list have money-back guarantees if you find their products ineffective. This makes them risk-free for you to try.
Alternatives
If you are interested in natural alternatives to CBD, some plant products mimic the effects of cannabinoids. These are especially effective for individuals who don’t respond to CBD products but seek pain relief options beyond traditional medicine.
Familiar herbal remedies like flaxseeds, echinacea, and Nigella sativa are affordable, easy to access, and include a number of unique chemicals that may provide pain relief.
Flaxseeds produce cannabinoid-like compounds similar to CBD and have identical anti-inflammatory effects [13]. Echinacea is well-known for providing relief from cold and flu symptoms, but its action is similar to CBD. Its engagement with the endocannabinoid system can bring relief from anxiety, migraines, and arthritis.
Research shows that echinacea regulates pain and inflammation by binding to the CB1 receptor, in contrast to the CB2 receptor that CBD attaches to [14].
FAQs About CBD for Pain Management
We’re answering your most common questions about the use of CBD to manage pain.
Does CBD Help with Pain?
Yes, a lot of anecdotal evidence suggests that CBD helps with pain. There is also a lot of scientific evidence to support that.
How Do I Choose the Best CBD Product for Pain?
Choose a CBD product based on the type of pain you have. For example, if you are seeking relief from joint pain that is targeted, a topical product is likely to provide the most effective relief.
Suppose you are suffering from more generalized pain, such as that experienced with fibromyalgia, nerve pain, or multiple sclerosis. In that case, you should consider CBD oils or edibles that act systemically throughout the human body. Spruce 2,400mg Lab Grade CBD Oil is highly potent to relieve most types of pain rapidly.
Should I Check with a Doctor Before Using CBD for Pain?
You should always consult your doctor before initiating treatment with a CBD product, especially if you are on medications that may interact with CBD.
CBD Products for Pain in a Nutshell
While CBD products’ impact on pain relief still needs more research, there is evidence that it provides chronic pain relief for some patients. CBD is available in different forms, each is effective for different types of pain. We highly recommend Spruce 2,400mg Lab Grade CBD Oil for soothing inflammation and pain in general. If you’re after something topical for sore muscles, try NuLeaf Full Spectrum CBD Balm.
References
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Rapin, Lucile, et al. “Cannabidiol Use and Effectiveness: Real-World Evidence from a Canadian Medical Cannabis Clinic – Journal of Cannabis Research.” BioMed Central, BioMed Central, 23 June 2021, https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-021-00078-w.
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“Home – PMC – NCBI.” National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/.
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Y;, Xu DH;Cullen BD;Tang M;Fang. “The Effectiveness of Topical Cannabidiol Oil in Symptomatic Relief of Peripheral Neuropathy of the Lower Extremities.” Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31793418/.
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Wong, Hayes, and Brian E. Cairns. “Cannabidiol, Cannabinol and Their Combinations Act as Peripheral Analgesics in a Rat Model of Myofascial Pain.” Archives of Oral Biology, Pergamon, 28 May 2019, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0003996919302249.
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Serpell M;Ratcliffe S;Hovorka J;Schofield M;Taylor L;Lauder H;Ehler E; “A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Group Study of THC/CBD Spray in Peripheral Neuropathic Pain Treatment.” European Journal of Pain (London, England), U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24420962/.
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Katsiaryna Bykov, PharmD. “CBD and Other Medications: Proceed with Caution.” Harvard Health, 11 Jan. 2021, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cbd-and-other-medications-proceed-with-caution-2021011121743.
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Wachter, Kerri. “CBD and Medical Marijuana Options for Chronic Pain Conditions.” Practical Pain Management, https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/patient/treatments/marijuana-cannabis/navigating-cannabis-options-pain-related-symptoms.
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Racz, Ildiko, et al. “Crucial Role of CB(2) Cannabinoid Receptor in the Regulation of Central Immune Responses during Neuropathic Pain.” The Journal of Neuroscience : the Official Journal of the Society for Neuroscience, Society for Neuroscience, 12 Nov. 2008, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3844839/.
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“Lenvatinib for Use in Combination with Everolimus for the Treatment of Patients with Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma Following One Prior Anti-Angiogenic Therapy.” Taylor & Francis, https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17512433.2017.1289840.
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Lutz, Jennifer, and PharmD Reviewed By Michael Gabay. “CBD (Cannabidiol) for Pain: Does It Work?” Practical Pain Management, https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/patient/treatments/marijuana-cannabis/empowered-pain-patient-guide-cbd.
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Larsen, Christian, and Jorida Shahinas. “Dosage, Efficacy and Safety of Cannabidiol Administration in Adults: A Systematic Review of Human Trials.” Journal of Clinical Medicine Research, Elmer Press, Mar. 2020, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7092763/.
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Styrczewska M;Kulma A;Ratajczak K;Amarowicz R;Szopa J; “Cannabinoid-like Anti-Inflammatory Compounds from Flax Fiber.” Cellular & Molecular Biology Letters, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22706678/.
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Kire Stojkovski is a practicing medical doctor whose work has been published in some of the most respected medical journals.
Daniel Boyer is a practicing Doctor of medicine with a passion for medical research. He specializes in molecular biology, histology, and pharmacology.
