Understanding Chronic Pain: How CBD Interacts With Your Body’s Systems

Understanding Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is invisible, but its impact is very real, especially in a country like India, where over 20% of adults report living with ongoing pain. Whether it’s an ageing parent in Lucknow dealing with osteoarthritis or a young IT professional in Bengaluru battling stress-induced migraines, pain is more than a symptom—it becomes a way of life.

Modern medicine offers solutions, but often with side effects, limited efficacy, and risk of addiction. This is where CBD (cannabidiol) enters the conversation—not as a miracle, but as a science-backed, holistic alternative that aligns with our evolving healthcare needs.

What Is CBD, and Why Is It Different?

CBD is one of over 100 cannabinoids extracted from the Cannabis Sativa plant. Unlike THC, which causes the ‘high,’ it is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t intoxicate or impair you.

In India, it derived from hemp leaves (under 0.3% THC) is legal for medicinal purposes under AYUSH regulations and is increasingly being prescribed by integrative doctors and Ayurveda practitioners alike.

The Body’s Secret Weapon: The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

To understand how it relieves pain, you need to understand the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)—an intricate biological network that helps regulate key functions such as:

• Pain perception
• Inflammation
• Sleep
• Immune response
• Stress and mood

This system includes two main types of receptors:

• CB1 receptors: Found primarily in the brain and nervous system
• CB2 receptors: Found in immune cells, the gastrointestinal tract, and peripheral organs

It doesn’t directly bind to these receptors like THC does. Instead, it modulates their activity, influencing neurotransmitter release, reducing inflammation, and restoring balance or “homeostasis.”

Scientific Evidence: How CBD Helps Manage Pain

1. Altering Pain Signaling

CBD influences both CB1 and CB2 receptors. It reduces the firing of pain signals from injured or inflamed nerves and may change the perception of pain in the brain.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Most chronic pain—arthritis, sciatica, backache—has an inflammatory component. It lowers inflammation by affecting immune cell activity, reducing cytokine production (chemicals that cause inflammation).

3. Neuroprotective Properties

It helps prevent damage to nerves and supports regeneration in conditions like diabetic neuropathy or fibromyalgia.

4. Endocannabinoid Enhancement

CBD inhibits the enzyme FAAH, which breaks down your body’s natural cannabinoids. This allows your internal system to work more efficiently to reduce pain.

Scientific reviews published in journals like Frontiers in Pharmacology have acknowledged it’s effectiveness in managing various chronic pain types—neuropathic, inflammatory, and even cancer-related.

Using CBD Oil for Chronic Pain with a History of Substance Abuse

Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide, and many seek alternatives to traditional medications, including CBD oil. For individuals with a history of substance abuse, the decision to use it for pain management comes with unique considerations. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed choice while ensuring your safety and supporting your recovery.

Is CBD Addictive? Understanding the Basics

CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-intoxicating compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it does not produce a “high” or euphoric effects, and it is not considered addictive according to current research. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking pain relief without the risk of intoxication or addiction.

However, even though CBD is not addictive, individuals with a history of substance abuse should approach its use with caution.

Potential Risks and Triggers

• Psychological Triggers: While it itself is not addictive, the act of using any substance-even a non-intoxicating one-can sometimes trigger psychological cravings or relapse in susceptible individuals. It’s important to be mindful of how using it might impact your recovery journey.

• Product Quality and THC Content: The CBD market is largely unregulated, and product quality can vary widely. Some products may contain trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis. For individuals in recovery, even small amounts of THC could be problematic. Always choose products that have been third-party lab tested and verify the THC content.

• Drug Interactions: It can interact with medications metabolized by the liver’s cytochrome P450 enzymes. This is especially relevant for individuals taking medications to support recovery or manage such conditions. Potential interactions can affect how your body processes these drugs, increasing the risk of side effects or reduced effectiveness.

Safety and Side Effects

CBD is generally well-tolerated, with side effects such as fatigue, drowsiness, dry mouth, and changes in appetite or weight being the most common. However, more serious risks, such as liver toxicity, have been reported in rare cases, particularly at high doses or with long-term use. It’s crucial to start with low doses and monitor your body’s response.

Consulting Healthcare Professionals

Before starting it for chronic pain, especially if you have a history of substance abuse, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider. Discuss your recovery goals, current medications, and any concerns you may have. Addiction specialists or counselors can provide personalized guidance and help you weigh the risks and benefits based on your unique circumstances.

Choosing the Right Product

To minimize risks:

• Select High-Quality CBD: Look for products with third-party lab certification and clear labeling of CBD and THC content.

• Avoid THC-Containing Products: Opt for broad-spectrum or isolate CBD products, which contain little or no THC.

• Start Low, Go Slow: Begin with the lowest effective dose and monitor your response before increasing.

Is CBD Right for You?

While its oil shows promise for managing chronic pain and is considered safer than many opioid-based medications, its use in individuals with a history of substance abuse requires careful consideration. The potential for psychological triggers, drug interactions, and product quality issues must be addressed. By working closely with healthcare professionals and making informed choices, you can safely explore it as part of your pain management strategy.

It is not addictive and may help manage chronic pain, but individuals with a history of substance abuse should proceed with caution, prioritize product quality, and seek professional guidance to ensure safe and effective use.

Chronic Pain in India: Why CBD Matters Now More Than Ever

Indian patients often face:

• Over-the-counter misuse of painkillers
• Dependency on NSAIDs, leading to liver/kidney issues
• Cultural stigma around openly discussing pain
• Limited access to integrative pain clinics outside major metros

It provides a bridge between traditional and modern medicine, offering relief without compromising your long-term health.

CBD vs. Traditional Painkillers

Best Forms of CBD for Pain Relief

In India, it is available in multiple forms:

1. CBD Oil (Tinctures)

• Use: Sublingual drops
• Best For: Arthritis, back pain, general inflammation
• Effect Time: 15–45 minutes

2. CBD Capsules & Tablets

• Use: Oral ingestion
• Best For: Chronic internal pain, daily use
• Effect Time: 1–2 hours

3. Topicals (Balms, Creams)

• Use: Apply to the affected area
• Best For: Joint, muscle, and sports injuries
• Effect Time: Immediate (localized relief)

4. Patches

• Use: Adhesive, slow-release
• Best For: Ongoing pain relief
• Effect Time: Gradual over 6–8 hours

5. CBD Isolate vs Full-Spectrum

• Isolate: Pure CBD (no THC) – suitable for sensitive users
• Full-spectrum: Includes minor cannabinoids for “entourage effect” – often more effective

How to Determine the Right Dosage

Its dosing is personalized. Factors include:

• Body weight
• Pain severity
• Tolerance
• Type of CBD product

General Guidelines

Start low and increase gradually every 3–5 days. Keep a journal to track symptoms and results.

Safety, Side Effects & Interactions

While CBD is generally safe, possible side effects may include:

• Dry mouth
• Light-headedness
• Nausea
• Fatigue

It interacts with liver enzymes (CYP450), which also metabolize common drugs like:

• Blood thinners
• Antidepressants
• Antiepileptics

Always consult your doctor if:

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You are taking other long-term medications
• You have liver/kidney conditions

Legal Status of CBD in India

In India, CBD derived from hemp leaves with less than 0.3% THC is legal for medical use under the NDPS Act and AYUSH Ministry regulations.

You Can Legally:

• Buy CBD products online or via a prescription
• Use it in Ayurvedic formulations (Vijaya-based)
• Consume without intoxication, as long as THC is within the limit

Practical Buying & Usage Tips for Indian Consumers

• Choose products with a COA (Certificate of Analysis)
• Look for third-party testing
• Always check THC percentage (<0.3%)
• Avoid imported products that may not comply with Indian laws
• Work with doctors who understand it (check Boheco’s doctor network)

Challenges & Precautions

While it offers great promise, challenges remain:

• Awareness: Many still associate it with illegal cannabis
• Regulation: Lack of clear enforcement can confuse buyers
• Quality: Low-quality imports or fakes may enter the market

What You Can Do:

• Educate yourself and others using verified sources
• Demand transparency from brands
• Never self-medicate without a medical consultation

A New Chapter in Pain Management for India

India is waking up to the possibility that healing can be natural, modern, and effective all at once. It isn’t magic—it’s medicine, grounded in science and rooted in nature.

If you’re living with chronic pain, you deserve more than temporary relief. You deserve a path forward that is safer, sustainable, and aligned with your body’s healing system.

CBD in Humans: What Does the Research Say?

Cannabidiol (CBD) has emerged as a popular compound in the wellness and medical communities, largely due to its non-intoxicating nature, low potential for abuse, and relative safety compared to other cannabinoids. Animal studies have consistently shown promising results, particularly in pain relief, inflammation reduction, and anxiety management. But what does the actual research say about it’s effectiveness in humans-beyond the hype and marketing claims?

The Promise and the Reality

It’s appeal lies in its potential to address a wide range of conditions, from pain and anxiety to epilepsy and even psychosis. However, the transition from animal models to human trials has been slow, and the body of evidence in humans remains limited compared to the volume of commercial claims.

Chronic Pain and Inflammation

Several systematic reviews have synthesized the available human data on CBD for chronic pain, a condition that persists beyond normal healing time. Most studies reported pain reduction rates between 42% and 66% when it was used alone or in combination with other cannabinoids like THC.

However, these findings come with important caveats. The number of high-quality, large-scale studies is small, and results are often inconsistent due to differences in study design, dosing, and outcome measures. Notably, some high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) found no significant analgesic effect for CBD in conditions like knee osteoarthritis, hand osteoarthritis, and acute low back pain when compared to placebo.

Neuropathic Pain and Peripheral Neuropathy

Neuropathic pain, caused by nerve damage, is another area of interest. Early research and some reviews suggest that it may help manage chronic neuropathic pain, but these findings are based on a limited number of human trials. A landmark FDA-approved human trial is currently underway at Florida A&M University (FAMU) to study the effects of CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD on diabetic peripheral neuropathy. This trial is expected to provide much-needed clarity on it’s role in neuropathic pain management.

Anxiety and Mood Disorders

CBD has also been investigated for its potential to reduce anxiety and improve mood. Some clinical trials and observational studies indicate that it may help with generalized anxiety and PTSD, but the evidence is not yet robust enough to support widespread clinical use. Most studies are small-scale, and long-term effects on brain structure and quality of life remain unknown.

Psychosis and Mental Health

Exciting developments are underway in the field of mental health. In 2025, results from large-scale, international clinical trials will be released, assessing the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of CBD in people at different stages of psychosis. These studies aim to determine whether it can prevent the progression of psychotic disorders and identify biomarkers for treatment success.

The Need for More Research

Despite the promising early results, the medical community agrees that more rigorous, long-term studies are needed. The current evidence is often limited by small sample sizes, short trial durations, and variability in its formulations and dosages. There is also a lack of longitudinal data on how it affects brain structure, quality of life, and long-term health outcomes.

Navigating the Hype

The commercial landscape is flooded with claims that CBD can treat everything from diabetes and depression to cancer and even pet anxiety. While some of these claims may be rooted in preliminary research, most lack the robust evidence required for medical approval. Consumers should approach such claims with caution and rely on products and treatments supported by credible research.

As clinical trials continue to expand, the next few years are expected to bring more definitive answers about it’s role in human health. Ongoing and upcoming studies are focusing on standardized dosing, long-term safety, and the identification of patient subgroups that may benefit most from its therapy.

While it shows promise in animal models and early human studies, the current evidence in humans is limited and often inconsistent. More high-quality, long-term clinical trials are needed to establish its efficacy and safety for various conditions. Until then, patients and consumers should remain cautious and consult healthcare professionals before using it for medical purposes.