Take action on joint pain and stiffness

COLD, wet days can make joint pain and stiffness worse. We know that it’s important to keep moving, but it’s much harder to get out and about on slippery pathways and pavements.

However, help is at hand in the form of CBD oil, a new type of supplement that is showing real promise for people with painful joints.

So, does CBD oil have the same chemical make- up as cannabis?

The two most important compounds of cannabis are THC ( tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

CBD oil reduces the level of THC leaving the ‘ legal’ substance behind. CBD oil does not produce psychoactive effects but rather appears to have excellent health benefits for those who use it.

Cannabinoids are naturally produced in our bodies.

CB1 is densely populated within the brain, dealing mainly with coordination, movement, emotions and pain.

CB2 is distributed throughout the entire body and heavily present within the immune system. CB2 receptors increase when there is inflammation and or pain, indicating they are working to reduce injury.

When CB1 and CB2 receptors do their job within our bodies our endocannabinoid system (ECS) can become depleted.

The endocannabinoid system works to maintain homeostasis, working alongside CB1 and CB2 receptors to monitor reactions in the body.

As with most deficiencies, supplements can be taken to replenish those energy levels and introducing CBD into the body may increase the effectiveness of the endocannabinoid system.

Scientific research is finding that CBD oil has all sorts of potential health benefits including relief from migraine, psoriasis, acne and depression. Plus, scientists are excited about the impact CBD oil may have on pain and inflammation.

CBD oil products are selling so well in shops and online that more are being added in the form of oils (pictured), capsules and balms. However, it is important to buy them only from reputable sources.

There are more than 100 cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. CBD is the most well studied and understood, showing promise for treatment in humans.