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Does CBD work for Pain

DOES cbd work for Pain relief

Cannabidiol is a popular alternative compared to prescription pain relief (such as opioids). Especially, for people who have chronic pain and have become reliant upon those habit-forming medications.  Even though more research is required to verify the pain-relieving properties of CBD, it’s clear patients are benefiting from trying these CBD products.

why is cbd being chosen over pain meds

CBD is becoming a ‘quick-fix’ for many medical conditions and symptoms for anything from psoriasis to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Shinning Star

It seems to be becoming the medical industry’s shining star’.  Which has seen researchers jump at the opportunity to gain a better understanding of how this product is helping people.

There currently aren’t a lot of clinical trials about CBD for pain relief in humans. But preclinical tests are being carried out on animals, for example, animals with painful arthritis.   These studies have shown that CBD reduces pain and inflammation and has very few side effects.  

how does it work

For thousands of years, people have been using CBD as a natural remedy for pain relief.  Still, the medical community have only recently begun studying its benefits and how it works in-depth.  CBD reacts with the endocannabinoid receptors in our brain and immune system (the tiny proteins attached to our cells).

These receptors receive chemical signals and respond by creating anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects that aid with the management of pain.  The current theory is that the endocannabinoid system has two cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are in the brain.  They are believed to be associated with cognitive actions including mood, memory, thinking and appetite.

CB1 and CB2 receptors

The CB2 receptors are found in the immune system and are responsible for how the body reacts to pain and inflammation.   THC attaches to the CB1 receptors (which explains why using THC rich Cannabis can affect behaviour and appetite).

In contrast, CBD creates a positive effect on the CB2 receptors whereby the body is enticed to generate more of its cannabinoids.  This is how CBD is believed to work, but more research is being carried out to ensure that this is entirely accurate.

what kind of pain can it help

It is said that CBD Oils and CBD-infused products can help with arthritis pain relief, symptoms surrounding cancer treatment and migraine pain relief.

For arthritis pain, it’s advised that a topical CBD-infused product is used and applied directly to the skin where the arthritis is causing pain.   So researchers have tried this method of treatment on rats with arthritis for four days and noticed a significant decrease in inflammation without any side effects. It does not take long to begin to work.

This test, so far, has only been carried out on animals, so more research needs to take place to see if it is as effective on humans.   However, with most topicals designed to help with arthritis pain, it’s a case of trying products to see if they work for you and whether you like the product. A guide to CBD topicals, balms and lotions coming soon.

The Research

There have been case studies that have shown people with MS (Multiple Sclerosis) trying CBD oil to help reduce the pain felt during muscle spasms.  Muscle spasms are one of the most common symptoms of MS and can cause extreme pain.   MS patients that have tried CBD oil have sometimes reported a reduction in the frequency of their spasms as well as pain relief.   But these results are modest and haven’t got scientific verification yet, we are mid-trials.

There have been reports that CBD has been helping cancer patients reduce the pain from their cancer treatments.  Research has also been carried out on animals to see whether CBD can shrink cancerous tumours, which was successful in some of these animals.   Still, there currently isn’t enough research to see this success with tumours in humans.

However, many researchers have begun to test how CBD can help ease the pain related to cancer treatment.

are there any CBD side effects

As with most medications, there are a few side effects that can occur in some people, but usually, most people tolerate CBD oil well.  The most popular side effects are believed to be tiredness, diarrhoea, lack of appetite and weight gain or weight loss.

Although there currently isn’t a lot of research and conclusive data to support CBD oil and CBD-infused products for pain relief.   It’s agreed that these products have a lot of potential.

There are several CBD products to try when it comes to managing pain, and it all depends on where the pain is.  For arthritis, we would recommend trying a minimum of 1000mg CBD Oil Oral Drops.  CBD works best as an anti-inflammatory, for pain relief, it is best combined with THC.

In contrast, CBD capsules and oils may be better for pain management related to cancer treatments.

 

the advice

For Advice

For advice and guidance about which products would be best to help relieve pain, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Get in touch at [email protected] or say Hi via social media.

How does the Endocannabinoid system work in our bodies? see our article ‘How does CBD Work’

the conclusion

Does CBD work for pain relief? Yes

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Cannabis Prescription UK

Cannabis Oils

Medical Cannabis in the UK

The Journey Towards Acceptance – Medical cannabis was legalised in the UK in November 2018, a pivotal moment for countless individuals in need. Yet, it’s still largely underutilised. Why? Let’s delve deeper.

Project Twenty 21 Medical Cannabis Clinic

A Brief History of Medical Cannabis in the UK

Since its legalisation in 2018, the NHS has issued fewer than 5 prescriptions.

Project Twenty21 emerged from a governmental call for scientific evidence.

Although countries like Canada, The Netherlands, Israel, and the Czech Republic have advanced significantly in cannabis research, the UK has been somewhat lagging.

Did youknow?

Drug Science, founded by Professor David Nutt in 2010, aims to present the most comprehensive study on medical cannabis benefits in Europe under Project Twenty21.

This isn’t a clinical trial – it’s a registry. Participants cover some costs, but the insights might reshape the UK’s stance on cannabis.

The Cost of Medical Cannabis

It’s undeniable that private cannabis prescriptions come at a cost, and unfortunately, it’s not pocket-friendly for everyone.

Though prices are slightly above street value, the benefits of legal, safe, and medically supervised treatment could be life changing.

A significant goal of Project Twenty21 is to gather evidence supporting NHS funding for medical cannabis, where benefits outweigh potential risks.

The Changing Face of Cannabis Acceptance

David Nutt, once Chair of the Misuse of Drugs Advisory Council, made headlines with his views comparing the dangers of ecstasy and LSD to alcohol.

Although his candidness led to his removal, it highlighted the need for change. Today, activists, scientists, and doctors unite to change perceptions about cannabis.

The powerful effects of cannabis treatments for conditions like epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and PTSD are hard to ignore, yet accessibility remains a hurdle for many.

Did you know? The UK was the world’s largest supplier of medical cannabis.

Yet, Brexit and COVID-19 trade issues have added challenges for patients relying on imports.

Personal Experiences A Glimpse into Medical Cannabis Treatment

Through Project Twenty21, eligible patients can get supervised access to medical cannabis treatments. One such patient shared their transformative journey, from being prescribed various treatments to finding solace in cannabis. Costs might be high, but as the patient says, “the outcome is priceless.”

From oils to flowers, patients have a range of treatment options. Dosages vary by individual, but the key lies in consistency. Regular check-ins with consultants ensure treatments are effective and safe.

Spotlight: Prof. Mike Barnes, Medical Director of The Medical Cannabis Clinics, and campaigner for cannabis-based therapies, played an instrumental role in securing a prescription for Alfie Dingley, a child with a rare form of epilepsy.

His treatments drastically reduced seizures, offering a new lease on life.

The Future of Medical Cannabis in the UK

Medical cannabis has proven transformative for many. It’s a natural, versatile treatment that deserves a place in the UK’s healthcare landscape.

With ongoing research, awareness campaigns, and positive patient testimonials, the UK stands on the brink of a medical cannabis renaissance. The hope?

That more individuals can safely access and benefit from this remarkable plant.

Final Thoughts

Embrace the natural potential of cannabis.  Join the movement, support research, and help bring change to the UK’s cannabis landscape. With consistent efforts and the backing of science, a brighter, greener future awaits

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Medical Cannabis in the UK: The Journey Towards Acceptance

 

Medical cannabis was legalised in the UK in November 2018, a pivotal moment for countless individuals in need.

Yet, it’s still largely underutilised. Why? Let’s delve deeper.

Project Twenty 21 Medical Cannabis Clinic

The Medical Cannabis clinic

The Medical Cannabis Clinics

Project Twenty21 was born out of a need to satisfy the Governments’ request for UK scientific proof.  The study is Europe-wide and will demonstrate the efficacy of Cannabis in humans.  It is only natural that we look to science for evidence of the plant’s benefits.

Project Twenty 21 Medical Cannabis Clinic

There is an extensive set of data from fellow Countries like Canada, The Netherlands, Israel and the Czech Republic. These Countries are considered The Giants in Cannabis Growth and Research.  More and more research results are published daily; it is an exciting time for this humble but mighty plant.  And the UK is now collating its evidence; Drug Science was founded in 2010 by Professor David Nutt.

Drug Science brings together leading drug experts, to carry out ground-breaking research into drug effects.  The group Drug Science aims to put together the most extensive study in Europe’s Project Twenty21′.

It is important to note; There is no placebo involved in this study therefore it’s a Registry and not a Clinical Trial.   And it’s not free so the patient bears some of the Cannabis Prescription cost in the UK

The study will provide a much-needed service of Private Medical Cannabis Prescriptions in the UK. Of course, limited to those who can afford the prescriptions, we will discuss the Cannabis prescription costs in the UK later in this article.

Costs of Medical Cannabis Prescription in the UK are slightly more expensive than the street prices, once you factor in the consultant fees and prescription costs.  But it does all depend on how much you need.

are you ELIGIBLE

With Project Twenty21, eligible patients can access a medical cannabis treatment monitored by Drug Science. The organisers of the project aim to enrol 20,000 patients by 2021. The study will create the largest body of evidence, all for the effectiveness and tolerability of medical Cannabis.  Because Drug Science hopes the outcome of Project Twenty21 will provide proof for NHS funding where the benefits of treatment with medicinal Cannabis will prove to outweigh the potential risks.

who is professor david nutt

David Nutt was the Chair of the Misuse of Drugs Advisory Council. Famously, David announced ‘ecstasy and LSD were less dangerous than alcohol’.   This was during a lecture at King’s College London. The lecture was on drug risk and classification.

Unfortunately, The honest answer was not desirable and so was swiftly followed by Professor Nutt’s removal from the Panel.   Almost ten years later not much changed when Prof Alex Stevens, resigned from the Advisory Council (ACMD), due to inappropriate Political interventions.

The UK is currently challenging the Government and the laws surrounding Cannabis.

Activists, Scientists and Doctors have come together to change the way we see this plant and its many benefits.  They have been discussing the plant with Members of Parliament and GPs to encourage a change in how we see Cannabis.

its life changing

The Cannabis Oils and Flowers treatment can be life-changing, yet patients in the UK are unable to access or afford it as there are too many barriers.   Because there is still a lot of social stigma and fear attached to this beautiful natural treatment.

Families of children who have epilepsy are desperate for NHS funding for Cannabis treatments, which have proved very effective.  And patients with Multiple Sclerosis, Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Tourette’s Syndrome and Substance Use Disorder or PTSD – could benefit from Cannabis via our health system.  But currently, they are finding it challenging to gain assistance from our National Health Care System

Patients 1.4 Million

It is estimated up to 1.4 million patients are left with no alternative but to turn to illegal means of gaining Cannabis—Criminalising and putting themselves in harm’s way.

Families are deprived of NHS assistance and have grown desperate. They are trying to fund their prescriptions privately.

Without prescriptions

The costs for UK Cannabis Prescription can be enormous, some being more than a monthly mortgage price.

Because many of the treatments are imported from other European Countries.

the uk is one of the largest CANNABIS EXPORTERS

This is incredibly frustrating as the UK is one of the largest suppliers of Medical Cannabis; in the world. (The UK was the largest supplier until this year).

These families now face a new problem in Brexit with the absence of a Deal combined with COVID, further issues with trade have arisen.  Because the flow of Medical Cannabis is about to grind to a halt.

Added stress

The stress increases further and a painful inability to gain access to their treatments is devastating.  Life-Threatening in some cases.

prescription CANNABIS uk

Project Twenty21 cannabis study is crucial for the UK to move forward and to realise this plant’s potential and in turn, change UK laws surrounding the plant.  This plant requires renewed respect, and it will see a renaissance in the UK. As a nation, we need to grow it freely, without the shackles of licences and post-production laws that are starved of logic.  Get Medical Cannabis with Project Twenty21.

We require access to the treatment on a large scale, and every day the need is growing more urgent.

Prof. Barnes is a campaigner for changes in attitude to cannabis-based therapies. He worked with Hannah Deacon in gaining one of the first Prescriptions for Hannah’s son Alfie Dingley.   When Alfie was Seven, he was granted a special licence to use Cannabis oil and is now living a “pretty normal life”, in Hannah’s words.

Alfie has a rare form of epilepsy and was enduring up to 150 seizures every month. Those seizures have stopped, and Alfie is a happy smiling boy.

End Our Pain

Professor Barnes and Hannah now work together on the campaign, and both are standing up for other patients’ rights, patients in need of these treatments. The campaign is ‘End Our Pain’.

hemp flowers in jars

i am a participant

I am one of the Project Twenty21 Participants and have a Cannabis Prescription.

Proud to be a part of this study, as a CannaActivist myself. I’m very keen to have the UK Laws changed, to move with the times, so everyone can enjoy the freedom cannabis gives. The scope of benefits is much broader than described above, but the study has to have a set of parameters.

The Medical Cannabis Clinic London

My cannabis prescription UK is via The Medical Cannabis Clinics, created by Medical Director, Professor Mike Barnes.

The initial step was to ensure I was eligible for treatment.

 To be a patient and part of the study, you must have one of the following conditions, recorded by your GP:

  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Chronic Pain
  • Anxiety
  • Tourette’s Syndrome
  • Substance Use Disorder
  • PTSD

criteria for a prescription

The second criterion, you must have tried at least two prescribed treatments that have not worked.  If you satisfy the above, you can access the website and Choose a Clinic. You can call (make sure when you phone you confirm you require Project Twenty21) or access an online booking system and make yourself an appointment for a consultation with a Consultant.

I meet the criteria as I endure Chronic Pain due to an old fracture that will not heal. I’ve tried many combinations of medications and treatments; none have been successful and only exacerbate my complaints. My GP is fully aware, and I also have a pain specialist I see every four months.

The process was fascinating and odd at the same time, making an appointment to gain Cannabis on a prescription. It was a day I thought would never come; it gave me butterflies

There are different Consultants to choose from, depending on your medical requirements.

my GP helped

Cannabis prescription costs in the UK are in the middle so not cheap but not too expensive.  The initial appointment was £150. I went ahead and booked my first consultation with the Pain Specialist and created an online account with the Medical Cannabis Clinic at the same time.  So it was all straightforward stuff, a pleasantly easy process. 

Then came a quick courtesy phone call from the Clinic before our appointment. My Consultant just had a couple of questions to check and ensure this was the correct avenue for me.  Getting the appointment is no guarantee of a prescription; as initially, your Consultant will weigh up your suitability and discuss it with your GP.

All being well, an e-mail arrived with a consent form. I was giving my permission for the Consultant to access my medical records.

Two weeks later

I had an online meeting with my lovely Consultant.   The appointment lasted roughly 30 minutes.

During the call, it was agreed Cannabis is the way forward for me.  We went through my medical history and complaints and discussed the various treatment options.

My GP has not contacted me about this process; instead has agreed on my suitability. Previously, My GP had not been altogether enthusiastic about Cannabis Therapies, but it would appear this is no longer the case, and I applaud his open-mindedness.

Cannabis Prescription flowers

cannabis prescription cost uk

Each prescription costs £150; Initially, I had two prescriptions, with 30ml of 12:25 Oil & 30g of Flower each month.

The cost for a repeat prescription is £30.

 Follow-up appointments are £65 (every three months).

*These prices are from 2021 and may have changed.

It appears expensive, but for me the outcome is priceless.

The treatments were available to me at the time.

 Oils:

 30ml bottle 100% CBD Oil

 30ml bottle 12:25 Oil – 12mg/ml THC & 25mg/ml CBD

30ml bottle 25:25 Oil – 25mg/ml THC & 25mg/ml CBD

 Flower:

 Khiron – Indica with 18-22% Thc

The flower terpene profile is Carophyllene oxide 0.96% Humulene 0.66% Carophyllene 0.61% Alpha-pinene 0.26%.

I’ve tried the whole menu.  My bottle holds 750 drops of an MCT carrier oil (Medium Chain Triglyceride).

The cannabis treatments are a mix of CBDs and THCs, so the psychoactive elements and their healing properties are present.  Of the above list, I’ve tried everything on the menu aside from the 100% CBD  (as CBD is my business, I’m lucky to be aware of its benefits).

my prescription

My Prescriptions allow for both Flower and Oil. Initially, when this journey began for me, the Flower was not available, I was added to a waiting list and started straight away with 12:25 Oil.  Within a few days, I received a call from the Green Pharmacy.

All systems go

We discussed and confirmed my prescription and address. All systems go, I made an over-the-phone payment.  Transaction complete, the wait began for my Cannabis to be delivered through the post.  And the day arrived, a black padded envelope was handed over, and my new, improved life began.

how to consume cannabis

My suggestion is to forget everything you think you know and follow the Consultants instructions. I got ahead of myself and took too much too soon.

Begin slowly

 0.1ml to start twice a day for one week, then increase to three times per day. In the third week, I raised this to .02ml three times per day. The fourth week arrived at my target of .03 three times per day (I only use more when required).

After the first bottle, which lasted for over six weeks, I switched to the larger dose of 25:25mg/ml.

Problems with cannabis flower prescription

my Flower arrived. But not the Khiron that we had discussed. Due to logistical issues, the Khiron was unavailable.   A different strain of Flower was provided in its stead, and it came from Israel.  It looks initially like a box for a pair of tights. Inside is a foil bag; each bag contains 30gms of buds.   The new Flower was more of a mix of Sativa than a pure Indica, around the same THC level.

We discussed and confirmed my prescription and address. All systems go, I made an over-the-phone payment.  Transaction complete, the wait began for my Cannabis to be delivered through the post.  And the day arrived, a black padded envelope was handed over, and my new, improved life began.

how long does it last

I use the Oil with a measured pipet under the tongue and hold it for as long as I can, usually around two minutes.   A 30ml bottle of Oil will last me for one month, thereabouts (once up to the correct dosage).

Cannabis flowers

Vape daily, as and when I need it or use an old-fashioned bubbly.  I’ve had the Flower for around six weeks now and still have a couple of weeks remaining. It is too early for me to see a pattern emerge yet.

Therapy

I can only sing the praises of this therapy, it has been life-changing for me.

Cannabis has assisted my painful spine, knees, arthritis, anxiety and pre-menopausal issues. Just Wow!

Unmolested Extract

The full natural plant extract is the way forward. No synthetics are required here. The plant is perfect just as it is.  The Oil’s are excellent.  As I’m enjoying a tad more physical freedom; part of My disability has been downgraded from Enhanced to Standard. My head is in a great place, and my body is very grateful.

pain relief

It’s an odd thing; one moment I’m in terrible pain, and my partner grabs my oils and gives me a few drops or an added big vape.  So the next, I’m being asked how I feel and for a split second am confused by the question.   You seem to forget about the pain; it just melts away oh so quietly, delightful!

Routine is the best

with Cannabis Therapy if I forget a dose, I know about it. Consistency seems to be the key here.  Historically, I would struggle with the side effects of taking my old medications. Sour stomach or feeling nauseous was the common theme; but Not any more.

How much CBD to take?

it’s a joy to behold. Everyone is different, so we are in charge of our dosage. It is very much up to the individual to establish.  And my next job is to report back to the Consultant.  Every three months, we report back to our specialists. Information is vital for the study.

My prescription is via The Medical Cannabis Clinics, created by Medical Director, Professor Mike Barnes.

*This, of course, is only my personal experience, I cannot speak for anyone else. I am not making medical claims as Cannabis is personal and everyone has a different experience.

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What is CBD Oil

CBD Oil drops white flowers

what is cbd?

CBD (Cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring substance from a Hemp plant

What is this CBD everyone is talking about?. CBD comes from the hemp plant.

The significant elements of the hemp plant are named Trichomes; they are tiny sticky glands.

Phytocannabinoids are held in these glands, holding all the active medical ingredients.

what is cbd oil?

CBD (Cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring substance from a Hemp plant

What is this CBD everyone is talking about?. CBD comes from the hemp plant.

The significant elements of the hemp plant are named Trichomes; they are tiny sticky glands.

Phytocannabinoids are held in these glands, holding all the active medical ingredients.

hemp plant

ecs Endocannabinoids

Endocannabinoids are naturally occurring in your body,  Subsequently;  Phytocannabinoids from plants are a natural Supplement for our  Endocannabinoids.  In the same vein, Vitamin tablets are for Fruit and Vegetables, as a supplement.

Phytocannabinoids are Cannabinoids, for short.

There are over a hundred known Cannabinoids in the Hemp plant

break it down

The most discussed cannabinoids are THC & CBD

When you hear the term Broad Spectrum, it means a many Cannabinoids are present in the oil, not just CBD alone:

  • CBDP – Cannabidiphorol
  • CBG – Cannabigerol
  • CBC – Cannabichromenic
  • CBDA – Cannabidiolic acid
  • CBDB – Cannabidiphorol
  • CBD – Cannabidiol
  • CBN – Cannabinol
  • CBGA – Cannabigerolic

Each of the Cannabinoids possesses its own benefits profile. 

All mammals benefit from CBD subsequently; Hemp is Mother Nature’s gift and possesses’ qualities as a natural food supplement.

CBD oil has so much to offer, increasing your therapeutic potential.

Endocannabinoid system

It is the master controller in your body; managing your temperature gauge.

  It modulates your serotonin levels affecting your mood. 

Also, can regulate your sleep and misdirect your pain.  In addition, it’s a powerful anti-inflammatory.

Moreover, Improves motor skills and can block certain cancer cell growth.

CBD Cannot cant get you high

This gentle product does not produce any high.  It is non-psychoactive.  

It produces a sense of well-being, in the same way,  vitamins do.  To find out the difference between Cannabis & Hemp?.

CBD is a natural way to boost healthy living.

What is cbd?

CBD is extracted from the plant and blended with fine coconut oil, known as an MCT Carrier.

Extracting CBD from Hemp

The extraction process concentrates on the Hemp flowers for the Cannabinoids. 

A variety of methods are used to extract CBD from the hemp plant.  The oldest form of extraction is the use of ethanol (simple alcohol).

Using high-proof alcohol, the CBD is drawn out of the plant with minimal damage.  By suspending them in a liquid it eliminates damage from oxidisation.

cultivation of hemp

Cultivation has minimal impact on the environment.  Hemp crops are naturally resistant to pests and therefore do not require pesticides.  As hemp grows it cleans the soil. It extracts soil contaminants and restores the topsoil.

In addition, it performs Carbon Sequestration. It cleans pollutants from our air.  Interestingly, hemp removes between 10-15 tonnes of atmospheric carbon per hectare.  This occurs in three months, making it much more effective than trees.

Furthermore, as this crop can grow four times a year, it results in a lot of cleaning. Simultaneously cleans the soil in which it grows.

Hemp is Mother Nature’s gift and possesses’ qualities as a natural food supplement.  CBD oil has so much to offer, increasing your therapeutic potential.

It’s a natural way to support healthy living.

This gentle product is non-psychoactive.

You can find out so much more, Check out our full guide!