CBD, otherwise known as cannabidiol, has exploded into the health and wellness industries over the course of the last several decades. Recognized for its many reported benefits and low risk of side effects, it has opened up a whole new industry, offering an array of products for sale.
Today, CBD is making its way into the world of chiropractic care. But how can CBD benefit your patients and your practice? Does CBD really help promote better health? Are there inherent risks associated with CBD you need to know about?
This article explores the basics of CBD, giving you an introductory guide to how CBD can work within your chiropractic practice and what you need to know before you take the plunge into offering CBD products within your own practice.
How does CBD work in conjunction with chiropractic care?
As a quick, but important disclaimer, we want to make it very clear CBD is not the same as marijuana, hemp or cannabis. CBD is the essential component of medical marijuana, but according to the World Health Organization (WHO), “CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential…To date, there is no evidence of public health-related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”
Typically, CBD-containing products may contain trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component commonly associated with the cannabis plant. In most states, CBD products are legal as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. You should read product labels carefully to find out how much CBD, THC and other cannabinoids they contain, or check the company’s website for lab test results they have posted.
What is CBD, and how do you use it?
CBD, extracted from the cannabis plant, has increasingly become popular in chiropractic care. Though oil is one of the most common methods to implement CBD, there are also oral options through oil tinctures, edibles and capsules, as well as topical options like creams and lotions.
CBD oil is diluted with what’s called a carrier oil, often coconut or hemp seed. CBD is not like THC in that it does not produce a psychoactive effect; rather, it focuses on the relaxing effects. Further, it doesn’t impact a person’s state of mind, instead, its efforts target the body.
How you discuss CBD usage with your patients will depend on context, dosage and where you source your CBD from.
How does CBD work?
CBD is either ingested, inhaled or applied topically. When this happens, it attaches to the CB2 receptors in the patient’s body, encouraging the body to produce more of its own. In another article on our site, we mention that CBD specifically triggers receptors in the human body in the endocannabinoid system that help reduce pain, anxiety and stress.
How is CBD used in chiropractic care?
Though there are many ways CBD reportedly benefits patients, it’s been reported that CBD (oil, especially) provides relief for chronic pain by reducing inflammation associated with arthritis. CBD can also help reduce anxiety, which could be a component of chiropractic care.
Some studies show regulating the endocannabinoid system with CBD can also help reduce inflammation, relax an overactive immune system, even aid in minimizing depression.
It’s said that CBD is a muscle relaxant, too, and can help provide targeted relief for muscle tension.
Are there risks using CBD in chiropractic care?
Though CBD is largely considered safe, just like any other treatment there are inherent risks attached. According to the Mayo Clinic, CBD can cause side effects like reduced appetite, drowsiness, fatigue, diarrhea or dry mouth, and even have counter-indicated effects with prescription drugs (like blood thinners). It is important to check with patients on what medications or supplements they are taking before recommending any CBD product.
Final thoughts
Seeking more insight on CBD in chiropractic care? Looking for a reliable, facts-based source you can trust when it comes to guidance on your chiropractic practice, the future of your career and how to best serve your patients? Look no further than Chiropractic Economics. Our publication is determined to be a guiding light in the industry, providing you with what you need to be the best DC possible. Subscribe to Chiropractic Economics for in-depth insight, industry-leading news and more!