Can herbal remedies relieve chronic back pain and fibromyalgia symptoms?
For the past two decades, the cannabis plant, commonly known as marijuana, has been the subject of interest in the medical community. In some states, medical marijuana is already available for certain conditions. Its efficacy as an analgesic has been well established. Although cannabis is most often associated with cancer pain relief and loss of appetite, its pain-relieving qualities could hold promise for people with back pain, fibromyalgia, and other chronic pain conditions.
How does cannabis relieve pain?
Just like the opioid receptor system in the body that allows endorphins to have their pleasurable, pain-relieving effects, the body also has a cannabinoid receptor system. There are three types of cannabinoids: endocannabinoids (made by the body), phytocannabinoids (made by marijuana plants), and synthetic cannabinoids produced in a laboratory.
The cannabis plant contains various cannabinoids, each with their own qualities. The three most important components for this discussion are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and beta-caryophyllene. THC is a mild pain reliever and the main psychoactive component of marijuana. CBD reduces spasms, inflammation, nausea, and anxiety. Beta-caryophlene is a potent anti-inflammatory cannabinoid and is found in the highest concentration in cannabis essential oils.
Research
The latest theory about fibromyalgia suggests that sufferers’ brains process pain abnormally, or that excessive pain signals are sent to the brain. Increasing the amount of cannabinoids available to the body can help counteract the pain of fibromyalgia. One small study, the results of which were published in the April 2011 issue of PLoS One, showed that cannabis users with fibromyalgia reported significant reductions in pain and stiffness. A full abstract can be viewed at http://www.cannabis-med.org/studies/ww_en_db_study_show.php?s_id=319.
Chronic back pain often involves inflammation, muscle spasms, and/or nerve pain. Cannabis has been shown to relieve all of these symptoms, although studies on the relief of neuropathic pain have been the most prominent. A small study led by Mark Ware, MD, tested the effects of cannabis with different THC strengths on pain relief. Those who received the highest potency, 9.4%, reported a significant reduction in pain. Read more about this study at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-11110798.
Some sources estimate that street marijuana contains 10-15% THC, more than is necessary for pain control. This may answer an important question for those considering medical marijuana: Do I have to get high? The answer is no. Since THC is the main psychoactive component of marijuana, lowering its levels and increasing CBD levels will result in fewer psychological effects while relieving pain. There are clinics in states that allow medical marijuana that offer high-CBD, low-THC cannabis varieties.
The debate
Marijuana is classified as an illicit substance, which has created a stigma around it. More and more, science discovers the therapeutic effects of this plant and is even working to synthesize its cannabinoids in the laboratory. However, until the safety of synthetic compounds is supported by solid evidence, it is best to refer to the natural source.
Some are concerned about the potential for dependency associated with drugs. However, many accepted prescription pain relievers, including opioids, are highly addictive. In fact, cannabis has been shown to limit dependence on opiates. Other than the usual addiction, which is a concern with any medication, there is no indication that cannabis poses dependency problems. A host of other harmful health effects associated with common pain relievers, such as stomach, kidney, and liver damage, as well as overdose, are not associated with marijuana use.
The most popular method of cannabis consumption is smoking. Lung and throat irritation are valid concerns for people considering medical marijuana for long-term pain control. More research is needed to assess the efficacy of cannabis administered orally or via a ventilator.
As with any pain medication, cannabis is not a cure for a painful condition. Rather, it is a useful pain management tool that should be used to temporarily relieve symptoms while you follow a treatment plan that addresses the source of your pain.