Is CBD a Muscle Relaxer?
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that regulates various physiological functions, including the immune response and discomfort. CBD’s interaction with the ECS may help reduce muscle tension and soreness. Millions of people use CBD for muscle tension, citing its natural properties and effectiveness. While limited research supports these claims, the anecdotal evidence is compelling.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read):
Research on CBD has demonstrated that the cannabinoid may offer numerous benefits that support muscle relaxation. Various product forms include gummies, oils, capsules and topicals. They often contain other ingredients that enhance muscle relaxation, like peppermint oil and lemongrass. You can also employ other options for muscle relaxation, like taking essential oils, getting massages, or learning relaxation techniques.
Table of Contents
Can CBD Act as a Muscle Relaxant?
It is not surprising that research has found that CBD may benefit muscle tension, given the many studies demonstrating its positive effects as an antioxidant.
In one study, a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, a topical formulation made of 20% CBD oil was applied to the masseter muscle of a group of participants experiencing myofascial discomfort. The masseter muscle is a large, powerful muscle that enables chewing. After 14 days of application, the CBD group experienced a significant decrease in discomfort intensity and improved the muscle’s activity as measured through electrical signals generated by muscle contractions. This study provides strong evidence for the effectiveness of CBD in relieving muscle tension.
Muscle tension happens when one or more muscles remain in a semi-contracted state for an extended period.
Any muscle can become tense, but the more common muscles are in the neck, shoulders, back and legs. Tense muscles feel stiff and tense and can produce a sharp sensation of discomfort, plus cause other issues. Tense muscles often experience muscle cramps and spasms.
The body is a set of interrelated systems. For example, some tension can lead to swelling, causing constricted blood vessels and reducing muscle oxygen flow. Muscle tension can develop after exercise or injury and is related to tissue swelling.
Researchers have found CBD may reduce factors associated with muscle tension.
- Clinical studies have confirmed that CBD reduces cytokines by acting on the ECS system, which manages the immune response.
- Multiple placebo-controlled clinical trials have found CBD effectively reduces the tension response. It releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which trigger muscle tension. By reducing this condition, muscle tension may be relieved.
- CBD has been shown to have potential pro-regenerative effects on muscle damage caused by exercise, such as resistance training and lifting weights. Straining muscles leads to micro-muscle tears. CBD may shorten recovery time, and muscle tension may be avoided.
- During the non-REM stage of sleep, muscles relax. Unfortunately, getting quality sleep is challenging for millions of adults. Many studies have found CBD may significantly improve sleep quality. Not getting enough sleep regularly means muscles may not get a chance to relax. By combining a CBD muscle relaxer with melatonin, you get double benefits.
What CBD Products Work Best as a Muscle Relaxer?
There are many forms of CBD available today, each offering unique benefits. This variety empowers you to choose the product that best fits your needs, whether you’re looking for something easy to carry throughout the day or during physical activities. Here are some of the best CBD products for muscle relaxation.
CBD gummies
Gummies provide a pre-measured CBD dose in a flavorful candy. Various edibles are available to address specific issues like relaxation, energy and immune support. Gummies are made with all three spectrums. Full spectrum CBD gummies contain all the hemp plant’s compounds, including a small amount of THC, which may enhance the therapeutic effects of CBD. Broad spectrum gummies have THC removed but retain other beneficial compounds. Isolate CBD gummies are made with the purest CBD, with all other compounds removed, making it a good choice for those who want to avoid THC entirely. Gummies must go through the digestive system before the cannabidiol reaches the bloodstream.
CBD oil
Many people prefer liquid forms for muscle relaxation because oils are available in many potencies, flavors, and spectrums. They are versatile and can be taken as a tincture, swallowed, or added to food and beverages. Different oil formulations are available to address specific issues impacting your ability to relax muscles. For example, a CBD muscle relaxer with melatonin is designed to help you get higher-quality sleep, which supports muscle relaxation.
CBD capsules
Capsules offer a convenient alternative to gummies. While they may not taste like candy, they come in various formulations to provide different benefits, such as promoting calmness and addressing relief. The slow release of CBD in your digestive system ensures longer-lasting effects compared to oils. This convenience can put your mind at ease, knowing that the impact will last longer.
CBD topicals
Does CBD cream relax muscles? As the clinical research mentioned earlier demonstrates, topicals may help relax muscles. They are especially popular with athletes and people who vigorously exercise. One reason is that many topicals are available, including creams, lotions, balm and salves, and roll-on gels. You can choose your favorite CBD topical product and carry it anywhere. Some people also prefer them because you can apply them directly to the localized area of muscle tenseness and spasms.
How to Choose Products for Relaxing Muscle Spasms?
There are some points to remember when choosing CBD products to aid in relieving tense muscles.
- You can select one CBD product, like capsules or a topical, but you may want to buy more than one product form. For example, you can buy capsules or oil once or twice daily and cream for application whenever needed.
- The CBD spectrum matters.
Full spectrum CBD contains all the cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids and other natural compounds in the hemp plant. Importantly, it does contain less than 0.3% THC, so you get the full entourage effect of all the compounds working together.
Broad spectrum CBD does not contain THC or only a trace. Some people need to avoid taking any THC because they are concerned about it potentially showing up on a drug test, even though it is not likely. Athletes and employees often choose broad spectrum CBD for this reason.
Isolate CBD products are made with pure CBD extract, so they are THC-free and free of all the other hemp plant compounds. Many isolate products offer a high CBD concentration, which may help muscles that stubbornly remain tense.
- CBD potency is another consideration. Muscle tenseness and spasms may need high CBD doses, especially if large muscles are involved. If you are a beginner, start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you experience the desired effects.
Be sure to consider the additional ingredients in products that can boost the product’s effectiveness for muscle relaxation.
For example, some oils and topicals contain arnica, which may reduce muscle soreness, or peppermint oil, which provides a cooling effect to relax muscles. Chamomile is known to relax muscles.
Buy CBD products from brands with a good reputation. Read customer reviews and check for transparency about sourcing and production methods. At our store, we compare products made by different companies. The Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a critical report made available to customers. The COA informs consumers about the results of an independent lab study and shows things like cannabinoid content and whether toxins are present.
Other Natural Remedies for Muscle Relaxers
Not everyone decides to take CBD for muscle tension. For example, a doctor advises against consuming CBD because of current medications being taken. There are other natural remedies for muscle relaxers.
1. Cherries
Cherries offer a concentrated amount of antioxidant compounds. Even more powerful are cherry concentrates. A study on cherries found that their consumption reduced muscle soreness.
2. Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil can soothe painful muscles, leading to their relaxation. This essential oil has analgesic-like properties.
3. Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that plays a significant role in muscle health. It acts as a calcium blocker and is needed for muscle contractions, helping them relax after contracting. Magnesium has been shown to reduce muscle soreness and improve muscle recovery after exertion.
CBD and Magnesium Synergetic Benefits
4. Lemongrass oil and tea
The research is minimal, but it has found that lemongrass may provide many benefits, including antioxidant and anti-muscle spasms. The effects on muscles may be due to the lemongrass compounds acting as calcium antagonists.
5. Capsaicin
A topical application of capsaicin may reduce muscle soreness and nerve discomfort. It is a natural compound in chili peppers.
6. Massage
A deep tissue massage is a natural way to relieve muscle tension and relax muscles.
7. Gentle exercise
Exercises that stretch the muscles while helping achieve mental calm can relieve muscle tenseness. Yoga and tai chi are two examples.
This is just a sample list of ways to relax tense muscles naturally. When discomfort causes muscle tension, perhaps it is time to find ways to relax each day. For example, taking time to enjoy a hobby or taking pleasant walks are excellent relievers.
The Power of Nature to Soothe
The combination of clinical research and user testaments indicates CBD can help relieve muscle soreness and tenseness. The mechanisms by which CBD produces its effects are still not fully known, but what is known is that it works for tens of millions of people globally. CBD is non-intoxicating, natural and well-tolerated, and continued research finds it is highly likely to work. However, be sure to consult a doctor before taking CBD the first time to ensure CBD fits well in your lifestyle.
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