Topical CBD for Pain
The skin is the largest organ in the body. Contained in this system are endocannabinoid receptors that are present just under the dermal layer. The skin produces its own endocannabinoid molecules such as anandamide (AEA) and 2-AG. These endocannabinoids are constantly released in specific amounts, depending on the “healthy need” of the organ, resulting in the skin’s cannabinoid tone. Endocannabinoid molecules are synthesized by several cell types in the epidermis, hair follicles, and sebaceous glands.
“I suffered a severe ankle and knee sprain and no broken bones or torn tendons, but the sprains were incredibly painful and the CBD 800 mg Targeted Topical has helped relieve the pain in my knees and ankle. I use it daily.”
- JERRY B.
Transdermal topical CBD like Receptra Naturals’ Targeted Topical is designed to reach these endocannabinoids and receptors. The addition of CBD helps to relieve muscle and joint soreness, which happens quickly, providing the pain relief you need when you need it.
WHAT PAIN DOES TO THE BRAIN
AMuch like stress, pain incites the body’s fight or flight response, which is essentially an influx of the stress hormone, cortisol. This is useful to avoid damage to the body, but if cortisol levels remain elevated, it can cause unintended damage. The continual build-up of cortisol can lead to a number of health problems such as weight gain, hormone imbalances, digestive issues, bone density problems, heart disease, diabetes, and more. When cortisol builds up in the area of the brain called the amygdala, it stimulates anxiety. This is the brain’s “fear center,” which contributes to emotional processing. When stress builds up in this area it increases the activity level between neurotransmitters and increases anxiety.
Learn About Relief
Pain and Emotions
Physical pain and emotional pain exist on similar circuitry in the nervous system with common links to the brain. The presence of continual pain is often linked to emotional changes.
Stress, Anxiety and Pain
The fight or flight response derived from a cortisol influx is the same for both stress and pain. The problem with pain is the stressor is internal, physically attached, and difficult to escape. Even when chronic pain is relieved, pain sufferers may still experience anxiety about the potential return of the pain.
Pain-Induced Depression
There is a strong link between pain and depression. The general consensus is that withdrawing from social interaction provides an environment needed to heal. Again, when the source of stress is pain, it is difficult to hide from it. This could evolve into a sense of loss of control and spiral into depression.
Body Awareness
Sometimes when the brain is continually activated by a pain response this can cause an increased pain tolerance. Likewise, it can also result in decreased pain tolerance. When pain tolerance is low, the body becomes more aware of every discomfort being experienced. A lower pain tolerance can cause even minor discomfort to become debilitating.
Cognitive Impact
Cognition is a complex function of the brain that involves learning and understanding through experience, thought, and sensory input. Several scientific studies note that continual pain can negatively impact cognitive function and cause changes in the brain.