According to the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies, approximately 100 million Americans suffer from chronic pain, pain that lasts for weeks or months. This is often due to underlying medical conditions such as migraines, fibromyalgia, inflammation, or spinal injuries. With chronic pain comes the use of opioids, which can be addictive and extremely dangerous. In recent years there have been numerous clinical trials that prove marijuana reduces the intensity of chronic pain. In a study conducted by Dr. Kevin Hill from Harvard Medical School, six trials suggested that medical marijuana was an effective pain reliever in patients suffering from chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and multiple sclerosis.
Generally, cannabis strains with a high percentage of CBD and THC are most effective at pain relief. Ace of Spades is a great strain to try as it’s used for a wide range of medical symptoms including fibromyalgia and other chronic pain. Rich in CBN this strain will also give you a good night’s sleep. It is an Indica-dominant cross between Black Cherry Soda and Jack the Ripper. Consumers can expect a deep, full-body relaxation followed by sedation thanks to the CBN.
Considerations in Choosing a Strain
When figuring out which strain is the best option for soothing your pain, it’s important to consider what time of the day you’re planning on using the cannabis product, what kind of pain you’re experiencing, and the level of psychoactivity you’re comfortable experiencing. Patients who use cannabis for their chronic pain often choose different strains based on the time on the time of day they plan on taking it. During the day, it is best to use a low THC and high CBD variety whereas, in the evening, a higher THC strain can aid in pain relief.
It is also important to consider different administration methods when thinking about using cannabis for pain management. For example, vaporizing your marijuana will allow for quicker pain relief whereas oils may process slightly slower but maintain pan relief for longer. Like using any other cannabis product, it is important to consider that each patient is different, and choosing the right strain for pain relief will take trial and error, what works for someone else, may not work for you. Here are some great strains to try for chronic pain relief.
Best Strains for Chronic Pain
OG Kush gives a hard-hitting cerebral high with body-melting physical effects. This is a great strain for those looking to unwind, combat nausea, pain, or loss of appetite. Arguably the most well-known cannabis strain, OG Kush is an Indica-dominant hybrid with high levels of THC. The THC concentration ranges from 20-25% This strain can be extremely effective for pain relief, but users will often experience high levels of psychoactivity due it the THC and little CBD in the strain. Patients who choose to give this strain a try are advised to start with a low dosage and work their way up to find the perfect amount for their individualized pain. OG Kush is best to be consumed in the evening as it can aid with insomnia as well.
Cherry Pie offers a sweet smell and flavor that’ll leave you feeling relaxed and happy. Consumers love Cherry Pie for its euphoric, uplifting, and pain-relieving effects. When smoking this strain expect a cerebral high that will progress into full-body relaxation. Its mood-boosting effects and physical qualities help medical cannabis users suffering from stress, depression, or chronic pain, it can also help you get a good night’s sleep.
