CBD for Fibromyalgia

How to use CBD for Fibromyalgia

Many people who are suffering from fibromyalgia are looking for alternative therapies to treat their symptoms. Although research is still in its infancy regarding CBD and its effects on the condition, patients have reported that it has helped them with their pain management, sleep issues, anxiety, and overall quality of life. In regards to how to take CBD for fibromyalgia, there are three options- sublingually, topically, and/or orally.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a condition characterized by widespread pain, sleep disturbances and fatigue, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). It is also commonly associated with emotional and mental distress. Approximately four million (2%) of United States adults, the majority being women, are suffering from fibromyalgia, and while there is currently no cure, the condition can be effectively treated and managed.

Other symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

• • Pain throughout the body
  • Stiffness throughout the body
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Difficulty concentrating (often referred to as “fibro fog”
  • Memory problems
  • Headaches
  • Migraines
  • Restless leg syndrome
  • Sleep apnea
  • Digestive problems (IBS)

How To Take CBD for Fibromyalgia: Sublingual, Topical, and Oral Applications

It’s important to understand the pros and cons of each application method, especially regarding CBD bioavailability — the rate at which CBD enters your bloodstream.

1) Sublingual Application. As described, this involves using a dropper to place the oil under your tongue. Sublingual administration of CBD works by exposing the sublingual gland, a vein found under the tongue, to the CBD product. Leave the CBD oil under your tongue for 60-90 seconds until it’s absorbed. This allows CBD to enter the bloodstream more directly than if it were swallowed and subjected to the digestive system.

CBD edibles, like caramels, chocolates, or other candies, also work by way of sublingual application. When the candy is sucked on or allowed to melt in your mouth, CBD makes its way into the bloodstream through the sublingual gland.

2) Topical Application. Full spectrum CBD applied through use of products like CBD lotions and creams is particularly favorable for exercise recovery, athletes, and those managing conditions such as fibromyalgia. CBD topicals do not enter the bloodstream; instead they interact with receptors in the skin to relieve pain in the area they’re applied.

For this reason, they’re beneficial for those subject to drug testing, because the THC never reaches your bloodstream and therefore won’t flag a drug screening.

3) Oral Application: CBD can be taken orally by way of CBD capsules, much like your standard medication. CBD capsules are a convenient way to monitor dosage and avoid the taste and texture of CBD oils, which some people find unfavorable.

However, like all substances ingested orally, CBD capsules will not take effect immediately, because they have to travel through our digestive systems before entering our blood circulation. In addition, because capsules are subject to our metabolisms and digestive systems, they will be broken down in a way that lowers their bioavailability.

Research into the bioavailability of CBD suggests that products taken orally are associated with a bioavailability of less than 20%. What this means is, in order to attain the same level of relief, the concentration or dose of CBD products taken orally needs to be higher than what would be required if you took your CBD sublingually, for example.

How Much CBD Oil Should I Take for Fibromyalgia?

When it comes to finding the proper CBD dosage, it’s essential to start with the lowest effective amount to achieve your desired results.

A good starting point is 25mg of CBD per day, which is equivalent to one dropper of our 750mg extract. From there, you can gradually adjust the dosage—either increasing or decreasing—until you find the level that works best for you.

For those seeking relief from fibromyalgia pain, we recommend a combination of our Extra Strength CBD Extract and one of our three CBD lotions for optimal results.

We are dedicated to providing you with accurate and reliable information about the benefits of CBD. We encourage you to read our article on “5 Key Considerations When Buying CBD Oil” before making a purchase, and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.

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