Living with chronic pain after a serious injury, like the crushing of vertebrae from a car accident, can significantly impact daily life. While medicinal cannabis is known for its ability to alleviate various forms of pain, it’s the terpenes—the aromatic compounds in cannabis—that play a crucial role in managing pain, inflammation, and discomfort. Here’s an overview of the terpenes most commonly recommended for chronic pain relief, as well as different consumption methods and advice from budtenders.
Terpenes for Chronic Pain Relief
- Myrcene
Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis and is well-known for its sedative and muscle-relaxing properties. It is often recommended for people experiencing chronic pain, especially muscle pain or tension that comes with long-term discomfort. This terpene is also believed to enhance the overall effects of cannabinoids like THC, making it a good choice for those seeking stronger pain relief. - Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is unique because it interacts directly with the endocannabinoid system, similar to cannabinoids. It has strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it particularly beneficial for long-lasting pain, like the discomfort caused by spinal injuries. Many patients report a reduction in both physical pain and anxiety when using strains rich in caryophyllene. - Limonene
Known for its uplifting and mood-enhancing effects, limonene is also highly effective in reducing inflammation and muscle spasms. Although it’s less sedative than myrcene, limonene can be useful for those dealing with chronic pain while also seeking mental clarity and reduced anxiety, which can often accompany physical discomfort. - Linalool
Linalool is known for its calming and anti-anxiety effects, but it also provides significant pain relief. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for those dealing with nerve pain or joint pain from spinal injuries. Additionally, linalool promotes relaxation and can help improve sleep, which is crucial for anyone suffering from chronic pain.
Ways to Consume Cannabis for Pain Relief
There are several ways to consume cannabis for pain relief, and the choice depends on your preference and how quickly you need relief:
- Smoking or Vaporizing: Provides fast relief because the cannabinoids and terpenes are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream. Vaporizing is considered a healthier alternative to smoking because it reduces harmful byproducts of combustion.
- Tinctures and Oils: These can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) for fairly rapid relief without smoking. Tinctures allow for precise dosing and are often recommended for long-term pain management.
- Edibles: Although edibles take longer to provide relief (30 minutes to 2 hours), their effects last much longer than inhaled cannabis. This makes them ideal for managing persistent pain throughout the day or night.
- Topicals: Cannabis-infused creams, balms, and salves can be applied directly to painful areas, providing localized relief without the psychoactive effects. This is a popular option for those seeking to target specific areas of pain, such as the back or neck.
Budtender’s Recommendation
A knowledgeable budtender may recommend a strain like Blue Dream or Harlequin, both of which are high in myrcene and caryophyllene. These strains are known for their relaxing effects and pain-relieving properties without heavy sedation. If you’re seeking daytime relief with a bit more focus, a limonene-rich strain like Sour Diesel may be suggested. For nighttime use, a strain high in linalool, such as Granddaddy Purple, could help alleviate pain while promoting better sleep.
Always consult with a healthcare provider to ensure cannabis is safe and suitable for your condition.