Français
English
Deutsch
In Switzerland, approximately two million people suffer from rheumatic pain, according to the Swiss League Against Rheumatism. Among these conditions, osteoarthritis and arthritis are particularly widespread, affecting individuals of all ages. These diseases cause joint pain, stiffness, and chronic inflammation, making daily activities more difficult.
Given the limitations of conventional treatments, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics, many patients are turning to natural alternatives. Among these, cannabidiol (CBD) is generating increasing interest for managing joint pain. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, CBD could help better control chronic inflammation by acting on the endocannabinoid system, a key mechanism in pain modulation.
Available in various forms — oils, capsules, topical balms, or flowers and resins — CBD integrates easily into daily life. But how do you choose the right product? What dosage should you adopt? This article explores in detail the role of CBD in the treatment of osteoarthritis and arthritis, the available options, and precautions to consider.
If you’re looking for an effective alternative to soothe your joints and improve mobility, here’s everything you need to know!
⚠️Warning: Please note that CBD-based products are not medications and do not replace medical treatment in any way. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. Always consult your doctor before using CBD, especially if you are taking other medications. The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The CBD oils sold at uWeed in Switzerland are not made to be ingested: take the time to read the instructions on the packaging and observe the warnings provided.
Table Of Contents on CBD for osteoarthritis and arthritis
- Osteoarthritis vs Arthritis: What Are the Differences?
- What is CBD and How Does it Work in Your Body?
- Is CBD Effective for Arthritis and Osteoarthritis?
- Which CBD Products to Choose for Arthritis?
- How to Use CBD for Arthritis?
- CBD and Arthritis: What Precautions Should You Take?
- Why Buy Your CBD for Arthritis on uWeed?
Osteoarthritis vs Arthritis: What Are the Differences?
Osteoarthritis and arthritis are two joint diseases often confused, but their causes and effects are quite distinct. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease related to cartilage wear, while arthritis is an inflammatory disease that directly affects the joints and can be of autoimmune origin.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis mainly affects older people and develops progressively over time. It causes joint pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility, particularly in the knees, hips, and fingers. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.
Arthritis
Arthritis, on the other hand, can occur at any age and includes different forms such as rheumatoid arthritis, a disease where the immune system attacks the joints. Inserm (French National Institute of Health and Medical Research) states that inflammatory arthritis affects about 1% of the population and is often accompanied by swelling, redness, and chronic inflammation.
What Are the Main Causes and Symptoms?
The causes of osteoarthritis and arthritis vary depending on the type of pathology. While osteoarthritis mainly results from progressive cartilage wear, arthritis is often of inflammatory or autoimmune origin.
The main causes of osteoarthritis
- Cartilage wear: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease due to the progressive deterioration of cartilage.
- Advanced age: The risk increases with age, due to the decreased ability of cartilage to regenerate.
- Hormonal factors: According to Inserm, women are more affected after menopause due to hormonal variations.
- Overweight and obesity: Excessive pressure on the joints promotes cartilage wear.
- Genetic factors: Certain hereditary predispositions increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
📌 Symptoms of osteoarthritis:
- Chronic pain that intensifies with physical activity.
- Morning stiffness that improves after a few movements.
- Reduced mobility, making certain everyday gestures more difficult.
The main causes of arthritis:
- Autoimmune disease: Some forms, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are due to an immune system dysfunction.
- Infections: Bacteria or viruses can cause persistent joint inflammation.
- Genetic factors: A hereditary predisposition may influence the onset of certain forms of arthritis.
📌 Symptoms of arthritis:
- Persistent pain, often even at rest
- Intense inflammation, with swelling and redness of the joint
- Sensation of warmth in the affected join
- Joint deformities: The WHO indicates that certain forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can lead to irreversible damage in the long term.
Traditional Treatments: What Are Their Limitations?
Traditional treatments for osteoarthritis and arthritis mainly include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), analgesics, as well as physiotherapy sessions to improve mobility. In some advanced cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery (joint replacement) may be necessary.
However, according to the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines (ANSM), prolonged use of NSAIDs can lead to side effects such as digestive disorders, increased cardiovascular risk, and kidney damage. Analgesics, especially opioids, are associated with a risk of dependency.
Faced with these limitations, more and more people are turning to natural solutions, including CBD (cannabidiol), which could offer an interesting alternative thanks to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Full-spectrum CBD oil, CBD capsules, or CBD balms act on the endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in managing pain and inflammation.
Unlike THC, CBD does not cause psychotropic effects, making it an attractive option for people suffering from joint pain. Clinical studies, particularly those published by the Arthritis Foundation, suggest that CBD could help reduce pain and improve mobility in some people with osteoarthritis and arthritis.
What is CBD and How Does it Work in Your Body?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound extracted from hemp, belonging to the cannabinoid family. Unlike THC, it does not cause psychotropic effects and is appreciated for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Its action is based on its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors involved in managing pain and inflammation. This explains its growing interest in alleviating joint pain related to osteoarthritis and arthritis.
Available in the form of CBD oil, capsules, or balms, it adapts to different needs. But how exactly does it work and what are the differences between its forms?
What is Cannabidiol (CBD)?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the many cannabinoids present in hemp. It interacts with the human body’s endocannabinoid system, a network involved in regulating multiple biological functions, notably pain management, inflammation, and the nervous system.
Many people are interested in CBD as an alternative to traditional anti-inflammatories, particularly to relieve conditions such as osteoarthritis and arthritis. Whether in the form of CBD oil, capsules, or balms, its use is gaining popularity among people seeking a natural solution for their quality of life.
📌 Everything you need to know about CBD: CBD is used in various fields, from chronic pain management to muscle recovery, and is attracting growing interest in the medical world.
What Role Does the Endocannabinoid System Play in Joint Pain?
The endocannabinoid system is a complex network of receptors located throughout the body, particularly in the brain, immune system, and joints. Its main role is to maintain homeostasis, that is, the biological balance of the body.
When inflammation occurs, as is the case in arthritis and osteoarthritis, the endocannabinoid system intervenes to limit pain and modulate the inflammatory response. CBD interacts with this system by stimulating CB1 and CB2 receptors, thus helping to reduce joint pain and stiffness.
Research on the endocannabinoid system shows that cannabinoids, including CBD, could play a role in the treatment of joint diseases as a complement to traditional solutions.
What’s the Difference Between Full-Spectrum, Broad-Spectrum and Isolate CBD?
CBD comes in several forms, each with specific characteristics and effects.
Full-spectrum CBD
Contains all the cannabinoids present in hemp, including traces of THC (less than 1%), as well as terpenes and flavonoids. It is known for its entourage effect, which enhances the action of the different components.
Broad-spectrum CBD
Similar to full-spectrum, but without THC. It retains the other cannabinoids and terpenes, allowing for an enhanced action without the effects of THC.
CBD isolate
The purest form, containing only cannabidiol, without other cannabinoids or terpenes. Ideal for those who want to avoid any trace of THC.
📌 Guide to CBD types: To choose the best option, it’s essential to understand their differences and adapt the choice according to needs, whether for pain management, wellness, or natural treatments.
Is CBD Effective for Arthritis and Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis and arthritis cause chronic joint pain and inflammation that affect mobility and quality of life. Many people are seeking alternatives to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics, notably because of their long-term side effects. CBD (cannabidiol) is attracting growing interest as a natural solution to alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Several scientific studies have examined the subject:
- In 2017, Philpott, O’Brien, and McDougall published in Pain the study “Attenuation of early phase inflammation by cannabidiol prevents pain and nerve damage in rat osteoarthritis“, which demonstrates that the use of CBD can reduce joint inflammation and improve mobility in animal models suffering from osteoarthritis.
- Another research conducted by Hammell et al. (2016), published in European Journal of Pain under the title “Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis“, revealed that the local application of CBD in gel form could effectively decrease joint pain, without notable side effects.
- In 2020, Xu et al. highlighted in Frontiers in Pharmacology through their study “Targeting the Endocannabinoid System for Pain Management: Pharmacological Strategies and Therapeutic Perspectives” that the endocannabinoid system plays a key role in pain management, paving the way for the use of cannabinoids as an alternative to conventional treatments.
Does CBD Help with Joint Pain?
CBD acts as a natural analgesic, influencing the receptors of the endocannabinoid system involved in pain management. Unlike anti-inflammatories, it does not present a risk of dependency or major undesirable effects.
📌 Which CBD for joint pain? Full-spectrum CBD oils and CBD capsules are often preferred, as they allow for a progressive diffusion and a prolonged effect. CBD balms are also popular for targeted local application.
Does CBD Have Anti-inflammatory Effects?
The anti-inflammatory properties of cannabidiol are increasingly being studied, particularly in relation to joint diseases. In 2018, Bergamaschi et al. published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research the study “Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol, a Cannabis sativa Constituent“, which shows that CBD reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thus contributing to the relief of symptoms related to osteoarthritis and arthritis.
📌CBD and inflammation: Unlike NSAIDs, which aggressively inhibit inflammation, CBD acts by modulating the immune system’s response, which could be beneficial for people suffering from autoimmune arthritis.
Note : The effects mentioned in this table are based on current research, but need to be confirmed by large-scale clinical studies to fully establish the efficacy and safety of CBD compared to traditional anti-inflammatories.
How Does it Affect Joint Mobility?
Osteoarthritis and arthritis lead to a loss of mobility due to joint pain and stiffness. CBD could promote recovery by reducing these symptoms and improving joint flexibility.
In 2019, Vuong et al. published in Journal of Experimental Medicine the study “The anti-inflammatory effects of cannabidiol in experimental models of arthritis“, which demonstrates that CBD stimulates the production of synovial fluid, the liquid that lubricates the joints and prevents cartilage wear.
What is the Role of the Entourage Effect and Other Cannabinoids (CBG, CBN)?
The entourage effect is a phenomenon whereby the different cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids present in hemp act in synergy to optimize their benefits.
CBG (cannabigerol):
recognized for its anti-inflammatory effect, it could be an ally in managing joint pain.
CBN (cannabinol):
possesses relaxing properties and could promote recovery in case of joint stiffness.
Full-spectrum CBD oils, which contain these cannabinoids, are often recommended to fully benefit from the entourage effect and enhance the action of CBD against osteoarthritis and arthritis
Which CBD Products to Choose for Arthritis?
CBD (cannabidiol) comes in several formats, each with its advantages for relieving joint pain and improving the quality of life for people suffering from osteoarthritis and arthritis. Whether in the form of oils, balms, capsules, or Swiss CBD flowers, each product has a specific action and intensity of effects.
The choice depends on several criteria: the speed of action, the duration of effects, ease of use, and the ideal time for taking or application. Here is a comparison of the main options available.
CBD Oil: Which is Right for Your Needs?
Organic CBD oils are ideal for local application on painful areas. In addition to their effects on joint pain, they can also contribute to skin hydration, especially if they are enriched with vegetable oils such as hemp oil or argan oil. Some formulations also include essential oils with soothing properties to reinforce the action of cannabidiol.
📌 Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate?
The choice between full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate CBD depends on individual needs. Full-spectrum oils contain all cannabinoids and terpenes, promoting the entourage effect. Broad-spectrum offers a THC-free alternative, while isolates guarantee maximum purity with only cannabidiol.
👉 To be applied morning and evening on the affected joints, gently massaging to facilitate absorption.
CBD Balms: Perfect for Targeted Application?
Balms offer direct local application on painful joints. Our complete collection of CBD balms includes formulas enriched with essential oils and cannabinoids, optimizing their effect on inflammation and stiffness.
💡 Why choose a balm?
- Targeted action directly on the skin
- Warming or cooling effect depending on the formulation
- Easy to apply several times a day
👉 To be massaged on painful areas morning, noon, and evening depending on the intensity of pain.
CBD Capsules: Convenient and Effective?
Hemp capsules with high CBD content are an ideal solution for those seeking discreet use and precise dosage. They are often preferred by those who wish to integrate CBD into a daily routine.
📌 Advantages of capsules:
✔ Prolonged effect up to 8 hours
✔ Standardized and precise dosage
✔ Easy to transport and consume
👉 Recommended for regular use in the morning and during the day for continuous management of chronic pain.
CBD Flowers and Resins for Fast Effects
Swiss CBD flowers and CBD cannabis resins are perfect for those seeking an immediate effect. Thanks to their richness in cannabinoids and terpenes, they are appreciated for their soothing properties.
📌 Why opt for flowers or resins?
- Effect in 5 to 10 minutes, ideal for acute pain
- Wide choice of varieties with different CBD content
- Suitable for vaporization or infusion
👉 To be preferred during the day or evening depending on needs and mode of use.
How to Use CBD for Arthritis?
The use of CBD to relieve joint pain related to osteoarthritis depends on several factors, including dosage, frequency of use, and the time of action of cannabidiol. To optimize its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, it is essential to choose the adapted form and adopt a progressive dosage.
What Cannabidiol Dosage is Effective for Pain?
The ideal CBD dosage varies according to body weight, the severity of joint pain, and individual response to cannabidiol. Unlike non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which have a fixed dosage, CBD requires a personalized approach.
👉 It is recommended to start with a low dose and increase progressively according to needs and felt effects.
How Often Should You Use CBD to Combat Arthritis?
The effect of CBD depends on the regularity of use. Unlike some analgesics, cannabidiol acts progressively by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which implies continuous use for an optimal effect.
📌 Recommended frequency of use:
✔ Morning and evening for regular use with CBD capsules
✔ Local application 2 to 3 times a day with a CBD balm
✔ Vaporization or infusion during the day for quick relief in case of painful flare-up👉 Daily use is recommended for lasting results on osteoarthritis and joint inflammation.
When Will You Feel the Effects of CBD?
The effects of CBD can appear in a few minutes or require several days of regular use depending on the mode of administration and individual sensitivity.
📌 Estimated time window according to product type:
- CBD balms and oils: effects felt in 15 to 30 minutes
- CBD capsules and infusions: action in 30 min to 1 h, prolonged effect
- CBD flowers and resins (vaporization): quick action in 5 to 10 minutes
- Cumulative effects: notable improvement after 7 to 14 days of regular use
💡 Note: The effect of CBD is progressive. Continuous use allows for better management of chronic pain in the long term.
CBD and Arthritis: What Precautions Should You Take?
The use of CBD to relieve osteoarthritis is generally well tolerated, but it is essential to take certain points into account before integrating cannabidiol into a pain management routine. Like any active product, it can cause side effects, be subject to specific regulations, and interact with other medicinal treatments.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
CBD is known for its high tolerance profile, but some people may experience slight and temporary reactions, especially when they start or adjust their dosage.
📌 Most common side effects:
- Dry mouth
- Mild fatigue or drowsiness
- Change in appetite
- Transient digestive disorders (rare)
Although these effects remain moderate, it is recommended to start with a progressive dosage in order to observe your body’s reaction. Besides, CBD can have some minor side effects, particularly when taken at a high dose or associated with other substances.
👉 To limit these effects, it is advised to adapt the dosage progressively and to prefer quality products, tested in laboratory.
Is CBD Legal in Switzerland and France?
The regulation of CBD varies according to countries and legal classifications associated with hemp-based products.
📌 Legality in Switzerland:
✔ CBD is legal in Switzerland, as long as the THC content does not exceed 1%
✔ Oils and other extracts are considered as cosmetics or products for technical use, but not as food supplements
📌 Legality in France:
✔ CBD is authorized in France provided that the product contains less than 0.3% THC
✔ CBD oils are considered as food supplements, they can therefore be consumed orally.
Even if CBD is legal in Switzerland, it cannot be marketed as a food supplement to be ingested, which impacts the usage recommendations for certain CBD oils.
👉 It is therefore essential to check the labeling and compliance of products before purchase.
CBD Interactions with Other Medications
CBD acts on the endocannabinoid system, but also on certain liver enzymes involved in drug metabolism. It can therefore influence the effectiveness of certain treatments.
📌 Medications most concerned by an interaction with CBD and other medications:
✔ Anticoagulants
✔ Antihypertensives
✔ Immunosuppressants
✔ Antidepressants and anxiolytics
It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before combining CBD with a medical treatment, particularly to avoid any interaction between CBD and other medications that could modify their absorption or effect.
Why Buy Your CBD for Arthritis on uWeed?
Finding quality CBD to relieve joint pain and improve well-being is essential. All quality CBD products in Switzerland are available on the uWeed website, ensuring a rigorous selection of the best references adapted to people suffering from osteoarthritis and arthritis.
uWeed offers a wide range of CBD oils, balms, capsules, and CBD cannabis resins, all laboratory tested and compliant with Swiss and French standards. These products are selected for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, promoting better pain management.
📌 Why choose uWeed?
✔ Large choice of products: oils, balms, capsules, infusions, and resins
✔ Guaranteed quality: laboratory-tested products and ensured traceability
✔ Compliant with Swiss regulations
✔ Expert customer service to help you find the CBD suited to your needs
✔ Fast and discreet delivery in Switzerland and Europe
✔ Verified customer reviews for a shopping experience with complete confidence
By ordering from uWeed, you have the assurance of tested, certified CBD that complies with regulations.
FAQ on CBD and Arthritis
Can CBD Replace My Arthritis Medications?
CBD cannot replace prescribed medications for osteoarthritis, but it can be used as a complement to help manage joint pain and inflammation. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic action can be interesting to reduce dependence on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which can cause long-term side effects. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before modifying a medicinal treatment.
How Long Does it Take to Feel the Effects of CBD?
The effects of CBD can appear between 5 minutes and 14 days, depending on the mode of administration and regularity of use. CBD cannabis flowers and resins, when inhaled, offer relief in 5 to 10 minutes, while CBD oils applied to the skin act in 15 to 30 minutes. CBD capsules and infusions take more time, between 30 minutes and 1 hour, with a prolonged effect. For a lasting improvement in joint pain and chronic inflammation, regular use for 7 to 14 days is often necessary.
What CBD Concentration to Choose for Joint Pain?
The ideal CBD concentration is generally between 5 and 50 mg per day, depending on the level of pain and individual tolerance. A low dose (5-10 mg/day) may be suitable for mild pain, while chronic pain often requires a higher concentration, between 30 and 50 mg/day. Full-spectrum CBD oils, which contain different cannabinoids, are often recommended for their entourage effect, maximizing the benefits of cannabidiol on joint inflammation.
Are Other Cannabinoids Effective Against Arthritis?
Yes, other cannabinoids such as CBG and CBN could also play a role in managing osteoarthritis. Some studies suggest that the effects of CBG include anti-inflammatory properties and action on the immune system, potentially beneficial for autoimmune forms such as rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, the benefits of CBN are often associated with muscle relaxation and recovery, which could help reduce stiffness and improve the quality of life for people suffering from chronic pain.
