The Swiss CBD selection
Pains
Explore our selection around the topic of pain. Compare formats, ingredients and concentrations; the guide covers useful information, limitations and precautions to consider before choosing.
Learn more and choose
CBD acts on pain through several mechanisms: reduction of inflammation, modulation of pain signals in the central and peripheral nervous system, and interaction with cannabinoid receptors involved in pain perception. Clinical evidence remains preliminary for most types of pain, but preclinical data and anecdotal reports are encouraging.
- Concentrated Full Spectrum Oils (20%, 25%, 30%, 45%): For pain, Full Spectrum is preferable to Broad Spectrum. The entourage effect between CBD, other cannabinoids, and terpenes produces a more complete analgesic effect. High concentrations allow therapeutic doses to be achieved without consuming large volumes.
- X-Strong 45%, Night Edition, Hypnos: The most concentrated formulations in the catalog, for chronic or intense pain. Night Edition and Hypnos combine CBD and CBN, with the latter having its own analgesic properties.
- Swiss Dream (CBN Special): CBN has shown analgesic properties in preclinical studies, particularly for muscle pain. This is why this concentrated CBN product is included in this selection despite its inhaled format.
- CBN Capsules: For a prolonged effect on chronic pain, especially at night. Oral intake offers an effect duration of 6 to 8 hours, particularly useful for pain that disrupts sleep.
- Muscle Pain Relief Cream 1500mg: Local application directly to the painful area. Effective for muscle pain, joint pain, and localized tension. The effect is local and fast (15 to 30 minutes), with no systemic effect.
How CBD Acts on Pain
CBD acts on pain through two main pathways. The first is anti-inflammatory: CBD inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduces the activation of immune cells that cause chronic inflammation. The second is neuronal: CBD modulates the activity of TRPV1 receptors involved in the transmission of pain signals, and interacts with CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system.
The strongest clinical evidence concerns neuropathic pain and pain associated with multiple sclerosis, where several controlled studies show a significant reduction. For chronic musculoskeletal, arthritic, and inflammatory pain, the data is encouraging but large-scale studies are still lacking.
CBN and Pain
CBN (cannabinol) is less known than CBD, but its analgesic properties are documented in preclinical studies. A study published in 2019 in Archives of Oral Biology showed that CBN reduced muscle pain sensitivity in rats, and that this effect was enhanced when CBN was combined with CBD. This is one of the few studies that suggests a specific synergy between these two cannabinoids on pain.
This is why Swiss Dream CBN Special and CBN Capsules are included in this pain selection, although they are primarily known for their effects on sleep. For chronic pain that also disrupts sleep, this dual effect is particularly interesting.
Approach According to Pain Type
Chronic daytime pain. Full Spectrum oil 20% or 25%, 2 to 3 times a day sublingually. Start at 15 mg per dose and gradually increase to 50 to 100 mg per dose depending on the response. The effect gradually sets in over 2 to 4 weeks of regular use.
Chronic nocturnal pain (that disrupts sleep). Night Edition or Hypnos oil (CBD + CBN) in the evening, or CBN Capsules 1 hour before bedtime. The CBD + CBN combination acts on both pain and sleep quality, as the two are often linked in chronic pain.
Intense or resistant pain. X-Strong 45% is the most concentrated formulation in the catalog. It allows high doses (100 to 200 mg per dose) to be achieved with a small volume. To be reserved for pain for which lower concentrations have not produced a satisfactory effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can CBD replace conventional painkillers (ibuprofen, paracetamol)?
No, not as a direct replacement. CBD has a different mechanism of action than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or analgesics like paracetamol. It can be used as a supplement to reduce the necessary dose of medication, but should not replace prescribed treatment without medical advice. If you are taking pain medication, inform your doctor.
Does CBD cream really work or is it a placebo effect?
Studies show that topically applied CBD penetrates the skin and reaches subcutaneous tissues, where CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors are found. Its local anti-inflammatory effect is documented preclinically. A clinical study published in 2020 in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology showed a reduction in arthritic pain with topical CBD application. The effect remains local: a cream does not have a systemic effect.
How long does it take for CBD to work on chronic pain?
For chronic pain, the effect of CBD gradually sets in over 2 to 4 weeks of regular intake. Unlike a conventional painkiller that acts in a few hours, CBD gradually alters how the nervous system processes pain. Patience and regularity are essential.
Is Full Spectrum really more effective than Broad Spectrum for pain?
Available data suggest that yes, the entourage effect produced by the combination of CBD, other cannabinoids, and terpenes is more effective for pain than isolated CBD or Broad Spectrum. A 2018 Israeli study on patients suffering from chronic pain showed that Full Spectrum produced a greater reduction in pain at lower doses than isolated CBD. That said, for individuals very sensitive to THC or subject to screening tests, Broad Spectrum remains a valid option.
Sources
- Vuckovic S, et al. Cannabinoids and Pain: New Insights From Old Molecules. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2018. PubMed.
- Hammell DC, et al. Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis. European Journal of Pain, 2016. PubMed.
- Wong H & Cairns BE. Cannabidiol, cannabinol and their combinations act as peripheral analgesics in a rat model of myofascial pain. Archives of Oral Biology, 2019. PubMed.
- Aviram J & Samuelly-Leichtag G. Efficacy of Cannabis-Based Medicines for Pain Management. Journal of Pain Research, 2017. PubMed.
This article is for informational and educational purposes. CBD is not a medical treatment for pain. For chronic or intense pain, consult a doctor.