Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection that affects the nerve roots of the body. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains inactive in the body’s nerve tissues, and later, when the immune system weakens with age, illness, or stress, it can reactivate and cause shingles.
The symptoms of shingles include pain, burning, tingling, and itching in a specific area of the body, followed by the appearance of a rash that turns into fluid-filled blisters. The rash usually appears on one side of the body, often in a band-like pattern along a nerve pathway, such as on the torso, face, or neck.
Shingles can be very painful, and in some cases, the pain can last for months or even years after the rash has healed. This is known as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and can be particularly problematic in older adults.
Shingles can be prevented by getting vaccinated with the shingles vaccine, which is recommended for all adults over the age of 50, even if they have had shingles before. The vaccine can also reduce the risk of developing PHN if shingles does occur.
There is no cure for shingles, but antiviral medications can help shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the severity of symptoms, especially if started early in the course of the illness. Pain medications, topical creams, and lotions can also be used to manage symptoms.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant. It is one of more than 100 different cannabinoids, which are compounds that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects that are commonly associated with marijuana use. This means that CBD does not cause a “high” or altered state of consciousness. However, it may still have therapeutic effects.
CBD is believed to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps to regulate a wide range of bodily functions, including appetite, sleep, mood, and pain sensation. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, CBD may be able to influence these functions in various ways.
There is some evidence to suggest that CBD may be effective in treating certain medical conditions including epilepsy, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain. CBD is available in a variety of forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, and topical creams. The appropriate dosage of CBD varies depending on factors such as the individual’s weight, the condition being treated, and the specific product being used.
In this article, we shall be taking an in depth look at the use of CBD for shingles and whether it helps.
Does CBD Help With Shingles?
There is limited scientific evidence to support the use of CBD for shingles, but some studies suggest that it may have potential therapeutic benefits for certain symptoms associated with the condition.
The pain associated with shingles is often described as intense, burning, or stabbing, and it can last for weeks or months even after the rash has cleared up. This is known as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and can be particularly problematic in older adults.
CBD has been shown to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it a potential treatment option for shingles-related pain and inflammation. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Pain Research found that topical CBD may be effective in reducing pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Another study published in the European Journal of Pain in 2020 found that CBD may reduce neuropathic pain in patients with peripheral neuropathy.
CBD may also have potential benefits for anxiety and stress, which can be triggers for shingles outbreaks. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that CBD may reduce symptoms of anxiety in people with anxiety disorders.
It is important to note, however, that the research on the use of CBD for shingles is still in its early stages, and more studies are needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using CBD for this condition. Additionally, there may be potential interactions with other medications, so it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using CBD.
In summary, while there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of CBD for shingles, some studies suggest that it may have potential therapeutic benefits for certain symptoms associated with the condition, such as pain and inflammation. More research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using CBD for shingles, and it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using CBD, as it may interact with other medications.
