In the United States, 24% of all adults have arthritis, making it the leading cause of work disability. There is no cure for this condition, but the high demand for a natural solution puts a spotlight on hemp products for relief.

The debate between CBD and THC is a hot topic, with many opinions and studies supporting both sides. Let’s take a look at how they compare in regards to arthritis and if there’s a product that can combine both worlds.

CBD for Arthritis

Arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can cause painful and uncomfortable symptoms. It should come as no surprise, then, that CBD’s natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties can aid a patient’s journey in finding relief.

A 2022 study for arthritis and joint pain found that CBD use was associated with improvements in pain, physical function, and sleep quality.

The Arthritis Foundation conducted a poll and found that 94% of the patients who used CBD were using it to relieve pain. Among the participants who are currently using CBD to manage arthritis symptoms, roughly 3 out of 4 reported that it was either effective or very effective in relieving several symptoms.

This includes improvement in physical function, relief from morning stiffness, better sleep, and help relieving fatigue.

THC for Arthritis

Like CBD, THC also has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. While THC and arthritis-related studies are limited, THC’s natural properties show great potential for a remedy.

Since both CBD and THC have similar beneficial properties, what makes one better than the other?

It’s not to say that one is better than the other; it all comes down to their side effects. Yep, we’re talking about THC’s psychoactive effects.

These effects act as either a bonus or a drawback, all depending on perspective. For individuals seeking to reduce inflammation and catch a nice buzz, then THC is the winner. 

For those wanting to reduce symptoms but aren’t interested in the high, CBD may be the right choice.

Full-Spectrum Products: The Best of Both Worlds?

The entourage effect is a theory that suggests that all the compounds in the hemp plant work together to maximize the benefits. It does so by mixing cannabinoids (such as CBD and THC), flavonoids, and terpenes.

Following this theory, a product that contains all of these compounds would be ideal for decreasing inflammation, relieving pain, and reducing arthritis-related symptoms.

This type of product has a name: full-spectrum. Full-spectrum products contain all the cannabinoids of the hemp plant, allowing CBD and THC to work together rather than compete for the title of “best.” 

While full-spectrum products contain THC, the legal limit is 0.3%. This small percentage permits benefits without the “high” associated with it.

CBD vs. THC for Arthritis: Which Is Right for Me?

Studies are still limited on CBD’s and THC’s role in managing symptoms. However, their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties show great potential for arthritis patients.

What it comes down to is what you want from your experience. As mentioned, THC’s psychoactive effects are what set it apart, meaning it’s a great option for those chasing a high and a not-so-great option for others who would rather avoid it.

And for those who want the benefits of the whole hemp plant without the high, we recommend our full-spectrum CBD oil. Our premium organic oil is available in four strengths and has been third-party tested for purity.

For topical relief, we recommend our CBD salve for chronic pain. Infused with eucalyptus, it was specially designed to reduce chronic pain and inflammation.