Trigeminal neuralgia is a nerve condition that mainly affects the fifth cranial nerve and the condition is also called tic douloureux. Three branches of the fifth cranial nerve connect the brain and face. When the trigeminal nerve is crushed, it causes facial pain. Discomfort can interfere with daily tasks and drastically diminish one’s quality of life. As a result, many people with trigeminal neuralgia also experience despair, insomnia, and anxiety.
Severe face pain is the most common symptom of trigeminal neuralgia. Most patients describe it as a sharp pain in the jaw, teeth, and gums that feels like an electric shock. Typically, these symptoms only impact one side of the face. Both sides of the face are occasionally affected, but not always around the same time.
CBD For Trigeminal Neuralgia
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the most popular natural health supplements on the market today. It’s one of the numerous active ingredients discovered in marijuana plants. CBD, unlike THC, does not make you high. It does, however, have a wide variety of physical and psychological properties. CBD’s ability to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system is principally responsible for these effects.
CBD increases the levels of natural endocannabinoids in the body. This approach can help patients with inflammation and pain by increasing the activity of the ECS. It also has neuroprotective properties, which means it could help prevent the damage of nerve cells. There are only a few studies on CBD and trigeminal neuralgia. There is limited evidence, however, that it can help with neuropathic pain. According to a 2008 study, these chemicals have “great potential” in the treatment of neuropathy.
CBD For Anxiety Associated With Trigeminal Neuralgia
Many people with trigeminal neuralgia experience anxiety, depression, and sleep problems as a result of the severe nature of the condition. Fortunately, CBD oil can aid in this area as well. CBD possesses antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects, according to a 2014 study published in CNS and Neurological Disorders Drug Targets.
Studies have found that CBD can raise the levels of anandamide, a type of endocannabinoid found in the body. CBD may also promote healthy sleeping habits, according to a 2019 study published in The Permanente Journal. Of the 72 people who took part in the study, 57 had lower anxiety levels and 48 had better sleep.