When CBD started getting popular, one of its most common uses was for pain.
Anecdotally, people dealing with muscle pain, fibromyalgia, or arthritis pain, prefer getting their CBD through inhalation. CBD flower provides a natural, fast-acting, and efficient way of managing physical discomfort compared to oils and edibles.
Here’s everything you need to know about using CBD flower for pain and a comparison of the best hemp flower strains.
Last Update: July 8, 2023
Article Summary
- CBD hemp flower is a natural way to aid physical discomfort. It’s considered safer and with fewer side effects than opioids and NSAIDs.
- CBD flower is rich in cannabinoids, including CBD, CBC, THC, and others. Cannabinoids impact the endocannabinoid system, a network of neurotransmitters that regulates sleep, mood, memory, and pain perception.
- The therapeutic properties of terpenes and cannabinoids are amplified when the compounds are used together, according to the “entourage effect.”
- Our top three recommended strains for pain relief are Bubba Kush (14% CBD), Crunch Berries (13.61% CBD), and Lava Cake (11.9% CBD). Other CBD flower strains that we recommend for pain management are Cheese (17.8% CBD), Hawaiian Haze (13.55% CBD), and Northern Lights (12.74% CBD).
- Both indica and sativa CBD flower strains can be beneficial for pain management. You just need to find what works for you and adjust your use accordingly.
- When buying CBD flowers for pain, the strain’s terpene profile, product quality, and cannabinoid levels should be considered. Terpenes like myrcene, b-caryophyllene, limonene, and a-pinene are desirable, and a moderate to high CBD concentration is advisable.
Top Three CBD Hemp Flower Strains for Pain Relief
These are our top three suggestions on CBD flower for pain based on reviews, their cannabinoid and terpene profiles.
1. Bubba Kush CBD Hemp Flower
Bubba Kush’s genetics come from the famed Kush family. An outstanding cultivar, this CBD flower has around 14% CBD, which makes it a great option for easing aches and pains. It offers an earthy flavor profile that sets it apart and a lush aroma that melds earthy and woodsy tones.
This strain presents a rich terpene profile and less than 0.3% THC, which could potentially provide additional therapeutic benefits. Structurally, this hemp flower presents semi-dense buds that are heavy with terpenes, enhancing the flower’s flavor and therapeutic properties.
Users love Bubba Kush CBD flower because it induces a tranquil state that helps them unwind after a long day. Its comforting effects make it an excellent companion for people seeking relief from pain and discomfort.
Great product
“I have to say I really enjoyed the relaxing feeling I felt from smoking the Bubba Kush. I suffer from arthritis in my knee and It relaxed me to the point where I had a nice sleep. I will order again. Thank You!”
2. Crunch Berries CBD Hemp Flower
Crunch Berries CBD hemp flower is a powerful fusion of two cannabis titans, Blueberry and Triple OG. It’s mostly recognized for its unique combination of terpenes and its soothing properties that help with physical discomfort.
Crunch Berries has a flavor profile that’s reminiscent of sugary berries with skunky undertones. This CBD flower contains 13.61% CBD and less than 0.3% THC and is an indica-dominant strain based on its effects. Crunch Berries CBD flower makes an ideal choice for evening use because it enables a sense of tranquility.
The strain’s terpene profile features myrcene, caryophyllene, humulene, and pinene, which add depth to its therapeutic properties. It promotes a boost in mood and may induce a mild, pleasing appetite stimulation. Using this strain provides a well-rounded feeling of calm and a potent solution for users looking for a break from discomfort and stress.
Yum
“This flower is awesome, from the crunch to the berries, great taste, great FEELS, great smells. Can’t wait to buy more!”
3. Lava Cake CBD Hemp Flower
Lava Cake CBD hemp flower is a boutique, indica-dominant variety that inherits its genetics from Grape Pie and Thin Mint Cookies. It boasts dense buds cloaked in sticky trichomes that give a delightful interplay of spicy and sweet flavors.
This hemp flower strain may entice your senses with its dessert-like flavor and aroma, but it’s the soothing effects that make it truly exceptional. This strain contains 11.9% CBD, complemented by cannabichromene (CBC) and THC.
The potency of the Lava Cake hemp flower is visible through its ability to alleviate pain and discomfort. Lava Cake induces a comforting, full-bodied relaxation, making it the ideal evening strain for physical relief and mental tranquility. Users love this hemp flower because it’s an excellent choice for managing physical discomfort without drowsiness.
Love it!
“Smells fantastic, tastes great too! For me, it tastes like hash. Very relaxing effect, pain relief and happy mood! I was bummed that Gorilla Glue is gone but this is even better so I’m one happy camper!! Will definitely be buying more of this strain!”
More CBD Hemp Flower Strains for Pain
Mr. Hemp Flower offers a large selection of CBD flower strains for alleviating pain, so here are a few more:
1. Cheese CBD Hemp Flower
With its signature tart scent, Cheese CBD Hemp Flower is a leading choice for users seeking non-THC pathways to ultimate relaxation. This indica-dominant CBD flower is grown indoors and is celebrated for its ability to produce a sense of calm and serenity.
With a notable CBD concentration of 17.8%, Cheese hemp flower is an excellent option for natural relief from aches and pains. What truly sets this strain apart, however, is its high myrcene content, at 0.7%.
Myrcene is known for its potential analgesic properties and its ability to synergize with CBD [1]. As your body sinks into the couch, Cheese gently dulls discomfort, allowing you to take a break from the constant battle.
2. Hawaiian Haze CBD Flower
The Hawaiian Haze CBD hemp flower delivers a sativa experience, fostering an engaging and sociable mood that makes it an excellent choice for daytime use. High in CBD, this classic strain is full of therapeutic potential, especially when it comes to alleviating aches and pains.
Its potency is amplified by an excellent terpene profile consisting of pinene (0.11%), myrcene (0.22%), and limonene (0.02%). Myrcene is known as a “sedative” terpene that helps the user relax and let go of discomfort, while limonene is known for its potential to reduce stress.
Hawaiian Haze will give you the ability to engage in conversations and activities with renewed enthusiasm. Because it’s a non-intoxicating daytime strain, Hawaiian Haze allows you to enjoy social situations without drowsiness.
3. Northern Lights CBD Hemp Flower
Northern Lights CBD Flower’s comforting and mood-boosting properties make it the ideal evening strain for physical relief. This hemp flower presents an exquisite blend of sweet, pungent aromas and a hint of spice lingering on the palate when smoked.
Boasting a CBD content of 12.74%, this hemp flower is designed to ease muscle tension, soothe aches and pains, and help with stress management. Its terpene profile includes myrcene (0.12%), caryophyllene (0.19%), and pinene (0.14%), which add to its calming effects.
Myrcene enhances the mood and mitigates stress, caryophyllene offers comfort to the body and soul, while pinene gives the experience an invigorating aspect. As a result, Northern Lights CBD hemp flower introduces an overall serene environment, setting the stage for peaceful sleep
CBD Hemp Flower For Pain Relief
Why use hemp flower for pain?
Hemp flower is the safest and most natural alternative to alleviating chronic pain compared to traditional treatments. Even if used in higher dosage and for a long period of time, hemp is considered safe, with minor to no side effects.
Opioid prescription medications and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the two treatments available to millions of people living with debilitating chronic pain. But, if used long-term, NSAIDs can have severe side effects on the user, including addiction, heart disease, and stroke.
Compared to traditional medications, hemp doesn’t cause addiction (in fact, research shows that it can help a person to manage and overcome addiction) and can be effective in relieving pain and inflammation.
The Science Behind CBD Flower and Pain Relief
Hemp compounds such as CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids affect the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a vast network of neurotransmitters that regulate sleep, memory, mood, and how we experience pain.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most popular cannabinoids in hemp. Research shows that CBD has the potential to help people manage physical discomfort [2].
CBD could reduce inflammation and affect the receptors and molecules in the endocannabinoid system. Studies have shown that THC and CBD can have up to twenty times more potent anti-inflammatory effects compared to NSAIDs [3].
But CBD flower is more than just “CBD.” It’s a beautiful combination of unique natural components that have therapeutic potential. Combined, hemp’s compounds are far more therapeutic than taken separately — at least, according to the theory of the entourage effect.
The entourage effect is a theory that describes how “whole plant” products, like CBD flower, are more effective and work synergistically to increase the product’s potency compared to each compound on its own [4].
Indica vs. Sativa CBD Flower Strain for Pain?
Finding the right CBD flower strain for pain is less about “indica” and “sativa” and more about what would personally work for you.
Anecdotal evidence shows that indica strains with higher levels of myrcene are better for pain because of their highly relaxing effects. Indicas are more suitable for evening use due to their sedating features that will induce a sense of calm and dull physical discomfort.
Sativas are more suitable for daytime use, and some users consider them more useful due to their potential to uplift mood and boost energy.
The best advice is to try various different CBD flower strains and see which terpene and cannabinoid profile works best for you.
Best Hemp Flower Products for Pain Management
Deciding on the most suitable hemp flower product for pain reduction depends on your personal preferences and needs. Here are some options you may consider:
Full Spectrum CBD Oil, Gummies, and Capsules
Many avoid using hemp pre-rolls, because of their bad reputation, so you can instead stick to CBD hemp oil, gummies, or capsules.
To enhance effectiveness, opt for broad-spectrum or full-spectrum CBD products over CBD isolates. Full spectrum CBD products retain more of the plant’s beneficial compounds. Keep in mind that oral CBD takes some time to kick in, but once activated, the duration of relief is typically extended.
You can try our PCR hemp oil or range of full spectrum gummies.
Ready-to-Use Hemp Pre-Rolls
For many, CBD pre-rolls are the best alternative for pain management.
Hemp pre-rolls are affordable and easy to use, which makes them a very popular alternative to rolling your own hemp flower. The best thing about pre-rolls is that they kick in almost instantly, and you’ll be able to feel the effects of the hemp flower immediately.
Finding good hemp pre-rolls in a nearby dispensary can be hard, so you can easily order yours online from Mr. Hemp Flower.
Vaping CBD Hemp Flower
Purchasing fresh, organic hemp flower allows you the freedom to dry it and craft your own blunt or utilize it in a vape.
Both vaping and smoking hemp flower facilitate the most efficient absorption of CBD into your bloodstream, resulting in the quickest pain management effects relative to other consumption methods.
Exploring Hemp Flower Essential Oil
For enthusiasts of essential oils, hemp flower essential oil presents an appealing option. Simply incorporate it into an aromatherapy oil diffuser and savor its therapeutic benefits.
This method also promotes a peaceful atmosphere, which could further aid in managing pain-related stress and anxiety.
What to Look for When Buying CBD Hemp Flower for Pain
Indicators such as the hemp flower’s terpene profile, levels of CBD and THC, the quality of the product, and more, should be considered when evaluating the strength and efficiency of a strain.
Look for Certain Terpenes in the Strain’s Terpene Profile
The most prevalent terpenes to look for in your CBD hemp flower are:
- Myrcene: Known for its presence in hops, myrcene offers calming effects that can help soothe physical discomfort. It shows potential as a sleep aid and muscle relaxant [1].
- B-caryophyllene: This terpene shows potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic effects that could be helpful for pain management [5].
- Limonene: Found in various citrus fruits, limonene could reduce stress and aid mood disorders. Stress and anxiety can intensify pain, so you need limonene in your CBD flower [6].
- A-pinene: Alpha-pinene is known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties. Pain and inflammation often go hand in hand, so having this terpene in your CBD flower is a good idea [7].
Moderate to High CBD Concentration in Hemp Flower
Being in pain clouds the mind and keeps your spirits low, so it’s essential to give your body a good dose of CBD.
While different strains may affect individuals differently, strains with lower CBD levels might not provide the desired pain relief. Anecdotally, optimal levels of CBD for effective pain management tend to hover around 14-16%.
Prioritizing Product Quality
CBD flower is an excellent source of naturally occurring cannabinoids and terpenes. So, to get its full benefits, seek out pesticide-free and toxin-free products from reliable sellers.
Mr. Hemp Flower is the nation’s leading provider of organically grown CBD flower. We source our hemp flower from licensed US farmers and offer third-party lab verification of the content of the product.
Legality And THC Levels
CBD flower contains less than 0.3% THC, a level that won’t induce psychoactive effects but can contribute to the overall benefits of the product. The theory of the entourage effects suggests that CBD and terpenes work to provide therapeutic effects independently and synergistically [8].
Under the 2018 Farm Bill, strains with 0.3% THC or less are considered legal hemp. Any cannabis plant exceeding this limit is classified as marijuana, and its production is prohibited.
FAQ on Best Hemp Flower for Pain
What strain is highest in CBD?
Each CBD hemp flower has its unique chemical profile and the CBD levels are not determining its overall effects. In general, strains which contain 14-16% CBD, such as Bubba Kush and Cheese, are considered some of the highest CBD strains.
What kind of pain does CBD help with?
CBD may help with both inflammatory and neuropathic (nerve) pain. CBD acts on the endocannabinoid system and its receptors to alleviate chronic back pain, arthritis pain, pain from fibromyalgia, muscle pain, neuropathic pain, headaches, and migraines.
What is the strongest CBD strain?
High CBD strains with a robust terpene profile that consistently deliver high yields of dense hemp flower rich in CBD, cannabinoids, and terpenes are considered the strongest.
Does hemp reduce pain?
As a natural remedy rich in CBD, other cannabinoids, and terpenes, hemp shows potent anti-inflammatory, sedative, and analgesic effects. After using hemp, users report not only reduction in pain, but feeling calmer and sleeping better.
How effective is hemp flower in reducing pain?
Anecdotal evidence suggests that hemp flower can be quite effective in reducing pain. Regardless if smoking or vaping hemp flowers, users have noticed improvements without the intoxicating and severe side effects caused by prescription painkillers or opioids.
Does CBD reduce inflammation?
According to several studies, CBD may help reduce pain by impacting the activity of the endocannabinoid system, its receptor activity, and interacting with neurotransmitters in the brain and the immune system.
Are there different strains of hemp?
Yes, there are. Although the levels of THC in hemp are always below 0.3%, the presence and levels of CBD, other cannabinoids and terpenes can vary. So, there are strains with higher CBD levels, such as Lifter, which have a rich terpene profile as well. There are also strains with lower CBD levels and weaker terpene profile.
