Early research indicates that CBD may be used as a muscle relaxer with a mild risk of side effects.

Some people report that using CBD helps reduce pain, muscle soreness, and muscle stiffness. Recent research has shown that CBD might be able to relax muscles and act as an anti-inflammatory agent.

CBD can be taken through edibles, capsules, liquids, vapes, or topicals. CBD is typically safe, but side effects are possible, and risks are increased when CBD is mixed with alcohol, THC, or sedatives.

There’s some evidence to suggest that CBD can be an effective muscle relaxer. As is true for much of the current research about CBD and cannabis use, these studies are new.

Additional studies to back up these findings will help determine how effective CBD can be as a muscle relaxer.

Anecdotally, many people report that CBD helps relieve their pain and relaxes their muscles. As CBD has become increasingly widely available throughout the country, people have been using CBD to treat conditions such as chronic pain, autoimmune diseases, and other muscle pain concerns.

People with conditions that cause muscle stiffness and spasticity, such as multiple sclerosis, have also reported benefits from using CBD.

Want to get involved?

If you want to help researchers learn more about how CBD may be able to help those with muscle pain and stiffness, you may be able to join a scientific study or trial. Check out ClinicalTrials.gov to look for studies in need of participants.

Make sure to always discuss participation in a clinical trial with your primary healthcare professional, especially if it will involve any changes to your current treatment plans.

CBD is available in multiple forms. The most effective form of CBD can depend on personal factors such as your tolerance, the medications you take, and the underlying cause of your muscle pain and stiffness. Not all forms of CBD are available in all areas.

Popular forms of CBD for muscle relaxation include:

  • Edibles: Edibles are a common form of CBD and include gummies, cookies, and beverages. However, this form of CBD can be high in sugar, and the exact dosage of CBD found in them is sometimes difficult to measure.
  • Capsules: CBD can be taken in capsules. People who take CBD as a daily method of muscle relaxation often use capsules.
  • Topicals: Topical CBD is used as a lotion or balm and rubbed over a painful area. The effectiveness of these products can depend on the specific brand.
  • Liquids: Liquid CBD can be taken as drops under the tongue. This form of CBD can sometimes provide relief faster than other forms.
  • Vapes: CBD can be inhaled through vapes or pens. This method can have benefits but is also sometimes linked to respiratory risks.

Whatever form you choose, it’s important to use high quality CBD products from well-regulated manufacturers. Many cannabis dispensaries that provide prescription cannabis also provide high quality CBD products.

You can learn more about how CBD is labeled and tested in this article.

CBD is typically considered a safe option. However, it is linked to some side effects. This can include:

CBD use has also occasionally been associated with more serious side effects, such as abnormal liver function tests and liver injury.

However, people who are not taking anti-seizure medications do not typically see a change in their liver function.

Additionally. CBD can interact with some prescription medications, including blood thinners and antiseizure medications. Use of CBD with other substances, such as alcohol, THC-cannabis products, or sedatives, can increase the effects of those substances.

If CBD isn’t the right muscle relaxer for you, there are additional natural options, such as:

  • Cherries: Cherries have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. You can try whole cherries, tart cherry juice, and other cherry products.
  • Magnesium: Magnesium helps your muscles contract. It’s found in a variety of foods, including spinach, almonds, and cashews. It can also be taken as a supplement.
  • Protein: Protein is essential for the health of your body. It’s been associated with a reduction in muscle pain and increased healing.
  • Peppermint oil: Many people use peppermint oil as a home remedy for pain. Essential oils should be diluted to prevent side effects and only used topically.
  • Arnica: Arnica is a homeopathic remedy that’s used to reduce inflammation and relax muscles. Although many people say they’ve successfully used arnica for muscle relaxation, there haven’t been scientific studies to back up these anecdotal reports.
  • Lemongrass: Lemongrass oil and tea are sometimes used to treat joint pain, inflammation, and muscle stiffness.

Talk with your doctor

It’s a good idea to talk with your primary healthcare professional before using CBD as a muscle relaxer.

They can help you decide if CBD is a safe option for you and can also help you choose high quality CBD products.

Muscle relaxation is a commonly claimed benefit of CBD. There is some scientific evidence to suggest that CBD can be a good option for people with chronic pain and muscle stiffness, but more research is needed.

CBD is typically considered safe, although some people experience side effects such as dry mouth, reduced appetite, and drowsiness. It’s always best to talk with your primary healthcare professional before using CBD or any other natural muscle relaxer.