ABSTRACT
An abundance of research indicates that phytocannabinoids-substances such as cannabidiol (CBD) derived from cannabis and hemp plants-may be effective alternatives. Phytocannabinoids exert much of their actions through the endocannabinoid system, which is involved in pain control. Two important receptors in this system that are involved in pain management are CB1 and CB2. This difference in pathways may explain why in animal models of neuropathic pain cannabinoid receptor agonists last longer compared with morphine. Researchers are beginning to look beyond the classical CB1 and CB2 receptors as potential mediators of some of the beneficial effects of endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids. Many of the studies have found the combination of the two phytocannabinoids to be effective in neuropathic pain. Endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids are able to affect pain pathways in the joints. Regulating the endocannabinoid system through the use of phytocannabinoids and palmitoylethanolamide is an alternative to other pain control approaches associated with potentially dangerous side effects.
