Consumers are opting for CBD to deal with pain and chronic pain from conditions like sports injuries, fibromyalgia and arthritis, and the naturally-derived substance is even becoming professional athletes’ preferred remedy to soothe pain and aches. 

CBD, or cannabidiol, is derived from the cannabis sativa plant. Though it stems from the same source as marijuana, its non-psychoactive and non-addictive properties make it a great way to manage pain without the use of prescription drugs, painkillers or dangerous, habit-forming opioids. 

Besides helping with workout recovery and muscle aches, CBD has also shown promising results in helping people living with a variety of conditions like anxiety, epilepsy, depression, PTSD, insomnia, muscle spasms and more.

However, studies show that a majority of CBD consumers are using it to treat anxiety, insomnia and pain, and its popularity is quickly growing.

Here are the best ways to treat pain or chronic pain in 2020.

1. Stress reduction
   Mental health conditions like anxiety, anger and depression can intensify the body’s sensitivity to pain. Relaxation techniques like meditation, listening to calming music and counseling or therapy can greatly reduce stress, leading to less physical pain.
   
2. Exercise
   Exercise not only improves your body’s cardiovascular system and muscle tone, it’s a great way to fight pain-causing stress naturally. Endorphins can help improve mood and well-being while reducing pain signals. Because it strengthens muscles, it can prevent future injuries and future pain.
   
3. Deep-breathing
   Deep breathing and meditation can help your body relax and reduce stress, which can lessen pain. 
   
   To begin a meditation routine, focus on your breathing – slowly inhale and exhale, and try to clear your mind of unwanted thoughts. Some therapists suggest repeating a word or phrase like “peace” or “relax.” You can also focus on a calming scenario, such as waves on a beach or a field of flowers.
   
4. Reduce alcohol consumption
   Alcohol can make sleep problems worse, and sleep deprivation can dramatically increase pain sensations in the body. Reduce the number of alcoholic drinks you consume or cut out the substance completely, which can improve your quality of sleep and pain.
   
5. Try CBD
   CBD has shown promising anti-inflammatory and pain relief effects. Medical studies have found that CBD works by suppressing pain receptors. It also has powerful antioxidant properties, which can also help strengthen the immune system. 1218’s hemp-based CBD formula is created without additives, chemical fragrances and artificial colors. 
   
   What’s the correct dosage of hemp-based CBD to fight pain?
   
   A  person who weighs 151 to 240 pounds should take 18 mg of 1218 CBD for mild pain, 22.5 mg for moderate pain and 27 mg for severe pain. Like any medication, it’s ideal to start with a low dosage to assess how your body responds to CBD. You can always increase it after a few days to a week if no relief is felt.
   
6. Quit smoking
   Not only is smoking bad for your lungs, cardiovascular system and overall health, it can also intensify feelings of pain.
   
7. Try a massage
   Regular massages can help relieve joint pain, aches and overall soreness, especially in the back and neck areas.
   
8. Switch up your diet
   Cut out processed foods like potato chips, candy, cookies and cakes.
   A healthy diet is vital to a healthy body, and high blood sugar, diabetes and obesity can worsen conditions linked to pain. Try following a low-sodium, low-carbohydrate and low-sugar diet that focuses on lean meats, whole grains like quinoa and barley, and fresh fruits and vegetables such as leafy greens and blueberries.