Gout is painful and even worse, unpredictable — and the endless stream of medications prescribed to treat it doesn’t always make things better. Is there a natural alternative that actually works?
While conventional treatments for gout pain include drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen, hemp derived cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural, nonintoxicating remedy that may promote pain-free joints.
CBD isn’t a replacement for the anti-inflammatory drugs often prescribed for gout, but research suggests it may promote pain-free muscles and joints.
CBD may also support long-term gout treatment by promoting other elements of a healthy lifestyle (such as exercise and sleep) which ultimately help you eliminate gout.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the potential benefits of CBD for gout, how it works, and how to use it. We’ll also present you with our top three CBD product picks for gout.
It's time for a natural alternative to traditional gout treatments. Discover our CBD oils, edibles, drinks, softgels, and more. Lab-tested and backed by 100s of reviews.
What is Gout? Causes & Symptoms
Gout is a form of arthritis in which your joints become severely inflamed. It’s characterized by pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. However, it typically only “attacks” one joint at a time — usually the big toe.
Gout is caused by the buildup of uric acid in the blood, which comes as a result of consuming too many purines (substances found in foods like seafood, bacon, turkey, and organ meats).
When your uric acid levels get too high, tiny and sharp urate crystals begin to form around your joints, causing severe pain and inflammation.
Gout comes in flares, in which symptoms get worse, and remissions, in which symptoms become less noticeable or disappear completely.
Symptoms of gout include:
- Intense toe pain
- Limited range of motion in the affected joint
- Inflammation
- Redness in the affected joint
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of more than 100 naturally-occurring cannabinoids in the hemp plant. Due to its plethora of benefits, it’s one of the most widely-used cannabinoids (second only to THC).
Research suggests CBD has potential benefits for sleep, stress, anxiety, pain, inflammation, and more.
The 2018 Farm Bill made CBD legal on the federal level, and it’s legal in most states as well. However, although it is legal, CBD is not FDA-approved as a medical treatment, including for gout.
Still, there is extensive research suggesting artisan CBD products (like we sell) may be beneficial as supplements, so long as they’re well-made.
Can CBD Help With Gout Pain? What Research Says
Yes, CBD may promote healthy, pain-free joints. While not a proven gout treatment, CBD may support overall physical health and offer benefits for people dealing with gout.
Several studies suggest CBD has analgesic (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory properties.
In a 2015 study by researchers from the University of Nottingham, UK, CBD was shown to reduce levels of various proinflammatory substances in the body [1].
2019 research out of Biolystok, Poland, explains that CBD’s regulation of various receptors in the body enables it to influence your inflammatory response [2].
In terms of CBD’s effect on pain itself, a research review found that CBD has therapeutic potential for different forms of chronic and acute pain [3].
Based on these studies, it’s clear that CBD has therapeutic value for people dealing with gout.
However, there is a lack of clinical trials testing CBD’s effectiveness, as well as a lack of specific research on CBD and gout.
This means that while CBD can promote healthy joints, it’s not a scientifically proven solution to gout and should not be used as a replacement for prescription medications unless directed by your doctor.
How CBD Works for Gout
CBD works by interacting with your endocannabinoid system (ECS), a receptor system in your body that plays a role in regulating your inflammatory and pain responses, sleep-wake cycle, mood, and many other vital functions.
Ultimately, your ECS works to keep your body in a state of homeostasis, or balance.
Normally, your ECS produces its own endocannabinoids and functions well on its own.
But during times of stress, introducing outside cannabinoids (the type you’d get from a CBD product) can help your ECS restore balance.
The two main types of receptors in your ECS are the CB1 and CB2 receptors. One study found that CBD weakly binds to the CB2 receptors in your body [4]. CB2 activation is shown to be linked to reduced inflammation and oxidative stress throughout the body [5].
Research also suggests CBD may increase levels of anandamide, a neurotransmitter in the ECS that’s associated with reduced pain sensations [6].
More research is needed to know how exactly CBD works with your ECS, but based on what we know so far, CBD seems to render benefits for gout by supporting your natural bodily processes from multiple angles.
CBD Side Effects & Safety Considerations
Research suggests that CBD is generally safe and well-tolerated in both its oral and topical forms [7].
However, CBD may create the following side effects when used orally:
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
- Fatigue
Most of these side effects can be reduced through proper dosing, and many people who use CBD don’t feel them at all. Still, it’s important to be aware of the what-ifs.
CBD vs. THC for Gout: How Do They Compare?
Like CBD, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta 9 THC or simply THC) is a naturally-occurring cannabinoid in the cannabis sativa plant. It’s also federally legal as long as it’s derived from hemp.
The primary thing to consider when choosing between CBD and THC for gout is the effects of each cannabinoid.
Compared to CBD, THC’s effects are quite a bit stronger. THC is psychoactive and will get you high; CBD will not get you high. For some people, feeling high is beneficial when dealing with pain and inflammation.
However, THC has also shown anti-inflammatory properties in studies, so it has benefits beyond the head effects [8].
We recommend using THC if you’ve tried CBD but need something stronger. CBD, on the other hand, is the better option if you don’t want to feel high and need something you can use day or night without interfering with activities like work or sleep.
How Do You Take CBD for Gout?
CBD may provide physical benefits in both oral and topical form. Taking CBD oil or CBD gummies allows CBD to circulate throughout your body, while topical CBD will only work on the specific joint you apply it to.
There is no “best” way to take CBD for gout – each type of product has its upsides and downsides.
Here’s a bit about each option:
Oils
Bioavailability is the percentage of CBD you consume that your body actually uses.
Bioavailability: 20-30%
Onset Time: 10-15 minutes
Oils (also sometimes called tinctures) consist of CBD combined with a carrier oil, like MCT or coconut oil, which helps the CBD absorb into your bloodstream.
Oils are fast-acting and easy to dose, however, they aren’t the best option if you don’t enjoy the earthy taste of hemp extract.
Gummies
Bioavailability: 10-20%
Onset Time: 45 minutes
CBD edibles come in a variety of forms, with the most common being gummies.
Using CBD gummies for gout is a great way to build a routine, since each piece will contain the same amount of CBD. They’re also a good option if you don’t like the taste of CBD oil.
The main downside to gummies is that it can take a while to feel the effects since they’re digested.
Capsules
Bioavailability: 20-30%
Onset Time: 10-15%
CBD capsules and softgels are a quick, tasteless alternative to gummies. However, they can’t be easily split if you want to take a smaller dose.
Like gummies, capsules take longer than CBD oil to begin working.
Topicals
Bioavailability: 20-30%
Onset Time: 10-15%
CBD topicals, such as creams, salves, and roll-ons, are applied directly to the skin, rather than swallowed.
The main upside of topicals is that they allow you to provide localized relaxation to the inflamed joint. Many people use CBD cream for gout pain, while others use a roll-on product on the affected area.
Additionally, CBD topicals will not show up on a drug test since the CBD in them doesn’t enter your bloodstream. The downside is that topicals won’t provide full-body relaxation as CBD oil or CBD gummies would.
CBD Dosage for Gout: How Much Should You Take?
We recommend starting by taking a medium-strength dose of CBD for gout.
To calculate your daily dose, use the following CBD dosage formula:
(0.3) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your daily CBD dosage in mg.
For example, if you weigh 150 lbs, you’ll need 30mg of CBD daily for pain and inflammation related to gout.
Use this dose for at least 1 week, then increase it gradually as needed.
CBD needs time to begin working – it won’t work the first time you use it, and you’ll need to take it on a routine basis for a few weeks to really begin seeing a difference in the way you feel.
Best CBD for Gout: 3 Top Picks
Looking for the best CBD for gout? Here are three lab-tested, American-made products to get you started:
1. Best CBD Gummies for Gout: Natural Ways CBG:CBD Gummies
Cannabinoids: Full-spectrum CBG and full-spectrum CBD
Potency: 25mg CBG + 25mg CBD per gummy
Size: 20 or 50 gummies
Price: $42.50 (20-count) or $85.00 (50-count)
Our CBG:CBD gummies featured a 1:1 blend of cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabidiol (CBD), with 25mg of each cannabinoid per gummy. Together, these cannabinoids are more effective than by themselves.
This formula promotes physical comfort, as the potent doses of both CBG and CBD work together to render powerful, comprehensive relaxation.
The even amounts also contribute to an even-keeled mental effect, so you’re able to use these gummies day or night without worrying about sleep disruption (from too much CBG) or tiredness (from too much CBD).
Our goal was to make a product that doesn’t get you wired or tired: just relaxed, comfortable, and ready to take on the day.
Shop: CBG CBD Gummies
2. Best CBD Cream for Gout: CBDFx CBG + CBD Muscle and Joint Cream
Type of CBD: Broad-spectrum CBD & CBG
Potency: 1000mg or 3000mg of CBD & CBG each per pump
Size: 1.7 oz.
Price: $49.99 (1000mg of each) or $99.99 (3000mg of each)
CBDFx’s CBG + CBD Muscle and Joint Cream contains the powerful CBG-CBD combination, plus white willow bark, caffeine, and tea tree oil.
Each pump contains either 1000mg or 3000mg of CBG and CBD each, allowing for the deep topical relaxation for gout pain.
Adding white willow bark and tea tree oil improves the anti-inflammatory properties of this product, while the topical caffeine adds to the benefits of the white willow bark.
By combining hemp-derived cannabinoids with other natural ingredients, CBDFx has created the best CBD cream for gout.
Shop: CBG + CBD Muscle and Joint Cream
3. Best THC-Free CBD for Gout: Joy Organics CBD Gummies
Type of CBD: Broad-spectrum CBD
Potency: 25mg CBD per gummy
Size: 30 gummies
Price: $39.96
Because of broad-spectrum products, CBD’s potential benefits for gout aren’t off limits for people who can’t have THC in their system.
And there’s no better THC-free CBD option for gout than Joy Organics’ CBD Gummies. Each piece contains 25mg of broad-spectrum CBD along with delicious strawberry lemonade flavors. This is great-tasting, worry-free wellness.
Shop: Organic CBD Gummies
Gout Treatment: A Quick Overview
CBD is a supplement for managing gout, not a medicine for treating it. Gout treatment often requires professional medical advice, a careful plan, and sometimes, prescription medications.
However, here are some lifestyle-related changes and home remedies that can help manage gout in addition to CBD:
- Drink healthy beverages: Alcohol and fructose-sweetened beverages increase uric acid production, which leads to gout attacks. Avoid alcohol and instead opt for healthier beverages like tea, coffee, CBD drinks, and plenty of water.
- Exercise regularly: Obesity is linked to the development of gout, so getting frequent exercise is extremely important. Opt for activities that don’t strain the joints unnecessarily, such as walking or swimming.
- Avoid purines and eat a healthy diet: Purines are chemical compounds that cause gout. Foods high in purines include red meat, liver, anchovies, scallops, and tuna. Go easy on these foods, and eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Try natural supplements: Here are natural supplements and foods that have anti-inflammatory effects: milk thistle, lemongrass, magnesium, ginger, cherries, celery, bananas, olive leaf oil, and nettle tea.
Conclusion: Is CBD Good for Gout?
Anecdotal evidence tells us that CBD can be very beneficial for those who suffer from gout, and many of our customers use it for exactly this purpose.
However, while CBD may help with your situation, it’s not a replacement or a substitute for gout treatment.
If you’re dealing with gout, then, CBD is definitely worth a try. Just be sure you speak to your doctor first to ensure it’s the right fit for you.
Related: Can CBD Help With Bursitis?
CBD for Gout: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions we commonly get about CBD for gout.
What is the best instant relief for gout?
Resting and elevating your feet can help soothe gout attacks, as can applying ice. Unfortunately, CBD does not work instantly — even a CBD topical will take 5-10 minutes to begin taking effect on the joint in question.
Can CBD be anti-inflammatory?
Research suggests CBD has anti-inflammatory properties. However, more studies are needed to verify its efficacy for inflammation and gout.
What supplement is good for gout?
Hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) may have anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-reducing) properties, making it therapeutically beneficial for people with gout.
How long before CBD reduces inflammation?
While CBD isn’t proven to reduce inflammation, it may promote a healthy, pain-free body. The time it takes CBD to begin working depends on how you take it. CBD oil works in just 10-15 minutes, whereas CBD edibles take 45 minutes to 1 hour to begin working.
Sources
[1] Jean-Gilles, L et al. “Effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines on cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors in immune cells.” Acta physiologica (Oxford, England) vol. 214,1 (2015): 63-74. doi:10.1111/apha.12474
[2] Atalay, Sinemyiz et al. “Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol.” Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 9,1 21. 25 Dec. 2019, doi:10.3390/antiox9010021
[3] National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine; Health and Medicine Division; Board on Population Health and Public Health Practice; Committee on the Health Effects of Marijuana: An Evidence Review and Research Agenda. The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids: The Current State of Evidence and Recommendations for Research. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2017 Jan 12. 4, Therapeutic Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids.
[4] Pertwee, R G. “The diverse CB1 and CB2 receptor pharmacology of three plant cannabinoids: delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol and delta9-tetrahydrocannabivarin.” British journal of pharmacology vol. 153,2 (2008): 199-215. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707442
[5] Han, Ki Hoon et al. “CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors differentially regulate the production of reactive oxygen species by macrophages.” Cardiovascular research vol. 84,3 (2009): 378-86. doi:10.1093/cvr/cvp240
[6] Bisogno, T et al. “Molecular targets for cannabidiol and its synthetic analogues: effect on vanilloid VR1 receptors and on the cellular uptake and enzymatic hydrolysis of anandamide.” British journal of pharmacology vol. 134,4 (2001): 845-52. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0704327
[7] Iffland, Kerstin, and Franjo Grotenhermen. “An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies.” Cannabis and cannabinoid research vol. 2,1 139-154. 1 Jun. 2017, doi:10.1089/can.2016.0034
[8] Anil, Seegehalli M et al. “Medical Cannabis Activity Against Inflammation: Active Compounds and Modes of Action.” Frontiers in pharmacology vol. 13 908198. 9 May. 2022, doi:10.3389/fphar.2022.908198
