What the evidence shows
Cannabis does not cure arthritis. Reviews of lab and animal studies report that CBD lowers inflammatory cytokines. Human trials on joint pain are small and short. The Arthritis Foundation states that evidence for cannabis in arthritis is limited and that patients should talk with a rheumatologist before use. THC and CBD do not repair cartilage.
Four numbers to check
Strain names do not predict effect. Lab reports do. Read four figures: total THC, total CBD, dominant terpenes, and package date. Potency varies by batch. Ask for a certificate of analysis for the lot you buy.
Our pick: Harlequin
Harlequin tests near 7% THC and 7% CBD. The 1:1 ratio pairs THC analgesia with CBD, and it produces less impairment than flower at 20% THC or higher. Terpenes: myrcene, pinene, beta-caryophyllene. Beta-caryophyllene binds CB2 receptors in animal models. Onset for vaporized flower runs 5 to 10 minutes. Onset for edibles runs 30 to 120 minutes.
Cannabis for Arthritis: User Reviews vs Creams | Eden Cannabis
Limits: 7% THC is low for severe flare pain. Batches range from 5% to 10% THC. Check the label.
medical cannabis for rheumatoid arthritis treatment
Other options
ACDC
CBD to THC near 20:1. THC often below 1%. Pick this if you want no psychoactive effect. Expect mild relief at best for sharp pain.
Cannatonic
CBD to THC from 1:1 to 2:1. THC runs 6% to 17% by cut. A middle ground for daytime use.
Northern Lights
Indica. THC 16% to 21%. Myrcene and beta-caryophyllene dominant. Use at night for pain that disrupts sleep. Sedation is common.
Girl Scout Cookies
THC 19% to 25%. Caryophyllene and limonene. Strong effect. Not a first choice for new users.
Charlotte's Web
CBD near 17%, THC below 1%. Hemp-derived. Sold in US states under the federal 0.3% THC limit. Evidence for this cultivar rests on user reports.
Dose and safety
Start with 2.5 mg THC. Wait two hours before a second dose. Clinical CBD doses range from 20 mg to 1,500 mg per day across conditions. Avoid cannabis with a personal history of psychosis. Mayo Clinic notes that potency varies and that labels can be inaccurate. Cannabis can impair memory and driving. Do not smoke with lung disease. Vaporize at 175 C to 190 C (347 F to 374 F) to limit combustion byproducts.