For several years, cannabidiol (CBD) has been recognized around the world as a powerful pain reliever and pain reliever.
It has so many beneficial effects on the body that its various benefits for those who practice a lot of physical activity have now been highlighted.
For example, in the United States, there are more and more sportsmen who appreciate the therapeutic properties of cannabidiol, especially in contact disciplines such as football and martial arts.
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The benefits of cannabidiol in the body
In addition to relaxing the muscles, cannabidiol (CBD) supports activities that require clarity and concentration. This substance, in fact, has great implications from a psychophysical point of view and as a basis for cognitive functioning.
Cannabidiol derived from hemp sativa it must be completely differentiated from THC. Indeed, the latter is psychoactive and psychotropic.
On the other hand, CBD oil has no contraindications and is of great help for both amateur and professional athletes.
His actions were also supported by the World Anti-Doping Agency, which in 2018 removed cannabidiol from its toxic list.
The benefits of cannabidiol for sports
Anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant, this substance promotes the recovery after intense physical exercise and is suitable for both those who practice high intensity physical activity and those who are amateurs.
But where does this substance come from? Why is it so effective?
Cannabidiol is a substance that comes from cannabis sativa. In particular, it is extracted from the female inflorescence of the plant and can be found on the market in the form of hemp oil, herbal teas with cbd, crystals or cream.
Its effects on the organism are related to endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors present in the human body. Our body is made up of millions of receptors that respond significantly to the effects of phytocannabinoids, through various mechanisms.
According to a study published in Sports Medicine Open, the link between exercise and CBD is very strong. Indeed, cannabidiol has anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and analgesic properties that can affect the performance of athletes.
It also reduces the negative effects of a strenuous and prolonged workout, which are responsible for cellular aging and skeletal muscle damage.
Over time, regular physical activity, such as running, CrossFit, or cycling, can cause micro-injuries to the muscles and lead to an inflammatory process.
CBD it acts on the healing process and improves the state of the immune system, consequently the healing time is reduced due to the anti-inflammatory cytokines. It is also appreciated for its ability to relax and stretch the nervous system, promoting rest.
It is known that athletes often suffer from states of anxiety and stress, and this drastically affects their performance. The effects of cannabidiol can aid sleep quality and reduce stress, thereby improving athletic performance.
Can athletes use CBD without problems?
If until a few years ago the use of cannabinoids in sport was prohibited, today it is no longer the case. Effectively, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) removed CBD from the list of banned and doping substances in professional athletes since 2018.
This choice came after many studies were published on the beneficial effects of cannabidiol on the body.
Using CBD during competition helps reduce performance anxiety and allows the mind to focus on the goal to be achieved.
In addition, it has a detox effect as it accelerates the detoxification process of the body post workout.
It's almost impossible extract pure CBD from the cannabis plant. In fact, most CBD oils and hemp extracts contain several active ingredients and cannabinoids, including THC.
An important point is to distinguish between CBD from tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which can be present in recreational cannabis products (only in percentages regulated by law and established by the Ministry of Health).
What is THC?
THC is one of the active ingredients in cannabis. It comes from the inflorescence of cannabis and, depending on the concentration, has psychoactive and intoxicating effects on the body.
In order not to be penalized and to comply with the doping controls, it is always good to consider articles based on legal CBD.
There are several products Legal CBD on the market, such as CBD oil, CBD crystals, hemp tea, inflorescences and cosmetics (face cream, hand cream, body cream and lip balm).