Cf. Dušan Nolimal, Ph.D. honey

CBD is one of more than a hundred active cannabinoid molecules or chemicals in the cannabis plant (Cannabis Sativa). It does not cause intoxication and does not have psychoactive effects that would affect the ability of athletes. Due to its potential health benefits, it is increasingly used in recreational and professional sports. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), despite opposition from advocates of a cannabis ban, also removed CBD from its list of prohibited substances in 2018, meaning that CBD is allowed in sports and athletes can use it without fear of violating anti-doping rules.

Athletes who use CBD more often are those who face constant physical challenges such as injuries, pain, inflammation, high levels of stress, and the need for rapid recovery.

Here are some potential benefits of using CBD products in sports:

1. Pain relief: CBD is used to relieve pain caused by sports injuries or overuse of joints and muscles. It acts as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, especially after exercise. It has the ability to reduce inflammatory responses in the body. This is important because inflammation often plays a key role in many types of pain. CBD also has neuroprotective properties, meaning it can help protect nerve tissues from damage. In addition, CBD also affects pain perception in various other ways. It activates receptors in the endocannabinoid system and can modulate pain perception and reduce the feeling of discomfort.
2. Reducing inflammation: Inflammation is a common occurrence in sports injuries and is a crucial part of the healing process. However, inflammation can become problematic if it becomes chronic or excessive. Research has found that CBD helps reduce inflammation and speed up recovery by inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines.
3. Improving regeneration: CBD can accelerate muscle regeneration processes after training or competition. It reduces oxidative stress and helps reduce muscle damage and accelerates their regeneration. It helps rebuild muscle cells and reduces damage, which can contribute to faster recovery from exercise. It helps reduce muscle spasms and stiffness, which contributes to greater mobility and comfort during recovery.
4. Stress and anxiety management: Athletes often face stress and anxiety, especially before competitions. CBD can reduce these and thus contribute to better psychological well-being. CBD can especially help people with social anxiety.
5. Improving sleep: Quality sleep is crucial for regeneration and recovery after exercise. Some research has shown that CBD can improve sleep quality and reduce sleep problems. It reduces stress and affects the circadian rhythm, which is associated with the regulation of sleep and wakefulness, and helps relax muscles and relieve pain, all of which can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
6. Weight management support: Some researchers suggest that CBD may help regulate body weight and metabolism, which may be beneficial for athletes who have problems with being overweight.

Despite promising research findings and reports on the potential benefits of CBD, the findings on the potential benefits of CBD in sports are still in the early stages of study. Further research is needed to better understand the exact mechanisms of action of CBD in different conditions; optimal doses and methods of using CBD for different purposes; potential side effects and contraindications of CBD; long-term effects of regular CBD use; and possible interactions with other medications or supplements.

Additionally, it is important to understand that the effects of CBD may vary between individuals, and there is no one-size-fits-all formula or solution. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor before starting to use CBD for any purpose, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking other medications.

A blanket ban on CBD and other cannabis derivatives could lead to several problems, including limited access to potentially beneficial therapies for patients, the growth of black and grey markets where products may be of lower quality and safety, and making research on their effects and uses more difficult. Similarly, attempts to ban CBD in competitive and recreational sports could have similarly negative outcomes. CBD is increasingly popular in sports due to its potential benefits in relieving pain, reducing inflammation, improving recovery, and managing stress and anxiety, and may play a key role in improving the overall health and well-being of athletes.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10556669/

Author: Cf. Dušan Nolimal, Ph.D. honey