From martial arts fighter Nate Diaz to professional cyclist Andrew Talansky, many athletes are turning to cannabidiol (CBD) as part of their overall wellness and recovery routines. Whether you’re a professional athlete or you just shoot hoops with your friends now and then, here are some ways people choose to incorporate CBD oil into their sports wellness regimen.
HOW CBD WORKS
The cannabis plant contains over 400 chemicals, of which 70 to 120 are unique to the plant and known as cannabinoids. The two major cannabinoids in cannabis are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which makes a person feel “high,” and cannabidiol (CBD), which has no psychoactive effects.
CBD is one of many cannabinoids being studied for its interactions within the body. CBD interacts with a variety of receptors, including serotonin and vanilloid receptors in the brain. Individual experiences with CBD may vary, with some athletes sharing personal accounts about their wellness routines. Ongoing research continues to investigate these areas.
Along with its unique plant-based properties, CBD has gained interest from people looking to support their wellness before and after workouts and to complement their relaxation practices. People use CBD in a variety of ways, and personal preferences and experiences differ. Additional research is underway to better understand how CBD may fit into a fitness or wellness lifestyle.
TOPICAL VERSUS INTERNAL CBD
CBD can be used both topically and internally, from balms you apply to the skin to tinctures you hold under your tongue. The most common method of using CBD is oral, which some people choose for a whole-body approach to their wellness routine. CBD can be taken as an oil or tincture held under the tongue or vaped, or in capsule form, which often makes it easier to dose. Taking CBD orally means that it will be metabolized faster, and this method may also complement other wellness practices.
When experiencing muscle tension after activity, some people prefer CBD applied topically. Methods available include patches, balms, body oils, and even bath soaks. The onset of effects may be more gradual because it has to pass the transdermal layer, but its effects may also be long-lasting.
CBD DOSAGE
CBD dosage depends on the user’s specific needs as well as the method used. Though there have been no serious potential side effects reported in most studies, keeping the dosage low (such as 5mg daily) is common when starting out, especially when using capsules, oils or tinctures. This dose can then be gradually increased over time based on individual preferences.
When applied topically, CBD can be used more liberally, but keep in mind that its effects may take longer to set in, so patience is key.
It’s always a good idea to talk with your doctor about any changes to your wellness plan or routine to ensure they are right for you.
Erica Garza is an author and essayist. Her work has appeared in TIME, Health, Glamour, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, The Telegraph and VICE. She lives in Los Angeles.
References:
- https://www.npr.org/2016/09/03/488150508/titans-linebacker-derrick-morgan-to-nfl-consider-the-benefits-of-marijuana
- https://www.si.com/nfl/2016/07/12/cannabis-cte-treatment-kannalife
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21238581
- https://www.outsideonline.com/2296261/athletes-ditching-ibuprofen-cbd-marijuana
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5938896/96/
- https://www.muscleandfitness.com/features/edge/cbd-no-longer-banned-athletic-competition-heres-what-means-you
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27031992
