CBD Oil
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the 113+ cannabinoids found in cannabis (AKA marijuana). While many hear the term marijuana and think drugs, CBD is primarily sourced from the less expensive and more industrially friendly hemp plant.
There is currently a widespread demand for this ingredient for its numerous benefits; however, its increasing popularity has brought with it direct government scorn as even the most pure CBD products contain trace amounts of illegal THC (which is deemed an illegal drug under current US federal law).
What it does
CBD is capable of providing numerous benefits, including its ability to act as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, nausea reducer, anti-psychotic[1], along with reduced anxiety[2], anti-diabetic drug[3].
Athletes have been gravitating towards CBD use, both ingesting and via creams, as there are claims that its anti-inflammatory benefits may help enhance muscle recovery and decrease muscle or joint related pain.
How it works
Unlike THC, CBD does not activate our CB1 and CB2 receptors, which is why it is non-psychoactive (doesn’t get you “high”). Instead, it is able to activate other receptors such as our vanilloid, adenosine, and serotonin receptors. Of most value to athletes, CBD has shown to be able to interact with the TRPV-1 receptor, which plays a role in pain perception and inflammation[4].
Dosing
CBD dosage is still not an exact science as people respond to this compound in varying degrees. Assessing one’s tolerance is suggested for new users, and this usually means aiming for 25mg taken two times per day for 2-3 weeks. Once tolerance has been assessed, dosage can be increased as needed for desired effects.