Cannabis 101

Why Athletes Are Swapping Out NSAIDs with CBD Oil

Published

5 years ago

May 2, 2019

You wake up stiff, sore, and wondering how you’re going to do it all over again today. You turn to your bedside bottle of ibuprofen, but know that you shouldn’t take pain meds too many days in a row…or one day your liver won’t be able to rebound so easily.

As an athlete, there’s no way to avoid overtraining and injury. No matter how well you supplement with BCAAs and protein powders, the saying still holds true: no pain, no gain.

But that doesn’t mean that you have to use over-the-counter drugs to cope with it.

There is a new player in the anti-inflammatory pain game: CBD oil. From pro athletes to weekend warriors, you can find countless stories of athletes using CBD instead of NSAIDs to deal with inflammatory pain.

No matter who you’ve talked to or what stories you’ve heard, you’re likely still left with one, primary question: what does the science have to say? Will it help with pain, and if so, can it do so safely?

Read on to learn everything you need to know about why athletes are turning to CBD oil instead of anti-inflammatory drugs like NSAIDs, and whether you should do so, too.

What Is CBD Oil, Anyways?

First things first: let’s dive in and unravel the mystery of what CBD oil actually is.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a phytocannabinoid found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Cannabinoids are a kind of compound that impact human health, with researchers the world over digging in to see how humans may benefit from these unique compounds.

Does CBD Get You High?

You’ve no doubt heard of cannabis. Maybe you’re someone who indulges in the occasional hit of weed to help with sleep or stress, or you use it to unwind and have a good time with friends. Or maybe you’d never touch the stuff…not so into mind-altering substances.

No matter which group you relate to, CBD oil might still be for you. Even though CBD comes from the cannabis plant, it’s extracted from industrial hemp varieties of cannabis, rather than marijuana plants.

So, what does this mean for you?

Firstly, it’s not going to get you high. It’s THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), a cannabinoid found in high levels in marijuana plants, that is credited with marijuana’s “high.”

Secondly, it’s legal under federal law to buy CBD oil products around the US. This is thanks to the recent passing of the 2018 Farm Bill which removed hemp-derived extracts, like CBD oil, from the list of class 1 substances.

CBD Oil is Extracted from Industrial Hemp

Every CBD product that you see in the store or online can trace its origins back to an industrial hemp plant. Industrial hemp plants are cannabis plants that contain less than 0.3% THC. When cannabis plants are low in THC, they tend to be high in CBD. This makes industrial hemp plants the ideal place to source CBD from.

In order to get CBD, hemp oil is typically extracted from the parts of the hemp plant that have the highest concentration of cannabinoids and other phytonutrients. This initial extract is known as full spectrum hemp oil, or FSHO.

FSHO is called “full spectrum” because it contains all of the naturally occurring phytonutrients found in the hemp plant. From there, some companies will have all of the THC removed so that there is a product that contains both CBD and other phytonutrients, but with 0% THC. This product is known as broad spectrum CBD oil.

There’s one last type of CBD hemp oil called CBD isolate. These CBD oils are the product of isolating CBD from all of the other nutrients found in the plant, resulting in a nearly 100% CBD extract (before it’s added to carrier oils, that is).

These three categories of CBD, FSHO, broad spectrum hemp oil, and CBD isolate are all varieties of CBD oil that are being used by some athletes to replace their NSAIDS.

Why Replace NSAIDs?

NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are the most commonly used category of drugs for pain relief. This includes chronic pain like arthritis to less severe pain, like delayed-onset muscle soreness, or DOMS.

If you’ve ever taken an aspirin product like Bayer or Excedrin, an ibuprofen product like Advil or Motrin, or a naproxen sodium product like Aleve, you’ve taken a NSAID. There’s also a laundry list of prescription NSAID drugs that you can find here.

As the name implies, NSAIDs relieve pain through reducing inflammation in the body. While this type of drug is fairly effective at what it does, it doesn’t do so without risks.

Not only are there dangers of an overdose, but for some, NSAID use can increase the risk of chronic health conditions like stroke, heart attack, and ulcers. They can also pose a danger to kidney health with chronic use.

And the problem with NSAIDs is that most of us learn to use them as a crutch, so when we feel pain, we take them. This becomes a problem if you’re in pain frequently, for example, if you’re an athlete or develop any kind of chronic pain condition.

Is CBD Oil the Answer? Maybe: CBD Oil Reduces Inflammation

Probably one of the most promising effects of CBD is its ability to reduce inflammation. Animal studies and small human studies have found CBD to be helpful in management of chronic inflammatory conditions.

Animal studies have found CBD to exert powerful anti-inflammatory action. In fact, one study on arthritic rats found that topical application of CBD resulted in a reduction of pro-inflammatory biomarkers and pain-related behaviors.

As for human studies, no research has directly examined the effects of CBD on pain. However, there have been some small studies looking into CBD’s impact on chronic inflammatory conditions.

In a small study on a solid-dosage, patented form of CBD by Robson, researchers examined the potential of CBD to help those with the inflammatory condition Crohn’s disease and found an improvement in symptoms. Similar benefits were seen in a small group of patients with inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, with CBD use allowing for the reduction of steroid drug treatment.

These studies demonstrate the potential of CBD treatment when it comes to a variety of painful inflammatory conditions in humans.

Does That Mean CBD Will Work for Exercise-Induced Pain?

Chances are, if scientists end up coming to the definitive conclusion that CBD oil can help with arthritis and inflammatory conditions like autoimmune diseases and Crohn’s disease, it will also help with pain caused by strenuous training or physical injuries.

The reason? Inflammation itself causes pain. So whether you’re injured, you’ve worked out, or you have a chronic inflammatory condition, the pain itself is caused by a similar process in your body. To combat the pain you must address the source: you want something that combats the inflammation.

When it comes to human studies on CBD and inflammation, we are in the very early stages. What this means is that there have been some published studies, but they consist of small sample sizes. In order to draw definitive conclusions we must wait it out and see what future human clinical trials find.

Final Thoughts

In spite of the research on CBD for pain being in its infancy, CBD demand is soaring. It has far exceeded what would typically be expected at this early stage of research. Why? The reason is simple: consumers are impressed with CBD.

People everywhere are talking about it. You’ll find news stories about it helping kids with previously incurable seizures, retired pro football players using it for chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and athletes throwing out their NSAIDs and using CBD oil instead.=

If you want to try CBD for yourself, find a quality CBD oil tincture or CBD oil gel capsule and give it a try today. You might just find yourself jumping on the bandwagon and saying goodbye to your over-the-counter drugs. Or you might not, but there is only one way to find out.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in these blog posts is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The use of any information provided in these blog posts is solely at your own risk. The authors and the website do not recommend or endorse any specific products, treatments, or procedures mentioned. Reliance on any information in these blog posts is solely at your own discretion.

Related Topics:cbd for athletes cbd oil xwerks

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Cannabis Business

The Importance of Cannabis Trademarks in a Competitive Market

Published

6 hours ago

July 25, 2024

Jordan Webber

In a bustling city, amidst the haze of creativity and ambition, two childhood friends, Sam and Alex, launched their dream cannabis brand. They had the best strains, the sleekest packaging, and a passionate customer base. But one day, their excitement turned to dismay. They found a rival company using their brand name. Panic set in. What could they do? Their journey through the legal maze highlighted a crucial lesson: the importance of securing a cannabis trademark.

Why Trademark Your Cannabis Brand?

In the fiercely competitive cannabis industry, trademarks are not just fancy legal jargon; they are the bedrock of your brand’s identity. A cannabis trademark ensures your brand is distinctly yours, safeguarding it against copycats and imposters. Without this protection, your hard work could be hijacked, leaving you grappling with legal headaches and potential financial losses.

The Role of a Cannabis Trademark Lawyer

Navigating trademark law can be as tricky as finding the perfect strain in a sea of options. That’s where a cannabis trademark lawyer comes in. These legal experts specialize in protecting cannabis brands, ensuring that your trademark application is filed correctly and effectively. They understand the nuances of cannabis law, which can vary significantly from state to state, and provide tailored advice to protect your brand’s identity.

Standing Out in a Crowded Market

In an industry projected to reach $73.6 billion by 2027 , standing out is crucial. Trademarks help establish your brand’s uniqueness in a crowded market. They build trust and loyalty among consumers who recognize and prefer your products over others. Without a trademark, your brand’s identity is vulnerable, and the risk of being overshadowed by similar or counterfeit products is high.

Protecting Your Investment

Launching a cannabis brand requires significant investment, both financially and creatively. Protecting this investment with a trademark is a smart move. Consider this: the cannabis market saw over 2,600 trademark applications in 2020 alone . This statistic shows that more brands are recognizing the need to safeguard their identity and ensure their long-term success.

Avoiding Legal Pitfalls

Trademark infringement can lead to costly legal battles. In 2019, a well-known cannabis company had to pay over $1 million in a trademark dispute . Such cases highlight the importance of securing your trademark early. A cannabis trademark lawyer can help you avoid these pitfalls by conducting thorough searches to ensure your brand name is unique and not already in use.

Building a Legacy

A trademark is more than just a legal formality; it’s a cornerstone of your brand’s legacy. It ensures that your brand name remains associated with the quality and values you stand for. As the cannabis industry continues to grow, having a strong trademark can give you a competitive edge and help build a lasting legacy.

Conclusion

In the ever-growing cannabis industry, securing a trademark is essential. It protects your brand, investment, and reputation. As Sam and Alex learned the hard way, a cannabis trademark is not just a legal necessity but a strategic move to ensure your brand’s success and longevity.

So, as you navigate your journey in the cannabis market, consider this: How will you protect your brand’s identity in a world where competition is just a trademark away?

Medical Disclaimer:

Cannabis 101

What is THCA Hemp Flower? A Beginner’s Guide

Published

2 days ago

July 23, 2024

Stacey Wellington

Imagine this: It’s a sunny Saturday morning, and you’re sipping your favorite cup of coffee on the porch. You hear the birds chirping and feel the light breeze on your face. Your friend arrives, holding a small jar with a big smile. “You have to try this,” they say, handing you a bud of THCA hemp flower. You raise an eyebrow, curious but skeptical. What is this new buzz all about? Let’s dive in and explore the fascinating world of high THCA Hemp Flower.

THCA hemp flower is a variety of hemp that’s rich in THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in raw cannabis plants. Unlike its well-known cousin, THC, THCA doesn’t get you high. Instead, it offers potential health benefits without the mind-altering effects. But there’s more to it than meets the eye.

The Basics of THCA Hemp Flower

So, what exactly is THCA hemp flower? Essentially, it’s the raw, unprocessed form of cannabis that hasn’t been exposed to heat. When cannabis is heated through smoking, vaping, or cooking, THCA converts to THC, the compound responsible for the “high.” But in its natural state, THCA remains non-psychoactive.

One of the coolest things about THCA hemp flower is its versatility. You can enjoy it in a variety of ways—whether you want to smoke it, make a tincture, or even blend it into smoothies. The options are almost endless, and each method brings its own unique experience.

Health Benefits: More Than Meets the Eye

THCA hemp flower is gaining attention for its potential health benefits. While research is still in the early stages, some studies suggest that THCA might have anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anti-emetic properties. This means it could help with conditions like arthritis, neurodegenerative diseases, and nausea .

One study found that THCA could reduce inflammation and pain in animal models, showing promise for human applications . Another research effort highlighted THCA’s potential in protecting brain cells, which could be a game-changer for conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s . And let’s not forget its possible anti-nausea effects, making it a potential ally for chemotherapy patients .

THCA Hemp Flower vs. THC: What’s the Difference?

You might be wondering, “What’s the big difference between THCA and THC?” The primary distinction lies in their effects on the body and mind. THCA is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t make you feel high. THC, on the other hand, is psychoactive and responsible for the euphoric sensations often associated with cannabis.

This difference makes high THCA Hemp Flower an appealing option for those who want the potential benefits of cannabis without the mind-altering effects. It’s like enjoying the cake without worrying about the sugar rush.

How to Use THCA Hemp Flower

Using THCA hemp flower is as easy as pie. You can smoke it, but remember that heating it will convert THCA to THC. For those who prefer to keep it non-psychoactive, making a tincture or blending it into a raw smoothie is the way to go. Simply grind the flower and sprinkle it into your favorite recipe. It’s a piece of cake!

Legal Considerations

One thing to keep in mind is the legal status of THCA hemp flower. While hemp products containing less than 0.3% THC are federally legal in the United States, the specifics can vary from state to state. Always check your local laws before purchasing or using THCA hemp flower to stay on the right side of the law.

The Future of THCA Hemp Flower

The future looks bright for THCA hemp flower. As more research unfolds, we’re likely to uncover even more about its potential benefits and uses. The industry is evolving, with new products and innovations hitting the shelves regularly. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there’s something exciting in store for everyone.

In conclusion, high THCA Hemp Flower offers a unique way to experience the benefits of cannabis without the high. From potential health perks to its versatile uses, there’s a lot to love about this fascinating flower. Have you ever tried THCA hemp flower? What was your experience like?

Medical Disclaimer:

Cannabis 101

Top 5 Tips for Finding High-Quality Craft Weed Online in Canada

Published

2 days ago

July 23, 2024

Daniel King

Imagine this: It’s a crisp autumn evening in Toronto. The leaves are turning golden, the air smells like maple syrup, and you’re nestled on your couch, scrolling through your phone. You’ve heard whispers about this incredible strain of craft weed that’s supposed to be the best in Canada, and you’re determined to find it. The only problem? The internet is a wild, vast jungle, and you’re not sure where to begin. Fear not, fellow cannabis enthusiast! Grab a hot cocoa and settle in. We’re about to embark on a journey to find the finest craft weed online in Canada.

1. Check Reviews and Ratings

When diving into the world of online craft weed shopping, the first pit stop should be reviews and ratings. Think of them as the friendly neighbor who’s always happy to share a recommendation. Sites like Leafly and Weedmaps are gold mines of user reviews that can steer you in the right direction.

Interesting fact: According to a survey by Brightfield Group, 68% of cannabis consumers read online reviews before making a purchase. So, you’re not alone in this quest for quality!

2. Verify the Source

Buying weed online is a bit like online dating; you want to make sure the profile matches reality. Always verify the legitimacy of the dispensary. Look for certifications, licenses, and lab reports that prove their products are tested and safe.

Did you know? In 2020, a study by the Cannabis Council of Canada found that 84% of Canadians prefer buying cannabis from licensed producers due to safety concerns.

3. Understand the Strains

Knowing your strains can be a game-changer. Whether you’re after the relaxing effects of an indica, the energizing vibes of a sativa, or a balanced hybrid, understanding what each strain offers will help you make an informed choice.

Fun tidbit: A report by Headset Analytics showed that hybrid strains are the most popular in Canada, accounting for 52% of all sales. So, if you’re unsure, hybrids might be a good starting point!

4. Look for Transparency

Transparency is key when it comes to buying craft weed online. Reliable dispensaries will provide detailed information about their growing practices, extraction methods, and cannabinoid profiles. This openness not only builds trust but ensures you know exactly what you’re getting.

Here’s a nugget of wisdom: According to a 2021 survey by Deloitte, 71% of cannabis consumers value transparency about product ingredients and sourcing. It’s clear that people want to know what they’re putting into their bodies.

5. Consider the Price

While we all love a good deal, remember that quality craft weed often comes at a premium. It’s like buying a handcrafted piece of art – the craftsmanship and care taken in its creation are reflected in the price. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, as they often are.

A fun stat to ponder: The average price of high-quality craft weed in Canada is around $10 per gram, according to Statistics Canada. So, if you’re seeing prices significantly lower, it might be worth investigating further.

Conclusion

Navigating the online marketplace for craft weed can be daunting, but with these tips, you’re well on your way to finding the best craft weed Canada has to offer. Remember to check reviews, verify your sources, understand the strains, seek transparency, and consider the price. With a little patience and savvy, you’ll be enjoying top-tier craft cannabis in no time.

Now that you’re equipped with these tips, what’s the first strain you’re going to try?

Medical Disclaimer: