Cannabis and gastrointestinal tract

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Magen-Darm-Harmonie mit Cannabis unterstützen

The festive season is a feast of food and drink, from one meal to the next, from cookies to chocolate, mandarins and the festive roast. While we usually enjoy the winter festive season with vacations, celebrations and gluttony, our intestines have to work overtime. Cannabinoids can support our intestines in their daily functions and contribute to gastrointestinal harmony and well-being. Learn all about how cannabis and the gastrointestinal tract harmonize in this blog post.

The body as a habitat for viruses, fungi and bacteria

When our gastrointestinal system is exposed to various stresses such as stress, lack of exercise, an unhealthy diet and sweet and alcoholic drinks, the gut suffers. We are adaptable and also quite tough, as evidenced by the fact that modern homo sapiens can live on fast food, sweet drinks and overly spicy food for their entire lives. And yet the gut suffers in these moments of unhealthy food intake. For thousands of years, it has been common worldwide to take cannabis with food. And today we can use the latest technologies to specifically investigate what is going on in detail and provide relief for many people. The intestine shows clear reactions to overeating and does not suffer silently like the liver. The most common symptoms of an overloaded bowel are diarrhea, nausea and constipation, and many of us are very familiar with the recommended remedies. In addition to hemp, countless home remedies, chemical preparations and therapeutic approaches are circulating for a healthy start to the New Year, all of which are aimed at balancing the so-called “gut microbiome*”. This refers to bacteria and fungi as well as certain virus strains, the effects of which do not make us humans ill, but keep us vital. In the course of evolution, tiny creatures, i.e. various microorganisms, have colonized the gastrointestinal tract and form a symbiotic relationship that is beneficial for everyone involved. They support each other in digestion as well as in the absorption of nutrients that are essential for the survival of both humans and microorganisms. The influence of healthy intestinal flora on our nervous system has now been proven by science. Numerous farmer’s sayings support the saying: “You are what you eat”, and the effect of cannabis as a remedy is similarly widely confirmed in the laboratory.

* Definition: The microbiome is the totality of all microorganisms(bacteria, archaea, viruses, fungi and protozoa) that colonize a macroorganism (human, animal, plant). Microbiomes can influence the immune system, the metabolism and the hormone system of their host.

Importance of the intestinal flora

Unlike toxic substances or supposedly magical remedies, cannabis binds to the organism via precisely fitting receptors. Yoghurt mixed with cannabinoids in the supermarket is still a dream of the future, but the intestinal flora can generally be stimulated by many foods or food supplements. There are countless products on the market that promote powerful microbial strains and feed them sufficiently so that unwanted pathogens quickly perish when they enter our bodies. The problem is that even the most expensive capsules, pills and tinctures barely make it to the intestinal flora if we continue with the sins of the modern lifestyle and disregard our gastrointestinal harmony.

You can find out exactly how and where cannabinoids affect our body in the previous blog post: https://www.herbadiberna.ch/starkes-immunsystem-durch-cbd-tropfen/

How hemp affects our gastrointestinal tract

While CB1 receptors are found in the brain, CB2 receptors are found in the intestine. Both are the so-called docking sites for cannabinoids in the hemp plant. A full-spectrum preparation influences these receptors and triggers a variety of positive effects in the body. Cannabinoids can activate anti-inflammatory processes via the gastrointestinal system, stimulate the immune system and also reduce stress levels.diseases such as multiple sclerosis could be treated by medical cannabis, as it has an anti-inflammatory effect and even affects a specific bacterium called “Akkermansia muciniphila”. (Source: Study by Charles M. Skinner)

Full spectrum CBD oil and hemp capsules to support the gastrointestinal tract

Research on therapeutic cannabis and gut flora is not yet as extensive as in other areas, but medical and therapeutic professionals are beginning to recommend it for certain treatments.The method of consumption affects the effect of cannabis on the gastrointestinal system; smoking or vaporizing works faster and more intensely, while oral ingestion may be better tolerated and have a longer effect.There are beneficial aspects of hemp products, but potential drug interactions and possible side effects must be considered. It is best to discuss this with a medical professional, as according to current research, cannabis can help with irritable bowel syndrome, heartburn or constant constipation in many cases without complications, but can sometimes have side effects. Prudent consumption is still the best choice when trying hemp for yourself, even for the gastrointestinal system, until research has clarified the situation.

Conclusion

When we indulge in culinary delights, our intestines work hard. Cannabis as a full-spectrum preparation can help to support our gut and its function, especially in the New Year after the Christmas feasts. Our digestive system is sensitive: stress, lack of exercise and an unhealthy diet can affect it. The gut microbiome, consisting of bacteria, fungi and viruses, plays an essential role in our health and even influences our nervous system. Cannabinoids can have an anti-inflammatory effect via the CB2 receptors in the intestine, strengthen the immune system and reduce stress. Medical hemp shows promising approaches, especially for diseases such as multiple sclerosis. However, research into therapeutic cannabis and intestinal flora is still in its infancy. Although there are many benefits, interactions with medication and possible side effects must also be taken into account and clarified with medical professionals. Cannabis could be a natural alternative for gastrointestinal complaints, but it is also advisable to consult with specialists and stay up to date with the latest research.

Our recommendation for optimal gastrointestinal harmony

Source: https://l1nq.com/ugfNr

The discovery of the endocannabinoid system

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The discovery of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) marks a critical milestone in medical research and has revolutionized our understanding of health and wellness. In this article, we will follow the fascinating journey to discover the ECS and take a closer look at its importance to our lives.

The ECS: A Surprising Revelation

The existence of the ECS went largely unnoticed until the late 20th century. It was not until 1964 that Israeli researcher Dr. Raphael Mechoulam isolated the cannabinoid THC, which is found in the cannabis plant. This breakthrough led to the suggestion that a similar system might exist in the human body.

The building blocks of the endocannabinoid system

The endocannabinoid system consists of three main components: Endocannabinoids, receptors and enzymes. Endocannabinoids are endogenous molecules found in various parts of the body. The two main endocannabinoids are anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). Receptors, such as CB1 and CB2, are located on the surface of cells and respond to endocannabinoids as well as cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. Enzymes are responsible for the breakdown of endocannabinoids and thus regulate their concentration in the body.

The role of the endocannabinoid system in the body

The endocannabinoid system plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis in the body. It regulates a variety of processes, including sleep, pain perception, the immune system, mood, and appetite. When this system is out of balance, various health problems can occur.

The impact on medicine

The discovery of ECS has revolutionized medical research. It has helped to better understand the role of cannabinoids in relieving pain, inflammation and other symptoms of numerous diseases. Drugs that target the ECS are increasingly being used to treat conditions such as epilepsy, chronic pain, and even mental disorders.

Conclusion

The discovery of the endocannabinoid system has expanded our understanding of health and medicine. It has paved the way for innovative therapies and shown us how closely interconnected our bodily processes are. Research on ECS will undoubtedly continue, offering us even deeper insights into how our bodies work and what medicine can do. In a world that is constantly changing, the discovery of ECS has undoubtedly changed our world.

Entourage Effect: It takes the plant

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Am Entourage Effect sind viele Stoffe beteiligt

In the world of plant extracts and natural remedies, the term “Entourage Effect” has become an important concept. This phenomenon describes how the combination of different compounds in plant extracts can produce synergistic effects that isolated compounds alone cannot achieve. Especially in relation to cannabinoids such as CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) from the hemp plant, the entourage effect is intensively researched and discussed.

The importance of the Entourage Effect

The Entourage Effect emphasizes the idea that plant extracts containing a variety of compounds, such as terpenes, flavonoids, and other cannabinoids besides the main cannabinoid, can provide synergistic benefits. These compounds interact with each other to enhance beneficial properties while potentially minimizing undesirable side effects. This is in contrast to isolated compounds, where only a single substance is extracted, without the accompanying synergistic elements.

Terpenes and their role in the entourage effect

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including hemp. They are not only responsible for the characteristic scent and taste, but can also play an important role in the Entourage Effect. Different terpenes can have different effects – from calming and relaxing to invigorating and stimulating. In combination with cannabinoids, terpenes can enhance and modulate the effect.

Synergy between cannabinoids

The Entourage Effect also shows that cannabinoids like CBD and THC can be more effective in combination than in isolation. CBD is often valued for its relaxing properties, while THC is known to be psychoactive. However, when both cannabinoids are present in an extract, they can interact and mitigate the psychoactive effects of THC [1] while enhancing the positive aspects of CBD.

Holistic approach

The Entourage Effect underscores the importance of a holistic approach to herbal medicine. Instead of focusing only on single isolated compounds, researchers and health experts are increasingly recognizing the benefits of full-spectrum or broad-spectrum extracts that take advantage of a plant’s diverse compounds.

Conclusion

The Entourage Effect illustrates that combining compounds in plant extracts can often lead to more comprehensive and effective results than isolated compounds. This concept has changed the way we look at herbal remedies and opens up new possibilities for the development of effective natural therapies. Entourage Effect research will undoubtedly continue to provide insights into the complex world of plant chemistry and its impact on human health.

2-AG and its role in the endocannabinoid system.

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2-Arachidonylglycerol (2-AG)

2-Arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) is an important substance in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) of the human body. The ECS is a complex network in the body that regulates a variety of biological processes. In this article, we will take a closer look at the role and effect of 2-arachidonylglycerol in the ECS.

What is 2-arachidonyl glycerol?

2-Arachidonylglycerol, or 2-AG, is an endocannabinoid produced by the body itself. It belongs to the group of lipids and is formed from a fatty acid, arachidonic acid. The endocannabinoid is found in various tissues and organs of the body, including the brain. It is a natural ligand (molecule that binds to a receptor) for CB1 and CB2 receptors, the main receptors of ECS. Therefore, 2-AG is thought to be the “original” messenger in ECS.

What is an endocannabinoid?
The term phytocannabinoid is used for the plant cannabinoids that appear in the hemp plant. In contrast, there are the "endocannabinoids": cannabinoids produced by our bodies that exert their effects in the ECS (endocannabinoid system).

The role of 2-AG in the endocannabinoid system.

2-AG plays a crucial role in the regulation of various processes in the body. It is primarily responsible for signal transmission in the ECS. When certain stimuli occur, such as inflammation or pain, 2-AG is released and binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. This triggers various cellular responses that help maintain homeostasis, the balance in the body.

The effect on the body

Activation of CB1 receptors by 2-AG in the brain may have several effects. For example, it can stimulate the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which can affect mood and the reward system. In addition, 2-arachidonylglycerol may also have an anti-inflammatory effect by reducing the release of pro-inflammatory substances.

Therapeutic potential of 2-AG

Because of its role in ECS and its multiple effects, 2-AG has great therapeutic potential. Research suggests that the endocannabinoid may be useful in treating a variety of conditions, including pain syndromes, inflammation, anxiety, and neurodegenerative diseases. Targeting activation of processes in the ECS could open new opportunities for drug development.

Conclusion

2-Arachidonylglycerol is an important component of the endocannabinoid system and plays a crucial role in the regulation of various physiological processes. Its action on CB1 and CB2 receptors has effects on the brain, immune system and other organs. The study of 2-AG and its function in the ECS opens new avenues for the development of therapeutic approaches for the treatment of various diseases. It remains exciting to gain further insights into this fascinating endocannabinoid.

Anandamide: The happiness hormone and its effect in the ECS

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Molekülstruktur von Anandamid

Anandamide is often referred to as the happiness hormone. This article aims to show where this name comes from and how the endocannabinoid works in the body. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of this important molecule.

Understanding the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids in the body. It plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and regulating various biological processes. The ECS consists of two main receptors, CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are found in different parts of the body.

What is an endocannabinoid?
The term phytocannabinoid is used for the plant cannabinoids that appear in the hemp plant. In contrast, there are the "endocannabinoids": cannabinoids produced by our bodies that exert their effects in the ECS (endocannabinoid system).

Anandamide – The “happiness hormone

Anandamide is an endocannabinoid that is naturally produced in our bodies. It is closely associated with feelings of happiness, euphoria, and general well-being, which is why it is often referred to as the “happiness hormone.” It acts primarily on CB1 receptors in the central nervous system and has a variety of effects on our mood and emotions.

Effect on the well-being

Anandamide has a variety of effects on our well-being. It can promote relaxation, reduce stress and create a positive mood. In addition, it plays a role in the regulation of pain, the sleep-wake rhythm and appetite. An imbalance of anandamide in the body can lead to various health problems, such as mood disorders and chronic pain.

Anandamide-promoting lifestyle

The production and availability of anandamide can be influenced by our diet and lifestyle. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep can increase anandamide levels in the body. In addition, certain foods, such as dark chocolate and chili, can stimulate the production of anandamide. A healthy lifestyle helps maintain the optimal balance of endocannabinoid in the body.

Anandamide and its therapeutic potentials

Because of its effect on well-being and ECS, researchers have begun to explore the therapeutic potential of anandamide. There is evidence that the molecule may play a role in treating anxiety disorders, depression and chronic pain. However, further studies are needed to understand the full potential of this fascinating molecule.

Conclusion

Anandamide, the “happy hormone,” plays an important role in the endocannabinoid system and has multiple effects on our well-being. By regulating mood, pain perception, and other biological processes, endocannabinoid can have a significant impact on our quality of life. Through a healthy diet, regular exercise and a balanced lifestyle, we can help maintain homeostasis (balance) in the body and promote our well-being. Research into its therapeutic potential is still in its infancy, but it promises exciting new ways to improve our health and well-being.

CB2 receptors and their role in the endocannabinoid system.

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The endocannabinoid system is a fascinating network of receptors and molecules that plays an important role in maintaining balance in the body. One of the key components of this system is the type 2 cannabinoid receptors (CB2 receptors for short). In this article, we will take an in-depth look at these receptors and their importance in the endocannabinoid system.

What are CB2 receptors?

CB2 receptors belong to the cannabinoid receptor family and are mainly found in the cells of the immune system. In contrast to CB1 receptors, which are mainly found in the brain and central nervous system, type 2 receptors are mainly found in immune cells such as macrophages, lymphocytes and natural killer cells. They play an essential role in the regulation of the immune system.

Function of receptors in the immune system

Type 2 receptors in the immune system act as modulators and regulate a variety of immunological processes. Through their activation, they may have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. This is particularly interesting with regard to inflammatory diseases such as arthritis or neuroinflammation. Activation of CB2 receptors can help relieve inflammation and help the immune system maintain a healthy balance.

CB2 receptors and pain perception

The receptors also play a role in the regulation of pain sensation. By activating them, they can attenuate pain stimuli and thus contribute to pain relief. This property of CB2 receptors makes them potential targets for the development of new therapies to treat chronic pain.

Conclusion

CB2 receptors are important components of the endocannabinoid system and play a critical role in regulating the immune system, pain perception, and possibly fighting cancer. Their activation may have anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and analgesic effects. Research into CB2 receptors and their role in the body opens up new possibilities for the development of therapies to treat various diseases. Further studies are needed to understand and exploit its full potential. Overall, CB2 receptors are a fascinating area of research that offers promising prospects for medicine and wellness.

More about cannabis 2 receptors: wikipedia.com.

CB1 receptors and their role in the endocannabinoid system.

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The endocannabinoid system is a fascinating regulatory system in the human body that affects a wide range of functions. A key component of this system is the CB1 receptors, which play an important role in signal transduction and regulation of various processes in the body.

The importance of the endocannabinoid system

The endocannabinoid system consists of receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes that work together to maintain homeostasis (balance) in the body. It is involved in numerous bodily processes, including pain perception, inflammatory responses, mood regulation, appetite control, and even memory formation. The ECS is therefore significantly involved in the correct functioning of our body.

The role of CB1 receptors

Cannabinoid receptor 1 is a specific type of cannabinoid receptor found mainly in the central nervous system. Docking sites are present in high concentrations in the brain, but also to a lesser extent in other tissues such as the kidneys, liver and digestive tract. The CB1 receptor is responsible for mediating the effects of endocannabinoids such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol.

Signal transmission through CB1 receptors

When an endocannabinoid binds to a CB1 receptor, a signaling cascade is triggered, leading to modulation of neuronal activity. This can affect the release of neurotransmitters such as glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which affects information processing and neural communication in the brain. CB1-type receptors play an important role in pain modulation and can have both analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

CB1 receptors and cannabinoid substances

Cannabis is a plant that contains various cannabinoids, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is a well-known phytocannabinoid that has a strong affinity for CB1 receptors. When THC binds to CB1 receptors, it leads to the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis use. This highlights the importance of CB1 receptors in the action of cannabinoid substances.

What is a phytocannabinoid?
The term phytocannabinoid is used for the plant cannabinoids that appear in the hemp plant. In contrast, there are the "endocanbinoids": cannabinoids produced by our bodies that exert their effects in the ECS (endocannabinoid system).

Conclusion

CB1 receptors are critical to the function of the endocannabinoid system and influence a variety of bodily processes. By modulating neuronal activity and regulating neurotransmitters such as glutamate and GABA, CB1 receptors contribute to pain modulation, anti-inflammation, mood regulation, and other important functions.

It is important to emphasize that activation of CB1 receptors can occur not only by endocannabinoids but also by phytocannabinoids such as THC. This explains the psychoactive effects of THC and its effects on the central nervous system.

Due to the importance of the endocannabinoid system, cannabinoid receptors have become an important target for medical research. There is already promising evidence that targeted activation or blocking of CB1 receptors could be used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. This research may help develop new therapeutic options and further our understanding of the role of CB1 receptors in the body.

More about type 1 cannabinoid receptors: wikipedia.com.

Endocannabinoid system: structure, function and role

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Graphische Darstellung der Rezeptoren des Endocannainoid-System im Körper.

The endocannabinoid system is a fascinating and complex system that has received much attention in medical research in recent years. It plays a crucial role in maintaining balance in the body and influences numerous physiological processes. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the anatomy, function, and role of the endocannabinoid system.

The structure of the endocannabinoid system

The endocannabinoid system consists of three main components: cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids, and the enzymes responsible for their production and degradation. The two best-known cannabinoid receptors are CB1 and CB2, which are found throughout the body but in varying amounts and localized in different tissues. CB1 recept ors are mainly present in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are mainly found in immune cells and some peripheral tissues.

A receptor of the endocannabinoid system schematically shown.

The function of the endocannabinoid system

The main function of the endocannabinoid system is to maintain balance in the body, also known as homeostasis. It regulates various processes such as mood, pain perception, appetite, sleep, immune response and inflammation. When a certain function in the body is out of balance, endocannabinoids can be released to correct that condition and restore balance.

The role of the endocannabinoid system

The endocannabinoid system plays a diverse role in the human body. It is involved in the regulation of emotions and pain processing and can influence inflammatory processes. In addition, it can also control appetite and metabolism and has effects on the immune system. Due to its diverse functions, the endocannabinoid system may play a role in various diseases and is therefore increasingly considered as a potential therapeutic target.

The endocannabinoid system and health

A balanced endocannabinoid system is crucial for health and well-being. A deficiency or malfunction of the system can lead to various problems. For example, dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system has been linked to mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, chronic pain, inflammation, and metabolic disorders. By targeting the endocannabinoid system, future therapies could be developed to better treat these diseases.

Conclusion

The endocannabinoid system is a fascinating and complex system in the human body. It plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and regulating various physiological processes. Research into this system has the potential to enable new treatment approaches for various diseases.

More information about the ECS: wikipedia.com

CBD and competitive sports (part 2): Experiences of an extreme athlete

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For more basic knowledge on the topic of “CBD and competitive sports”, we recommend reading the 1st part of our series on CBD in sports: CBD and competitive sports (Part1): What’s behind it?

We at Herba di Berna wanted to generate our own empirical values for the topic of CBD and sports, which is why we approached the aspiring trail runner Michael.

He tested a Broad Spectrum oil for us for several months during his training phase and now tells us about his experience.

Interview with Michael: Experiences from competitive sports

Dear Michael, thank you for supporting this experiment and daring to try it yourself.
You are very conscious of sensible consumption, especially because your athletic performance is at stake. Is this how you also came across CBD oil as a natural doping?

For me, meaningful consumption is very central. Not only in terms of athletic performance, but also for the environment and animals. For this reason, I have been eating a vegan diet for years and always keep my eyes open for ways to maximize my performance without harming fellow humans, animals or nature. This interest has also made me aware of CBD products.

What was your expectation or hope with taking CBD oil?

I hoped that I would be able to recover even better and thus be fresher for the upcoming units. In addition, I had the idea that the CBD oil may even have a preventive effect against minor injuries. In many cases, overuse injuries start with a small inflammation that intensifies with further stress. Avoiding these small inflammations with the consumption of CBD oil and the necessary rest would obviously be a big plus.

You have been taking Broad Spectrum CBD oil for us for over three months. What has made itself felt?

I have already felt various positive effects in the relatively short time.
During a training volume increase, for example, from 90 running kilometers one week to 100 running kilometers the next, I often felt the periosteum on my shin a bit, this was not the case during the CBD drop experiment.
In addition, I was able to focus even better during the more monotonous workouts, such as weight training, as long as I took 3-4 drops immediately before the workout. Quite apart from the positive effects on training, I really like the taste of the drops, whether in coffee, muesli or pure.

Only those who are well rested can also perform well

Michael, trail runner

What would you say, did the CBD oil have more of a positive impact on your performance or your recovery? Or even both?

Both. It is certainly primarily regenerative as it has an anti-inflammatory and calming effect. Due to the good recovery and because the oil, at least in my case, had increased the focus on the essentials, the CBD drops certainly increased the performance.
Only those who are well rested can also perform well.

Would you recommend Broad Spectrum CBD oil to other exercisers or competitive athletes:inside?

Yes, after this experiment I definitely recommend CBD oil. I also recommend the drops to people who are perhaps not so active in sports, because the increase in focus has already impressed me quite a bit.

Are you also a movement person or athlete:in and would like to share an experience with the same interview questions? We allocate some 6% Broadsprectrum CBD oils for it. Get in touch via email: info@herbadiberna.ch

CBD and competitive sports (part 1): What’s behind it?

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This is the 1st post in our two-part series on CBD and competitive sports. In the second part, we asked trail runner Michael about his experiences: CBD and competitive sports: Experiences of an extreme athlete.

CBD oil is on everyone’s lips and is used as a “miracle cure” for almost any ailment.

And what about sports? There, too, it is increasingly used as a natural doping. It helps many athletes recover, but has also led to the suspension of top athletes.

Amateur athletes, top athletes and also ambitious hobby athletes already take CBD.

What many do not know: The body has its own endogenous cannabinoid system, [1] thus produces its own cannabinoid. This system is involved in brain development, motor control, immunological regulation, and pain perception, among others.

Competitive sport on the bike
Enduringly active in competitive sports

CBD as an anti-inflammatory

CBD oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can also help speed up the healing process and even have a preventive effect – in fact, the anti-inflammatory properties act like cell protection.

Helpful against sore muscles

Muscle soreness is actually tiny, harmless muscle fiber tears. The muscle fiber tears also inflammation. Therefore, CBD has a healing effect here as well.

Against performance pressure and for better sleep

In addition, CBD oil can improve sleep quality and lower stress levels, both of which are important for athletes who need to perform at peak levels.

Be on the safe side

For athletes looking for an edge over the competition, or looking for a natural way to improve health, CBD oil might be worth considering. It’s best to talk to your doctor about whether CBD is right for you. It is important to use a broad spectrum, THC-free oil. Then you also have no problems with possible doping controls in professional sports, because CBD products are already for years no longer on the list of banned substances.