CBD is slowly becoming an alternative for people seeking relief. You may see CBD products in grocery stores or gas stations, or maybe your favorite jiu-jitsu athlete picked up a sponsorship. But should you be supplementing with CBD?
What is CBD?
Cannibidioil (CBD) is one of over a hundred chemical properties known as cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that interact via the body’s endocannabinoid system. There are various types of cannabinoids, each with its own functions and interactions through the body. However, we’re going to focus on Phytocannabinoids (plant-based cannabinioids) as CBD is one of the most abundant substances found in Cannabis plants.
CBD has gained a lot of attention in the scientific and medical community, and further studies are underway to truly understand the benefits of the substance. At the present CBD has been shown to have a positive effect in treating a number of issues and ailments including:
- Epilepsy
- Aches and pains (of various varieties)
- Inflammation
- Anxiety disorders
- and more.
Numerous coaches and competitors use or have used cannabis in some form. While the opinion is split on whether or not it has a place in BJJ, it is undeniable that there is something of a history when it comes to marijuana and the mats. Many opponents of cannabis don’t like the mind altering properties of THC. But with CBD there seems to be something of a middle ground. You can get the benefits of CBD without getting high, and for many people that is an important distinction.
Sourcing and consumption
CBD has seen a growth in popularity due in part to the 2018 Farm Bill, namely the Hemp Farming Act. This act allows for the production and transportation of industrial hemp and products derived from cannabis setiva L. plants that yield less than .3% of THC.
CBD can be consumed in a number of ways. One of the more common ways is by taking it in an oil based form. Others prefer to vape using cartridges or smoke/vape CBD hemp flower as an alternative or additive to marijuana. CBD can also be used topically or consumed in food or drink.
It’s important to distinguish that while CBD oil and hemp oil both come from the same plant they are not the same. At the same time there are three terms to pay attention to when shopping for CBD: full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate.
Of course, if you live in a legal state, you can gain access to a wide array of cannabis strains. CBD is also shown to inhibit some of the more intense side effects of THC. Aim for strains with high CBD content or hybrids with measured amounts of both.
CBD and Jiu Jitsu
Numerous coaches and competitors use or have used cannabis in some form. While the opinion is split on whether or not it has a place in BJJ, it is undeniable that there is something of a history when it comes to marijuana and the mats. Many opponents of cannabis don’t like the mind altering properties of THC. But with CBD products there seems to be something of a middle ground. You can get the benefits of CBD without getting high, and for many people that is an important distinction.
A number of combat athletes have cited using cannabis as a means to unwind and recover after hard training sessions. Jiu Jitsu athletes, especially competitors, accumulate a lot of time on the mat. Whether in training or competition a large number of practitioners are “working-injured.” Adding CBD to a recovery routine may help put you back on the mat sooner.
Rolled Up
So is CBD right for you? There is plenty of anecdotal evidence but as always talk to a professional if you’re unsure. Some CBD products (namely full spectrum) may contain trace amounts of THC, and extended use may result in positive showings in drug tests.
If you want to read more about MMA and Jiu-Jitsu history with cannabis culture, check out our Rolling Stoned article.