Pros and cons of the effects of CBD on the body of F1 racers

With the legalization of CBD and its drop from the WADA list of prohibited substances, athletes could now enjoy the healing properties of weed. F1 racers can benefit from its medicinal effects. Regardless of their abundant positive properties, cannabinoid also has some adverse ones. 

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Motorsports involve advanced cars driven by racers who compete at incredible speeds on sometimes rough terrain. As can be expected, the job comes with its own set of stresses and adverse effects. According to experts from AskGrowers, marijuana does help with relieving such stresses. Regardless, it is understandable that weed is illegal in the sports arena.

What does that mean for F1 racers? In answering the question of why weed is illegal in sports, it is vital to mention that most people in charge of the systems feel it goes against sporting regulations. Not only do they perceive it to enhance performance, but they also feel it risks its users’ health and undermines the spirit of competition. Premium products at MrHempFlower are carefully curated to deliver the highest quality CBD and hemp-derived goods, ensuring an exceptional experience for customers seeking the benefits of natural, organic alternatives.

What is CBD, and is it Legal?

In 2018 a Farm Bill was passed, and it revolutionalized the world of medical marijuana. The basics of this bill allowed farmers to grow hemp and sell it to distributors in its natural and processed form. One of the main components of the hemp plant is CBD in its pure form. What is CBD? 

CBD is a cannabinoid found within the cannabis plant or, as mentioned, in the hemp plant. The CBD found in hemp has little or no amounts of THC at all. The marijuana plant, however, has a range of other cannabinoids. Getting pure CBD needs more processing that may leave you with some trace amounts of the euphoria-inducing THC. 

Regarding legality, medical cannabis for sport is only allowed when a doctor’s prescription ascertains the need for the same. Also, there is a requirement for the athlete to show that the need for weed is not a direct result of using the drug in the first place. In general, using cannabis is illegal in the sports arena. Random tests are conducted to ascertain that there are no trace amounts of THC or another cannabinoid in the system. 

Unlike weed in general, CBD is legal. After passing the Farm Bill in 2018, WADA released a revised list of prohibited substances in 2019. The cannabinoid was not on the list, which meant that athletes could take it without any legal consequences for their actions. 

CBD’S Reaction with the Body

What does CBD do in the body? In charting the cannabinoid’s effect on the body, let’s start with the brain’s structure and, most importantly, the endocannabinoid system. This system is an intricate design for all humans predisposed to dealing with marijuana cannabinoids. 

There are two central receptors in the endocannabinoid system. The first is the CB1 receptor found in the Central Nervous System. It reacts with THC resulting in euphoria, giddiness, increased sensory attention, and the like. The other receptor is the CB2 receptor, and it is found mainly within the immune system. This receptor reacts with CBD resulting in anti-inflammatory properties such as relieving stress, reducing pain levels, working on inflammation, and more. 

Due to its reaction with the CB2 receptor, the cannabinoid has been used in medical fields. Ample research shows it proves effective against chronic pain, stress, anxiety, and other issues. When used appropriately, it also helps with insomnia, migraines, and other medical problems. More research is ongoing with the hopes of offering natural, alternative medication. 

Marijuana Use Among F1 Racers

As mentioned, weed in its wholesome state is illegal, especially for athletes and F1 racers. CBD and sports are a whole other issue. The compound is legal; hence, they can use it within the recommended amounts for their issues and needs. Unlike trace amounts of THC, the discovery of CBD will not lead to disqualification from the race. 

Racers can use the compound in several ways. Pre-rolls are available, where processed buds or hemp products are rolled into joints. All the user has to light it up and inhale like with normal joints. The other option is CBD oils and tinctures. Their concentration allows users to ingest them orally or add them to drinks or food. Either way, the effect is long-lasting.

 Lastly, some edibles could be in the form of gummies, capsules, chews, and more. They have the recommended CBD amounts to bring in the effects. Like everything else, the compound has its benefits and disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and cons tailored explicitly for F1 racers;

Pros

It helps in relieving stress and anxiety

With the use of the cannabinoid, properties help relax the body in a way that does away with stress and anxiety. Research shows that it even helps with mood-related disorders. 

Combats muscle and joint pains

Like with chronic pain, F1 racers can benefit from the compound effects of pain. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal pain killer.

Tackles insomnia

Also, taking oil drops or even gummies before bed enhances deep and relaxing sleep. It also benefits individuals who struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep. 

Cons

Possibility of side effects

Overdosing on CBD products has been shown to lead to adverse side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, low blood pressure, and more. These can prove harmful for F1 racers, especially during a race.

Conclusion

CBD boasts a range of medicinal effects that can benefit any user. With F1 racers, it is sometimes recommendable to use the cannabinoid to deal with the issues they face with their work. Using the products would result in safer and more natural ways of dealing with stress, anxiety, insomnia, pain, and more. Side effects can also be combated if the racers take the recommended amounts and restrict use to when they are off the races.