Is CBD good for Golf?
There are over 100 cannabinoids discovered in the cannabis plant that are being scientifically investigated for their health benefits. Cannabinoids are characterised by their ability to act on cannabinoid receptors that are found throughout the human body. Our body produces endocannabinoids and by supplementing with phytocannabinoids such as CBD, CBC, CBG, and CBN we can help the body achieve peak performance.
How CBD works?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound derived from the hemp plant. Not to be confused with the marijuana that some people smoke. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD interact with the human body via the endocannabinoid system, or ECS for short.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) comprises three component parts: endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes. These work together to create homeostasis, or simply put, a state of balance within the body’s internal systems. The ECS interacts with numerous parts of the body, constantly making precise adjustments in order to maintain a consistent state of equilibrium.
Endocannabinoids bond with different cannabinoid receptors in both the central and peripheral nervous systems, as well as in immune cells — the two primary receptors being CB1 and CB2. Then, special enzymes go to work, helping to break down any already-used or excess endocannabinoids, further assisting in maintaining homeostasis.
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Why should you care about your Endocannabinoid System ?
Why CBD for Golf?
Many golfers are looking for ways to play better golf. Whether you play socially or competitive club golf it can be a challenging environment.
Golfers use CBD for three main purposes: aiding recovery, reducing inflammation and making them feel more relaxed. While the science behind CBD’s effectiveness is still in its infancy a number of studies have emerged showing how it can deal with these common golfing issues.
CBD can help with Performance Anxiety
Performance related anxiety is very common among professional golfers, due to the high expectations of play. It can cause, lack of attention, and focus resulting in less than expected performance. This can in turn cause frustration, anger and even depression.
CBD could be the answer if one suffers from performance related anxiety. CBD is well known for its anxiety and stress relieving properties
CBD as an Anti-Inflammatory
Many golfers experience Inflammation, the most common being Golfer’s elbow. This condition causes pain and inflammation in the forearm tendons that attach to the elbow. Back pain and inflammation is also a common amongst golfers.
Obviously golfers have to use their forearms, wrist and back to play the game, so when inflammation is present it causes mobility issues and thus affects their swing, and overall performance
In some cases severe golfer’s elbow can stop a golfer from playing for weeks. If inflammation isn’t treated, it can result in nerve damage and severe pain.
Fortunately, research into CBD as a viable anti-inflammatory is very promising and well documented to help reduce inflammation and ease pain associated with inflammation.
For golfers, this is great news! It’s very likely that CBD can help with golfer’s elbow and other inflammatory problems.
CBD as a Potential Sleep Aid
Everyone benefits from good quality sleep, especially athletes, to ensure your body is erested and mind is focused. This obviously applies to golfers too.
If a golfer has a poor sleep schedule or a disrupted sleep pattern, even during off season this can cause issues such as drowsiness and fatigue during the day and during tournaments.
Research on CBD’s effectiveness for sleep and sleep-related issues is very promising showing it can help with getting to sleep and quality of sleep.
Energy Boost
We’ve all been there: the tee time is reserved, it’s a beautiful day, and everyone is ready to play…except you. Finding the energy to play a round of golf can be hard with all of the stresses of everyday life. CBD oil may give you the boost that you need to get back on the links.
According to a 2014 article in Current Neuropharmacology, CBD may be a “wake-promoting agent.” The study’s authors found that CBD activated neurons, leading to an enhancement in levels of dopamine (the “feel good” hormone) as well as an overall increase in wakefulness. In this way, CBD can help you find the energy and motivation to play, even when you are dragging.
What Types of CBD Products are Available?
Sublingual
Sublingual administration is a fancy term which means holding something under your tongue. Your tongue has a lot of blood vessels, which makes it easy for things held under your tongue to be absorbed into the bloodstream. CBD oil, can all be taken by placing a few drops under the tongue and holding it there for about 90 seconds before swallowing.
Topical
Some products containing CBD are designed to be applied directly to your skin. This way the CBD does not enter the bloodstream, but rather is absorbed by the skin itself wherever it is applied. This is perfect for localised applications. Various products exist, but the most common of this type are CBD balm/salve/lotion or CBD bath bombs.
CBD edibles
CBD oil has a natural earthy hemp flavour that is undisguised with nothing to hide the taste of cannabis. If you don’t like the taste of CBD oil try CBD gummies. CBD gummies can be a fun and tasty way to consume CBD. This method is great for golfers who want to discreetly consume CBD throughout the day without drawing attention to themselves. No water needed.
Success Stories of Golfers Using CBD Oil
There are several high-profile success stories demonstrating the potential benefits of CBD for golfers, including pain relief, anxiety management, and improved focus and concentration.
Here are some notable golfer’s CBD examples:
Charley Hoffman is a professional golfer who has been using CBD to manage pain and anxiety. He has stated that CBD has helped him to stay relaxed and focused on the course.
Morgan Hoffmann is a professional golfer who has been using CBD to manage pain and inflammation from a genetic muscle-wasting disease. He has stated that CBD has been a crucial part of his recovery and has allowed him to continue playing golf at a high level.
It’s important to note that everyone’s experience with CBD is different, and if in any doubt, we would always advise our clients to consult with a healthcare professional before using CBD or any other supplement.
Lucas Glover is a professional golfer who has been using CBD for pain relief and to manage anxiety. He credits CBD with helping him to stay calm and focused on the course.
Bubba Watson is another professional golfer who uses CBD for pain relief and to manage anxiety. He has been vocal about his support for CBD and its potential benefits.
Scott McCarron is a senior professional golfer who has been using CBD to manage pain and inflammation. He has stated that CBD has been a game-changer for him and has allowed him to continue playing at a high level despite his injuries.
Remember that the ECS is activated when the body is out of balance in some way (such as an injury, stress, insomnia). Adding CBD to your daily routine can help the ECS restore balance in your body.
If you’re a golfer or know someone who play golf please check out our range of high quality, organic CBD products and see how they could help you! Miracle Leaf have everything from CBD oils, balms, and edibles.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us for advice. Our friendly team is always available to help and would be delighted to assist you in any way we can.
