Does CBD Oil Help with Muscle Recovery?

Yes, CBD oil has been shown to help with muscle recovery, especially by reducing inflammation and pain.

Understanding CBD Oil and Muscle Recovery

CBD (cannabidiol) is an anti-inflammatory compound found in cannabis plants. Studies suggest it can be effective in reducing muscle soreness and promoting faster healing after exercise. The best way to use CBD for muscle recovery is by consuming it after exercise.

Research and Evidence

A study in the Journal of Experimental Medicine confirmed that hemp extracts present in CBD recovery drops can decrease chronic pain, while evidence from the NCBI suggests that water-released drops (WRD) have anti-inflammatory effects that help one relax without consuming pain medication.

How CBD Oil Works for Muscle Recovery

CBD oil works to improve muscle recovery through several mechanisms:

Reduced Stress

Stress leads to a spike in Cortisol, responsible for inflammation, which results in discomfort and soreness. CBD contains anti-stress properties that can help reduce this stress and subsequent inflammation.

Anti-Inflammatory

CBD reduces the growth of neutrophils, WBCs that fight inflammation, and inflammatory proteins such as macrophage inflammatory protein-1 (MIP-1). This anti-inflammatory effect can be crucial in reducing muscle soreness.

Anti-Anxiety

CBD acts on serotonin receptors (5-HT1A), which are important neurotransmitters that moderate sleep and mood. Proper sleep and mood regulation are key aspects of muscle recovery.

Reduced Pain

The binding affinity of CBD to CB2 receptors found in WBCs prevents the body from absorbing anandamide, a compound associated with pain. By reducing pain, CBD can facilitate better recovery.

Reduced Muscle Spasms

CBD can speed up the body’s natural recovery process by repairing bones, nerves, and tissues post-workout. This reduction in muscle spasms is another benefit of CBD for muscle recovery.

Choosing the Right CBD Product

While CBD oil is effective, some products are more efficient than others. For example, Mee CBD's advanced water-soluble broad-spectrum CBD products may be preferred because they are more efficiently absorbed by the body, leading to better results. You can learn more about these products in the Mee CBD blog.

Conclusion

CBD oil is a promising natural solution for improving muscle recovery. Its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties make it a valuable addition to any post-exercise routine.