Can CBD Help Reduce Leg Cramping When Playing Sports?

Can CBD Help Reduce Leg Cramping When Playing Sports? Anyone who plays sports is no stranger to leg cramps. Muscle cramps are very painful and happen very quickly. Of all the different types of muscle cramps, leg cramps are the one that occurs most frequently among athletes. This led to using of various over-the-counter pain relievers which do more harm than good. If you are wondering whether CBD or Cannabidiol help reduce leg cramping? The short answer is yes. But to get a better understanding we must look at how it works. CBD or Cannabidiol is an active ingredient found in the cannabis plant. It is extracted from Hemp which also belongs to the family of cannabis but is low in the concentration of THC (a psychoactive compound that gives the "high"). With recent advances in synthetic chemistry, CBD and its different variations can be prepared in the laboratory. In recent years, the study on the effects of CBD in treatments of various medical conditions as well as recovery athletes has gained momentum. These studies have been largely successful in showing how CBD can act as an effective alternative to various pain-relieving medications and improve recovery. Keeping this in mind, the idea that CBD can also help with leg cramps has also been frequently suggested. What is Leg Cramping? As a basic overview, it is a condition when the muscles in the leg suddenly become tight and painful. It mainly occurs in the calf and thigh muscles. When the cramp occurs, it affects the area of the leg for several hours causing a lot of discomfort. We know that muscles contract and relax which causes movements. Cramping occurs when the muscle is contracted too forcefully. It is common in athletes while playing but can also occur during daily activities. Among athletes, the main cause for leg cramping is the lack of stretching exercises and warm-up before the game. It also occurs when players are not properly hydrated. How CBD Help Reduce Leg Cramping Our body contains Endocannabinoid System (ECS) that creates CBD naturally. It helps the body maintain its stability by keeping the neurotransmitter levels in check. CBD binds with CB1 and CB2 receptors that are found throughout the body and the brain. This leads to the increase in the level of Anandamide also known as "Bliss Molecule". This molecule helps in regulating pain sensation and reducing inflammation. It also improves mood. External CBD although slightly different from the naturally produced, performs a similar function. It also increases the capability of the ECS.