Fit for Play
“I wasn’t really sure what to think of
it. But when you find out what’s really
in it, what isn’t in it, that it’s natural and
that the levels of THC are so minute, I
think it’s going to continue to take off.”
–Scott McCarron told ESPN
Scott McCarron
What’s the Deal with CBD?
Frequently asked questions about one of the most talked about supplements in golf
I
T’S NO SECRET that CBD is having
a moment in golf. Professionals like
Bubba Watson, Scott McCarron, David
Toms, and many others have embraced it as
a sleep aid, anti-inflammatory tonic, and
anxiety-busting recovery tool.
But there are a lot of questions about
CBD. Is it legal? Is it safe? Does it actually
work? Dr. Susan Clark, a TPI-certified
Doctor of Chiropractic based in Ashburn,
is here to discuss.
IS IT MARIJUANA?
If that was your first thought, you’re not
alone. Let’s start with the basics. CBD
stands for cannabidiol and is derived from
the hemp plant. Although hemp is scientif-
ically a “cousin” of the marijuana plant—
coming from the same cannabis species—
the two plants are genetically different and
distinct by use and chemical makeup.
36
Scientifically speaking, the hemp plant,
often referred to as industrial hemp, refers
to the non-intoxicating (less than 3 per-
cent THC) varieties of Cannabis sativa
L. Hemp is legal in the state of Virginia,
which means you do not need a doctor’s
note to take CBD hemp oil.
It’s protected by the 2014 Farm Bill, which
states that the cultivation and research of
this variety are legal in all 50 states.
“CBD hemp oil is non-psychoactive,
meaning patients will not get a high from
the low levels of THC content,” said Clark.
“Furthermore, hemp contains other can-
nabinoids, omega fatty acids, and vitamins
that make it a versatile health and well-
ness supplement.”
According to a 2017 World Health Orga-
nization (WHO) report, CBD exhibits
no effects of any abuse or dependence
potential. Simply put, there is no evidence
V I R G I N I A G O L F E R | J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2 0 2 0
of recreational use of CBD or any public
health-related problems associated with
the use of pure CBD.
That’s why many golfers find CBD oil—
with its anti-inflammatory properties—
helpful when facing pain and discomfort
all year long, without the dangers of addic-
tive prescription medications.
“CBD oil is one of many sources of
reducing systemic inflammation at the
neurocellular level,” said Clark, who
also holds a Masters of Science in Sports
Medicine with an emphasis in Exercise
Physiology from the United States Sports
Academy. “Nothing is worse than having
dystonia (nervous twitch) on the golf
course, where the muscles continue to fire
unprovoked. CBD can help with both brain
function and neurological dysfunction.”
CBD can also help golfers recover
quicker after a round.
vsga.org
by DAVE POND