Corix Looks to Standardize CBD for Athletes -- CFN Media

SEATTLE, WA--(Marketwired - Nov 2, 2017) -  CFN Media Group ("CannabisFN"), the leading creative agency and media network dedicated to legal cannabis, announces publication of an article covering Corix Biosciences Inc. (OTCQX: CXBS) and its focus on standardized tissue culture propagation of cannabidiol, hemp, and cannabis genetics.

The Hemp Business Journal estimates that hemp industry sales reached $688 million in 2016, representing a 22% compound annual growth rate. By 2020, the same researchers believe that the hemp industry will expand to more than $1.8 billion, driven primarily by the rise of hemp-based cannabidiol (CBD) products. These products could make a dent in the $17.7 billion opioid market, especially given emerging research and renewed political pressure.

Cannabidiol as an Opioid Alternative

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of over 100 cannabinoid compounds in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce a euphoric high or psychoactive effect. The effects of CBD are very complex and not completely understood, but researchers believe that it helps the body use its own endocannabinoids more effectively. These endocannabinoids control many different functions, ranging from mood to pain sensation.

In pain management, researchers believe that CBD may stop the body from absorbing anandamide - a compound associated with regulating pain. Increased levels of anandamide in the blood stream is associated with a reduction in the amount of pain that a person feels. The compound may also limit inflammation in the brain and nervous system, which could help people experiencing pain, insomnia, and certain immune-system responses.

Studies have shown that people don't build up a tolerance to the effects of CBD, which means that they don't have to continuously increase their dose. Tolerance build-up is a common problem with opioids that often leads to addiction and long-term dependence. CBD also has fewer side-effects than most opioids, with the most commonly reported being tiredness, diarrhea, changes in appetite, and changes in weight.

WADA Opens the Door for Athletes

The World Doping Agency (WADA) recently removed cannabidiol (CBD) from its list of banned substances in 2018. WADA governs drug testing in the Olympics and it sets standards for many sports leagues, including the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The move could open the door for CBD oil and related supplements to be used by athletes to manage their pain and inflammation as an alternative to prescription pharmaceuticals like opioids.