06 Oct

Can You Build a Tolerance to CBD?

Some substances, when taken over an extended time, can cause our bodies to begin to build a tolerance. We establish a tolerance to a chemical when more and more of it is required to produce the same effects. Tolerance can build up for simple daily items such as coffee and sugar.

Understandably, those who take CBD oil may wonder if they might begin to build a tolerance in a similar way. In this article, we take a closer look at what tolerance is, and whether it is related to CBD.

What is Tolerance?

To know whether our bodies can build a tolerance to CBD, we first need to understand how tolerance works.

There are three different types of tolerance, cellular, metabolic and psychological, which can occur individually or in combination depending on the substance and how it reacts with the body.

Cellular Tolerance

Many substances work by binding to a receptor. Over time, receptors can become less responsive, causing a reduction in the effects.

Metabolic Tolerance

Metabolic tolerance occurs when the body becomes more efficient at metabolising or eliminating a substance. Prolonged consumption of a substance causes the body’s metabolism to ‘get used’ to something. The substance is broken down faster, and its effects are both diminished and less prolonged.

Psychological Tolerance

Users can become psychologically attuned to the effects of a substance, meaning they are less perceptive or conscious of its benefits.

Understanding How CBD Works

CBD works differently to most of the chemicals associated with the development of tolerance and, therefore, developing a tolerance is unlikely.

Scientists know that CBD doesn’t bind directly with receptors. Instead, it indirectly improves the efficacy of endocannabinoids and receptors in the endocannabinoid system. Therefore, cellular tolerance is less likely.

Can You Build a Tolerance to CBD?

While tolerance is often more complicated than the simple mechanisms described, research suggests that CBD is not tolerance-forming and may even have the opposite effect.

Early studies indicate that due to the way CBD stimulates the endocannabinoid system, over time, lower amounts may be able to produce the same result.

In answer to the question ‘can you build up a tolerance to CBD?’ most scientists seem to agree that the answer is no.

What Do I Do if CBD is No Longer Working for Me?

If you have been taking CBD regularly and are noticing a reduction in the effects, it may be a result of one (or more) of the following things.

CBD Oil From a Non-Reputable Source

Is the CBD you are taking from a reputable and quality-consistent source? Many companies do not independently test each batch of CBD, meaning that the concentration of active ingredients may vary from batch to batch.

Here at ElleVance, our CBD/CBDA oils are tested by an independent laboratory to ensure that they are of the highest quality and are safe and effective to use.

Using a Different Product

Have you changed your CBD oil brand or product from the one you started with? Not all CBD oils are the same – even when comparing two products’ labels that seem to be identical, several things can make them different.

There are a few ways of taking CBD oil; for example, as a drop of oil or in a capsule. CBD oil dropped into the mouth is absorbed by your mucous membranes, whereas a capsule will be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. One of these methods may work better for you than another.

Take a Break

If you have not changed the product or the dose you were taking, some scientists suggest halting your CBD consumption for a couple of days. This can help to kickstart the effectiveness when you start taking the CBD again.

Reached Maximum Effectiveness

It is possible you could have reached the maximum effect you could achieve from enhancing your endocannabinoid system.

Remember that CBD and CBDA are not medicines. Therefore, they are not going to revert the course of a disease or cure it altogether.

Worsening of a Condition

If despite taking a CBD/CBDA product, you feel that your pain, stress or discomfort starts to come back, it may be that your condition is worsening. Consider consulting with a health professional.

At ElleVance, we have our CBD/CBDA oils tested by independent laboratories, so we know that all our full-spectrum CBD products are of the highest quality.

To explore our products as well as discover answers to more frequently asked questions, please visit our website.

28 Sep

Returning to Sport After Injury

For keen athletes and lovers of sport, sitting out because of an injury can be challenging. Whether you have simply pulled a muscle or have a more serious injury, rest and recovery are just as important for your training regime as the physical workouts.

Speeding up recovery time and ensuring your training doesn’t fall to the wayside are important for many. Here, we look at how you can get back on track and safely return to sport after an injury.

Why is Full Recovery Important

For more dedicated athletes, recovery from an injury can be a mental battle as well as something physical that needs to be overcome. Many will be eager to get back to their sport and may be willing to ignore pain or treat the symptoms without assessing the cause.

This can do more damage.

Giving yourself time to fully recover can help prevent the development of even worse injuries that require longer time too help and more intensive treatment plans.

When to Return

Although you may feel like you’re ready to dive back in, knowing for sure that you’re not risking your body and doing any more harm is important.

The following progression of exercises can be used as an indicator of whether you are ready to return to your usual activity. The number of exercises you can do comfortably will show where you are in your recovery.

Walk with no limp.
Jog with no limp.
Run with no limp.
Running in figure 8 and zig-zag configuration with no limp.
Double and single leg hops.
Drills specific to your sport.
Contact drills.
Ability to return to competitions.

A physiotherapist will be able to help you map out a more precise timeline and regime of exercises for your recovery.

What Can You Do to Aid Your Return?

If you’re itching to get back to the game, the following things can help support recovery and get you back on the road to peak performance.

Physiotherapy

If you have over-exerted an injury but don’t require immediate medical attention, you may want to seek the help of a physiotherapist or sports injury specialist.

As previously mentioned, they will be able to help you with targeted treatments and will give a more specific timeline about when you will be able to return to sports as normal.

Going to physiotherapy sessions at the first signs of an injury is often the best thing to do if you want to reduce potential recovery time. Leaving symptoms unresolved can lead to chronic injuries which will require more intensive intervention and will take far longer to heal.

CBD For Muscle Recovery

Recent years have seen the rise in the use of CBD for muscle recovery to help support athletes’ return to sports.

CBD products work as a natural anti-inflammatory agent which can effectively reduce muscle soreness and decrease recovery time. Many also use CBD to aid sleep and relaxation, which is another essential component needed for a successful recovery.

Since the World Anti-Doping Agency has removed CBD from its list of prohibited substances, professional athletes can rest assured they won’t be scrutinised for using CBD products during and even after periods of recovery.

It should be noted that CBD is not a treatment for sports injuries, but rather an aid that can be used to support the recovery process. If you experience a serious injury, you should seek the help of medical professionals and conventional medicine.

Don’t Push Yourself

In theory, this is one of the simplest things you can do, but in practice, many athletes struggle. Before it is safe for you to return to normal, you need to make time for yourself and your body to relax!

Try not to push yourself too hard before you are ready. Preventing further injury is key, so you’ll thank yourself in the long run for taking it easy.

Here at ElleVance, we are dedicated to providing high-quality CBD products for a variety of uses. If you are interested in using CBD to support your return to sports, why not browse our range of specialist products?

20 Aug

What to Look for in False CBD Advertising Claims

Everyone has warmly received the emergence of CBD as a product that can provide significant benefits to our lives. As our industry continues to grow and more research is conducted, we are getting more excited about the potential benefits that our products can provide.

However, as with any emerging market, there is still an element of confusion and misunderstanding when it comes to CBD. While we try to educate our consumers and the wider public as much as we can, this uncertainty, unfortunately, provides room for less scrupulous businesses to operate, taking advantage of lies and half-truths for profit.

There are a growing number of scams related to CBD products online. What’s worse is that many of these take on the guide of a reputable company to sell poor-quality and potentially dangerous products. Some even falsely use celebrities to promote their products – Clint Eastwood and Mary Berry are two of the more recent examples.

How to Spot a False CBD Advert

Here at ElleVance, we strive to educate all our customers about the reality of taking CBD products. Our CBD FAQs section is full of factual information backed by research, helping you to make the right choice about whether CBD is right for you and, if so, which product would be most suitable for your needs.

False CBD adverts are only concerned with selling you their product – often something that is of poor quality and won’t deliver the benefits you expect. Here are some tell-tale signs of fake CBD adverts.

Exaggerated Claims

One of the most dangerous things when it comes to CBD advertising is sellers overstating its effectiveness. CBD can be effective at helping your body deal with stress and anxiety, can promote better sleep and also support muscle recovery. However, it cannot eliminate stress or insomnia, and it’s not a miracle cure for your aching joints.

These exaggerated claims are designed to prey on people who are desperate for support and are more likely to make an emotional purchase. If you see a CBD advert making these extraordinary ‘miracle cure’ claims, this is a sign that the company is potentially malicious.

If you have a severe issue related to stress, insomnia or anything else, you should always get in contact with an independent medical professional before purchasing products.

A man walking in front of a red sale sign in a store

Pushy Tone

As mentioned above, these false CBD adverts rely on establishing an instant emotional connection with the reader. Once they have that, they’re eager to get you to commit your money before taking a moment to think. They achieve this by creating adverts filled with aggressive messaging, including:

Buy Now!
Sale Ending in 5 Minutes!
Low Stock!
Don’t Miss Out!

If you see a CBD advert that appears exaggerated and pushy, then you should take a moment to consider if you can trust this product or company.

Strange Pricing

Another way false CBD adverts get you is through creative pricing techniques, disguising the real cost behind other figures. Claims such as “only £XX per bottle” are common, as is subscription-based pricing. If an advert says “first purchase free” but then asks for your payment details, there’s a chance that they could be tying you into a costly subscription, so be aware.

How to Avoid False CBD Advertising

Unfortunately, given the world of digital advertising today, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to avoid false CBD adverts entirely. However, you can arm yourself with the knowledge of how to distinguish them.

There are various other things beyond what’s listed above that you can do to help avoid CBD scams.

Do Your Research!

One of the most effective ways of avoiding being scammed is to research. If you’re interested in buying a CBD product, make sure it is from a legitimate company with an online, social media and physical presence (if in doubt, give them a call!).

Also, ensure that they’re not falsely using a reputable seller’s imagery – we’ve had many people contact us claiming to be scammed by people using ElleVance branding. The best way to avoid this is to get in touch with the company before purchasing. If you can’t contact the seller and confirm, then this should be a giveaway that the product may not be legitimate.

Why You Should Only Choose a Reputable Seller

Unfortunately, those who do end up purchasing from bad actors tend to receive a sub-par product, if any at all. This experience can wrongly put people off CBD products. Buying from a recognised seller, like us, will allow you to experience the true potential of a high-potency, tried and tested product.

All of our CBD products are tested in third-party laboratories to ensure a high-potency and trustworthy product every time. If you want to learn more about the realities of CBD, why not check out our other blog post on CBD myths?

Rugby balls on a training pitch by cones

13 Aug

Using CBD for Rugby

A growing body of research is showing that CBD can provide a range of health benefits for all people. By promoting natural reactions in our body, cannabinoids have the potential to help us live happier, healthier lives.

Since WADA removed CBD from its list of prohibited substances, athletes are now discovering the potential benefits it can bring to physical performance.

Rugby is one of the most physically intense team sports in the world, with so much pressure exerted, mentally and physically, across the body. CBD can assist rugby players in their performance, particularly during the recovery process, as outlined in this article.

Improved Recovery

Given the amount of physical activity and contact involved, it’s unsurprising that rugby is one of the most demanding and, as a result, injury-prone sports. While international bodies seek to make injuries less common, the basics of the game mean that pain is inevitable, and the recovery process is vital.

Recovery, either from injury or general fatigue, is a long process with many facets. However, CBD can provide benefits in many of these areas.

CBD reduces pain and inflammation, allowing the body to speed up its natural recovery processes and, ultimately, produce more muscle. Cannabinoids can also promote sleep, a vital part of overcoming fatigue and feeling fresh for the next fixture.

When it comes to more serious injuries, CBD can also help in the reduction of pain and inflammation, while its stress-reducing properties provide the athlete with a stronger sense of calm at what can be a traumatic time.

Note: CBD is not an alternative to conventional medicine, and should only be used to assist a more in-depth recovery process.

Reduced Pain and Inflammation

One of CBD’s most significant benefits for rugby players is its ability to decrease levels of pain and inflammation naturally. For many players, these are just parts of the sport. However, properly managing the recovery process not only makes it more comfortable but can also lead to better gains going forward.

Cannabinoids in CBD interact with your body’s natural endocannabinoid system, which then interacts with the nervous system to reduce pain and inflammation. By lowering these feelings, the body will be free to help you recover more quickly and effectively than before, making your body more durable over time and reducing the recovery time needed between matches.

Increased Sleep

We have perennially underestimated the importance of sleep, but it’s an essential part of athletic performance. During our sleep is when our bodies perform the most rigorous recovery procedures, while a lack of sleep can impact our time awake in a myriad of ways, both physical and mental.

CBD may help the body to control its emotions, triggering natural hormones that enable us to fall asleep quicker and more deeply. By improving the quality of your rest, you’ll feel fresher in body and mind for the next day.

Shop CBD oils, capsules and balms at Ellevance

Controlled Stress and Anxiety

Sportspeople at the highest level need to make every moment count. However, that pressure we put on ourselves can have a negative effect if not channelled in the right way. Stress not only impacts on our on-field performance but can also negatively affect recovery, dieting and other aspects of your life.

The natural chemicals in CBD may help the body to suppress feelings of anxiety and stress before they can appear. This ability to reduce negative emotions can lead to higher levels of performance, as well as improved recovery processes.

A downcast rugby player alone on a pitch

Are athletes allowed to take CBD products?

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, CBD has been removed from the World Anti-Doping Agency’s list of prohibited substances for athletes. CBD products do not contain THC, the psychoactive element that remains a banned substance for many sports. Many professional athletes across multiple sports now use CBD products as part of their recovery and preparation process.

CBD is an excellent way of assisting the body in doing what it does best. Here at Ellevance, we are one of the top producers of CBD oil in the UK, with products designed specifically for sports performance. For more information, please browse our range or check out our blog on how athletes can manage injuries.

17 Jul

Can CBD Be Used in Addiction Therapy?

After early and promising studies, scientists are becoming increasingly interested in the use of CBD in addiction therapy. It is thought that CBD may help to reduce cravings both during addiction and while in recovery, potentially reducing the risk of relapse. While this research is in its infancy, it is interesting to look into these studies to find out more.

NB – The following text is intended for informational purposes only. If you have any concerns regarding addiction, please consult a GP or health professional.

What is Addiction Therapy?

Addiction therapy is used to help people who have become reliant on, or addicted to, a substance, commonly alcohol or drugs. Addiction is complicated as there are many contributing factors, including mental and physical reliance. There are also underlying problems that may have caused the user to become addicted in the first place, such as mental health issues.

Addiction therapy is a standard method used to help addicts recover and avoid relapse. There are many different methods used under this umbrella which vary depending on the addiction and the individual patient. Often treatment consists of a combination of medication, traditional therapy and, in more recent years, holistic therapy.

Using CBD in Addiction Therapy

How could CBD be used to help people who are struggling with addiction? If CBD can help to reduce stress and anxiety, it may be particularly beneficial in reducing the chance of relapse by decreasing these levels caused by cravings and environmental factors.

CBD and Opioid Addiction

One study also found that cravings were reduced in people with a history of heroin abuse, who were abstaining from relapse, after taking regular doses of CBD.

CBD and Cocaine Addiction

Similarly, CBD may help to reduce the cravings associated with cocaine and amphetamine abuse, although research supporting this is limited.

CBD and Alcohol Addiction

A common side effect of alcohol withdrawal is insomnia. Many people use CBD to help regulate sleep patterns and improve their ability to fall asleep. Managing a severe side effect may help to reduce the risk of relapse for people recovering from alcohol addiction.

CBD and Marijuana Addiction

Known as Marijuana Use Disorder, the heavy use of marijuana can result in dependence for the user, with side effects including mood swings, decreased appetite, sleep difficulties and restlessness. While CBD is present in cannabis, it is THC that seems to be responsible for these effects. CBD oil does not contain THC.

In one study published by NCBI, one individual who suffered from bi-polar disorder and a daily addiction to marijuana reported feeling less anxious and having a better sleep. He was also able to abstain from the use of marijuana.

Summary – Can CBD Be Used in Addiction Therapy?

Early studies suggest that there are promising indicators that CBD may be useful in treating addiction therapy, although much more research needs to be done to support these claims.

For more articles on CBD, take a look at our blog, including Can You Build a Tolerance to CBD? For high-potency, quality CBD oils and products, including CBD oils for sleep, please browse our website.

08 Jun

What Happens When I First Start Taking CBD?

There are still many who are wary about taking CBD for the first time; however, studies suggest that CBD / CBDA can help cope with mental health issues such as stress, anxiety and insomnia.

How Much CBD Should I Take?

Our recommended dosages are worked out based on the recipient’s weight. This will differ per product, whether you opt for the oil or capsules. It is essential to follow the advice given, as these are unique to each product due to different strengths.

How to Take It

There are several ways you can take CBD. Such as by applying creams, taking an oil which, you may swallow, place under the tongue, mix in food or drinks, or by taking capsules which are easily portable if you’re on the go. Everyone will differ in what works best for them. However, studies suggest that swallowing is the best way as you achieve effective concentrations in blood, and can control the dosage.

The Taste

Cannabinoids don’t taste or smell; however, terpenes do. Our oil is rich in essential terpenes, and therefore, the oil will taste ‘hempy’, often described as earthy or peppery. It has a strong flavour which isn’t to everyone’s taste; therefore, it does help to take the oil with food if you’re unsure of the taste.

Additionally, capsules are a useful alternative; our ElleVance COMPLETE Relief™ Capsules offer a smell and taste-free dose of our hemp + high terpenes oil.

When Should I Feel It Working?

CBD interacts with our bodies and brains in several ways. Once it’s in your system, the oil will cooperate with our endocannabinoid system, the system in our bodies that regulates situations such as pain, anxiety and stress. CBD stimulates the endocannabinoid system to help make it more productive.

CBD will interact with everyone’s bodies slightly different, but generally, within an hour of taking, you should feel the effects.

What Will I Feel?

Our CBD / CBDA oil doesn’t contain THC, so you will not feel ‘high’; some people who take CBD may feel instantly relaxed. In contrast, others may not feel anything; the effects you feel will differ from person to person.

How Long Does It Last?

Typically, the effects of taking one dosage of CBD should last between six and eight hours; this will be dependent on your body and how much you have taken.

However, to reap the benefits long term, CBD oil is best to be taken daily. This will help you to obtain more significant benefits and for a longer time. We recommend taking CBD twice daily, CBD has a half-life of around 18 – 32 hours. Therefore, regular dosing can help to maintain its effects.

How Long Does CBD Stay in My System?

Studies suggest that CBD can stay in our system for two to five days. However, other factors can impact how long it stays in our bodies such as how often you take CBD, the dosage and your body composition. If you are taking it twice daily, then CBD will stay in your system for a more extended period, stimulating the endocannabinoid system longer.

If you’re thinking about taking CBD for the first time, it is vital to find the right product for you. Nowadays, there are many CBD products in the market, but it’s essential to find a high-quality product.

At ElleVance, we are dedicated to bringing the best quality CBD / CBDA products to the UK market, including our CBD oil. Each of our products goes through comprehensive testing to ensure each batch has the required profile of cannabinoids and terpenes, with the potency that works.

Browse our website for more details on our products, read our blogs for the latest updates in the CBD industry or read our testimonials to discover how our products have helped others.

many phones being help in the middle of a table

20 May

Not Just Another Trend: The Rise of CBD

We tend to see products and fads come and go faster than ever before, aided by social media influencers and celebrity endorsements. Often, these products have little or no real benefit or use and are quickly pushed aside for the next big thing.

Occasionally, however, something comes along that contradicts the norm, and we find ourselves presented with a product that may have a real benefit. Recent years have revealed that CBD appears to be one of these products.

In this article, we take a look at how CBD has risen in the last few years, why it became so popular, and where it’s headed in the future.

Where Has CBD Come From?

Hemp has been used for medicinal purposes for nearly 5,000 years (the first records of its use date back to 2,900 BC, in ancient China). Cannabidiol (CBD), however, was not discovered until 1940, when Dr Roger Adams’ team isolated the molecule. CBD medicinal properties were elucidated some 40 years later but, by then, Cannabis plants were forbidden, and massive use of CBD was therefore inconceivable.

With time, we were able to isolate CBD from the psychoactive cannabinoids in hemp and its popular use started to gain momentum. In 2010, the UK approved the first prescription cannabis medicine (Sativex®) and in 2019 the European Medicines Agency approved the first CBD-based medicine (Epidyolex®).

The combination of the depenalisation of hemp and CBD with the scientific efforts invested in better understanding hemp derivates benefits have boosted the popularity of CBD across the world.

Hemp is the Ideal Crop

Farmers quickly realised that hemp is a great crop to cultivate compared to others like corn and cotton. Hemp plants are resilient, fast-growing and require less water, fertiliser, pesticides, and herbicides.

It became easy for farmers to meet the rising demand for hemp extract to use in the production of CBD products.

Why Has CBD Become So Popular?

With a regular supply of quality hemp, the CBD industry could go about creating, testing and marketing a variety of products, which were met with a definite interest from the public.

This demand, combined with compelling scientific research on the benefits of pharmaceutical-grade CBD, led to a sharp increase in the popularity of the product. Spurred on by a significant number of testimonials from both the general public and sporting names, CBD has quickly become a universal product.

Why is CBD Not Just Another Trend?

In today’s terms, a trend is something that isn’t expected to last and will be popular for a short amount of time, followed by a sudden, and often careless, drop off of the radar.

While CBD is undoubtedly spending some time in the limelight, many are not characterising it as a fashion or trend. The amount of scientific research going into hemp derivates and the gradually increasing regulations on CBD is securing a place for CBD and other cannabinoid-based products in the shelves of pharmacies, health shops and beauty salons.

CBD is Different

The ongoing research of the benefits of CBD products, along with its continued endorsement by thousands of users, appears to have solidified its place in today’s mainstream, with no sign of it dropping out.

Besides, its reputation has only been strengthened by the World Anti-Doping Agency’s decision to remove CBD from its list of prohibited substances for two years running.

Where Can I Buy CBD?

Unfortunately, as is often the case, with the rise in popularity of a product comes a plethora of companies offering the same thing in varying quality.

CBD is available to purchase legally in the UK both in shops and online; however, buyers should proceed with caution. Some companies offer CBD products with little or no active ingredient, which results in minimal, if any, perceivable benefit.

Furthermore, there are even more out there who offer a poor-quality product consisting of CBD isolates, which only provide partial support.

Always Look for a Full-Spectrum Product

The most effective CBD products are what are known as full-spectrum. Full-spectrum (or whole plant) extracts contain not only CBD but also other cannabinoids (like CBDA), terpenes and flavonoids.

All these natural chemicals work together to achieve a better result in what is known as “the entourage effect”. Furthermore, companies who are confident with the quality and strength of their products will happily share with their customers the results of independent laboratory tests to prove their authenticity.

The most important thing to remember is to research a company before purchasing CBD from them properly.

Summary

While there is no doubt that CBD is having a moment, the industry, scientists, and regulators behind it do not show signs of plateauing, which suggest that it is here to stay. In the future, we are looking forward to the results of in-depth, further research on the effects of CBD and its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

For more information on CBD oil and other products, please feel free to explore the ElleVance Sciences website. As the providers of maximum strength full-spectrum CBD products, we are happy to share with our customer’s further details and lab reports; please contact us at customersupport@ellevancesciences.co.uk.

04 May

World Anti-Doping Agency Removes CBD From Prohibited Substances

If you are an athlete, sportsperson, or keen spectator, you may have heard by now that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has removed CBD from its prohibited substances list. The move demonstrates the ongoing global recognition of the safety of CBD. It presents professional athletes the opportunity to use CBD as part of their training programmes.

In this article, we take a look at what the new move means for athletes and the CBD industry.

What is the World Anti-Doping Agency?

Established in 1999, the World Anti-Doping Agency is an independent, international agency dedicated to the education, research and development of anti-doping capacities. The WADA also monitors and governs the World Anti-Doping Code, which is the document that unites anti-doping policies across the world in all sports.

As international sports are played across countries and borders, it is necessary to have a universal code that controls the use of performance-enhancing substances to allow for fair sportsmanship.

The WADA is an independent organisation and is funded equally by the governments of the world and the sport movement.

horse rider jumping over a jump on brown horse

What is the List of Prohibited Substances and Methods?

The List of Prohibited Substances and Methods is produced and updated each year, and it outlines the substances and methods that are prohibited in sport. The list is split into two categories:
• Prohibited at all times.
• Prohibited in competition. (Each sport defines the period in which the substance is banned).

Examples of substances included in the list are stimulants, anabolic steroids, diuretics, narcotics and stimulants.

The Permitted Use of CBD – Can Athletes Use CBD Oil?

Cannabidiol has been left off the list for the last two years; it is stated that:

-“All-natural and synthetic cannabinoids are prohibited except for cannabidiol (CBD). Cannabis, hashish and marijuana are prohibited. Products, including foods and drinks, containing cannabinoids, are also prohibited. All synthetic cannabinoids that mimic the effects of THC are prohibited.”

It is up to the athlete to be responsible for the contents of the product they are consuming. The WADA states:

-“CBD is not prohibited; however, athletes should be aware that some CBD oils and tinctures extracted from cannabis plants, may also contain THC and other cannabinoids that could result in a positive test for a prohibited cannabinoid.”

What Does it Mean for Athletes?

The new rules mean that athletes are now permitted to experiment with CBD regarding their performance and wellbeing, from helping with muscle recovery to easing nerves before a big day. Big names in the sporting world have since begun advocating, and in some cases endorsing, CBD products, including the NFL, rugby, and world boxing stars.

Athletes are advised to use caution, however; as many CBD products contain tiny amounts of THC, which will not affect the user but may still be detectable in a WADA drug test. There are specialised CBD products available on the market which contain 0% THC and can be used by athletes and sportspeople.

The CBD Industry is Expected to Thrive

Over the coming years, the CBD industry is expected to thrive with additional attention and research being paid to professional sports. Not only can the industry focus on how CBD could help regular people, but also take a closer look at its potential benefits on a more refined level.

Looking forward, the continued use of CBD will give scientists and athletes a better idea of the effects of long-term usage. Its permittance by the WADA demonstrates the global shift towards the acceptance of its safety and effectiveness. Read more about How Athletes Manage Injuries in our blog.

At ElleVance Sciences, our vision is to research, manufacture and supply high-quality CBD products for a range of uses. Our dedication to our brand, our maximum strength products, and their quality, allow us to deliver our customers with a blend of cannabinoids and terpenes that is perfectly suited to their needs.

27 Mar

How Will Coronavirus Affect Veterinary Practice? The China Experience

Veterinary practices in the UK and around the world are trying to figure out how to operate in the new reality of Coronavirus.

Should we stay open? What service should we provide to keep pets healthy? How can we keep our staff safe? What can we do to minimize the damage to the business?

We could start by looking to a country that has already been through coronavirus lockdown and is now emerging at the other end to see what we can learn. COVID-19 was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province in China and the country took drastic action between January and March to control the spread. The whole of Hubei was locked down by January 31st, and all 430 animal hospitals in the Province were closed.

Other Provinces locked down in early February, and by the 13th, 67% of medium/larger sized practices across China were closed* (there are approximately 18,000 small animal practices in China). In the less affected areas, clinics rapidly reopened, and by February 20th only 55% were closed, down to less than 10% by the last week of March. Veterinary practices that stay open had to adapt quickly.

Stock Shortages

There were initial shortages of critical items, such as disinfectant and pet foods, due to courier disruption but that rapidly resolved. Pet owners proactively cancelled visits to the clinic especially for vaccinations, preventative care and less serious issues. Over 65% of pet owners said they shifted to “Dr Google”. In response, hospitals put staff on the phone and on-line to communicate with clients, screen patients, and reschedule less critical visits.

New Safety Protocols

Local sanitary authorities visited each day to check staff health status and records to confirm disinfection protocols. Clinics had to establish new safety procedures, including thorough disinfection every two hours, etc. Finally, in China, pet owners were not used to booking appointments, but that has become a requirement to minimize pet owner time in the waiting room. Interestingly, in the US, curb-side pet drop-off has become the norm this month, and pet owners are typically not allowed into the practice. Moreover, some states, including Pennsylvania, prohibit elective procedures.

Impact on Revenue

Chinese clinics that stayed open, revenues dropped significantly (60+%) in February driven by fewer pet visits. Still, the average transaction value increased due to the percentage of sick patients and the time available to work up each case. These figures have since rebounded. For Ringpai – a corporate chain of 300 hospitals across China – customer visit approached normal levels by the end of March. Their top hospitals are back to 100% of their pre-crisis weekly revenues, after only 2.5 months. Will the UK follow the same path – only time will tell.

During this time, ElleVance Sciences are continuing to provide CBD / CBDA products including our full-spectrum CBD oil, to surgeries to meet the needs of the cases that they have on prescription.

*This data is from a Zoetis survey of 6,273 medium to large-sized hospitals.

10 Mar

A Chat with Andrew Cotton: Professional Big Wave Surfer

One of the UK’s most celebrated and fearless surfers, we took the chance to catch up with Andrew and talk about his experience in professional sports, time in recovery and how he has used CBD over the years.

About Andrew

Known affectionately as Cotty, Andrew’s talents are not limited to sport and surfing. He is an accomplished and inspirational public speaker, having spoken out on a range of topics, from achieving goals and dealing with failure, to the environment alongside charities such as Surfers Against Sewage. Andrew’s other endeavours include global Surf Fitness Retreats and media work.

Surf Career

From humble beginnings surfing the coast of South West England, Andrew discovered a passion for big wave riding that took him across the world to countries such as Australia, Hawaii and Portugal. It was in Nazare that he got to ride some of the biggest waves ever attempted, reaching the dizzying heights of waves in excess of 70ft.

from the water image of andrew riding a big wave

Using CBD

In a devastating accident in November 2017, Andrew suffered from a compression fracture in his spine, which had to be followed by a long period of recovery. Andrew used CBD throughout the recovery process; however, he explains that he had already been using it.

“To be honest, I think I was using CBD before that, I was looking into ways to recover after training; you read loads of different things, and CBD came up quite a lot.”

“I was looking into ways to sleep better and recover faster after training sessions. I tried various different products and methods of taking it.”

When asked his preferred method of taking CBD, he explained he’d tried several different stages, including adding it to food and coffee.

“But I think the best is just drops under the tongue” he adds.

Thankfully, he made a full recovery and spent several months regaining his fitness. As someone who has used CBD for a long period of time, he realises the importance of taking regular doses and allowing it to build up in the body.

“It’s part of something that I’ve put into my daily routine; it’s not something I would take just before a contest, it’s something that I take every day and build it up so it’s constant. It’s getting into your daily routine like you might take vitamins or supplements, I take CBD.”

“We get into this habit of wanting something instant, with CBD it takes time.”

He adds, “With CBD, it’s not like normal prescription drugs, where you feel like you can almost feel the effects immediately. I think it takes time to build up, we get into this habit of wanting something instant, with CBD it takes time.”

He also warns people to do their research before purchasing a CBD product. “There are a lot of different products out there, and some are better than others, it’s not until you start reading into it a bit more you start understanding it. Not a lot of stuff is amazing.”

Admitting he was unsure about its effectiveness before taking CBD, he says: “There are a lot of claims that it does a lot of different things, and that straight away got me quite sceptical. How can something do so much? But for me, it was all about recovery and trying to sleep better, and it did that.”

Andrew goes on to discuss the importance of sleep in both sport and everyday life. “I think sleep and recovery for anyone, whether you’re an athlete or do whatever, it’s really important and I think for me, that’s why it’s helped. It’s what’s helped me get over injury, but it’s also helped me get over training sessions and big wave sessions.”

“Sleep has kind of become hard, it’s hard for me, but I think taking CBD has definitely helped that.”

“It’s surprising how many people don’t sleep as much as they should. I think this day and age, managing to turn the brain off and get a good 8 to 10 hours sleep has kind of become hard, it’s hard for me, but I think taking CBD has definitely helped that.”

He’s also confident with recommending CBD to others:

“My dad’s in his 70s, and I’ve been trying to get him to start taking it for his arthritis, and he’s pretty old school, if it doesn’t work that day, he thinks it doesn’t work. I’ve been trying to get through to him that you’ve got to give it a proper month or a few weeks to get the benefits. Sometimes he doesn’t notice the benefits because he’s living with it, but I think I notice a difference.”

We really enjoyed chatting with Andrew and wish him the best in future competitions!

Visit the ElleVance Sciences website for CBD oil and other related products. We pride ourselves in our maximum strength, full-spectrum hemp extract, which contains our unique blend of CBD, CBDA and terpenes providing all-round balance and support.

24 Feb

What is Wellness?

It’s a word we see everywhere, but how many of us understand wellness and know what it means? Not to be dismissed as a trend dreamt up to help companies sell products, wellness is a holistic approach to life dating back to ancient civilisations.

In the modern-day, the concept of wellness involves a range of things that allow us to focus on our lives and help us to feel our best both physically and mentally. Not merely the pursuit of happiness, incorporating wellness into our lifestyles can help us to negotiate the ever-increasing chaos of the world. In this article, we break into the basics of wellness and discuss its benefits.

Family standing together on a beach at sunset holding hands

What is Wellness?

The Global Wellness Institute defines wellness as the active pursuit of activities, choices and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health. The key term here is ‘active pursuit’. Wellness is not a static state of being, rather the culmination of choices, intentions and actions that help us to move toward, and maintain, a higher state of health and wellbeing.

While conventional approaches and modern medicine play their part in this, the dynamics that are covered also lend themselves to more holistic alternatives. Furthermore, when we think of wellness as a lifestyle and mindset, we can begin to see how the various factors come together.

Physical

Physical wellness refers to the health of your body. There are a plethora of elements that relate to our physical health – including nutrition, exercise and sleep.

Mental

Mental wellness is the general state of your mental health, which can include your mood, outlook and ability to deal with problems and emotions.

Emotional

Emotional wellness elaborates on your mental state and involves your ability to be aware and able to express your emotions healthily, as well as consider the feeling and emotions of others.

Spiritual

Not necessarily referring to religion or belief, spiritual wellbeing is the search for, or acceptance, of purpose and meaning.

Social

Social wellbeing means you are connecting with others and maintaining a level of social interaction that helps you to feel included.

Environmental

Relating to the environment, both your immediate and broader, environmental wellness covers a healthy living space, connection with nature and an awareness of your impact on the world. In extension, making choices that are less damaging to the environment.

What are the Best Ways to Promote Wellness?

Once you have a better understanding of wellness, you may wonder how it is possible to incorporate it into your lifestyle. In truth, it is not as hard as it may seem to begin making wellness choices. As we discussed earlier, it is an individual and active journey to be more aware; there is no bar or end goal. So, how can you begin to promote personal wellness?

Choose More Ethical Brands

Whether it’s for travel, groceries, skincare or clothing, there are many brands out there who are promoting a more sustainable and ethical approach to their products or services. Not only does this fit in with environmental wellbeing choices, but often these products contain more organic and authentic ingredients.

Incorporate a Healthier Lifestyle

You don’t have to go to the gym five nights a week and eat a salad every day to make healthier lifestyle choices! Simple alternatives such as choosing an active weekend excursion with the kids, or gently tweaking your diet to be more nutritious are examples of the proactive pursuit of wellness.

Person exercising and doing yoga at sunset

How Does CBD Contribute to Wellness?

CBD on its own does not necessarily promote wellness. Instead, its benefits cover a range of physical and mental factors, that when bought together can contribute to your wellness journey. Based on scientific research and studies, genuine CBD products can help improve the quality of sleep, reduce the symptoms of chronic pain conditions and have a multitude of benefits for regular exercisers and those suffering from anxiety.

link to click to find out more about cbd

At ElleVance Sciences, we are dedicated to helping our customers live a more active life. Our products, which contain our unique blend of hemp plant extract, have been extensively researched to provide the perfect balance of cannabinoids and terpene. In joining us, you will become part of the ElleVance community. Here you can share your experience with other members, keep up to date on the latest research, and discover more about CBD on the broader wellness industry. For CBD oil in the UK, please visit our website.

17 Feb

The Present and Future of Cannabinoids: an interview with Stephen Cital

In the UK and US, it is only relatively recently that CBD products have been made available, thanks to the US Farm Bill, which has allowed farmers to begin producing hemp on an industrial scale. From here, those in the industry have been able to swiftly start research and trials, to expand the world’s knowledge of the cannabinoids and their benefits.

While research remains in its infancy, leaps and bounds have been made in how we understand the bodies endocannabinoid system, and the effect it has on mood, appetite, the immune system and more. The future for CBD products is looking strong and to find out a little more, we’ve teamed up with ElleVet advisory board member, Steven Cital to discuss his professional views on CBD and his hopes for the future. We have also included questions asked by you, which we hope will help you to better understand CBD and what it’s used for.

Stephen, whose goal is to educate both medical professionals and the public, has spent the last few years building a strong reputation as an expert on the use of cannabinoids.

Hi Stephen, thank you for taking some time to talk to us. You are a leading specialist on the safe and effective use of Cannabinoids, and we have compiled a few questions that ElleVance’s customers have sent us for you.

When did you first hear of CBD and what compelled you to begin studying it?

I first starting hearing about general cannabinoid use about seven years ago. I then started seeing use, so started investigating the legitimacy of the molecules for my patients in a more serious fashion in 2016. Once I started reading some of the pre-clinical data, I knew I was on to something that has huge potential that we have been ignoring for decades!

What has the rise in awareness of CBD products meant for the industry?

The interest in the industry had been good in the sense of normalising the discussion of cannabinoids but has also unfortunately given rise to less than credible characters and companies making miracle claims without the data to back it up. Despite taunts and even threats, I have really tried to make it my mission to get out accurate information. Everything I say when educating on the topic, you can be assured I have a scientific reference to back it up.

How do hemp products help with sleeping – are they the same as CBD?

This is a fantastic question, with many physiological complexities to understand. If I were to break it down, I would say that our body has a number of naturally occurring molecules known as endocannabinoids that help regulate several different physiologic functions and responses (i.e. appetite, our response to stress, immune response, etc.) including sleep cycles.

I believe we all understand in this day in age we have so many triggers that can interrupt our bodies normal responses to things such as medications, general stress and environmental factors that can disrupt normal endocannabinoid production and function. Supporting our bodies with plant-based molecules, known as phytocannabinoids, might be the best option for some individuals to help naturally bring our bodies back into homeostasis-which includes normal sleep cycles.

These plant-based molecules have a very similar structure to the endocannabinoids our bodies create, making them an excellent option to try. It must also be noted that besides the homeostatic properties, these molecules appear to have other therapeutic benefits that can address other issues that may interrupt sleep.

On the current market, what are your favourite trends/products?

I have always been a “Western” minded practitioner and seeing my own evolution into more natural methods has opened my eyes to not only the potential of plant-based supplements but also the efficacy I see every day in patients. I keep reminding myself that Mother Nature has been doing things a lot longer than any of us. It’s about time we listen to her and utilise what the plant has provided, without trying to leave our human mark on what has already been working for aeons.

What do you see in the future for CBD research and products?

As this industry evolves, I expect to see more research on different phytocannabinoids and their therapeutic use for many different conditions. I believe we will see specific phytocannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids in various concentrations for very specific conditions and more research confirming the already known safety of these molecules.

In your opinion, what are the biggest limitations facing the industry currently?

In my opinion, I believe our biggest limitations are not only the slow pace of regulations catching up to the pace of the industry and science, having to educate medical professionals on the safe and effective use of phytocannabinoids, and also the public.

What’s your advice for someone who is looking to give CBD a try?

For anyone wanting to try CBD, I would urge them to utilise a company that is willing to give you a Certificate of Analysis and has some data showing safety and dosing. Also, an efficacy study and has full traceability of all the supplies used to produce their product. I would also urge them to consider a complete spectrum product that has as many of the molecules maintained in the product as the plant naturally produces. Researchers have already found that broad and complete spectrum products work better than isolate products by stimulating the “entourage effect”.

Thank you for speaking with us, Stephen!

ElleVance Sciences prides itself on its continued research into full-spectrum CBD and CBDA products. If you are interested in CBD oil or more research and articles, take a look at our website or follow us on social media.