The world of mixed martial arts (MMA) is about to witness a historic shift , with the recent announcement by the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) that it is legalizing the use of cannabis for its athletes. This decision marks a significant turning point in the sport’s anti-doping policy and has been met with enthusiasm by many within the MMA community.
Effective immediately, fighters competing in the UFC will no longer be subject to penalties for testing positive for cannabis use during competition. This move represents a departure from the strict anti-doping policies that were previously imposed, and reflects a growing understanding and changing attitudes toward the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, as well as a broader consideration of fairness and athlete well-being.
The UFC’s decision to legalize cannabis comes amid a scenario where many states in the United States and countries around the world are legalizing or relaxing laws on the use of the substance. Recognizing this legal and cultural evolution, the UFC is aligning its policies with emerging social and scientific trends.
In addition, legalizing cannabis is also seen as a positive step towards addressing the mental health and well-being issues of fighters. Many athletes already use cannabis as a way to cope with stress, anxiety and injuries resulting from the intense training and competition routine. By allowing the use of the substance, the UFC is demonstrating a genuine concern for the care and health of its fighters.
For advocates of cannabis legalization and anti-doping reform in sports, the UFC’s decision is a significant victory. It is hoped that other sports organizations will follow the UFC’s lead in recognizing the potential benefits of a more progressive approach to cannabis use.
The UFC’s decision to allow cannabis use for its athletes represents a major milestone in the history of MMA and a positive step toward fairer, more evidence-based anti-doping policies. This change not only reflects a growing understanding of the benefits of cannabis, but also highlights the UFC’s commitment to the well-being and health of its competitors. Read the following article with Hempgan to learn more:
What is Cannabis and what types are there?
Cannabis, also known as marijuana or hemp, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Cannabaceae family . It is known for its recreational, medicinal and industrial uses. The plant contains several chemical compounds, the main ones being cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids.
There are three main types of Cannabis, each with specific characteristics:
Cannabis Sativa: This is one of the two main species of Cannabis, known for its long, thin leaves. Cannabis sativa plants tend to be taller and more slender compared to Cannabis indica. It is often associated with stimulating and energizing cerebral effects and is used to treat conditions such as depression, fatigue, and lack of appetite.
Cannabis Indica: This is the second of the two main species of Cannabis, characterized by its short, broad leaves. Cannabis indica plants are generally more compact in appearance and shorter in stature. It is often associated with relaxing and sedative physical effects and is used to treat conditions such as chronic pain, insomnia, and anxiety.

Cannabis Ruderalis: This is a third less common and lesser-known species of Cannabis. Cannabis ruderalis plants are small, fast-growing plants that originate from higher latitude regions such as Russia and parts of Central Asia. They are low in THC (the main psychoactive compound in Cannabis) and are often crossed with other species to create strains with specific characteristics.
How does Cannabis act on the athlete’s body?
Cannabis contains chemical compounds called cannabinoids , with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) being the best known and most studied. These compounds interact with the human body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating a variety of physiological functions, including mood, sleep, appetite, pain, and immune response.

In the context of athletes, cannabis use can affect the body in several ways:
Pain Management : THC, in particular, is known for its analgesic effects and can help relieve muscle pain and injuries resulting from intense training and competition.
Reduced inflammation : Both THC and CBD have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for athletes who suffer from chronic inflammation due to constant physical stress.
Reduced anxiety and stress : Some athletes report that using cannabis helps reduce the anxiety and stress associated with high-level sports performance, providing a state of mental relaxation.
Improved Sleep : CBD has been studied for its potential benefits in regulating sleep, helping athletes get better quality rest, which is important for muscle recovery and athletic performance.
Muscle recovery : Some studies suggest that cannabinoids may promote muscle recovery after exercise, possibly reducing stiffness and speeding up the healing process of injuries.
How to start treatment with Medicinal Cannabis?
Starting treatment with medicinal cannabis is an important decision that requires specific care. First, it is essential to seek the support of a medical specialist trained in this type of therapy. This professional will be able to assess your health needs and medical history and provide you with appropriate guidance on the use of cannabis for treatment.
A consultation with a medical specialist will allow you to discuss the available options, dosages, methods of administration and possible side effects. In addition, he or she will be able to provide guidance on the legal acquisition of medicinal cannabis, ensuring that the entire process is within legal and ethical standards.
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