Former Northampton Saints player sets up cannabis product business

Ben Nutley made 83 appearances for the Saints and left the club last June.

Heath Stevens, the captain, and back rower Ben Nutley both play professional rugby for Coventry and have set up a sideline company called Nuts About Health.

Their business produces a line of products made from CBD, which is one of the 104 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, which is found in the cannabis or marijuana plant but is not psychoactive.

It came after Heath sustained a pre-season injury to his foot and was told by a friend - who was undergoing testicular cancer treatment - to give it a try to reduce the pain.

Ben and Heath have launched their own CBD oil business.

Ten days later, Heath no longer saw any need to undergo further medical treatment and it then occurred to him that he could help some of his colleagues too.

Heath said: "The CBD market is growing at a rapid rate, with more and more people turning to a more holistic approach to their health.

"It's benefiting a huge number of the public and showing there are an astronomical number of issues that could be aided with the use of CBD."

The duo say that CBD oil is an appealing option for those who are seeking relief from pain and anxiety without the mind-altering effects of marijuana but they cannot give medical advice.

Heath added: "CBD is not illegal, it is completely safe and non-intoxicating.

"What we are are trying to do is change the perceptions of the use of cannabis products, whilst also educating the public on the benefits it can provide as apposed to the pharmaceutical drugs provided by GPs."

THC is the main psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis, and causes the sensation of getting 'high' that’s often associated with marijuana.

As the pair are both professional sportsmen, it's imperative that the products they endorse and use are 100 per cent rid of THC as they are regularly tested for use of drugs in their jobs.

The oil that has been in the news of late due to its use by those with epilepsy is cannabis oil, which has a higher THC content, and so, unlike CBD oil, is not usually allowed in the UK.

Heath and Ben's line of products include hemp tea, ground coffee, CBD oil, body salve and body oil spray.

These products are stocked in Dapper Chaps Barber Shop in Wellingborough Road and Tick Tock Coffee and Wine in Upton.