What is the endocannabinoid system? Here is everything you need to know!
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is one of the largest neurotransmitter networks in the human body and was discovered in the 1980’s when scientists were curious about the effects of THC on the body. The ECS is responsible for maintaining balance (homeostasis) throughout the body despite environmental changes. This is extremely important as our bodies have to stay in balance in order for us to physiologically function correctly.
At its most basic, the ECS’s communication is comprised of messengers and receptors. Naturally, the brain produces endocannabinoid molecules ( such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol, or 2-AG), which are messengers that can be found in the brain, organs, tissues, glands, and immune cells. ECS contains two CBD receptors (CB1 and CB2) that are built to accept and lock with different molecules. CB1 is compatible with anandamide, and THC CB2 is receptive to CBD. ECS is unique to each individual as a fingerprint, and this is why it's important to start slow and low when experimenting with plant cannabinoids.
Cannabinoid receptors are crucial for optimal health as they play a significant role in regulating many bodily functions including sleep, appetite, digestion, mood, motor control, immune function, reproduction, pain, memory, and temperature regulation.
The function of ECS is to bring forth balance and harmony within the body. Research has discovered that cannabinoid supplementation can help build more natural cannabinoid receptors in your body which can help keep you in homeostasis. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3820295/)
Supporting the endocannabinoid system with CBD is shown to help with a variety of ailments including the following:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS),
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS),
- Broken Bones,
- Mad Cow Disease,
- Bacterial Infections,
- Rheumatoid Arthritis,
- Substance Abuse/Withdrawal,
- Heart Disease, and
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
We hope this blog provides some important information about the system you were born with and we are still learning about. If someone you know needs to know about this feel free to share!