The Endocannabinoid System
is a group of molecules in the brain that synthesize and break down natural chemicals, called endocannabinoids.
This system is present in all mammals, where it is believed to act as an intercellular communication system across the central nervous system (CNS). An endocannabinoid system is a group of neuromodulators that help regulate the nervous system and the body’s immune response.
The endocannabinoids are released when a neuron is stimulated, which in turn activates a specific cannabinoid receptor. Both cannabinoids and receptors are found in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the central nervous system.
The endocannabinoid system consists of two major types of receptors called CB1 and CB2, which are found throughout the brain and central nervous system.
When stimulated by external cannabinoids (plant material with active compounds like THC) or internal neurotransmitters (such as anandamide), these receptors produce chemicals that bring about certain effects on the body.
The endocannabinoid system regulates critical bodily functions like:
- Pain perception
- Memory
- Sleep
- Immune function
- Appetite
- Mood
- Reproduction and fertility
What Does Endocannabinoid System Affect?
The ECS is complicated, and experts haven’t yet determined exactly how it works or all of its potential functions.
Research has linked the ECS to the following processes:
Appetite and Digestion:
This system has been shown to influence the digestive system through proteins called GPR55, which are plentiful in the intestine and colon.
These proteins produce endocannabinoids that interact with cannabinoid receptors in the gut. They have been shown to stimulate digestive hormones that control appetite.
Metabolism:
As our bodies break down food for fuel, a delicate balance of neurotransmitters called endocannabinoids affects the metabolism process.
One such important neurotransmitter is called 2-AG which creates an optimum environment in cells to burn fat for energy.
Pain:
Endocannabinoids are molecules that bind to cannabinoid receptors, which are found throughout the body.
The endocannabinoid system plays a critical endogenous role in regulating pain; endocannabinoids activate these receptors, and the release of neurotransmitters by neurons is mediated by changes in the levels of these fatty acids.
Immune System:
The endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors and corresponding molecules in the brain and other areas in the body that affect pain, mood, appetite, memory, and inflammation.
This system is very important for helping to maintain homeostasis in the body.
Scientists have found that the endocannabinoid system has many functions including regulating immune function.
The endocannabinoid system helps control immunity by controlling inflammatory responses.
Mood:
Imagine you are feeling low on energy, mentally foggy, or generally glum. Your mood is probably not the best and you may feel like you need to lift yourself out of it.
If this describes what you are feeling, then your endocannabinoid system is most likely not doing its job properly.
The endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating emotional responses, decision-making abilities, and moods.
Learning and Memory:
The endocannabinoid system modulates both short-term and long-term memory in humans, which shows that it has a significant impact on cognitive function.
ECS also affects sleep, cardiovascular system function, muscle formation, bone remodeling and growth, liver function, skin, and nerve function.
CBD For Endocannabinoid System
The human body produces a natural endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system works to maintain homeostasis in the body and mood. If a person’s endocannabinoid system is malfunctioning or not functioning properly, it can disrupt their wellness and overall wellness.
Cannabis products such as cannabidiol (CBD) oil have been found to relieve symptoms of an underactive endocannabinoid system, including chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders.
Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t make you “high” and typically doesn’t cause any negative effects. Experts aren’t completely sure how CBD interacts with the ECS. But they do know that it doesn’t bind to CB1 or CB2 receptors the way THC does.
Instead, many believe it works by preventing endocannabinoids from being broken down. This allows them to have more of an effect on your body. Others believe that CBD binds to a receptor that hasn’t been discovered yet.
While the details of how it works are still under debate, research suggests that CBD can help with pain, nausea, and other symptoms associated with multiple conditions.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on the other hand is one of the main cannabinoids found in cannabis. It’s the compound that gets you “high.”
Once in your body, THC interacts with your ECS by binding to receptors, just like endocannabinoids. It’s powerful partly because it can bind to both CB1 and CB2 receptors.
This allows it to have a range of effects on your body and mind, some more desirable than others.
For example, THC may help to reduce pain and stimulate your appetite. But it can also cause paranoia and anxiety in some cases.
Experts are currently looking into ways to produce synthetic THC cannabinoids that interact with the ECS in only beneficial ways.
The Endocannabinoid System is a vital system that needs to be kept in check by cannabinoids. CBD can be used for better wellness and wellness because of its ability to provide the proper balance of this trending system.
How Elan Naturals Supports Your Endocannabinoid System with CBD
As more Americans are turning to medical cannabis for relief from symptoms of a disease/ disorder, it is becoming clear that the endocannabinoid system, which was previously dismissed by mainstream medicine, plays a major role in wellness and well-being. The endocannabinoid system controls our mood, appetite, memory, and much more. There’s an entire family of cannabinoid receptors in our brain and other organs.
At Elan Naturals, we help you stabilize your Endocannabinoid system by offering a wide range of high-quality CBD products. We are mindful of what goes into our natural CBD products and choose certified organic ingredients. From plant to product all in the same facility to ensure the highest quality from start to finish.
We thoughtfully select the materials we use to ensure you have a quality, non-toxic CBD experience.