Hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) is used as an active ingredient in many health and wellness products. This is mainly due to the potential health benefits and therapeutic effects of this cannabinoid. Lter in the 20th century, scientists discovered that cannabinoids like cannabidiol have a positive effect on the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates homeostasis. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of ECS and its role in homeostasis.
What Is The ECS?
The ECS is a master regulatory system that influences the functions of other systems like the circulatory system, central and peripheral nervous system, etc. Due to this, the ECS is our body’s tool for regulating homeostasis. It is made up of two main components, i.e., cannabinoid receptors and endogenous cannabinoids.
Cannabinoid Receptors: The two main cannabinoid receptors of the ECS are CB1 and CB2. Cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) interact with the CB1 receptor. CB2 receptors are mainly involved with the immune system. CBD uses are due to its positive interaction with the CB2 receptors.
Endogenous Cannabinoids: Cannabinoids like CBD and THC produce their effects because they are like endogenous cannabinoids or endocannabinoids produced by our bodies. For example, the neurotransmitter anandamide is an endogenous cannabinoid; it improves mood, reduces anxiety and depression.
What Is ECS Deficiency?
The ECS is made up of a network of chemical signaling systems that helps to regulate homeostasis. Studies show that clinical endocannabinoid deficiency can result in conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, inflammatory and neurologic conditions, and irritable bowel syndrome. This can be cured by supplementing the body with cannabinoids like CBD that are like endogenous cannabinoids produced by our bodies.
Cannabinoids Like THC And CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD): CBD is one of more than a hundred cannabinoids naturally found in the hemp plant. Studies show that it can help with improving anandamide and serotonin levels in the brain. Also, evidence suggests that it can be useful for reducing stress because it lowers the levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): Even though THC is infamous for making you high, it has positive health benefits as well. For example, a combination of THC and CBD can be effective for treating chronic pain due to conditions like multiple sclerosis. Also, tetrahydrocannabinol can help with improving appetite, relaxing muscles, and reducing inflammation.
We hope that this article gave you a general idea about the functioning of the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
