The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a complex biological system in your body that regulates a wide range of physiological and cognitive processes.
The ECS system helps to maintain balance in the body and is involved in regulating functions likes pain, appetite, immune response, mood and sleep. Studies have shown that a well-functioning ECS system can help reduce inflammation, improve heart health and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. In other words, a healthy ECS system means a healthy body and mind.
Cannabinoids from external sources, like those in cannabis plants, can interact with your ECS system, providing additional targeted benefits. For example, CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in hemp, can help reduce inflammation in the body and improve your mood.
To understand how cannabinoids like CBD can be beneficial to your health and wellbeing, it’s important to understand how the ECS system works.
How Does the Endocannabinoid System Work?
The ECS is made up of two parts—receptors and cannabinoids. There are two types of receptors:
- CB1: Are located mainly in the central nervous system. When these receptors are activated, they slow the release of neurotransmitters. This could explain why CBD (which activates these receptors) has been so effective in treating patients with epilepsy.
- CB2: Are mostly found in the immune system like the liver, spleen, B cells and T cells. For example, in someone with autoimmune Hepatitis, the CB2 receptor activation can significantly reduce inflammation in the liver.
Like receptors, there are also two types of cannabinoids—endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids. The former are made by your body and act on cannabinoid receptors, while the latter are produced by plants such as cannabis and interact with the same receptors when ingested. Some examples of phytocannabinoids include CBD and THC.
Both types of cannabinoids have potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in managing pain, inflammation and anxiety. Although endocannabinoids are found in every person, not all people have the same level of endocannabinoid production or activity, which can contribute to a lack of homeostasis in the body and unwanted symptoms like pain or anxiety. Those with lower levels of endocannabinoids or less active receptors will likely benefit from incorporating phytocannabinoids like CBD into their daily routine.
How Does CBD Interact with Your ECS?
CBD is believed to interact with the cannabinoid receptors in your body that help maintain balance and harmony. It does this by indirectly influencing their activity in the brain and immune system, as well as other receptors and signaling pathways that regulate pain, inflammation and anxiety.
CBD can increase the levels of certain signaling molecules in the body, enhancing their therapeutic effects while also activating other receptors that are involved in regulating bodily functions like sleep, mood, metabolism and inflammation.
Unlike THC, CBD is non-impairing, meaning it doesn’t produce the psychoactive effects or "high" of THC. This is because CBD doesn’t bind strongly to the CB1 receptor in the brain, which is responsible for the psychoactive effects of THC. However, CBD can still have beneficial effects on your mood, anxiety, pain level and other symptoms by interacting with other receptors and signaling pathways in the body.
Additionally, CBD is generally considered to be safe and well-tolerated, with few reported side effects. However, as with any supplement it’s wise to consult with a healthcare professional before using CBD, particularly if you’re taking other medications or have a medical condition.
How Can I Add CBD to My Daily Routine?
So, you’ve decided to give CBD a try but you’re not sure where to start. Luckily, there are many different ways to incorporate CBD into your daily routine. One of the most popular methods is to use CBD oil, which can be taken sublingually (under the tongue), added to food or drinks or applied topically to the skin. Other common ways to use CBD include capsules, gummies, CBD-infused beverages and vaping.
When choosing a CBD product, it is important to look for a reputable brand that uses high-quality, lab-tested CBD. Beginners are often best served by starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it as needed.
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