Endocannabinoid system (ECS)
Many people ask: “How can CBD offer a wide variety of powerful results for things ranging from anxiety and neurodegeneration to even auto-immune disorders?” Surprisingly, The answer lies not so much in CBD (Cannabidiol) itself but how CBD is working to augment the Endocannabinoid system (ECS).
Therefore, The Endocannabinoid System (endo meaning ‘within’) is a biological system focused on mediating physiological balance, fundamentally known as homeostasis. Some of the first homeostatic functions we often hear from clients are a better night’s sleep, a regulated appetite, and reduced anxiety. These are a few of the first indicators that CBD is kicking in and starting to help boost our natural production of endocannabinoids.
Subsequently, an Endocannabinoid System exists in all living beings with vertebrae. Scientists estimated that the ECS is the bridging of mind and body. Modern man has just started to scratch the surface in this arena of health and science.
Unquestionably the ECS is one of the most effective systems in the body. It works to keep other bodily systems (endocrine, immune, muscular, Etc.) in check and balance. The human bodies have receptors specifically designed to absorb cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are made by our bodies or found in various foods and plants. The clear indicator is that CBD and our Endocannabinoid system have a long line of exploration. Undeniably both with a ring of promise for people with severe chronic illness and everyday preventative maintenance.
Crucial Functionality
There is three crucial functionality of the Endocannabinoid system components to consider.
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Our naturally occurring cannabinoid receptors.
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Our naturally produced Endogenous cannabinoids.
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Our metabolic enzymes break down cannabinoids.
The body’s most commonly studied cannabinoid receptors are known as CB1 and CB2 receptors. Both receptors exist throughout the body. CB1 is one of the most commonly found receptors in the brain. Similarly, CB2 remains outside the central nervous system. These receptors camp out on the surface of cells waiting to be fed information. Once the cell contacts the receptor the information is transformed and passed along. Igniting the appropriate cell response.
Anandamide and 2-AG
The Two Major Endocannabinoids
Endocannabinoids are naturally produced molecules that bind to either of the previously mentioned CB1 and CB2 receptors. However, the two major endocannabinoids are Anandamide and 2-AG (side note: Anandamide translates to ‘bliss molecule’ in Sanskrit).
CBD does not produce a high because it does not bind to the CB1 receptor. Instead, it manipulates the receptor’s shape. Basically, making it more difficult for THC to bind. Certainly, disabling any euphoric or dysphoric feelings. Unlike many other molecules in the body, our endocannabinoids are not in reserve. Instead, they are produced and synthesized on demand as needed.
Metabolic Enzymes
Enzymes Break Down Cannabinoids
Finally, the last major component of the ECS is the metabolic enzymes. These enzymes break down cannabinoids to ensure they are not overactive and discarded once used. Explicitly, these two powerful enzymes are FAAH, which breaks down Anandamide, and MAGL, which breaks down 2-AG. CBD (cannabidiol) inhibits the FAAH enzyme. Further, which naturally increases our endocannabinoid, Anandamide. Some recorded ways to naturally release Anandamide is through finding what is known as our “flow state.” A typical example would be dancing or experiencing a ‘runner’s high.’ Almost every primary functioning system in the body incorporates this triad of receptors. Endocannabinoids and enzymes aim toward one overarching, communal goal – homeostasis.
Cannabidiol
Endocannabinoid Production Booster
Cannabidiol does not directly bind with our two primary receptors, CB1 or CB2. Instead, it assists and boosts the production of our already naturally occurring endocannabinoids. When a cell is out of balance for many reasons, these three components of the ECS are ready to bring the body back into its natural homeostatic nature. If the ECS is over or under-active, the entire human system can be in disarray.
The golden ticket is why Full Spectrum CBD Oil like Genesis Blend, can help restore balance for myriad issues and ultimately offer a potential solution to a better quality of life.
Google Scholar is a great research resource.
What to do research on your own? Google Scholar is a great starting point. Go to the main Google Scholar Page Here. For an interest like the current Full Spectrum Living With CBD episode on the Endocannabinoid System a search like Cannabis and Endocannabinoid system is good. One could also use the search term cannabidiol and endocannabinoid system. Starting here you are just about assured you will find a infomation.