What is the Endocannabinoid System [And Who Has One?]
If you've researched CBD, you have probably heard of this
mysterious "endocannabinoid system".
But what is it? How does it work? And what does it have to
do with the effects of CBD?
We're going to answer all of these questions and more! By
the time you finish reading, you'll be an expert on the endocannabinoid system
and how CBD works with it!
What is the Endocannabinoid System?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a structure in the body
that consists of neurotransmitters that connect with cannabinoid receptors. It
is located within the central and peripheral nervous systems.
The ECS was first discovered by Israeli researcher Raphael Mechoulam in the 1970s. To him, it seems to be a
mysterious system of neurotransmitters that affected the functioning of the
human body. It did not become well known to scientists until the mid-1990s.
The ECS is common in nearly all animals, apart from insects
and phyla protozoa. Today, more research into this system has advanced rapidly,
mostly due to improvements in the technology used.
Now let's break down the parts of the system; the
neurotransmitters and the cannabinoid receptors they connect with.
Endocannabinoid Receptors
Endocannabinoids are chemical
compounds that form naturally in the body of animals, including vertebrates
and invertebrates. They link to the same receptors that are produced by
cannabis.
Endocannabinoid receptors are found throughout the
peripheral nerves, the central nervous system (CNS), many body tissues, and
immune cells.
ECS receptors include nuclear receptors, G-protein coupled
receptors (GPCR), and ligand-gated ion channels. Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1)
and Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) are the most common.
CB1 Receptors
CB1 receptors were identified about 15 years ago as
cannabinoid receptors.
It is a protein-bound receptor within the CNS and is present
in the musculoskeletal tissues, cardiovascular tissues, immune cells, the
reproductive tract, fat cells, gastrointestinal tract, peripheral nerves, and
liver cells.
This receptor acts to inhibit different neurotransmission
systems. That means it impacts cognition, inflammation, pain, mood, nausea, and
appetite. You can imagine how important those functions are to humans!
CB2 Receptors
CB2 is a vital protein in the ECS, largely tasked with fighting
inflammation and influencing the immune system. For the human and animal
bodies to perform at maximum capacity, every function requires homeostasis or
balance.
The CB2 receptor is found in the immune cells, which move
freely to the brain and throughout the body with the help of the bloodstream.
Other Less Common Receptors
While the CB1 and the CB2 are the commonest and most
studied, there are many other receptors known to interact with ECS. Some of them
include:
• GPR18, which is involved with anti-inflammatory, blood
pressure, and immune effects
• GPR15, involved with the release of the pancreatic insulin
• GPR119, involved with the regulation of energy intake
ECD Neurotransmitters
Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters that are not stored
in cells. They are produced on demand. Endocannabinoids are produced to help
maintain homeostasis. They do this through their interaction with receptors
such as CB1 and CB2.
How ECS Interacts with CBD
At least 113 different cannabinoids are present in the
marijuana and hemp plant.
The most important include cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Marijuana has a higher percentage of THC and a
lower concentration of CBD, while the hemp plant has lower concentrates of THC
and a higher percentage of CBD.
For a long time, THC has been a popular cannabinoid, but CBD now takes the lead because it is considered to be less
intoxicating and has higher loads of medicinal benefits.
Cannabidiol does not have withdrawal symptoms and is
non-addictive with an excellent safety profile.
Research
indicates that the bond between CBD and the CB1 and CB2 receptors improves the
capabilities of either receptor. This helps the body restore balance. In large
doses, CBD has also been found to inhibit P450’s metabolizing properties and
neutralize the effects of other drug-related products.
The Endocannabinoid System in Invertebrates
Endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors have been
identified in different invertebrate species. They are important for several
functions, including the control of reproduction, inflammatory and
neurotransmission actions, and feeding behavior.
Scientific
studies show the presence of ECS in protozoa, mollusks, crustaceans,
nematodes, sea-urchins, and onychophorans. In lower vertebrates, it has been
seen in amphibia and aquatic organisms, such as zebrafish and goldfish.
Science notes that the system originated in the animals to control their
physiopathological responses.
The Endocannabinoid System in Mammals
Mammals have the ECS to receive and process chemical
compounds, also known as cannabinoids. These compounds regulate the
psychological system and well-being of all mammals. In the mammalian body, the
ECS has been labeled as the most critical psychological system, involved
various important functions such as:
• Inflammation
• Pain modulation
• Appetite stimulation
• Memory function
• Mood enhancement
When cannabinoids interact with the natural receptors of a
mammal’s body, they help the mammal maintain homeostasis. Cannabinoids, such as
CBD, occur naturally in various plants, particularly cannabis and hemp.
The Use of Cannabinoids in Animals
Cannabinoids have attracted the attention of researchers for
many years. In the last four decades, scientifically founded insights on their
therapeutic potential have been brought to light. Since 1975, over
100 lab-controlled trials with cannabinoids have been carried out.
The result of this surge in research has been the approval
of CBD medicines in different countries. In the last few years, there has been
an increasing interest in the understanding of how they can be used in
veterinary medications as well.
We now know that the endocannabinoid system is present in
both humans and most animals. CBD has proven to be a great option for both
humans and pets, to improve overall health.
Finding CBD Near Me
Another benefit of the increased research and understanding
around CBD and the endocannabinoid system is availability. CBD is now widely
available with many online stores such as Eden's Herbals offering free shipping
across the United States and low prices.
While there are many great options out there, beware of the
con artists peddling low-quality CBD and misinformation. CBD is not fully regulated
by the Food and Drug Administration, so it's up to the consumer to be cautious
when purchasing CBD. The trick to finding great CBD products is to look for a
third-party lab analysis, fast and responsive customer service, and a proven
track record of positive reviews online.
Conclusion
Cannabinoids in animal clinical trials
have been beneficial. They have been reported to treat the disorders of the
cardiovascular system, respiratory system, metabolic disorders, pain, and
cancer. CBD also has high antibiotic properties, which can be beneficial in the
topical treatment of glaucoma. In humans, CBD has been shown to help a variety
of issues including chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.
By acknowledging the presence of the endocannabinoid system and its purpose, it is easy to understand the health benefits of CBD for humans and pets alike!