The Fascinating Impact of CBD on Your Endocannabinoid System

In short, it's a complex system that helps keep our bodily functions in check.

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS), also referred to as the endogenous cannabinoid system, is a complex network of cell-signaling mechanisms.

It was discovered by scientists in the early 90s during their research on THC, a prominent cannabinoid found in cannabis.

Even if you don't consume cannabis, the ECS still actively operates within your body. It plays a pivotal role in managing various bodily functions and processes sleep regulation, mood control, appetite, memory, reproduction, and fertility.

The ECS is made of three primary elements: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes.

Endocannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds in the body that bind to receptors spread across cell membranes throughout the body. These endocannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, immune system, and more signal the ECS into action.

Once they've fulfilled their role, enzymes break down the endocannabinoids.

Scientists continue to research the ECS to better understand how it might be used for treatment purposes. The main job of the ECS is to maintain balance in the body's various systems.

It's kind of like your body's internal traffic control system.

Just like a traffic system helps maintain order with all the vehicles on the roads, the ECS sends signals to different 'lanes' in the body to promote balance.

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is relatively new to science, which is why you may not have heard much about it yet.

Here's a short timeline of its discovery:

• Late 1980s : While studying the effects of cannabis, scientists found cannabinoid receptors in rat brains. This early research was the first hint toward the discovery of the ECS.

• Early 1990s: Scientists discovered a substance in the body called anandamide that can attach itself to these receptors, just like cannabis does.

• Mid-1990s: Another similar substance, called 2-AG (2-arachidonoylglycerol), was found, adding to our understanding of the ECS.

• 2000s till now: Scientists started linking the ECS to many functions and diseases. Research is on-going and the scientific community is just scratching the surface of understand the ECS.

So don't be surprised if you haven't heard much about it until now – we're all still learning about this fascinating system together. As more research is conducted, the potential benefits of targeting the ECS for medical treatments will continue to emerge. Let's take a look at the core components. 

Enzymes

Enzymes are responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids once they have completed their function. The two main enzymes involved in the ECS are FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase) and MAGL (monoacylglycerol lipase).

FAAH

This enzyme breaks down anandamide, which means it prevents the molecule from signaling the brain that it’s time to start shutting down its activity.

MAGL

This is another breakdown enzyme, but for 2-AG.

Using cannabis that contains THC, particularly when used regularly or for recreational purposes, can have some potential drawbacks. THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis , is often linked to these undesirable effects.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration tells us there are health risks from using marijuana. The American Addiction Centers highlight that these might include breathing problems and a higher chance of getting testicular cancer.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse points out that using marijuana regularly and for a long time can lead to something called Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, which involves really bad nausea and vomiting. They also note that using marijuana has been linked to a higher chance of car accidents and poor performance in school.

Just like smoking anything else, smoking marijuana can cause inflammation and irritation in your lungs. Regular users might end up with the same breathing issues as someone who smokes tobacco.

The CDC also mentions that addiction is a possible outcome of long-term use of cannabis containing THC. Users could be more likely to develop cannabis use disorder, a kind of substance use disorder. This disorder can lead to problems with paying attention, remembering things, and learning.

Additionally, research from the Yale School of Medicine shows that higher THC levels in cannabis can result in problems with memory and attention, and a bigger tendency to take risks.

So, in a nutshell, while cannabis can have some therapeutic uses, it's really important to be aware of the potential risks that come with using it, especially when it comes to the THC component and how THC affects your body and mind.