What is the Endocannabinoid system?
We’re glad you asked. Found throughout the brain, nervous systems and organs of humans and all mammals the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is the body’s internal system of cannabis molecules and receptors.
How does it work?
The ECS involves three core components: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes.
Endocannabinoids – Also called endogenous cannabinoids, are molecules made by your body. They’re similar to cannabinoids, but they’re produced by your body. These keep internal functions running smoothly.
Endocannabinoid receptors – These receptors are found throughout your body. Endocannabinoids bind to them in order to signal that the ECS needs to take action. We have two main receptors –
- CB1 receptors – which are found in the central nervous system.
- CB2 receptors – which are found in your peripheral nervous system, especially immune cells.
Endocannabinoids can bind to both CB1 and CB2 receptors. The effects that result depend on where in the body the receptor is located and which endocannabinoid it binds to.
Enzymes – Responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids once they’ve carried out their function.
What is it for?
The ECS is complex and researchers learn more and more about it everyday. So far, research has linked the ECS to these functions –
- Appetite and digestion
- Metabolism
- Chronic pain
- Inflammation and other immune system responses
- Mood
- Learning and memory
- Sleep
- Muscle Formation
- Stress
- Skin and nerve function
These functions all contribute to homeostasis, which refers to balance of your internal environment. For example, if an outside force, such as pain from an injury or a fever, throws off your body’s homeostasis, your ECS kicks in to help your body return to a balanced state.
CBD and your ECS
CBD is one of a group of compounds called phytocannabinoids (AKA – plant cannibinoids). Its best-known function in the ECS is its potential to inhibit the activity of enzymes called fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). FAAH breaks down anandamide, one of the body’s endogenous cannabinoids, which is known to bind to the endocannabinoid system’s CB1 receptor.
Because anandamide is normally rapidly broken down by FAAH, and because CBD regulates FAAH, CBD’s primary importance is its ability to maintain anandamide levels, enhancing anandamide’s beneficial effect in the ECS. CBD also binds weakly to CB1 and CB2 receptors and has a range of activity outside of the ECS that contribute to its health benefits.*
References
* Izzo A, Borrelli F, Capasso R, et al. Non-psychotropic plant cannabinoids: new therapeutic opportunities from an ancient herb. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2009;30(10):515-527.
