Endocannabinoid System
5 Things You Need to Know About the Endocannabinoid System
Ever wondered why cannabis can affect your mood, appetite, pain levels and even your sleep? The answer lies not in the plant itself, but in a fascinating biological network within your own body called the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
This intricate system is the reason why compounds in cannabis can have such profound and varied effects on your mind and body. But it wasn’t until recently that researchers began to study and understand how the ECS works. Here are five key insights that will help you better understand the relationship between cannabis and your health.
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What is the Endocannabinoid System?
The human body contains several systems that help us perform certain functions: the digestive system, the circulatory system, the nervous system, for example. Lesser known is the endocannabinoid system — a complex cell-signaling system composed of three main elements: endocannabinoids, receptors and enzymes.
While the name endocannabinoid system sounds like you have cannabis in your body, cannabis is not actually a part of this system. The “endo” stands for endogenous, meaning it’s produced naturally within your body. Meanwhile, cannabinoids are a class of chemical compounds that interact with cannabinoid receptors in the body. They were first discovered in the cannabis plant (hence the name), but we now know they exist in other places too. The cannabinoids found in plants like cannabis are called phytocannabinoids, with THC and CBD being the most well-known examples.
But here’s where things get interesting: The similarity between phytocannabinoids and our body’s endocannabinoids allows cannabis to interact with our ECS, which explains why the plant can influence multiple aspects of our physiology, from altering our mood and appetite to potentially offering relief from pain and inflammation.
How the ECS works
The endocannabinoid system functions through a series of molecular interactions. The two main endocannabinoids are anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These interact with two primary types of receptors – CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are found mainly in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more prevalent in the peripheral nervous system and immune cells. Enzymes, the third component, are responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids once they’ve served their purpose.
When the body needs to maintain balance, it produces endocannabinoids. These molecules bind to the appropriate receptors, triggering various physiological responses. Once the endocannabinoids have done their job, enzymes break them down to prevent overactivity. Interestingly, plant cannabinoids like THC and CBD can also interact with these receptors, which is why cannabis can have such diverse effects on the body.
When was the ECS discovered?
The endocannabinoid system was first identified in 1992 by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam and his team at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. This breakthrough led to further research and the gradual unraveling of the ECS’s complexity and importance.
What scientific research tells us
Since its discovery, scientists have found that the ECS is involved in regulating a wide range of physiological processes, including pain perception, mood and stress response, immune system function, metabolism and sleep. Research has also shown that the ECS may play a role in various health conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune disorders and mental health issues. This has opened new avenues for potential therapeutic interventions.
Why it’s important
Knowing the ECS helps explain why cannabis can have such diverse effects on the body and mind. It provides a scientific basis for understanding both the benefits and potential risks of cannabis use. As we learn more about individual variations in the ECS, it may become possible to tailor cannabis-based treatments to individual needs more effectively.
The ECS is far more than just a biological curiosity—it’s a fundamental aspect of human physiology that touches nearly every part of our lives. As we continue to unravel its mysteries, we’re not just learning about a system within our bodies; we’re discovering new ways to enhance our health, treat diseases and understand the profound relationship between our biology and the plant we love so much.