A simple guide to the Endocannabinoid System
Researchers who were studying THC (a well-known cannabinoid) discovered that the complex cell-signaling system called the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). It was first identified in 1990s by researchers. Cannabinoids, compounds found in cannabis, are cannabinoids.
Experts are still trying fully to understand the ECS. However, it is known to regulate a wide range of functions, such as:
How does it all work?
The ECS consists of three core components: receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes.
Endocannabinoids
Endogenous cannabinoids are molecules that your body produces called endocannabinoids. Although they are very similar to cannabinoids in their structure, they are made by your own body.
Experts have so far identified two key endocannabinoids:
anandamide (AEA)
2-arachidonoylglyerol (2-AG)
These are essential for internal functioning. Because your body makes them when it needs them, it can be difficult to know the typical levels.
Receptors to endocannabinoid
These receptors are located throughout the body. Endocannabinoids attach to them to signal the ECS to take action.
There are two major receptors for endocannabinoid:
CB1 receptors can be found mostly in the central nervous and peripheral systems.
CB2 receptors can be found mostly in your peripheral nervous systems, particularly immune cells.
Either receptor can be binding to the endocannabinoids. The location of the receptor and the endocannabinoid to which it binds will have an impact on the effects.
Endocannabinoids may target CB1 receptors in the spinal nerve to alleviate pain. To signal inflammation in the body, others might bind to CB2 receptors within your immune cells. This could be a sign that you have autoimmune diseases.
Enzymes
After they have performed their function, enzymes are responsible to break down endocannabinoids.
This is due to two major enzymes:
fatty acid amide-hydralase, which degrades AEA
Monoacylglycerol acid Lipase typically breaks down 2-AG.
What are its main functions?
The ECS is complex. Experts have not yet found out how it works, or any of its possible functions.
ResearchTrusted Source has linked ECS to these processes:
Digestive and appetite
Metabolism
Chronic pain
Inflammation and other immune responses
mood
Learning and memory
Motor control
Sleep
Heart function
Muscle formation
Remodeling and growth of bone
Function of the liver
Reproductive system function
stress
Function of skin and nerves
These functions all contribute towards homeostasis. This refers to the stability of your inner environment. If an external force like pain from injury or fever throws off your body’s homeostasis then your ECS kicks in and helps your body get back to optimal operation.
Experts today believe that homeostasis is the main role of the ECS.
How does THC interact and how does it affect the ECS
Tetrahydrocannabinol is one the main cannabinoids in cannabis. It is the compound that gives you "high".
THC, once in your body, interacts with the ECS by binding receptors. It is similar to endocannabinoids. It is able to bind both CB1 receptors and CB2 receptors.
This allows THC to have a variety of effects on your body. Some are more beneficial than others. THC, for example, can help reduce pain and increase appetite. However, it can also cause anxiety and paranoia.
Experts are currently investigating ways to make synthetic THC cannabinoids, which will only interact with ECS in positive ways.
How does CBD interact to the ECS
CBD (cannabidiol) is another major cannabinoid found within cannabis. CBD, unlike THC, doesn't get you high and rarely causes any adverse effects.
Experts aren’t sure how CBD interacts the with the ECS. They do know that CBD does not bind to CB1 receptors or CB2 receptors like THC.
Many people believe it works because it stops endocannabinoids getting broken down. This allows them a stronger effect on the body. Others believe CBD binds to receptors that haven't been identified yet.
Research suggests CBD could be used to treat pain, nausea and other symptoms that are associated with multiple conditions.
What about endocannabinoid deficiencies?
A theory called clinical endocannabinoid dysfunction (CECD) is being promoted by some experts. This theory suggests that low levels of ECS dysfunction or endocannabinoid in the body can lead to the development and progression of certain conditions.
According to a 2016 articleTrusted Source, the theory could be the reason why certain people get migraine, fibromyalgia, or irritable stool syndrome.
These conditions do not have an underlying cause. They are also resistant to treatment and may occur together. pick 3 system does such thing exist
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