The Endocannabinoid System
What the heck is it? How in the world does it work?
Let’s talk science. The body is such a complex organism. Sometimes we forget that even in the year 2020, no matter how much we know and understand about the human body – there are at least as many things to still learn, discover and investigate. We are all still students of the body and it’s design. (Just look at how many people are trying to understand the Coronavirus today)
The Endocannabinoid System, is a good example of just that. There are some things we know, some things we’re still trying to understand, and some things which are yet to be discovered.
Here’s what we know.
The Wikipedia Definition of the Endocannabinoid System:
“The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a biological system composed of
endocannabinoids, which are endogenous lipid-based retrograde neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors (CBRs), and cannabinoid receptor proteins that are expressed throughout the vertebrate central nervous system (including the brain) and peripheral nervous system. The endocannabinoid system remains under preliminary research, but may be involved in regulating physiological and cognitive processes, including fertility,[1] pregnancy,[2] during pre- and postnatal development,[3] various activity of immune system,[4] appetite, pain-sensation, mood, and memory, and in mediating the pharmacological effects of cannabis.[5][6] “
That is a mouthful! Let me break it down into smaller pieces, that simplify things.
The Purpose of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The main purpose is to work with, communicate, and regulate wellness with many other systems in our body. (Including: the Nervous System, Cardiovascular System, Endocrine System, Digestive System, Immune System, Respiratory System, and more!)
It creates a kind of ‘homeostasis’, or balance within our system bodies. Because it’s connected to and communicates with so many of our body systems, it has a magnified impact.
In other words, it’s a vital, cell-signaling body system.
How Does the ECS work?
Here’s the very basic science behind how this system works.
The ECS has two main Cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2. (See graphic) These receptors are spread all throughout the entire body. We can think of these receptors are like ‘locks’, which are in need of a ‘key’ to release them and allow them to work.
So, also within our bodies are these naturally produced molecules, which are like ‘keys’ that specifically ‘unlock’ the power of the CB1 and CB2 receptors. These molecules are called: Anandamide and Arachidonoyl Glycerol (2AG).
These are Endocannabinoids. They’re molecules our human bodies naturally make to work with, and ‘unlock the power’ of our CB1 and CB2 receptors.
The ‘locks’ and ‘keys’ send signals to each other, and help control millions of chemical reactions that occur within the body. This is what
forms the primary chemistry and/or function of the ECS.
What do the CB1 and CB2 Receptors do in our bodies?
CB₁ receptors exist in multiple areas of the body, and perform various tasks relevant to where they’re located. CB₁ receptors:
· Inhibit the overactive firing of nerve cells
· Change the way you react to stress and trauma
· Offer relief from anxiety
· Help moderate sensitivity to pain
· Connect the brain and the gut
CB₂ receptors are located in the immune cells of the spleen, bone marrow, tonsils, and the digestive tract. Like CB₁ receptors, the role of CB₂ receptors corresponds to their locations within the body. CB₂ receptors:
· Decrease inflammation
· Promote heart and bone health
· Reduce or prevent nausea and vomiting
How Does CBD work with the ECS?
The Hemp plant contains phytocannabinoids – which essentially are cannabinoids that come from a plant. CBD is just one of the cannabinoids in the hemp plant. CBD, and other cannabinoids, when introduced to the human body target the CB1 and CB2 receptors – and mimic what our ‘naturally produced’ endocannabonoids do.
CBD, similar to our naturally produced endocannabinoids – fit as a ‘key’ to our CB1 and CB2 receptors and ‘unlock’ their power – promoting health and balance to our body.
When you’re using hemp derived CBD, this is how it’s working in your body. And, as you can see, it can have an incredible effect. At 180 Pure, we’re committed to bringing you high-quality products that naturally unlock wellness in our bodies.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or ailment.