What is the Endocannabinoid system ?

Introduction to the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a far-reaching cell communication system found in the bodies of all mammals – including people and pets! It was discovered by scientists studying tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a cannabinoid compound.

The ECS is involved in modulating activity towards different functions which include: mood elevation, sleep, appetite, focus and memory. The ECS exists in every individual's body. Even those who do not use cannabis. In the ECS receptors, enzymes and receptors are the means by which functions are carried out. Fundamentally, endocannabinoids are cannabinoids produced by the body. Hence the term, endogenous cannabinoids.

Endocannabinoids

For now, two endocannabinoids have been identified by researchers. They are: anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglyrol (2-AG). The body produces these cannabinoids according to the demands of the individual's needs. The both of them help keep the body running smoothly. 

Endocannabinoid Receptors

ECS receptors are found everywhere in the human body. Endocannabinoids bind to them to trigger action in the endocannabioid system (ECS). The two main receptors include: CB1 receptors (found in the central nervous system) and CB2 receptors (found in the peripheral nervous system; mostly in immune cells). 

Functionally, endocannabioids ca bind to either receptor. The resulting effect will depend on where the receptor is located and what endocannabinoid is invoved in the interaction. For instance, endocannabinoids can bind to CB1 receptors in a spinal nerve to target pain relief action. In another instance, endocannabinoids can bind to CB2 receptors in the immune cells to alert the body to respond to inflammation. This is a summary of the dynamic between endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid receptors. 

Enzymes 

Enzymes deconstruct or breakdown the endocannabinoids once they have carried out their function. The fatty acid enzyme amide hydrolase breaks down anandamide (AEA), while the monoacylglycerol acid lipase breaks down 2-arachidonoylglyrol (2-AG).

Functions of the ECS ? What Does It Do ?

For now, research has pointed to utility of the ECS towards roles in the following functions: appetite and digestion, chronic pain, mood, sleep, metabolism, inflammation, immune system responses, muscle formation, bone growth, skin and nerve function, among others. All these varied functions are geaed towards ensuring homeostasis or internal stability. 

CBD vs THC: Interactions with the Endocannabinoid System

THC: Tetrahydrocannabinol is the cannabinoid that causes the euphoric high associated with marijuana. It is a powerful canabinoid that when in the body binds to both the CB1 and CB2 receptors. This generates a range of effects in the human body. It can help assist pain relief and work for appetite stimulation OR it can also trigger anxiety and cause feelings of paranoia for some people. 

CBD: CBD on the other hand has no psychoactive properties. This means that it cannot get you high or cause any of the mental alterations experienced with THC. CBD binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in a different way than THC. Explanations from researchers differ on the particulars. Some posit that it workd towards stopping endoicannabinoids from being broken down. Thereby allowing the body to benefit longer from the effect of such endocannabinoids. Others explain that perhaps it binds to a different receptor that has not yet been discovered.