Learning About the Endocannabinoid System
What do we think about when we consume cannabis? We may be thinking about its creative properties, how it relaxes us, among many other things.
But regardless of how we consume, knowing the simple ins/outs of how cannabis affects our minds and bodies is surely an important factor in our wellness.
It is common knowledge that our bodies have regulatory systems helping to manage homeostasis and health-related issues.
The Endocannabinoid System is found in nearly all animals, invertebrates, and vertebrates on our planet.
This system works to assist with and maintain the natural balance within our body. It plays a vital role in keeping our receptors in balance, as well as acting as an essential regulator of bodily functions.
With modern research being conducted to bolster this existing knowledge, more people everywhere are starting to realize the importance of this system, especially with its relationship to cannabis.
Follow along as we cover some important basics to continue our education about the endocannabinoid system.
Cannabinoids: What are they?
Firstly, before we dive into the ECS, a brief refresher on cannabinoids is in order, to understand the whole system better.
The word cannabinoid refers to every chemical substance that binds to cannabinoid receptors in the body and brain.
Cannabinoids show their effects through interactions with receptors in different parts of our central nervous system. In simpler terms, cannabinoids help to regulate our body’s natural processes.
3 Types of Cannabinoids
Next, another initial thing to note is that there are three types of cannabinoids. These are phytocannabinoids, endocannabinoids, and synthetic cannabinoids:
- Phytocannabinoids are the natural compounds found in the cannabis plant.
- Endocannabinoids are found in human and animal tissue.
- Synthetic cannabinoids are produced commercially and are compounds that bind to the ECS.
Cannabinoids are able to imitate the compounds our bodies naturally produce (which are called endocannabinoids) so when a problem occurs within our endocannabinoid system, certain symptoms or complications may occur.
With unlimited potential for health and wellness-related uses, cannabinoids play a crucial role in the regulation of our ECS.
Maintaining a Healthy Endocannabinoid System
The ECS is made up of a group of receptors that are stimulated by endocannabinoids.
Although there are handfuls of studies accompanied by an immense amount of research, we are still attempting to fully understand all of its applications.
For example, when CBD (a cannabinoid) is absorbed by the body, it interacts with and becomes an influence on the cannabinoid receptors that are a part of the endocannabinoid system.
As the relationship between cannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors helped to form and map our Endocannabinoid System, these systems also began to show their purpose as a bodily regulator that not only coordinates movement but mediates emotions and consolidates memory.
The Main Components of the ECS
Modern-day research shows that the main components of the ECS are:
These components are incredibly instrumental and work to achieve and maintain our bodily homeostasis.
Furthermore, additional modern research suggests that having a more balanced endocannabinoid system can be helpful for improved overall wellness.
This may provide evidence that if our bodies are lacking something (hunger, strength, or happiness) an outside source of endocannabinoids from cannabis may be an important factor in balancing our ECS.
Ounces: The Gold Standard in Cannabis!
Here at Ounces, we strive to bring our readers, customers, and followers a one-of-a-kind experience in cannabis and educational content.
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Also, if you’re near Sturgis, come by and say “high” to our diverse team of educated budtenders. They are more than happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have about cannabis consumption.
*Always consult a physician before making any changes to your health or fitness regimen.
