The Power of Nature

What you need to know about our Endocannabinoid System (ECS) and CBD

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Have you ever heard about the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)? I had not….

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It was just discovered about 30 years ago by researchers and responsible for regulating many processes in the body, including the central nervous system, immune response, communication between cells, and more.

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Endocannabinoids, also called endogenous cannabinoids, are molecules made by your body. They’re similar to cannabinoids (CBD), but they’re produced by your body. Endocannabinoids help keep our internal functions running smoothly, and our body produces them as needed.

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Sometimes, we may not have a balance of endogenous cannabinoids.

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Enter CBD…..

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Research has demonstrated potential improvement in our internal EC system when CBD is added. CBD, made from hemp extract, has phytocannabinoids that can help to maintain balance of ECS. CBD interacts with two dominant receptors - CB1 and CB2.

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Generally, it is understood that CBD produces its effects through diverse molecular pathways. About 65 different pathways have been identified in CBD. When it comes to endocannabinoid receptors, CBD seems to have an action on each of them. Through this action, some of CBD’s therapeutic effects can be realized as it acts on cannabinoid receptors very differently.

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CB1 and CB2 Receptors

These receptors are predominantly found in the central nervous system. CBD acts as an allosteric modulator of CB1 receptors. A modulator changes the way the receptor works without actually activating it. CBD1 receptors are widely distributed, but are particularly abundant in areas of the brain, including those concerned with movement, coordination, pain and sensory perception, emotion, memory, cognition, autonomic and endocrine functions, while CB2 receptors are found mostly in the immune system, and they seem to reduce inflammation

and certain kinds of pain.