Studies investigating the well-known cannabinoid THC in the early 1990s discovered the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a sophisticated cell-signaling system. Marijuana contains chemicals known as cannabinoids. Professionals are still working to comprehend the ECS completely. But as of now, we are aware that it affects the regulation of several activities and procedures, such as:
- sleep
- mood
- appetite
- memory
- reproduction and fertility
Endocannabinoids
Endocannabinoids are substances that are produced by your body. Although your body makes them rather than buying them, they are similar to marijuana.
Currently, two significant endocannabinoids have been identified by researchers:
- anandamide (AEA)
- 2-arachidonoylglyerol (2-AG)
These support the seamless operation of internal processes. Because your body creates them as needed, it is challenging to determine the average amounts for each.
Endocannabinoid receptors
Your body contains these receptors all around. Endocannabinoids bind to them, signaling the ECS that action is necessary.
There are two primary endocannabinoid receptors:
- CB1 receptors, which are primarily present in the brain’s central nervous system
- CB2 receptors, which are primarily present in lymphocytes and your peripheral nervous system
Both receptors are capable of being occupied by endocannabinoids. The marijuana that the receptor binds to and its location dictate the events that take place. For example, endocannabinoids may specifically target CB1 receptors in a spinal nerve to lessen discomfort. Others may attach to a CB2 receptor in your immune cells to communicate that your body is inflamed, a typical symptom of autoimmune illnesses.
What are its functions?
The ECS is intricate, and specialists still need to fully understand how it operates or all of its potential activities.
The listed following have been connected to the ECS through research:
- appetite and digestion
- metabolism
- chronic pain
- various immune system reactions, such as inflammation
- mood
- learning and memory
- motor control
- sleep
- cardiovascular system function
- muscle formation
- Bone development and remodeling
- Liver performance
- How the reproductive system works
- stress
- skin and nerve function
How does THC interact with the ECS?
One of the most prevalent cannabinoids in marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). You become “high” from the chemical. THC, like endocannabinoids, interacts with your ECS once inside your body by attaching to receptors. It can bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors, contributing to its potency.
It enables a variety of effects—some more pleasant than others—on your body and mind. THC, for instance, may aid with pain relief and hunger stimulation. However, it can occasionally result in worry and paranoia as well.
Researchers are currently investigating how to create synthetic THC cannabinoids that interact with the ECS exclusively in positive ways.
How does CBD interact with the ECS?
Cannabidiol is another crucial cannabinoid present in weed (CBD). In contrast to THC, CBD usually has no side effects and doesn’t get you “high.”
The exact nature of CBD’s interactions with the ECS is unclear to experts. However, they know that it does not attach to CB1 or CB2 receptors in the same manner as THC.
