Today’s Tea Time Talk: The Endocannabinoid System
The “Master Puppeteer” of systems is located inside everyone’s body, and it’s called the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). This reactionary system which “turns on” when needed is so amazing in that it’s constantly trying to keep the body in a homeostasis mode.
The ECS is the largest receptor system in our bodies and controls our gastrointestinal activity, cardiovascular activity, pain perception, maintenance of bone mass, neuroprotection, hormone regulation, metabolism, immune function, inflammatory reactions, inhibition of tumor cells, and even reproduction. We even make endocannabinoids inside our own breast milk that react to a baby’s receptors. (I’m about to go on a deep dive on that for another post!)
So what does that have to do with Cannabis? Cannabinoids come from the Cannabis plant, and endocannabinoids are made by our very own bodies. (“endo-” means “inside.”)
As humans, we have a lot going on ALL the time – physical AND mental stressors coming from every angle in our home and work life. So, how can we help supplement our own endocannabinoid system when it’s not producing enough endocannabinoids? By using cannabis.
Because cannabis can bind to so many different receptors inside our body, it has the potential to help with many things. This is why one person may consume cannabis for anxiety and depression, while another consumes it for chronic pain, and it may work for BOTH of them! There are 3 main components to how the endocannabinoid system works:
Enzymes create and break down endocannabinoids.
Endocannabinoid receptors are the “locks” of the system.
Endocannabinoids are like the “keys” to the system.
Cannabinoids and endocannabinoids are the ONLY thing that can “unlock” those receptors in our ECS. However, cannabis isn’t a cure-all. It’s also important that we are eating properly, getting exercise, etc.
But here’s the thing: Cannabis as a whole plant, not an isolated version, will ALWAYS be the better choice. CBD alone WILL NOT bind to a receptor in our endocannabinoid system. THC has to first bind to the receptor to create a pocket for the CBD to fit inside!
Is your mind blown yet? I know I am amazed by all of this, and I didn’t even cover half of how this system works!
– Raelyn