Skepticism is natural when considering the many benefits attributed to hemp. Hemp is plant. Not a magical fairy unicorn. While some claims are greatly exaggerated or flat out untrue, many are rooted in scientific fact. If you've ever wondered how a single plant can affect so many aspects of human health, this article is for you.
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Discovering the ECS.
In 1992, scientists discovered our bodies naturally produce molecules strikingly similar to the cannabinoids found in hemp. They named these naturally occurring compounds "endocannabinoids" ('endo' meaning 'within'), while their plant-based counterparts were termed "phytocannabinoids" ('phyto' meaning 'plant'). But the discovery didn't stop there. Researchers soon realized these endocannabinoids were part of a larger, previously unknown physiological system.
This system, which they named the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), turned out to be a complex regulatory network. It plays a crucial role in supporting and modulating the functions of other, better-known systems in our body, including the central nervous system and the immune system. The primary function of the ECS is to maintain "homeostasis" – our body's ability to keep its internal environment stable despite external changes. It's like our internal thermostat.
However, like any other body system, the ECS sometimes falls short. There are instances when our bodies don't produce enough endocannabinoids to keep all systems running smoothly. This is where phytocannabinoids from hemp come into play. Think of them as nature's spare keys, ready to fill in when our body's own keys are in short supply.
This discovery has opened up exciting new possibilities in our understanding of health and wellness, and how we might support our body's natural balancing processes.
"All of us have tiny cannabis-like molecules floating around in our brains. The cannabis plant, which humans have been using for about five thousand years, essentially works its effect by hijacking this ancient cellular machinery."
Understanding the ECS: The Lock and Key Metaphor.
Imagine your body as a vast, intricate building. This building contains trillions of rooms, each representing a cell in your body. Every room plays a crucial role in keeping the entire structure - you - healthy and functioning.
The doors of these cellular rooms have locks that can only be opened by specific keys. When the right key finds its matching lock, it doesn't just open the door. Instead, it triggers important actions within the room. These actions could be likened to:
- Adjusting the room's communication system (like modifying neurotransmitter release)
- Rearranging the room's furniture (similar to altering cell shape)
- Changing the room's location within the building (akin to modifying cellular movement)
The effects of these room-level changes ripple throughout the entire building. For instance:
- Changes in the communication system of certain rooms might influence the building's overall mood or how it perceives discomfort.
- Rearranging furniture in some rooms could affect how the building defends itself against intruders.
- Modifying the location of rooms might impact how the building responds to damage or wear and tear.
In this metaphor, the keys are constantly circulating through building looking for their matching lock in order to trigger these room changes to create building-wide effects. The building is in a constant state of adjustment and fine-tuning, always striving to maintain the perfect internal environment despite what's happening outside its walls.
That's the ECS. Understanding how it works is key to appreciating its crucial role in maintaining your health and well-being.
Cannabinoid Receptors: The Body's Specialized Locks.
Returning to our building metaphor, cannabinoid receptors are the specialized locks found on the cellular doors. Scientists have identified two main types of cannabinoid receptors, each with distinct distributions and functions in the body:
- CB1 receptors are found primarily in the central nervous system. In fact, CB1 receptors are more abundant in the brain than most other receptor types. But they also appear in some peripheral tissues. Their functions include regulating sleep , mood , stress, pain signaling and cognition.
- CB2 receptors are more widely distributed. These receptors are found on immune cells, skin, digestive tract and many organs. They are also found in the central nervous system, albeit in smaller numbers. They're crucial in modulating immune responses, including inflammation.
The wide distribution of these locks helps explain the broad influence of the ECS. From the penthouse (brain) controlling mood and memory, to the security system (immune cells) managing defenses, these receptor locks are integral to many aspects of your health and well-being.
Endocannabinoids: The Body's Natural Keys.
Now that we understand the locks in our body-building, let's turn our attention to the keys. Endocannabinoids are designed to fit perfectly into specific cannabinoid receptor locks. When an endocannabinoid key fits a cannabis receptor lock, it sets off a chain reaction of cellular events that ripple through the entire body-building. They're the messengers constantly working to keep your internal environment balanced and responsive to change.
What are Endocannabinoids?
The term "endocannabinoid" breaks down into two parts:
- "Endo" meaning "within" (produced inside the body)
- "Cannabinoid" referring to compounds that can activate cannabinoid receptors
How Are Endocannabinoids Produced?
Endocannabinoids operate on a "use it and lose it" principle:
- Synthesis: They're rapidly produced when needed, often in response to changes in the body's internal environment.
- Activation: Once synthesized, they activate nearby cannabinoid receptors.
- Action: This activation triggers various cellular responses to restore balance.
- Degradation: After serving their purpose, endocannabinoids are quickly broken down by enzymes.
This swift cycle allows for precise, short-term actions, enabling your body to fine-tune its responses to maintain homeostasis.
The Two Major Endocannabinoids.
There are two primary endocannabinoids:
- Anandamide (AEA): The "Bliss Molecule"
- Name Origin: Derived from the Sanskrit word "ananda," meaning bliss or joy
- Primary Target: Has a higher affinity for CB1 receptors
- Key Functions:
- Mood regulation: Influences feelings of happiness and well-being
- Stress response: Helps mitigate effects of stress and anxiety
- Pain modulation: Helps reduce pain sensitivity
- Memory: Involved in formation and consolidation of memories
- Fun Fact: Anandamide is found in small amounts in chocolate, potentially contributing to the pleasure some people experience when eating it
- 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG): The Abundant Mediator
- Prevalence: More abundant in the body than anandamide
- Receptor Interaction: Acts as a full agonist at both CB1 and CB2 receptors
- Key Functions:
- Immune regulation: Helps modulate inflammation and immune cell activity
- Pain perception: Involved in how we process and respond to pain signals
- Brain plasticity: Influences synaptic plasticity, important for learning and memory
- Metabolism: Impacts energy balance and may play a role in metabolic disorders
- Emotional state: May be involved in regulating mood, though its effects are less understood than anandamide's
Endocannabinoid Tone
The overall levels of endocannabinoids, the density of cannabinoid receptors, and the efficiency of endocannabinoid synthesis and breakdown collectively contribute to what scientists call the "endocannabinoid tone." This tone varies among individuals and can be influenced by factors like stress, diet, exercise, and sleep patterns.
A balanced endocannabinoid tone is associated with general well-being, while imbalances may contribute to various health issues. This understanding has led researchers to explore ways of supporting or modulating the endocannabinoid system, including through the use of plant-derived cannabinoids. So that's where we'll go next!
Phytocannabinoids: Nature's Complement to Endocannabinoids.
While the ECS primarily relies on the body's self-produced endocannabinoids, nature has provided us with another source of compounds that can interact with this system: phytocannabinoids. They're like spare keys!
What Are Phytocannabinoids?
The term "phytocannabinoid" breaks down as follows:
- "Phyto" meaning "plant"
- "Cannabinoid" referring to compounds that can interact with cannabinoid receptors
How Are Phytocannabinoids Produced?
While various plants produce cannabinoid-like compounds, the most well-known and studied phytocannabinoids come from the cannabis sativa plant, which includes both hemp and "marijuana" varieties.
Key Phytocannabinoids and Their Potential Effects.
Hemp plants contain over 100 different cannabinoids, each with its own unique properties and potential effects. While research is ongoing and we're continually discovering more about these fascinating compounds, several key phytocannabinoids are relatively well-known and studied:
Delta-9 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
D9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, is renowned for its therapeutic potential alongside its well-known intoxicating effects.
Notable Effects:
- Psychoactive (produces a "high" at higher doses)
- Alters mood, perception, and cognition
- Non-psychoactive effects are possible at lower doses
CBD (Cannabidiol)
CBD has emerged as a versatile compound with a wide range of potential therapeutic applications. Unlike THC, CBD doesn't produce a "high," making it an attractive option for those seeking potential benefits without psychoactive effects.
Notable Effects:
- Non-psychoactive (doesn't produce a "high")
- May enhance natural endocannabinoid levels, particularly anandamide
- Interacts with various non-cannabinoid receptors and ion channels
CBG (Cannabigerol)
CBG, often called the "mother of all cannabinoids," is gaining attention for its unique properties and potential applications. As a non-psychoactive compound, CBG offers promising benefits without the intoxicating effects associated with THC.
Notable Effects:
- Non-psychoactive (doesn't produce a "high")
- Precursor to many other cannabinoids, often called the "mother" or "stem cell" cannabinoid
CBN (Cannabinol)
CBN, often referred to as the "sleepy cannabinoid," is gaining attention for its potential to support sleep. While less potent than THC, its milder psychoactive effects make it an interesting subject, especially in combination with other cannabinoids.
Notable Effects:
- Mildly psychoactive (much less than THC)
- Often associated with sedative properties
The Entourage Effect: One Plus One Does Not Equal Two.
The entourage effect is a fascinating concept in cannabis science that suggests the various compounds in the plant work together synergistically, producing effects greater than the sum of their individual parts. This phenomenon proposes that cannabinoids like THC, CBD, CBG, and CBN may be more effective when used in combination, rather than in isolation. The entourage effect also extends beyond cannabinoids to include terpenes and other phytochemicals found in cannabis, potentially explaining why whole-plant extracts often yield different and sometimes more favorable outcomes compared to single-compound formulations.
Conclusion
The Endocannabinoid System is a fascinating and complex network that plays a crucial role in maintaining our body's balance. From regulating our mood and sleep to influencing our performance and immune function, the ECS is involved in so many aspects of our health and well-being.
Understanding how phytocannabinoids from hemp interact with our ECS provides insight into why these plant compounds can have such diverse effects on our bodies. As we continue to research and learn more about the ECS, we're uncovering new potential for supporting our health naturally.
Remember, while hemp-derived products can be beneficial, it's always important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. Everyone's body is different, and what works for one person may not work the same way for another.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to unlock the mysteries of the Endocannabinoid System and discover new ways to support our body's natural balance.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The research in this field is ongoing, and our understanding is continually evolving. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new health regimen.
The Author: Garrett Perdue
As Naternal's CEO, I lead a team dedicated to enhancing lives through plant-based health and wellness products. With nearly a decade in the cannabis industry, I bring deep market knowledge and regulatory expertise to our innovative product approach. My background in law and global business helps me navigate complex environments to drive growth. As a faith-driven, family-centered plant enthusiast, I'm committed to exploring natural solutions like cannabis to improve global well-being, embodying Naternal's mission to make a positive impact every day.