Did you know we have a system in our bodies designed specifically to interact with cannabinoids?
It’s named the endocannabinoid system and it’s present in everyone, developing before we are born. The receptors are located throughout different organs and tissues, including the brain and cells of the immune system. Two receptors that have been identified are CB1 and CB2. CB1 controls the psychoactive or “high” effect produced by cannabinoids while CB2 does not produce a psychoactive response.
Our bodies can naturally produce endocannabinoids that bind to cannabinoid receptors. A few we’re aware of at this time are Anandamide and 2AG. The endocannabinoids we produce bind to receptors in both the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.
Phytocannabinoids, are compounds extracted from plants. This is where CBD comes in! Interestingly enough, CBD (cannabidiol) doesn’t directly activate CB1 or CB2 receptors. This is likely why CBD does not produce a high like THC. How it works isn’t exactly understood yet. However, phytocannabinoids are known to help boost the function of our central regulatory system. This system is known to manage homeostasis and affect bodily processes such as appetite, mood, memory, sleep, and immune system functions.
If you’re interested in supplementing your endocannabinoid system with phytocannabinoids, check out our shop to select a product that’s right for you!
References
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Fride, E., Gobshtis, N., Dahan, H., Weller, A., Giuffrida, A., & Ben‐Shabat, S. (2009). Chapter 6 The Endocannabinoid System During Development: Emphasis on Perinatal Events and Delayed Effects. In Vitamins and Hormones (pp. 139–158). Elsevier. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0083-6729(09)81006-6
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Pacher, P. (2006). The Endocannabinoid System as an Emerging Target of Pharmacotherapy. Pharmacological Reviews, 58(3), 389–462. https://doi.org/10.1124/pr.58.3.2
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Mechoulam R, Hanus L. Cannabidiol: an overview of some chemical and pharmacological aspects. Part I: chemical aspects. Chem Phys Lipids. 2002;121:35–43. [PubMed]
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Mechoulam R, Parker LA, Gallily R. Cannabidiol: an overview of some pharmacological aspects. J Clin Pharmacol. 2002c;42:11S–19S. [PubMed]
