The Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system is part of the human nervous system. Referred to as the endogenous cannabinoid system, the term "endogenous" describes the processes that take place in the body and not those that are the result of external influences. The central components of the endocannabinoid system are the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. The body's own cannabinoids or endocannabinoids play an equally important role, as they bind to the receptors and activate them.

The endocannabinoid system presents an astonishing, endogenous, physiological regulatory system. In addition to its function in the central nervous system, it is also involved in controlling the immune system and apoptotic cell death. As paradoxical as it may sound, cell death is just as important for the survival of a multicellular organism as cell division. Superfluous, infected, altered or injured cells must be sorted out. Apoptosis is therefore essential for normal development and for maintaining a balanced and constant internal state. The ECS therefore offers the most extensive biological system of receptors in our body.

The History of the Endocannabinoid System

In the mid-60s, the two Israeli researchers Raphael Mechoulam and Yehiel Gaoni discovered THC, the most important psychoactive ingredient in the hemp plant. It was not until about 20 years later that special receptors in the human nervous system to which THC binds were discovered. In 1992, Mechoulam and his team succeeded in identifying a substance produced by the body. They discovered that brain cells produce a fatty acid derivative that binds to the receptor and triggers the same effect as THC. Since the researchers suspected that this substance, like THC, influences emotions, they called it anandamide. Based on the term "ananda" from Indian Sanskrit, the word for bliss. This discovery was the starting point for research into the endocannabinoid system, which continues to this day. The many functions of the endocannabinoid system thus opened up a wide range of therapeutic benefits.

So it is clear: what the hemp plant can do, our nerve cells have long been able to do: produce cannabinoids.

The structure of the endocannabinoid system

The endocannabinoid system is a well thought-out system. It consists of receptors, endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids and various enzymes. They exert their effect by binding to the cannabinoid receptors and activating them. Endocannabinoid system means “endogenous” in the body. “Cannabinoid” is named after the ingredients of the Cannabis plant, the one that discovery of the system. The endogenous cannabinoid system is part of the nervous system in the human organism. It is a body's own system, the certain bodily functions such as emotions, pain and recovery regulated.

The body’s own cannabinoid receptors include the CB1 and CB2 receptors with their natural atoms and molecules.

These cannabinoid receptors are located in different regions of the human body. They influence a variety of processes in which they play a key role. In order to initiate these functions, the CB1 and CB2 receptors the endocannabinoids.

In contrast to most other neurotransmitters, endocannabinoids are not stored in the nerve cells, but are only produced when needed. In addition to anandamide, the best-known endocannabinoids include 2-arachidonylglycerol, abbreviated to 2-AG. These receptors are distributed throughout the body.

CB1 is distributed mainly in the brain, but also in organs such as the kidneys or intestines. A particularly high concentration of CB1 receptors is found in the brain region. There they are responsible for learning and movement processes (basal ganglia, cerebellum) and for information processing in the hippocampus. The CB1 receptors therefore play an important role in motivation, cognitive functions and memory formation, among other things.

Of the CB2 receptors It is known that they play an important role in the immune system and the central nervous system. CB2 receptors are even thought to be involved in bone metabolism, initiate anti-inflammatory processes and can even control metabolism and the feeling of hunger.

The receptors of the endocannabinoid system

 

receptors in the endocannabinoid system	functions of the receptors
CB1 receptor	CB1 receptors are mainly located in the brain, in the area of ​​the hippocampus and the cerebellum. In the lungs in fatty tissue in the gastrointestinal tract in the muscles in the reproductive organs in the liver in the bone marrow in the pancreas. Due to the particularly high concentration in the brain, the CB1 receptors control memory, the sensation of pain, the feeling of joy, blood circulation, the psyche and movement processes.
CB2 receptor	CB2 receptors are found throughout the body in the bones in the immune system in the skin in the liver in the pancreas in the bone marrow. The CB2 receptors control the inflammatory processes and influence the sensation of pain.

 

When the receptors of the endocannabinoid system are stimulated by neurotransmitters, they give the respective receptor the signal to become active in the body. In order to stimulate the processes in the body, the CB1 and CB2 receptors, the endocannabinoids, anandamide and 2-arachidonoglycerol (2-AG).

The body's own endocannabinoids anandamide, arachidonoglycerol (2-AG) and their effects

Cannabis research has led to the discovery of the body's own cannabinoids, anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). The discovery of anandamide and 2-AG successfully demonstrated the existence of the endocannabinoid system, which is completely controlled by cannabinoids.

The body's own cannabinoids are undoubtedly neuroprotective. Neuroprotective means that the nerve and brain cells are protected from damage. Endocannabinoids protect the nerve cells not only from over-stimulation, but also from the negative effects of the stress hormone cortisol, which can also damage brain cells. This can lead to an improvement in function and help to delay the progression of the disease, thus improving the quality of life of those affected. Experts suspect that the overarching function of the endocannabinoid system helps the body to cope with stress, as the cannabinoids switch the organism into recovery mode.

Anandamide – Endocannabinoids such as omega-3 are produced within the body's fatty acids. One of the major endocannabinoids is anandamide, an endogenous substance that researchers were the first to discover. Anandamide is a quadruple unsaturated fatty acid that is particularly common in the central nervous system. Just like THC, anandamide interacts with the cannabinoid receptors in the brain and thus influences the peripheral and central nervous system. If the body has linoleic acid, the body can produce anandamide itself. It is believed that anandamide - like THC - is involved in pain regulation and appetite. In addition, it is important for the reward system and the feeling of joy and happiness. With an increased anandamide level, the endogenous cannabinoid can also promote increased enjoyment when eating food. In addition, anandamide is also said to be important for hormonal balance and to have antidepressant effects. Laboratory tests have found that, like antidepressants, it increases the activity of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Thus, it may be possible to balance depressive feelings and anxiety.

Argentine scientists also believe that endocannabinoids such as anandamide play an important role in the development of cancer. The endocannabinoid system has been found to have a major influence on the growth of tumor cells.

arachidoglycerol - The second important endogenous cannabinoid besides anandamide is 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), which acts on the CB receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system. In particular, 2-AG is a complete agonist of both CB receptors and a primary binding molecule for the CB2 receptor. 2-AG is a member of a group of molecules. These play a complex and important role in various body processes, including immunity and inflammatory processes. Unlike anandamide, 2-AG requires glycerol instead of a free amine to make the necessary chemical changes. 2-AG is the most abundant endocannabinoid in the body and, like anandamide, plays an important role in pain control, appetite regulation, and the immune system. It is one of the two best-studied endogenous cannabinoids. Scientists believe that there may be other endogenous cannabinoids besides 2-AG and anandamide.

When these two substances bind to the corresponding receptors CB1 and CB2, which are present in the various organs of our body, they trigger a reaction in the corresponding cells. Mood, memory, concentration, appetite and the perception of pain are all affected. Certain activities also increase our endocannabinoid levels. The body can produce more endocannabinoids when you sing, read books or go jogging. These activities improve your mood, reduce your stress levels and make you feel good.

The endocannabinoid system is usually regulated by endogenous cannabinoids, i.e. without external influences. However, a deficiency often occurs and the body needs external support. This is where plant cannabinoids come into play, which support the endocannabinoid system. According to scientific knowledge, over 100 cannabinoids are currently known in the cannabis plant. One of the best-researched cannabinoids is CBD.

The Functions of the Endocannabinoid System

The central component of the ECS are the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 as well as the body's own cannabinoids or endocannabinoids. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in many bodily functions. When the cannabinoids bind to the receptors of the ECS, a variety of physiological reactions are triggered. The following areas can be influenced/reached:

• Pain perception
• Brain development
• memory
• neural communication
• control of motor skills
• cardiovascular system
• cell division
• Immune system
• Metabolism
• Neuroprotective (protection against damage to nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord)
• reproduction
• Tuning
• Trouble sleeping
• Appetite>
• digestion
• memory formation
• Inflammations.

Because of this, the chemical compounds that affect the ECS are potential therapeutics for the treatment of various diseases, including pain therapy and the treatment of obesity, which is considered to be one of the main causes of many diseases. In addition, the activation of various neurotransmitters such as dopamine, GABA, and glutamate is influenced.

Genetically different expressions of CB1 receptors can lead to disorders in the body that increase susceptibility to addiction or mental disorders. CB1 receptors are also important in the formation of neuronal networks, including embryonic development. They are also important for processing current information and for accessing working and short-term memory.

An intervention in the endocannabinoid system or a lack of endocannabinoids can have massive effects and be the cause of diseases. Among other things, certain drugs can block the CB1 receptors and trigger anxiety disorders, for example. A deficiency can also trigger migraines, fibromyalgia or irritable bowel syndrome.

The ECS performs different tasks in the body – with one common goal:a constant state of internal equilibrium and maintaining the balance of physiological body functionsIt can therefore be beneficial to influence the system in the case of various complaints. For example, by inhibiting the breakdown of endocannabinoids or by supplying plant cannabinoids (CBD). This allows the concentration of endocannabinoids to be influenced from the outside.

Research into the endocannabinoid system is still relatively young, so new findings about the importance of the system are constantly being published.

The Endocannabinoid System and Homeostasis

Homeostasis describes a self-regulating process that allows the biological system to be stable and balanced. This can only happen by adapting to conditions that are best for survival. The organism has resources that allow it to regulate itself. The endocannabinoid system also plays a large part in this. CBD contributes to stimulating homeostasis and is carried out by the endocannabinoid system. CBD is therefore a great help in the body's natural self-regulation when it comes to activating homeostasis.

How does the endocannabinoid system interact with CBD, THC and other stimulants

The human body produces its own cannabinoids whether it wants to or not. It does not matter whether you have ever CBD, THC or other active ingredients of the hemp plant. These endogenous cannabinoids dock onto various receptors distributed throughout the body and exert their effect. The ECS can also interact with exogenous cannabinoidsfound in the cannabis plant. These include CBD, THC, CBN or CBGThese plant-based cannabinoids also bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors and influence the build-up and breakdown of the body's own cannabinoids. In addition, they sometimes strengthen or weaken each other's effects.

According to research, the cannabinoids in the hemp plant react with the endocannabinoid system in different ways. The two most common plant cannabinoids, THC and CBD, interact completely differently. For example, THC has psychoactive effects on the body and CBD does not. CBD is considered a phytocannabinoid, a cannabinoid that comes from the hemp plant. The mutual effect between CBD and the endocannabinoid system is considered proven.

CBD and the ECS

Unlike THC, CBD does not bind to receptors. Rather, it works as an inhibitor of the enzyme FAAH, an enzyme involved in the endocannabinoid system. This, for example, Degradation of anandamide is slowed down or blocked, so that the The happiness messenger stays in the brain longer. This can improve or even prevent depression and anxiety disorders. In patients with schizophrenia, a higher level of anandamide in the cerebrospinal fluid could be attributed to the effect of CBD. Since the endocannabinoid anandamide activates the CB1 and CB2 receptors, the administration of CBD could promote activation. This results in a better antipsychotic effect, which has already been proven in various studies.

Researchers also believe that anandamide could be very beneficial in treating numerous physical and mental disorders. However, further research is needed to confirm this.

But many other disorders in the body can also be improved with CBD. According to German law, CBD is also used for people suffering from spasticity, multiple sclerosis or epilepsy, for example. CBD is used as a medicine for a wide variety of illnesses. CBD can be used for the following illnesses:

• Reducing and preventing inflammation,

• inhibition of cancer cell growth,
• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),
• Schizophrenia,
• Rheumatoid arthritis,
• Epilepsy and much more

Due to the body's interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the resulting wide-ranging application possibilities, CBD is increasingly becoming the focus of research.

In contrast to medical cannabis, the hemp plant contains almost no THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). When cannabis is consumed, the active ingredient THC also binds to cannabinoid receptors and thus exerts its effect.

THC and the ECS

The active ingredient THC contained in the hemp plant binds to the CB1 receptors in the same way as endogenous cannabinoids. In this way, they influence various processes that are controlled by the cannabinoid system. While the endogenous cannabinoids are broken down quickly, THC remains in the synaptic cleft for longer, meaning that it remains active in the receptors for significantly longer before it is broken down. This in turn means that the ECS is active for longer.

Mainly the effects of THC as psychoactive Among other things, THC causes the release of dopamine, but to a much lesser extent than other stimulants such as cocaine. THC affects the psychological mechanisms of the organism and has a major impact on memory performance and can hinder information processing. It can also trigger both anxiety and feelings of happiness.

The cannabinoid system reacts very differently from individual to individual, with the type of psychoactive effect depending on the THC, the dose and the person.

However, THC not only has an intoxicating effect, but now also has medical benefits and supports the body with the following ailments:

• Nausea,
• chronic pain
• Appetit
• Asthma
• eye diseases such as glaucoma and much more

THC has also already been used effectively in the treatment of cancer, although the combination of CBD and THC is considered more effective.

What effects can an endocannabinoid deficiency have on the body

If there is a lack of endocannabinoids in the body, the balance of the endocannabinoid system is no longer guaranteed. As a result, severe diseases come.It is assumed that many diseases are caused by a deficiency of receptors or neurotransmitters. Furthermore, chronic Pain indicate an imbalance in the endocannabinoid system.

The following diseases can be caused by a deficient cannabinoid balance:

• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson's disease
• Alzheimer
• Depression
• Migraine
• dopamine deficiency.

Furthermore, an ECS deficiency can also affect serotonin regulation, which can lead to certain diseases.

There are already reliable study reports on some diseases, e.g.:

• Migraine – the causes of Migraine are still not sufficiently researched. Although around ten percent of the population suffer from this disease. It is suspected that there is a connection with the neurotransmitter serotonin. The knowledge that the rise and fall of serotonin levels changes the symptoms is an important factor in this. The endocannabinoid anandamide plays a key role in serotonin regulation. Anandamide is known for its pain-regulating effect, among other things.
• Fibromyalgia – this is a neuropsychiatric disease. This disease also causes pain, as it leads to a disturbed pain processing. Typical symptoms include deep muscle pain, exhaustion, concentration and sleep problems. Here, too, a connection with the happiness hormone serotonin is suspected.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome – this is a disease that is characterized by abdominal cramps, flatulence and diarrhea Researchers have also discovered that serotonin affects this disease. The cannabinoid receptors in the intestine can Inflammation and hypersensitivity reduce. Serotonin slows down the motility of the intestines and thus counteracts intestinal cramps. This suggests that an endocannabinoid deficiency is also closely related to irritable bowel syndrome.

It is clear that an endocannabinoid deficiency paralyzes the endocannabinoid system. This causes many processes to come to a halt, which in turn leads to various health problems. It is not yet entirely clear what other possibilities anandamide has and how the body's own cannabinoid production can be stimulated.

What options are available to people with an endocannabinoid deficiency

There is still no sufficiently proven treatment for clinical endocannabinoid deficiency. Nevertheless, experts have already Suggestions pronounced – the supply of exogenous cannabinoids (CBD). People have the opportunity to support their own system.

Supporting the intestines

According to experts, the intestinal microbiome and its bacteria are important supporters of the endocannabinoid system. When you are ill, it can therefore be important to protect your intestines. This can be by avoiding unnecessary medications such as antibiotics or avoiding inflammatory foods such as fried foods with trans fats. The intestines should be supported by probiotics or foods such as pickled vegetables, apple cider vinegar, coconut yogurt and dairy product alternatives.

movement and sport

Exercise and sport not only supports sleep and reduces stress, but also brings the ECS into balance. Therefore, anyone who suspects an endocannabinoid deficiency should try to integrate sport into their daily routine, Improve sleep quality and reduce stressToo many calories can also be bad for the ECS. Here too, exercise provides the necessary support.

Dietary supplements with exogenous cannabinoids (CBD)

The question of whether exogenous cannabinoids have a variety various diseases, which can be caused by an endocannabinoid deficiency, can be alleviated or even cured, is far from being fully clarified. However, some research results already allow for hopeful conclusions. CBD is gaining the reputation of a strong anti-inflammatory agent, analgesic and anxiolytic. In some countries, cannabis is already used as a medicine against Fibromyalgia prescribed.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is available on the market in the form of oils, capsules and pastes that increase the cannabinoid levels in the body positive rethinking and relaxing are influencing each other. can.

Unlike the intoxicating THC, CBD is not psychoactive. It is also classified by the World Health Organization as growing compatible THC is considered an alternative to the endogenous cannabinoid anandamide.

Summary: Key takeaways about intuitive eating

The endocannabinoid system is a complex, biochemical communication system in the body. Since it performs many important functions in the human body, it is crucial for our well-being. Research into the endocannabinoid system has not yet been fully completed, so new findings are constantly emerging. However, the fact is that there are specific cannabinoid binding sites on the surface of the various cell types in the human body. Various cannabinoids bind to these receptors. endocannabinoids and are then activated. The use of medical cannabis, which is the most effective method known to stimulate the endocannabinoid system, supports the body's own processes. The exogenous cannabinoids THC and CBD interact with the endocannabinoid system and therefore produce therapeutic effects on a large scale.