There’s a lot of information online about cannabis and its hundreds of compounds. So much information, in fact, that it can feel overwhelming to sort through it all. Many may wonder how cannabis works on the human body. What makes THC, CBD, or any other cannabis compound do what it does to us? The answer is within ourselves: the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
But what is the endocannabinoid system? Is it similar to other bodily systems inside us, like our digestive and nervous systems? We break it down to help every consumer understand what happens when they consume various types of cannabis products.
What is the Endocannabinoid System?
To understand how cannabinoids work, we must start with what uses them. The endocannabinoid system is present in every animal (except insects) and serves the same purpose. The ECS helps regulate and maintain important body functions. It’s the main system responsible for maintaining homeostasis (a fancy word for balance and stability within the body.
The ECS comprises a series of neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are divided into two categories: CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are present mostly in the spinal cord and brain. Meanwhile, CB2 receptors are often found in the immune and central nervous systems.
What other bodily systems are affected by the endocannabinoid system?
Both sides of the ECS work together to send signals across the body. These signals help with other critical bodily functions, including:
- Eating
- Immune and inflammatory responses
- Perceiving pain
- Regulating internal temperature
- Sleep
- Emotional processing
- Memory and learning
Overall, the ECS is a vital part of the body, and it helps influence many aspects of daily life.
How Does the Body Produce Endocannabinoids?
The body doesn’t just use cannabinoids from cannabis and hemp. In fact, it can produce its own series of cannabinoids without any cannabis involved. These cannabinoids are called endocannabinoids, which interact with our CB1 and CB2 receptors. They’re the compounds that influence our bodies to achieve inner balance.
Endocannabinoids don’t have a single set place of origin in the body. Many known points generate endocannabinoids. Some of the most well-known sources include the brain, liver, and muscles. Even fatty tissue can generate endocannabinoids.
Once made, endocannabinoids act as messengers that relay important information to the rest of the body.
Endocannabinoids also aren’t the only kind our body can use. The endocannabinoid system can also use other forms of cannabinoids.
What’s the Difference Between Cannabinoids and Endocannabinoids?
Much like real estate, the difference is all about location, location, location. Both forms of cannabinoids are lipid-based neurotransmitters. That means they act as chemical messengers that send signals through the ECS to nerve cells.
But these little messengers don’t have to come from the body to interact with the endocannabinoid system. Understanding the names helps us understand the difference between the two.
Endocannabinoids come from within the body. The prefix ‘endo’ means “inside.”
Phytocannabinoids come from the cannabis plant. The prefix ‘phyto’ means “plant.” These are most often also shortened to ‘cannabinoids.’
The ECS can use both forms as chemical signals, but phytocannabinoids can cause slightly different effects. For example, the body may produce signals that cause inflammation. External sources may create an opposing response, providing anti-inflammatory effects throughout the body.
Can You ‘Increase’ the ECS?
When people learn about the ECS and its importance to the body, many wonder if they can ‘increase’ or ‘strengthen’ this system. While someone might not be able to expand or make their ECS more efficient, it is possible to help it function to the best of its ability.
Some methods are straightforward, and some require a more focused effort. We compiled some of the most beneficial ways to care for your endocannabinoid system to ensure optimal performance.
Exercise Regularly
This one should come as no surprise. Exercise has already proven to improve people’s daily lives. It may do that by increasing the production of an endocannabinoid called anandamide.
This endocannabinoid is a fatty acid-type neurotransmitter. It’s often considered responsible for helping stoke feelings of happiness and euphoria. The name is even derived from the Sanskrit word for “joy.” In short, exercise can get those happy chemicals flowing!
Exercise isn’t limited to hard-hitting cardio and strength training, either. Breathing exercises, yoga, and other fun and low-impact routines may benefit the ECS.
Reduce Alcohol Consumption
The endocannabinoids native to your body aren’t the only signals the ECS can use. Phytocannabinoids are also ripe with molecules that bodies love to incorporate. Likewise, they’re not just in the cannabis plant! There are cannabinoids in other plants, too, including black pepper, broccoli, ginseng, and carrots. Our bodies use these for several different processes throughout our ECS.
But the most obvious source of phytocannabinoids does come from cannabis. CBD, THC, and over 110 more are present within the plant. While THC and CBD are the most researched, several others are gaining attention. CBD, in particular, may help consumers increase the function of their ECS the most. Consistency is what makes CBD’s effects more noticeable over time.
To reduce alcohol consumption, some consumers are making the Cali sober switch to cannabis beverages. Delta-9 THC seltzers, for example, may hit the spot after a long day the same way a cold beer might.
Reduce Stress
Too much stress can cause several issues, including severe health concerns. Prolonged periods of stress cause negative impacts across the entire body.
The negative impact comes from the overproduction of cortisol, the stress response hormone. When cortisol is overabundant in the body, other functions are put on hold or altered. One of the areas hit the hardest during high-stress times is the ECS.
Cortisol interferes with CB1 receptors and can disrupt their function. Fortunately, some ways to reduce stress may further benefit the ECS. Orgasms, dark chocolate, and other types of stress relief can do wonders for the body. Simple habits like daily meditation can also help the ECS. Even casual socializing may ease stress, getting you back to feeling balanced.
How Does CBD Affect Endocannabinoids?
CBD can influence the ECS in several ways, though its exact mechanisms are still being studied. Here’s how CBD might affect specific endocannabinoids.
Inhibits FAAH (Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase)
CBD inhibits the enzyme FAAH, which breaks down anandamide, one of the key endocannabinoids. By slowing down this process, CBD increases the levels of anandamide in the body. In turn, this may enhance mood, reduce pain, and provide anti-inflammatory effects.
Modulates CB1 and CB2 Receptors Indirectly
THC directly binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Meanwhile, CBD influences the receptors more indirectly. Instead of binding, it may modify the receptors’ ability to bind with endocannabinoids. Over time, it may increase the ECS’ effectiveness in regulating processes like pain, anxiety, and more.
Supports Homeostasis
CBD may also help enhance the production and signaling of endocannabinoids, which might allow it to help regulate processes like mood, appetite, and immune function. Ultimately, though, CBD helps contribute to overall homeostasis.
Interacts with Other Receptors
CBD also interacts with non-cannabinoid receptors, such as serotonin receptors. These can influence the production of endocannabinoids. That uptick in production may add to its anti-anxiety and mood-regulating effects.
These interactions allow CBD to potentially support the ECS in managing various conditions. Chronic pain, anxiety, and inflammation patients might all find some form of relief. CBD does this without directly binding to the primary cannabinoid receptors.
Curious about how CBD might affect you specifically? Browse our line of CBD products to find one that stands out to you!
CBD Aquaponic Sour Space Candy Flower
$5.00 – $99.99
Select options
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
CBD Aquaponic Cakeberry Brûlée Flower
$5.00 – $99.99
Select options
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
CBD Aquaponic Sour Brûlée Flower
$5.00 – $99.99
Select options
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Vitality Mushroom Gummies
$10.00 – $85.00
Select options
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
How Does THC Affect the Endocannabinoid System?
Unlike CBD, THC can directly interact with the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Here’s how the psychoactive cannabinoid may impact the endocannabinoid system.
Binds to CB1 Receptors
THC directly binds to the CB1 receptors, mostly in the brain and central nervous system. This binding causes the psychoactive effects THC is known for, including euphoria, altered perception, mood changes, and more. This binding may also help with pain relief, nausea, and appetite stimulation.
Activates CB2 Receptors
CB2 receptors are primarily located in the immune system and peripheral tissues. When THC binds to these receptors, it can help reduce inflammation and modulate immune responses. As a result, THC may help with pain relief and even reduce symptoms of autoimmune conditions.
Disrupts Endocannabinoid Balance
Since THC mimics the body’s natural endocannabinoids (like anandamide), it can disrupt the normal balance of the ECS. This can lead to overstimulation of the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which may result in tolerance over time. Thus, the cannabis consumer you know (maybe it’s yourself) may have an incredibly high tolerance. You can thank their (your) endocannabinoid system!
Influences Neurotransmitter Release
Lastly, by interacting with the ECS, THC may affect the release of neurotransmitters. These include the happy neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA. This may impact mood, memory, pain perception, and overall neural communication.
While THC is effective at activating the ECS, the effects vary based on dosage, individual tolerance, and more. Everyone is different, so THC affects our endocannabinoid systems all differently.
Want to find your next favorite THC product? Your ECS will thank you. Be sure to check out our line of delta-9 THC edibles and other products to find one that best suits your needs (and taste preferences!).
50mg Delta 9 Gingerbread Crème Pie
$15.00
Add to cart
5mg Delta 9 THC Seltzers
$5.50 – $99.99
Select options
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
12mg Delta 9 Gummies
$10.00 – $90.00
Select options
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Delta 9 THC Infused Honey
$4.00 – $49.99
Select options
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Wrapping Up
The endocannabinoid system plays a vital role in maintaining balance and regulating many of the body’s most important functions. From mood and memory to pain and inflammation, the ECS influences how we experience life. Understanding this system helps us see why cannabinoids like THC and CBD affect us how they do.
As research continues, we learn more about harnessing the ECS. Soon, we’ll be even better equipped to use cannabis and its compounds to prompt well-being and enhance the quality of life! Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned consumer, knowing how the ECS works is key to unlocking its potential.