Understanding the Major Components of the Endocannabinoid System

The system of receptors that saturate the central nervous system and are also found throughout the immune system are called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Its function is to keep the body in a constant state of homeostasis. The ECS is comprised of cannabinoid receptors, metabolic enzymes, endocannabinoids. The receptors function a lot like other nervous system receptors. However, unlike many other neurotransmitters, the endocannabinoids have the ability to reverse course and notify the sending neuron that there is an excess of neurotransmission. The cannabinoid receptors are located on the exterior of the cell where they monitor conditions and relay information internally for the appropriate cellular response.

The two major endocannabinoids are called 2-AG and anandamide. They are ephemeral and synthesized only as needed from fat-like molecules contained within cell membranes. Many other such neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin are stored in the body. The two major enzymes that break down anandamide and 2-AG are fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoglyceride lipase (MAGL), respectively.

Although there are many receptors and more research is needed, the CB1 and CB2 receptors have been subjected to the most research. The CB1 cells are those which are primarily located in the central nervous system and interact with the psychoactive THC compound of marijuana to produce the intensified state of well-being and perception. It should be noted, however, that THC binds and reacts with many other central nervous cells such as dopamine.

How the CB1 Receptors Function in the Brain

If a neuron is sending too many signals to another adjacent to it, the receiving neuron will produce a fresh batch of endocannabinoid and send it to the loud neuron as an instruction to quiet down and reduce the signals. Once the offending neuron receives the message, it will release the enzymes to break it down. Therefore, endocannabinoid is an important neurotransmission compound for regulating the homeostasis and clarity of thoughts by pacing signals to prevent muddling and anxiety. This is a lot like fine-tuning your radio to reduce interference when it is receiving two signals at once.

How the CB2 Receptors Function in the Immune System

It is believed that these CB2 receptors are activated by immune cells and aid in anti-inflammation. They help regulate and limit the inflammatory response of our bodies that alert us to an injury or infection. They signal the cells to likewise quiet down when the inflammation becomes overbearing. This is why the CBD compounds found in Full Spectrum Hemp Extract have such a profound effect on reducing chronic inflammation and pain.

Medical Marijuana v. Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract

Full Spectrum Hemp Extract is 90% CBD but is also loaded with all the nutrients, proteins, cannabinoids, and heart-healthy fatty acids like Omega-3 and Omega-6, that are simply not worth stripping to concentrate the CBD. Full Spectrum Hemp Extract contains mere traces of the psychoactive THC found in medical marijuana and is therefore not addictive.

Effect of CBD on CB1 Receptors

It is also believed that the CBD inhibits the FAAH enzyme to prevent endocannabinoids from breaking it down in CB1 receptors. This has been advanced as the reason for CBD's anti-anxiety properties. It is allowing the neurons to hold onto the calm-down message for a longer duration. This means that the message itself acts as a veritable inhibitor or disruptor on synaptic signal overdrive.

Conclusion

The take away from this educational information is that the little mentioned ECS provides a fundamental scientific reason for why so many ailments are responsive to treatment with the cannabinoids found in medical marijuana and CBD extracts.