If you’ve been finding out about CBD oil, you may have noticed that of sources talking about the human endocannabinoid system (ECS). So, what exactly is it? Well, it’s a very important system for our bodies. let’s find out more so you can better understand CBD.
Homeostasis
First of all, let’s talk about homeostasis. This is the regulation of conditions in the body, including your temperature and blood sugar levels. Maintaining homeostasis is going to keep us happy and healthy. If something rises or drops, it has to be corrected and this is where the endocannabinoid system can help.
The Endocannabinoid System
The ECS is a collection of endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors in the human body. They’re very important, with the cannabinoid receptors present on the surface of cells and tell them what should be done when circumstances change. This means they help to maintain homeostasis. There are two cannabinoid receptors to focus on; CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are mostly found in the brain and central nervous system. The CB2 receptors are found in the immune system, tissue and organs of the body. The body produces its own cannabinoids, which are called endocannabinoids. You may wonder why you’ve not heard about the ECS before. Well, it was only discovered in 1988.
So, how does CBD fit in with the ECS? Let’s look at the cannabis plant. It has over 100 cannabinoids within it and they can interact without endocannabinoid system. For example, the cannabinoids called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are some of the most popular you’ve probably heard about before. THC directly interacts with the ECS, binding with the CB1 receptors. This can cause the feeling of being ‘high, which is a psychoactive, intoxicating effect. CBD interacts differently; it influences the ECS directly without binding to receptors. It can help to increase production of endocannabinoids in a natural way, which can help us stay healthy. This is what you can do by taking CBD oil in your daily life.