The Endocannabinoid System

We’ve all heard of the nervous system and the immune system, but have you ever heard of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) ?

These are the basics

Named after the Cannabis plants that led to its discovery, the ECS is one of the most important systems in the human body functioning to regulate the bodies state of equilibrium and serving to maintain a state of balance (homeostasis). Our bodies' ultimate goal.

But what does that really mean?

The ECS function is to keep us in balance. Acting as a bridge between body and mind, the ECS regulates key processes including those governing sleep, pain, appetite, metabolism, mood, anxiety, stress, immunity, neurogenesis, and reproduction. 

So how does it work?

Endocannabinoid receptors are found throughout the body. In the brain, organs, connective tissues, glands, immune cells, and even in the skin. These receptors lay dormant until they are activated by endocannabinoid molecules which alert the receptors to any changes that have occurred in the physical environment that upset our internal balance. Heightened stress, anxiety, pain or inflammation signal the ECS  to bring the body back to balance.

The bodies' Endocannabinoid molecules are produced naturally by the body but also respond to similar functioning molecules found in the plant kingdom which can assist and strengthen the bodies own systems and pathways.

The ECS and its workings are complicated and deserve closer inspection, stay tuned for more articles on the ECS (from science-y people). 

Learn more about CBD and where it comes from here. 

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