Does your body produce its own cannabinoids?

Are you wondering whether your body is capable of producing its own cannabinoids? Many people around the world have been eager to find out more about this. You may also be wondering what the endocannabinoid system is and what role is within the human body. Find out the answers to the question, does your body produce its own cannabinoids, and more below.

What is homeostasis?

Gaining an understanding of the concept of homeostasis will help you gain a better grasp of the endocannabinoid system. Homeostasis is any reaction or process used by the body to achieve stability. If your body can adjust to change successfully and maintain a state of homeostasis, you may be able to ward off a whole host of illnesses and unpleasant conditions.

How do endocannabinoids work?

Endocannabinoids bind to receptors in the nervous system. Evidence suggests that CBD may help with pain management by stimulating endocannabinoid receptor activity to reduce inflammation whilst interacting with neurotransmitters. A growing number of people living with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis have been using CBD for pain relief over recent years. One of the most essential jobs of CBD is to cut inflammation. Some inflammation is required so we can survive, but when inflammatory responses are overactive, we risk experiencing neuroinflammation, which is linked to various neurological conditions.

More about cannabinoids and the ECS

The human body does produce its own cannabinoids. These can be regarded as natural versions of the compounds found in the cannabis plant, including CBD or cannabidiol. These cannabinoids work with the endocannabinoid system or ECS. The endocannabinoid system helps the body to react with the cannabis plant, allowing cannabis to be used for medicinal purposes. Over the past few decades, intensive research has found that the ECS plays a huge role in maintaining health. It can stabilise each of the internal systems including our central nervous system. Without the ECS, cannabis wouldn’t provide the benefits that it is well noted for.

Where are cannabinoid receptors found?

The endocannabinoid system consists of a host of cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are located in our brains, organs, glands and other parts of the body. Endocannabinoids are also found in fish and animals. They manage various human bodily functions including our metabolism, muscles, sleep, mood, memory and appetite. However, our ECS doesn’t impact upon our heart and lung functionality. This is one reason why people don’t die from cannabis and cannabinoid overdoses.

Connecting the mind and body

The ECS can be seen as a messaging system that enables the communication between the body and brain. It ensures they respond efficiently to events in and out of the body. It ensures we become sleepy at night and know when it’s time to eat. It has been described as a bridge between the body and mind. Whatever the ECS is tasked with, it’s primary function is to achieve homeostasis.

How many types of cannabinoid receptors are there?

Scientists have found that there are numerous types of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are normally located within the brains and the central nervous and reproductive systems. CB2 receptors are usually found in the immune system and are generally tasked with immune-related activities. Other receptors include GPR18, GPR55 and GPR119. GPR18 has functions in the immune system GPR55 is involved with the central nervous system and GPR119 works with the gastrointestinal system.