What is the endocannabinoid system (ESCS)?
The (ECS) is a complex cell-signalling system, involved in establishing and maintaining health. Discovered while researching THC, a well-known component in cannabis, the ECS is essential in maintaining the delicate balance within our internal environment.
Active irrespective of cannabis use, the ECS comprises endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes. This trio functions like an internal regulator, ensuring that various bodily functions operate smoothly and stay balanced.
Endocannabinoids are molecules made by your body, mirroring compounds found in cannabis but naturally produced. Think of them as keys that fit into locks leading to activation of a series of processes resulting in internal balance. This is called homeostasis.
The primary endocannabinoids are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These molecules are crucial for keeping internal functions on track, produced on-demand by your body. Anandamide is named after the Sanskrit word ‘Ananda’ which translates to ‘bliss’. Yes, your body produces bliss molecules, but sometimes, not enough of it!
What are receptors?
Think of ECS receptors as the locks that are activated by the keys (endocannabinoids). These locks are found throughout your body and there are 2 main types:
CB1 receptors are mainly in the central nervous system.
CB2 receptors in the peripheral nervous system, particularly in immune cells.
Endocannabinoids interact with these receptors, initiating actions needed to maintain balance. The effect depends on the receptor's location and the specific endocannabinoid it binds to.
The diagram below shows where these receptors are most commonly found:
As you can see from the diagram above, the ECS is present throughout the whole body and is involved in key bodily functions.
What are enzymes?
Enzymes are proteins in the ECS break down endocannabinoids once they've served their purpose. These enzymes ensure that endocannabinoids are used as needed, without lingering longer than necessary.
The primary objective of the ECS is to maintain homeostasis. The ECS is intricately linked to several key bodily processes. It acts as the internal regulator, constantly fine-tuning various bodily functions to adapt to changes and maintain a stable internal environment. It plays a part in:
Appetite and Digestion
Metabolism
Pain perception
Inflammation and Immune Responses
Mood, Learning, and Memory
Motor Control (movement)
Sleep
Cardiovascular System Function
Bone formation
Liver Function
Reproductive System Function
Stress Responses
Skin health
Each of these functions is critical to maintaining homeostasis, the stable and optimal operation of your internal world. If external factors disrupt this balance, the ECS steps in to help your body adapt and return to equilibrium.
Understanding the ECS and its role as the internal regulator of our bodies offers valuable insights into health and well-being. It highlights the intricate mechanisms our bodies use to maintain balance and adapt to internal and external changes.
Dysfunction of the ECS could lead to a variety of health conditions. The good news is your endocannabinoid system can be enhanced in many ways including exercise, avoiding alcohol, meditating and CBPM (medical cannabis) therapy.
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