What Is The Endocannabinoid System?
What is the ECS?
The ECS is a complex communication system located in the brain and throughout the Central and Peripheral Nervous System. The Endocannabinoid System exists in every living mammal. It is comprised of a series of receptors that perform the function of accepting cannabinoids throughout the body. Cannabinoids are natural chemical messengers produced by the body that interact within the ECS. The receptors they interact with, include the Cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 that stimulate our bodies with many physiological systems.
The ECS is responsible for a lot of physiological processes that silently take place in our body. However, alongside these important functions, the ECS has one primary objective- Homeostasis. Homeostasis, if you are unfamiliar with the term is quite literally the bridge between body and mind. It is the state of steady internal physical and chemical conditions. In simpler terms, it is the body’s natural state of balance.
What is the purpose of the ECS?
The ECS is like an application running in the background of your mobile phone constantly capturing information from your mobile usage. Similarly, the ECS constantly monitors your body and systems for problems or signs of imbalance. When there is an imbalance, a cascade of neurotransmitters are released from the ECS to the organ, tissue or system involved in helping address the problem at hand. This leads us back to homeostasis, that is maintaining our body’s balance.
So how does CBD work with this system?
For those who don’t know, CBD is short for Cannabidiol, over 100 active Cannabinoids are currently identified in hemp (a plant). Most interestingly, the Endocannabinoid System is not just affected by the cannabinoids created by the human body itself, but also by the plant sourced cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD. When the ECS is not able to regulate itself properly, cannabinoids and other chemicals from the cannabis plant, when properly used, may help optimise the ECS in a safe, and non-toxic way.
Of the 113 varieties of Cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, the two most prominent are THC and CBD. That makes sense. THC is without a doubt one of the most popular Cannabinoid due to its psychoactive effects. A.K.A feeling that makes you feel “stoned” or “high”. On the other hand, CBD has gained its popularity from its non-psychoactive, therapeutic effects. When we inhale (smoke) or ingest (edibles) CBD and THC, there is a synergistic effect resulting in an enhanced level of benefits.
As we understand the potential problems that surrounds CBD, it is our aim to work with only the best and most reputable CBD providers to give you high quality products with 0% THC to meet regulation. Please see our range of CBD oils which all meet our strict guidelines. If you need help choosing please reach out to us on Facebook or Instagram