Category: Background

Anandamide: The happiness hormone and its effect in the ECS

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Molekülstruktur von Anandamid

Anandamide is often referred to as the happiness hormone. This article aims to show where this name comes from and how the endocannabinoid works in the body. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of this important molecule.

Understanding the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids in the body. It plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and regulating various biological processes. The ECS consists of two main receptors, CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are found in different parts of the body.

What is an endocannabinoid?
The term phytocannabinoid is used for the plant cannabinoids that appear in the hemp plant. In contrast, there are the "endocannabinoids": cannabinoids produced by our bodies that exert their effects in the ECS (endocannabinoid system).

Anandamide – The “happiness hormone

Anandamide is an endocannabinoid that is naturally produced in our bodies. It is closely associated with feelings of happiness, euphoria, and general well-being, which is why it is often referred to as the “happiness hormone.” It acts primarily on CB1 receptors in the central nervous system and has a variety of effects on our mood and emotions.

Effect on the well-being

Anandamide has a variety of effects on our well-being. It can promote relaxation, reduce stress and create a positive mood. In addition, it plays a role in the regulation of pain, the sleep-wake rhythm and appetite. An imbalance of anandamide in the body can lead to various health problems, such as mood disorders and chronic pain.

Anandamide-promoting lifestyle

The production and availability of anandamide can be influenced by our diet and lifestyle. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep can increase anandamide levels in the body. In addition, certain foods, such as dark chocolate and chili, can stimulate the production of anandamide. A healthy lifestyle helps maintain the optimal balance of endocannabinoid in the body.

Anandamide and its therapeutic potentials

Because of its effect on well-being and ECS, researchers have begun to explore the therapeutic potential of anandamide. There is evidence that the molecule may play a role in treating anxiety disorders, depression and chronic pain. However, further studies are needed to understand the full potential of this fascinating molecule.

Conclusion

Anandamide, the “happy hormone,” plays an important role in the endocannabinoid system and has multiple effects on our well-being. By regulating mood, pain perception, and other biological processes, endocannabinoid can have a significant impact on our quality of life. Through a healthy diet, regular exercise and a balanced lifestyle, we can help maintain homeostasis (balance) in the body and promote our well-being. Research into its therapeutic potential is still in its infancy, but it promises exciting new ways to improve our health and well-being.

Black hemp chocolate for more happy hormones

CB2 receptors and their role in the endocannabinoid system.

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The endocannabinoid system is a fascinating network of receptors and molecules that plays an important role in maintaining balance in the body. One of the key components of this system is the type 2 cannabinoid receptors (CB2 receptors for short). In this article, we will take an in-depth look at these receptors and their importance in the endocannabinoid system.

What are CB2 receptors?

CB2 receptors belong to the cannabinoid receptor family and are mainly found in the cells of the immune system. In contrast to CB1 receptors, which are mainly found in the brain and central nervous system, type 2 receptors are mainly found in immune cells such as macrophages, lymphocytes and natural killer cells. They play an essential role in the regulation of the immune system.

Function of receptors in the immune system

Type 2 receptors in the immune system act as modulators and regulate a variety of immunological processes. Through their activation, they may have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. This is particularly interesting with regard to inflammatory diseases such as arthritis or neuroinflammation. Activation of CB2 receptors can help relieve inflammation and help the immune system maintain a healthy balance.

CB2 receptors and pain perception

The receptors also play a role in the regulation of pain sensation. By activating them, they can attenuate pain stimuli and thus contribute to pain relief. This property of CB2 receptors makes them potential targets for the development of new therapies to treat chronic pain.

Conclusion

CB2 receptors are important components of the endocannabinoid system and play a critical role in regulating the immune system, pain perception, and possibly fighting cancer. Their activation may have anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and analgesic effects. Research into CB2 receptors and their role in the body opens up new possibilities for the development of therapies to treat various diseases. Further studies are needed to understand and exploit its full potential. Overall, CB2 receptors are a fascinating area of research that offers promising prospects for medicine and wellness.

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More about cannabis 2 receptors: wikipedia.com.

CB1 receptors and their role in the endocannabinoid system.

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The endocannabinoid system is a fascinating regulatory system in the human body that affects a wide range of functions. A key component of this system is the CB1 receptors, which play an important role in signal transduction and regulation of various processes in the body.

The importance of the endocannabinoid system

The endocannabinoid system consists of receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes that work together to maintain homeostasis (balance) in the body. It is involved in numerous bodily processes, including pain perception, inflammatory responses, mood regulation, appetite control, and even memory formation. The ECS is therefore significantly involved in the correct functioning of our body.

The role of CB1 receptors

Cannabinoid receptor 1 is a specific type of cannabinoid receptor found mainly in the central nervous system. Docking sites are present in high concentrations in the brain, but also to a lesser extent in other tissues such as the kidneys, liver and digestive tract. The CB1 receptor is responsible for mediating the effects of endocannabinoids such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol.

Signal transmission through CB1 receptors

When an endocannabinoid binds to a CB1 receptor, a signaling cascade is triggered, leading to modulation of neuronal activity. This can affect the release of neurotransmitters such as glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which affects information processing and neural communication in the brain. CB1-type receptors play an important role in pain modulation and can have both analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

CB1 receptors and cannabinoid substances

Cannabis is a plant that contains various cannabinoids, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is a well-known phytocannabinoid that has a strong affinity for CB1 receptors. When THC binds to CB1 receptors, it leads to the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis use. This highlights the importance of CB1 receptors in the action of cannabinoid substances.

What is a phytocannabinoid?
The term phytocannabinoid is used for the plant cannabinoids that appear in the hemp plant. In contrast, there are the "endocanbinoids": cannabinoids produced by our bodies that exert their effects in the ECS (endocannabinoid system).

Conclusion

CB1 receptors are critical to the function of the endocannabinoid system and influence a variety of bodily processes. By modulating neuronal activity and regulating neurotransmitters such as glutamate and GABA, CB1 receptors contribute to pain modulation, anti-inflammation, mood regulation, and other important functions.

It is important to emphasize that activation of CB1 receptors can occur not only by endocannabinoids but also by phytocannabinoids such as THC. This explains the psychoactive effects of THC and its effects on the central nervous system.

Due to the importance of the endocannabinoid system, cannabinoid receptors have become an important target for medical research. There is already promising evidence that targeted activation or blocking of CB1 receptors could be used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. This research may help develop new therapeutic options and further our understanding of the role of CB1 receptors in the body.

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More about type 1 cannabinoid receptors: wikipedia.com.

Endocannabinoid system: structure, function and role

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Graphische Darstellung der Rezeptoren des Endocannainoid-System im Körper.

The endocannabinoid system is a fascinating and complex system that has received much attention in medical research in recent years. It plays a crucial role in maintaining balance in the body and influences numerous physiological processes. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the anatomy, function, and role of the endocannabinoid system.

The structure of the endocannabinoid system

The endocannabinoid system consists of three main components: cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids, and the enzymes responsible for their production and degradation. The two best-known cannabinoid receptors are CB1 and CB2, which are found throughout the body but in varying amounts and localized in different tissues. CB1 recept ors are mainly present in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are mainly found in immune cells and some peripheral tissues.

A receptor of the endocannabinoid system schematically shown.

The function of the endocannabinoid system

The main function of the endocannabinoid system is to maintain balance in the body, also known as homeostasis. It regulates various processes such as mood, pain perception, appetite, sleep, immune response and inflammation. When a certain function in the body is out of balance, endocannabinoids can be released to correct that condition and restore balance.

The role of the endocannabinoid system

The endocannabinoid system plays a diverse role in the human body. It is involved in the regulation of emotions and pain processing and can influence inflammatory processes. In addition, it can also control appetite and metabolism and has effects on the immune system. Due to its diverse functions, the endocannabinoid system may play a role in various diseases and is therefore increasingly considered as a potential therapeutic target.

The endocannabinoid system and health

A balanced endocannabinoid system is crucial for health and well-being. A deficiency or malfunction of the system can lead to various problems. For example, dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system has been linked to mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, chronic pain, inflammation, and metabolic disorders. By targeting the endocannabinoid system, future therapies could be developed to better treat these diseases.

Conclusion

The endocannabinoid system is a fascinating and complex system in the human body. It plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and regulating various physiological processes. Research into this system has the potential to enable new treatment approaches for various diseases.

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More information about the ECS: wikipedia.com

All about hemp concrete

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In recent years, hempcrete, also known as hemp lime, has become a popular choice for sustainable construction. is a mixture of hemp fiber, lime and water and has many advantages over conventional building materials.

Hemp hurds(Nawaro, Wikimedia Commons)

What is hemp concrete?

Hempcrete is a sustainable building material made from hemp hurds, lime and water. Hemp hurds are a by-product of hemp cultivation. They are produced during the production of hemp fibers. The shives are mixed with lime and water to create a cementitious substance.

Hemp lime has many advantages over conventional building materials such as concrete and brick. Some of the advantages are:

  • Sustainability: Hemp fibers are renewable and environmentally friendly. The hemp plant requires little water and is easily done without pesticides or herbicides. With sustainably grown hemp, hempcrete has a negative carbon footprint because the fibers store CO2 in the building material.
  • Insulation capacity: hempcrete has a high insulation capacity, making it an excellent building material for thermal and sound insulation. Thermal insulation is better than concrete or brick.
  • Fire resistance: despite being an organic material, hemp lime is not highly flammable and is fire resistant or at least fire retardant when used carefully. [1]
  • Mold resistance: hempcrete is resistant to mold growth and can therefore help improve indoor air quality.
  • Lightweight: hemp lime is lighter than conventional building materials, which leads to easier and faster installation. It is also easier to transport and handle.
Lightweight chipboard from hemp hurds
Lightweight chipboard made from hemp hurds(elya, Wikimedia Commons)

Use of hemp building material

Hemp concrete is used for a variety of construction projects. Some of the most common uses are:

  • House construction: hempcrete is used for the construction of walls, ceilings, floors and roofs. It is also an excellent building material for thermal and sound insulation.
  • Renovation: Hemp lime can be used for renovation projects to insulate existing walls and floors.

How to make hemp concrete

The production is relatively simple. The hemp hurds are first cut into small pieces and then mixed with lime and water. The mixture is then poured into molds and laid out to dry.

Structure of hemp lime(Romancito77, Wikimedia Commons)

What is the cost of hemp building material?

Hemp lime is slightly more expensive compared to conventional building materials. The exact cost depends on the region where you live and the availability of the material. In general, however, hempcrete can be a good investment because of its excellent insulating properties and durability, which can lead to long-term cost savings. In addition, the shives are a by-product of fiber production. Thus, both the hemp textile industry and the construction industry can be supplied in one production.

Disadvantages of hemp concrete

Despite its many advantages, hemp lime also has some disadvantages that should be taken into account. Some of the disadvantages are:

  • Sensitivity to water: hempcrete is more sensitive to moisture and water than other building materials. It must therefore be maintained regularly to avoid moisture damage. However, there are also successful experiments in which the hemp shives used were “impregnated.” [2]
  • Weaker than concrete: hemp lime is not as strong as concrete and brick. It may therefore not be the best choice for high-rise buildings or other buildings subject to extreme loads.

Conclusion

Hemp concrete is a promising alternative to conventional building materials that allows for environmentally friendly and sustainable construction. It has many advantages, such as excellent insulation capacity, fire resistance and mold resistance. Although there are some drawbacks, such as a longer drying time and sensitivity to moisture, hempcrete can be a good investment because it can save money in the long run. So if you’re an environmentally conscious builder or owner looking for sustainable building materials, hempcrete could be the right choice for your next construction project.

Other applications of hemp as a building material of the future

Hemp fibers in the textile industry

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Hemp fiber has been known for centuries as one of the most versatile and sustainable fiber crops. Most recently, however, they have been heavily displaced by the global trade in cotton and later synthetic fibers, and by regulatory restrictions. They are obtained from the stems of the hemp plant and have many advantages over other fiber materials. In this article we will take a closer look at the advantages of hemp fiber in the textile industry.

Hemp fibers: Durable and Hardwearing

Hemp fibers are very durable and long-lasting. They are up to four times stronger than cotton and last much longer than many other fiber materials. Therefore, garments made of hemp are a worthwhile investment, as they last longer and thus consume fewer resources. And: who likes to have to throw away the new favorite shirt after only a short time?

Hemp fiber, hemp wool, hemp canvas and hemp shells
Various textile products made from commercial hemp(D-Kuru, CC BY-SA 3.0 AT, via Wikimedia Commons)

Breathability and moisture management

Hemp fibers are naturally breathable and have excellent moisture management. This means that they can absorb moisture and release it quickly, resulting in cool and dry comfort. This is particularly advantageous for sportswear and underwear.

Sustainability and environmental compatibility of hemp fibers

Hemp fiber is one of the most environmentally friendly fiber crops. They require less water and pesticides compared to cotton, making them a more sustainable choice. In addition, hemp is a fast-growing plant that can often be grown several times a year. This also reduces land consumption. And finally, if a garment lasts longer and is replaced less quickly, that has a big impact on sustainability.

Sustainable hemp cultivation with living soil

Versatility and design possibilities

Hemp fibers can be used in a variety of fabrics and offer a wide range of design possibilities. They can be made into fine or coarse textiles and are able to absorb color and pressure well. In addition, hemp has a natural luster and pleasant to the touch.

The areas of application of hemp fibers in the textile industry

Of course, we are not going to suddenly replace all synthetic fibers and cotton with hemp fibers from one day to the next. However, hemp is already used in the textile industry for a variety of products, including clothing, bedding, towels, bags and shoes. Especially in outdoor clothing hemp is often used because of its breathability and durability.

More and more designers and manufacturers are turning to hemp fibers because they are more environmentally friendly and durable than other materials. However, hemp clothing is not only sustainable, but also stylish and trendy. Many fashion labels now offer a hemp collection and show that sustainable fashion can be quite chic.

CBD oil in sports

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Velofahrer beim Sport in den Bergen

CBD oil is a dietary supplement derived from hemp plants and for some time has been increasingly used in sports. Many athletes use it as a supplement to improve their performance and recover faster. What do you need to know?

What is CBD oil and how does it work?

CBD oil is extracted from hemp plants and contains cannabidiol, a chemical compound that can affect various processes in the body. It has no psychoactive effect and does not make you high. CBD oil can calm the body and mind and is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-anxiety properties. [1] It can also help regulate sleep and appetite.

More focus thanks to CBD oil - in the office or during sports
More focus thanks to CBD oil – in the office or during sports

How can CBD oil enhance performance in sports?

CBD oil can enhance athletic performance in several ways. It can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is especially important if you exercise regularly and may experience muscle pain or inflammation. In addition, CBD oil can also reduce the stress that often accompanies exercise by regulating mood and promoting relaxation. This can help keep you focused on training or competing.

How can CBD oil help with recovery?

After training or competition, the body needs time to recover. CBD oil can help by reducing inflammation in the body and supporting muscle regeneration. It can also help regulate sleep, which is important for a quick recovery. In addition, CBD oil can also help reduce stress and anxiety, which in turn can aid in recovery.

How to dose CBD oil for sports?

The dosage of CBD oil for athletes depends on various factors, such as body size, weight, training load and the desired effect. It is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it to see how the body responds.

Proper dosage of CBD oil

Conclusion

CBD oil can be an effective dietary supplement for athletes to enhance their athletic performance and improve their recovery. It has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-anxiety properties and can calm and relax the body and mind. CBD is an interesting player in the world of sports nutrition and can be an alternative to traditional supplements. It can reduce inflammation, regulate mood and promote recovery, which is of great importance for athletes.

CBD oil in the store

Hemp paper: The environmentally friendly alternative

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Hemp paper is made from hemp fibers, which are extracted from the hemp plant. The production of hemp paper is a much more environmentally friendly process compared to conventional paper made from wood. In this article we will take a closer look at how paper is made from hemp and why it can become an environmentally friendly alternative.

How is hemp paper made?

Pulping in an old paper mill (Florida Memory on wikimedia commons)

The hemp fibers are processed into a raw material in a process called pulping, which is then used to make paper. Compared to the production of wood paper, the process of hemp paper production is more environmentally friendly. An important factor is that hemp plants grow much faster than trees.

Why is hemp paper more environmentally friendly?

Since hemp grows much faster than trees, hemp paper is ahead in terms of sustainability. used for the production of wood paper. Although the effort required for cultivation and harvesting is greater due to the shorter growth cycles, the area required can be significantly reduced. In addition, the use of chemicals in the production of hemp paper is much less compared to wood paper, because it is already naturally much whiter than wood paper.

In the end, it always depends on what the cultivation is compared to. An intensively managed hemp field can hardly compete with sustainable forestry. However, today mainly tree plantations are used for paper production, as the huge demand for paper can hardly be met with natural forests.

In the end, the most environmentally friendly variant of paper is still recycled paper. But hemp paper also offers a big advantage here: the long fibers are more resilient than wood fibers and can accordingly be recycled for longer.

Advantages of hemp paper

Old hemp paper from India
Hemp paper has a long tradition around the world.
(Moefuzz, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

Besides the environmental aspects, there are other advantages of hemp paper. It’s very durable and long-lasting, which means it’s less likely to break or yellow quickly. Hemp paper also has very high strength, which means that it can be used for printing documents and other materials. It is also highly absorbent, which means it is good for making tissues, toilet paper and other paper-based hygiene products.

Conclusion

Hemp paper is an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional paper made from wood. It is made from hemp fiber, which grows faster than trees and therefore needs to be grown on less land. Paper production from hemp is also less energy intensive and requires the use of fewer chemicals. It is very durable and resistant and can be used for various purposes. Replacing one or the other tree plantation with hemp and increasing the proportion of hemp fiber in our papers offers great potential.

Hemp products at the Herba di Berna

Industrial hemp as a raw material

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Hemp is a plant that has been used for thousands of years for various purposes. In the 17th century, the cultivation of hemp as a raw material reached a peak: all the sails and ropes of ships were made of hemp fibers, and had to be replaced about every 2 years. [1] There are several reasons for the decline in the use of commercial hemp. In addition to new technologies such as cotton, paper made from wood, and later the invention of synthetic rope, restrictive drug policies starting in the U.S. also made it difficult to grow commercial hemp. More recently, however, the use of hemp as a raw material has increased again in many industries. For good reasons – hemp is extremely versatile and can be grown sustainably. Unlike cotton, hemp also grows very well in the European climate.

Useful hemp as a building material

Hemp is an ideal building material for the construction of houses and other buildings. It is durable, lightweight and has excellent insulating properties. Hemp is often mixed with lime or clay to make hemp-clay bricks, which are used as building materials. Hemp can also be used as an insulating material in walls, ceilings and floors.

Hemp as a building material of the future

Hemp as paper raw material

Hemp is also an excellent raw material for paper production. Unlike conventional paper raw material made from wood, hemp does not contain lignins, which can lead to a high acid content and thus affect the durability of the paper. Hemp paper is stronger and more durable than conventional paper.

Hemp paper – the alternative to trees

Utility hemp as clothing material

Hemp can also be made into clothing. It is a soft and breathable material that feels comfortable against the skin. Hemp clothing is durable and resistant to wear and tear. It’s also a sustainable choice, as hemp requires less water and fertilizer than other fibers.

Comfortable clothes from hemp

Hemp as food

Hemp can also be used as food. Hemp seeds are an excellent source of protein, fiber and essential fatty acids. They can be used as an ingredient in smoothies, salads and other dishes. Hemp seed oil is a valuable ingredient, especially for cold cooking.

Hemp seeds: delicious superfood

Industrial hemp is a versatile and sustainably available raw material that is used in many industries. Use as a building material, paper raw material, clothing material and food is just a selection of the many possibilities hemp offers.

Hemp as a building material of the future

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Hemp as a building material is becoming increasingly important and is seen in the construction industry as a sustainable alternative to traditional building materials such as concrete and steel. The use of hemp as a raw material in construction offers numerous advantages and is a promising trend. In this article, we will take a closer look at the various aspects of using hemp building materials and why hemp has the potential to be the building material of the future.

Hemp for a sustainable construction industry

Sustainable construction with materials like Hempcrete.(Stephen Craven / WISE: Sustainable construction in practice)

Hemp is a sustainable crop that grows fast & undemanding and requires little water. During growth, hemp absorbs large amounts of CO2. Compared to the cultivation of cotton, for example, hemp requires only about half the amount of water. Unlike conventional building materials such as concrete or bricks, hemp is biodegradable and therefore has a lower impact on the environment. The good insulating effect of hemp building materials reduces the required heating energy. Hemp is thus more environmentally friendly than many other building materials can be a sustainable alternative.

Hemp as a building material: built to stay

Hemp building material is durable and resistant. Hemp fibers are naturally resistant to mold and insects, providing a natural layer of protection against moisture and pests. Hemp fiber insulation materials have high insulation performance and are moisture regulating, which contributes to a healthy indoor climate. Hemp is therefore well suited as an insulation material, for example, also in the renovation of old buildings.

Hemp as a building material: an all-rounder

Hemp as a building material in the form of Hempcrete wall
Wall from “Hempcrete”(Jnzl’s Photos, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

Hemp can be used not only as insulation, but also as a building material for walls and floors. Hempcrete, also known as “Hempcrete”, is a mixture of hemp, lime and water and can be used to make walls and partitions. Hemp fibers can also be made into hemp carpets, which are durable and long-lasting. Building materials made of hemp are thus versatile and offer numerous possibilities.

Conclusion

Utility hemp offers numerous advantages that make it an attractive material in construction. Its environmentally friendly properties, durability, and versatility make hemp a building material of the future. The use of hemp as a raw material in construction is thus a promising way to make a positive contribution to environmental protection. We are curious to see what the experience of the first hemp houses from Holland will bring.

How we grow our hemp sustainably