Our body has a fascinating network – the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system is not only present in us humans, but also in almost all living beings and plays a crucial role in regulating the internal balance, the so-called homeostasis. Excitingly, the cannabis plant contains natural compounds known as phytocannabinoids, which are remarkably similar to our own endocannabinoids. This allows cannabis to connect directly to our endocannabinoid system and act on it by fitting these phytocannabinoids like “keys” into the “locks” of our ECS. This is what makes the effect of cannabis on our well-being and health so unique. This connection between the human body and the cannabis plant, both of which have similar building blocks, explains why cannabis is able to specifically influence processes such as pain perception, mood and immune reactions – an exciting interplay that we have already discussed in this blog post (blog link: Endocannabinoid system: structure, function and role) and which is explored in more depth in this blog post.

The endocannabinoid system (ECS): a deeper scientific look

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex biological network that regulates a variety of physiological processes – including pain perception, mood, inflammatory responses and even reproduction. Interest in the ECS is growing in research, as it plays a central role in the body and is relevant in the development and treatment of many diseases.

The ECS consists of three main parts that work closely together:

1. Endocannabinoids:

These are chemical substances that our body produces itself. They act like “keys” that fit into special “locks” (so-called receptors) in the body. The two most important endocannabinoids are called anandamide and 2-AG. They are only produced when the body needs them, for example when we are stressed or in pain. In this way, they help us to regain our balance.

2. receptors:

Receptors are like little “docking stations” in the body. The two most important receptors in the ECS are called CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are mainly found in the brain and nervous system and influence things like pain and appetite. CB2 receptors are mainly found in the immune system, where they are involved in inflammatory processes. When endocannabinoids dock onto these receptors, a reaction is triggered that can, for example, relieve pain or improve mood.

3. enzymes: To ensure that the endocannabinoids only work for as long as they are needed, the body breaks them down with the help of enzymes as soon as they have done their job. Enzymes are proteins that accelerate chemical reactions in the body. Two important enzymes, FAAH and MAGL, ensure that endocannabinoids are quickly broken down again as soon as the body no longer needs them.

How the ECS works:
The ECS helps our body to stay in balance, also known as homeostasis. You can think of it as a built-in thermostat that regulates itself up or down as required. For example, if we are stressed or injured, the ECS “switches on” processes that calm us down or reduce the pain. In this way, the ECS protects us from overload and helps us to react to external influences and remain physically balanced.

Research results on the effect of the ECS:

1. Anti-inflammatory effect: Inflammation is the body’s response to injury or infection. The ECS helps to control this inflammation via the CB2 receptors, which can be useful for joint diseases, for example.

2. pain relief: Pain is mediated by signals in the nervous system. Studies show that the CB1 receptors help to reduce the intensity of pain, which is promising for pain therapy. However, unlike with strong painkillers, cognitive functions are largely preserved.

3. appetite and metabolism: The ECS also controls our appetite and the energy we consume. Studies show that it regulates the signals in certain regions of the brain that tell us when we are hungry or full. This makes the ECS interesting for the treatment of obesity or metabolic problems.

4. protection of the brain: The ECS may be able to protect the brain from diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Studies have shown that it could have a neuroprotective effect, i.e. it protects nerve cells from damage and can therefore slow down the progression of such diseases.

5. reproduction and inheritance: The ECS even seems to have an influence on our genes. Research on mice shows that the ECS can influence the quality of sperm and possibly also alter genetic markers that are passed on to the next generation. This could offer new approaches for fertility research in the future.

How CBD supports the ECS:
CBD, a cannabinoid from the hemp plant, acts on the ECS by slowing down the breakdown of an important endocannabinoid called anandamide. This keeps it active for longer and can promote balance in the body. The special thing about CBD is that it does this without getting you ‘high’. It gently supports the ECS, helping the body to regulate itself and cope better with stress.

A look at potential future applications of the ECS:
Because the ECS is involved in so many fundamental functions, future research is likely to find new ways to target the ECS to alleviate disease or improve overall health. Particularly exciting are technologies that can target cannabinoids to specific areas of the body – for example, using specially designed nanoparticles to deliver drugs to the right place without interfering with other systems.

Sources: www.gesundheitszentrale.eu/ www.wikipedia.com