Most people are only aware of the standard 12 physiological body systems and not so much the endocannabinoid system.
We have heard of the urinary, digestive, reproductive, and respiratory systems. We’ve also heard of the endocrine, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and cardiovascular systems, the lymphatic, immune, and the less-known integumentary (skin) systems!
Moreover, I created an entire web page on the different physiological systems. All the systems I learned throughout my academic career.
Still, to my surprise, the other day, my brother asked me, “Where is the endocannabinoid system?” That got me thinking, and after some research, I realised that the Endocannabinoid System is fascinating. It deserves a discussion of its own.
Cannabis, its relatively long history, and the discovery of the Endocannabinoid System
Endocannabinoid System, ECS, cannabis plant, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
My first encounter with cannabis happened when I went to university to study science. There, a new world opened up for me. A world where fellow students braced the recreational activity of smoking cannabis. Many were happy, relaxed and mellow most of the time.
There is a long history and fascination with the cannabis plant. Cannabis has been around for an incredible 12000 years. It originated near the Altai mountains in central Asia.
Our ancestors used cannabis to extract fibres to make ropes and nets. Cannabis was also grown as a crop, and its seeds were used for oil, often for its medicinal properties.
During handling and extraction, our ancestors encountered the euphoriant properties of heated cannabis. In fact, they could also distinguish the resin produced by the female plants. Female species contain the highest content of psychoactive ingredients.
Early records of medicinal cannabis use date back to the early civilisations of China, Egypt, Greece, and later the Roman Empire.
Cannabis seeds propagated due to the migration of nomadic humans across Eurasia. Furthermore, Orientalists and Western physicians introduced cannabis to Europe in the 19th Century.
Israeli chemist Rafael Mechoulam isolated the controversial psychoactive ingredient of cannabis, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This discovery happened in 1964. Twenty years later, the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) came to light.
ECS is a complex molecular signalling system. It was discovered in 1988 by scientists Allyn Howlett and W.A. Devane.
Both of these discoveries sparked a new research area. It also led to concerns about links to schizophrenia.
How was this system named?
The name “Endocannabinoid” was first suggested after the discovery of receptors for THC. TCH is an exogenous cannabinoid.
ECS is a complex brain signalling system that plays a role in several functions. It keeps our internal environment (temperature, mood, and immune system) in check.
Furthermore, research is showing that ECS is also associated with psychotic disorders. ECS components are an ideal target for therapeutic compounds.
As we learn more about the ECS system, the more we understand the fascination humans have with cannabis throughout history.
The discovery of this internal physiological system has intensified the debate around cannabis legalisation. A staggering number of scientific papers (>400) are available, and all this literature can help broaden our understanding of the ECS system.
Understanding the Endocannabinoid System: A Brief Overview
Endocannabinoid System, ECS, cannabinoid receptors, CB1 receptors, CB2 receptors
The Endocannabinoid System is a complex network within our bodies. It is vital in maintaining balance, harmony, and homeostasis/equilibrium in response to external disturbances, including physical and emotional stress.
The ECS regulates many physiological and cognitive processes. I found many sources, two of which I’ve linked, showing that ECS modulates many functions:
- Memory and learning
- Appetite
- Stress response
- Pain sensation
- Mood
- Sleep
The ECS also plays a role in some pathological disorders. These pathologies include cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.
What are the components of the ECS system?
The ECS consists of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, found throughout the body. CB1 receptors prevail in the brain and central nervous system. CB2 receptors are primarily found in immune cells and peripheral tissues (1).
These receptors interact with endogenous (produced by our bodies) endocannabinoids or exogenous cannabinoids. Exogenous cannabinoids found in cannabis/dagga/marijuana are cannabidiol (CBD) and THC.
The ECS is an intricate system of molecules such as receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids. These components are essential to regulating several functions. The ECS consists of:
1) Endocannabinoids or ligands, which are lipid signalling molecules. The key endocannabinoids discovered are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonolylglycerol (2-AG). Both of these neurotransmitters originate from arachidonic acid (Omega-6).
2) Cannabinoid Receptors CB1 and CB2 are proteins embedded in the cell membrane, also known as G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Cannabinoids (internal or external) attach themselves to these receptors in a key-lock fashion. This interaction determines the signalling direction, thus activating or inhibiting various biochemical pathways.
3) This system also has enzymes that break down endocannabinoids. Fatty acid amide hydrolase breaks down AEA. Monoglycerol acid lipase (MGL) breaks down 2-AG.
What happens when there is a disturbance?
Any disturbance in our bodies’ homeostasis will cause the synthesis of endocannabinoids. They will bind to either receptor depending on where they need to go.
For example, AEA might target CB1 receptors in a spinal nerve to relieve pain. Others might bind to CB2 receptors in immune cells to signal Inflammation. The enzymes mentioned above are essential to breaking down the signalling molecules. The signalling alerts of these interactions (endocannabinoids plus receptors) would be useless otherwise.
The deficit of these enzymes explains why some people have more pain tolerance than others or eat much more than others and, as a result, gain weight.
Tapping into the potential of the endocannabinoid system can be a game-changer. It can lead to a harmonious state of mind and body. We can explore ways to support our well-being by understanding how this system works.
The Future of Research: Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids usage
Cannabis as medicine, CBD benefits for emotions, THC for stress management, medical marijuana for mood disorders
Modulation of the ECS for medicinal purposes is gaining significant consideration. The development of novel cannabinoid-based therapeutic drugs is underway.
These drugs can modulate the ECS by inhibiting metabolic pathways. They can also have agonistic or antagonistic properties. Meaning they can increase or decrease the activation of the cannabinoid receptors.
The scientific evidence is there for the potential for such modulations of the ECS. This modulation is beneficial in the treatment of some diseases. These pathologies include cancers and neurological disorders such as epilepsy. Other neurological conditions are multiple sclerosis, mood, depression and anxiety issues.
For a long time, cannabis has been known for its medicinal properties. Studies on its impact on emotional and physical well-being are many.
There appear to be many hemp-derived cannabidiols (CBD) available for sale and consumption. One can ingest hemp-derived cannabidiols or apply these products to the skin.
When cannabidiols bind to the endocannabinoid receptors, physiological processes change. These changes can range from pain perception to Inflammation, immune function, mood regulation, and more.
What sets CBD and THC apart?
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis that helps restore balance and promote well-being because it acts as a modulator rather than a direct stimulator.
It has gained attention for its potential benefits in managing emotions. CBD, known for its calming effects, is also studied for its potential to reduce anxiety, mood and other psychiatric disorders.
THC is the psychoactive component of cannabis. At the same time, it plays a role in stress management. Some studies suggest that THC may help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.
CBD is more desired because it helps regulate emotions and promote a sense of calm without the psychoactive effects associated with THC.
THC binds only to CB1 receptors in the brain. This interaction can lead to a sense of euphoria. In addition, it may also cause heightened anxiety or paranoia in some individuals. These are undesirable feelings.
Cannabis derivatives are popular globally. The scientific literature review shows their undeniable curing and restoring properties. Yet, recreational use and consequent legal restrictions can limit medical advances.
An emerging interest in the profound therapeutic potential of cannabinoids exists among clinicians.
Understanding how this intricate system works is empirical. It allows us to explore its potential therapeutic benefits. And therefore, how it influences our well-being. In fact, the ECS is central to international interest in drug research and development.
Harnessing the Power of the Endocannabinoid System for a Balanced Mind and Body
There are many paths to nurturing our endocannabinoid system, thus promoting a sense of equilibrium through lifestyle adjustments, incorporating CBD products, or exploring other holistic approaches.
Endocannabinoids provide a natural approach to managing stress and emotional balance by targeting specific receptors.
The following are natural ways to enhance our internal ECS:
- Reduce tension and stress
- Adequate food choices
- Exercise
- Probiotic supplements
- Limit alcohol intake
- Massages
- Take CBD supplements
What is the take-home message?
ECS is a regulatory system designed to help our body maintain physiological and cognitive equilibrium. Understanding the ECS is a powerful tool that everyone can use to our benefit.
We can choose to take advantage of nature’s gift to us. We can use exogenous cannabinoids in a safe, regulated manner. Or, we can increase the amount of endogenous cannabinoids our bodies can produce. It is up to each one of us.
Anandamide is one of our endogenously produced cannabinoids. Its name comes from the ancient Sanskrit word ananda, which means “bliss”, and this is not by chance!
To sum up, research continues to uncover the diverse ways cannabinoids can influence our emotional health. The use of cannabis as medicine is promising. It is welcome for those seeking alternative approaches to managing stress and emotions.
Ultimately, each individual’s journey towards a balanced mind and body is unique. It’s about finding what works best for you and embracing the power of this fascinating system.
Here’s to your wellness and vitality!