The ECS or its scientific name, the endocannabinoid system is purely the name given to the biological system that is present in both humans and animals. It is comprised of the endocannabinoids, which are “endogenous lipid-based receptors” or neurotransmitters, that bind the cannabinoids to the neurotransmitters, as a simple explanation for the two main subjects in it.
The overall system is slightly less simple, however, we have simplified it for you in this article. For a more in-depth analysis of its behaviors and relationships involved, this recommended source will help you.
The Characters Involved in the ECS
As mentioned above this is a system that is composed of several variants. The three main ones include the ELR neurotransmitters (endogenous lipid-based retrograde) that attach themselves to the CBR's (cannabinoid receptors) and the protein receptors. The later is responsible for the vertebrate or central nervous system, which includes the brain and the peripheral nervous system.
This magnificently regulated system has been the highlight of recent studies. Especially with its combination of certain other natural catalysts such as CBD or cannabidiol, because this is a substance that has not been studied as thoroughly as several others such as marijuana for instance.
Even though this is a derivation of the marijuana or hemp plant, the fact that it has now come to light that in combination with the ECS, (CBD) cannabinoids can add substantial benefits to both human and animal health, has been a relatively less researched item on the list.
CB1 and CB2 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabinoid_receptor_type_1, are also two primary receptors involved in this ‘play’. Several CB1 receptors are found in a few places - the nervous system, the brain, tissues and organs. These are the main molecular target of the partial agonists, i.e. the drugs that bind to a receptor, and in this case, it’s the THC (the psychoactive component of CBD) and the anandamide (AEA).
As per the above information, CBD plays a vital role in working with the ECS and giving it meaning in the pharmacological sense. It acts as a Phytocannabinoid that negates any effects of THC in the system. So, if anyone must take CBD in either a holistic manner or as part of any treatment, it will counteract any psychoactive tendencies of THC.
What is ECS Responsible for In Our Bodies?
Having looked at the bigger picture, the ECS is then responsible for regulating a few different things. These are:
1. Cognitive Processes
2. The Immune System
3. Psychological Processes
4. Appetite
5. Memory
6. Fertility and Pregnancy
7. Pre-and post-natal development
8. Sensation of pain
9. Mood
When adding cannabis to the mix, it has shown various positive pharmacological effects.
The Bigger Picture and Clinical Trials
All these variants put together, i.e. the receptors, the enzymes, neurons, neural pathways, cells, and molecules, for instance, make up the entire system which is present in both our selves as well as in animals.
When we speak of its uses and the various areas in our minds and bodies that it plays a vital role such as memory, appetite, immune system and so on, it is important to note that this is one of the main reasons why it is being studied as part of a treatment option in various medical institutions and centers worldwide.
The research that has been done thus far combining both these elements (CBD and the ECS), has seen many shifts in various health conditions, some of these have been included below.
1. To treat seizures
2. Chronic Pain relief
3. Anxiety
4. Depression
5. Cancer research
6. Tumors
7. Inflammation
8. Skin Diseases
These are just a few of the multiple things that have been put under the microscope and although the majority of it has had positive results and many manufacturers and suppliers such as Cheefbotanicals, have begun selling them to the public too. There has not been a definite green light from the government of many countries in making it legal or for an all-use medical alternative.
Although, we believe that, with the way things are going, we won’t be surprised if soon, we can purchase it directly from our pharmacist just like we would our antibiotics and painkillers.