What the Heck is an Endocannabinoid System????                      

Good question and one that is being asked more and more especially on Dr. Google!! 

So this Endocannabinoid System thing is a fairly new concept in the world of science, health and wellness.  

When I was in PA school in 2001 to 2003 there was no mention of an Endocannabinoid system. I went to a conference in California in 2007 and one of the speakers suggested that there was this thing called an Endocannabinoid system and that it was very promising for helping people control chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD and other things. It was discovered in the late 1980’s early 1990’s. 

Since then, there's been a lot of research and we know now that we all have an Endocannabinoid system whether you use cannabis or not. The thing is, what unlocks or causes that system to work is to use cannabinoids which would be CBD or THC. 

(Interested in being coached?  Book an appointment for personalized health coaching incorporating cannabis, CBD and/or essential oils).  



There are 3 parts to your ECS: 

1). Endocannabinoids (small molecules produced inside the body that activate cannabinoid receptors called anandamide and 2-AG) 

2). Enzymes (FAAH & MAGL) that help break endocannabinoids down  

3). Receptors (CB1 and CB2) that are found on the surface of cells in animals and humans.  They manage memory, digestion, immune response, inflammation, appetite, pain, motor function, blood pressure, bone development and growth, neuroprotection and more in an effort to maintain homeostasis or balance.  

CB1 receptors are abundant in the brain and central nervous system.

CB2 receptors are abundant everywhere else.  They are just waiting for something to come along and unlock them and that would be CBD or THC.

Your endocannabinoid system is very different from mine.  We make our own Endocannabinoid's and that is based on different factors like stress, health, emotions and more.  

How does this work?

To give you a simple explanation, your endocannabinoid receptor is sitting there waiting for something to bind to it to unlock it so it can become activated.  That something is CBD/THC which are called phytocannabinoids.  

When you are faced with illness, or inflammation, chemical exposures like medications, or trauma your endocannabinoid system recognizes these issues and makes more anandamide and 2-AG (endocannabinoids) in an effort to maintain balance. 

Using CBD with a small amount of THC will activate that system and help balance become a reality!!  

Learning about this concept has been a fascinating experience for me especially coming from the 70’s where it was sex, drugs and rock and roll!! 

This plant has changed and the stigma of the plant is changing!  Let’s use it for what it was intended- as medicine to bring balance to our health!! 

If you think this is for you or you want to know more - reach out on FB messenger  or DM on IG and let's chat.   


 
 
 

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