Throughout history, various cultures have greatly appreciated and utilised cannabis for its medicinal properties, ability to induce euphoria, and its capability to promote relaxation. It contains over 100 unique phytocannabinoids and has been discovered to have the ability to regulate pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory pathways as well as offer neuroprotective effects, amongst others.
What is Cannabidiol (CBD)?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the second most common active substance found in medical cannabis (also known as medical marijuana). Alternatively, CBD can also be derived directly from the hemp plant (a close relative of marijuana) or be synthesised in a laboratory setting. Despite being one of many compounds present in marijuana, CBD does not produce the “high” experience as it does not contain delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for euphoric feeling.
An Overview of the Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system consists of three key components, namely the endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes. In essence, the endocannabinoid system has been associated with processes such as appetite regulation, chronic pain, metabolism, immune system responses, and digestion, all of which contribute to maintaining homeostasis (meaning stability in the body’s internal environment).
To dive into greater detail, endocannabinoids, also referred to as endogenous cannabinoids, are molecules made by the body that are similar to cannabinoids. In particular, two main endocannabinoids known as anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglyerol (2-AG) have been identified to play a role in aiding the maintenance of internal functions. On the other hand, endocannabinoid receptors are distributed throughout the body and interact with endocannabinoids to activate the endocannabinoid system. More specifically, the two main endocannabinoid receptors are CB1, which is found mainly in the central nervous system, and CB2, which is mainly located in the peripheral nervous system, particularly immune cells.
In the meantime, enzymes break down endocannabinoids after they have performed their function. To elaborate, the two primary enzymes for this are, namely, fatty acid amide hydrolase (for the breaking down of AEA) and monoacylglycerol acid lipase (for 2-AG).
How Does CBD Engage with the Endocannabinoid System?
While the exact mechanism of how CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system remains unclear, it is understood that CBD essentially operates differently from THC.
Unlike THC, Cannabidiol does not bind directly to CB1 or CB2 receptors. Furthermore, some researchers propose that CBD may work by inhibiting the breakdown of endocannabinoids, thereby allowing them to have a stronger impact on the body. Meanwhile, other experts postulated that CBD might be interacting with another a yet-to-be-discovered receptor. Nevertheless, despite the ongoing debate over the specifics, current scientific research suggests that CBD may be effective in alleviating symptoms associated with a variety of conditions, such as epilepsy, anxiety, sleep, and chronic pain.
The Bottom Line
The endocannabinoid system is known to play a crucial role in maintaining stability within the body’s internal processes. Despite its importance, much remains unknown about this system and the exact mechanisms by which it operates. However, as scientific research and exploration continue to advance and increase our understanding of CBD’s association with the endocannabinoid system, it is believed that the information gathered will eventually unlock new and effective treatments for a wide range of medical conditions.
