Are you wondering what the endocannabinoid system and CBD actually means?
We don't blame you. Although, they are super long and complicated words the proper knowledge of how they work together means so much.
That's why we're here. Read on to find out about how the Endocannabinoid System and CBD work together to help fight anxiety.
More about the Endocannabinoid System
Let's start with the endocannabinoid system.
This system controls the chemical compounds and nerves in our body. It's a physiologic system responsible for our health — especially our emotions, mood, stress, fear, and anxiety.
It chemically produces endocannabinoids, which are dispersed throughout our bodies. When they meet up with C1 and C2 receptors, this is when we can start to see various responses in our emotional and physiological reactions (like anxiety).
As a central factor in our nervous system, immune system, and other organs, this system is responsible for maintaining homeostasis and a healthy balance of endocannabinoid compounds.
More about CBD
Now, this is where CBD fits in. CBD, or cannabidiol, is natural substance found in the Cannabis plant. It is also a relevant component in marijuana. However, it doesn't cause the “high” many people know marijuana to be used for. That's from the THC.
Instead, CBD is non-psychoactive and can produce a wide range of medical benefits that can:
- reduce pain
- fight inflammatory disorders
- act as a digestive aid
- help with nausea
- combat tumors and cancer
- calm depression and anxiety disorders
Although CBD is just beginning to be talked about by scientists and researchers, studies have show CBD causing strong signs of anxiolytic effects in people walking the earth today.
How the Endocannabinoid System and CBD work together
A study performed in 2011 tested 24 patients with SAD (Social Anxiety Disorder) who had never been treated with prior medication to see how this all worked.
Some participants were given the placebo while others were given cannabidiol. These patients were then asked to participate in a public speaking assignment where their emotional reactions were recorded.
The findings showed the participants given the CBD experienced reduced anxiety, cognitive impairment, and discomfort. While, the participants in the placebo group experienced high levels of anxiety, impairment, and discomfort.
What does this tell us?
CBD is unlike THC in that it doesn't fit into any of our receptors perfectly. Rather, it only affects the receptor moderately. It stimulates the C1 and C2 receptors as well as 5HT1-A, which has a strong presence in the brain.
With CBD and receptors like these working together, this simulation process contributes to the ability for CBD to fight anxiety levels.
Nonetheless, we still have lots to learn and should be cautious with how much cannabidiol we are putting into our bodies. A low dosage of it reduces anxiety and stress while a high dosage can take the adverse effect and increase feelings of stress and panic.
It's extremely important that the balance of CBD in the Endocannabinoid system is balanced in order to produce a healthy stress reduction.
While more and more people begin to learn about how our endocannabinoid system and CBD work together, interest and research will only get stronger.
This natural substance could be the answer for the 40 million adults living with anxiety disorders in the U.S.
What do you think about all of this? Do you have any questions about the endocannabinoid system and CBD? Feel free to leave us your comments or share your experiences!
ECS Awareness is a collection of thoughtful education about the Endogenous Cannabinoid System (a.k.a. Endocannabinoid System or ECS) designed to help people become better advocates for themselves and their loved ones in regard to their overall health, wellness and quality of life.