YOUR body produces cannabinoids
With the exception of insects, pretty much every animal (yes, that includes us) has an endocannabinoid system. This system was discovered in the early 1990s by Dr. Mechoulam, who is often dubbed the Father of Cannabis Research.
The simple version of the ECS is that it consists of two receptors (called CB1 and CB2), which are located in several areas of the body. They are believed to regulate many biological processes, with an end goal of homeostasis or equilibrium of the body.
Why do we have this system?
Our bodies produce compounds called cannabinoids, which interact with this system. One you’re most likely to be familiar with is anandamide. I first learned about this compound while at an amusement park, where a vendor was offering temporary tattoos. One of the options was a cool design of anandamide’s chemical structure, which is commonly associated with happiness, bliss, and joy (and it’s literally named after a Sanskrit word meaning joy).
If you dig into some info on this compound, you’ll find it regulates a bunch of VERY important things in our bodies that keep us happy and healthy.
Most cannabinoids don’t cause a high
Sure our bodies produce some cannabinoids on their own, but we can supplement more in a completely natural way: cannabis.
Many plants naturally produce cannabinoids. When consumed, they interact with those CB1 and CB2 receptors. They don’t all work the same, though. Take the most well-studied cannabinoids CBD and THC, for example. THC has a direct affinity for these receptors, which can cause the effect of a high. CBD does not act the same way and does not cause a high. Both have similarities and differences in how they affect us.
The point is, cannabinoids play a vital role in our well-being. And not all of them have psychoactive effects.
You’ve probably already had cannabinoids
Cannabinoids can be found in many other places, such as in breast milk and chocolate!
It has been studied all around the world
There’s no avoiding the publically available research out there. A quick PubMed search will reveal thousands of unique studies, which come from several different countries. Although we won’t get into specifics on studies, and surely large clinical research is needed to make a final say, you can easily find thousands of them if you search online.
Don’t be afraid of cannabinoids, they might already be helping you more than you know!
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always check with your physician before starting a new dietary supplement program.
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