Intro To Cannabinoids

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Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound found in the resinous flower of cannabis, a plant with a rich history, as a medicine, going back thousands of years. CBD is one of 113 identified phytocannabinoids which are unique to the cannabis plant and endue the plant with a robust therapeutic health profile. 

 CBD doesn’t create a “high” effect or any form of intoxication — that’s caused by another well know cannabinoid, Tetrahydrocannabinol, THC. 

Mechanism of Action of CBD…

The human endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell-signaling system identified in the early 1990s by researchers. There are two main endocannabinoid receptors:

• CB1 receptors, which are      mostly found in the central nervous system
• CB2 receptors, which are      mostly found in your peripheral nervous system, especially immune cells

This endocannabinoid system is present in all of us regardless of whether we supplement with CBD.  Endocannabinoids can bind to either receptor. The effects that result depend on where the receptor is located and which endocannabinoid it binds to.

 For example, endocannabinoids might target CB1 receptors in a spinal nerve to relieve pain. Others might bind to a CB2 receptor in your immune cells to signal that your body’s experiencing inflammation, a common sign of autoimmune disorders.

ECS is complicated and still being investigated however early research suggests that our ECS system plays a vital role in complimenting our body’s homeostasis, or ensuring the stability of our internal systems. In fact, experts now agree that the primary role of ECS is to maintain homeostasis or equilibrium in our bodies. 

Research has linked ECS to the following internal processes:

• appetite and digestion
• metabolism
• chronic pain
• inflammation and other immune system responses
• mood