How CBD Works In Your Body: The Endocannabinoid System

You’ve heard of your respiratory system (breathing), your cardiovascular system (your heart and blood vessels, and of course your digestive system. But there are other systems within your body that you probably didn’t learn about in high school biology. One of these lesser-known, more-recently-discovered systems is the endocannabinoid system. Not sure what that is, or how it works? Read on!

What is the endocannabinoid system?

The endocannabinoid system is an innate cell-signaling system in your body that is designed to help keep internal processes regulated. In other words, it’s one of the ways that your body stays balanced. It is made up of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes, and it is present in just about every part of your body, from your brain to your organs and muscles.

When and how was the endocannabinoid system discovered?

The endocannabinoid system was first discovered by scientists in the late 1980s and early 90s, when scientists found cannabinoid receptors in humans and also discovered the human body’s naturally-produced endocannabinoids. They discovered that this system is great at regulating homeostasis in the human body. They also noticed that compounds in the cannabis plant could have an impact on this system.

What does this system help to regulate?

While there’s still more research being done on the endocannabinoid system, scientists and researchers have found several areas where the endocannabinoid system helps to regulate processes and functions. These include:

• Memory, learning, and brain function
• Fertility and reproduction
• Appetite and digestion
• Metabolism
• Mood and stress management
• Sleep
• Organ functioning
• Skin and nerve function

As you can see, the endocannabinoid system has the potential to profoundly impact your life as it helps to regulate and balance all these areas of your mind and body.

How does CBD work with the endocannabinoid system?

CBD works by binding to the endocannabinoid receptors in your body. That allows it to have a wide range of effects on your body. For example, let’s say you have a very poor appetite due to a recent illness or medical treatment. You aren’t getting the nutrients and energy you need because you just don’t feel like eating. Your body is out of balance because the process that normally tells you you’re hungry isn’t working at its best. In cases like these, CBD can bind with the receptors that help to stimulate your appetite. This is just one of many examples!

Does the endocannabinoid system still work if I don’t use CBD or cannabis?

You don’t really need to take CBD in order for your endocannabinoid system to work. Like we mentioned earlier, there are endocannabinoids already being produced by your body. That being said, CBD can greatly help with the function of your endocannabinoid system, especially if your body isn’t functioning perfectly. Sometimes, our bodies need a little bit of outside help in order to function optimally!

How can I use CBD to help regulate my body’s processes?

There are many ways to use CBD, including tinctures, topical creams, oils, and capsules. Any method of using CBD may work – you just have to pick what’s best for you! We have many CBD products to choose from here at Bethesda Hemp and Wellness. Visit our shop today!