What is the endocannabinoid system?
CB1 and CB2 receptors – the “locks” of the ECS
Cell receptors in the body can be thought of as a series of "locks" that respond to corresponding "keys"—chemical molecules called agonists. Whenever a matching agonist binds to a cell receptor, it transmits a message and gives the cell an instruction. Research has revealed:
- CB1 receptors are primarily located on nerve cells.
- CB2 receptors are found on cells of the immune system.
The agonists, or "keys," for these receptors are the cannabinoids. These are produced by the body itself, but can also be supplied to the body in the form of cannabinoids, for example, from the cannabis plant.
"Studies have led to the theory that the endocannabinoid system is the natural way to regulate homeostasis – the internal balance of the human body."
Functions of the endocannabinoid system
The endocannabinoid system essentially regulates all the basic functions and patterns that our body has to perform, including:
- appetite
- Memory
- Inflammation
- Immune functions
- Neuroprotection and development
- Pains
- reproduction
- Sleep
- Mood
- metabolism
- digestion
Studies have shown that patients with conditions such as Parkinson's disease, arthritis, or chronic pain have higher endocannabinoid levels. This has led to the theory that the endocannabinoid system is the natural way to regulate "homeostasis"—the stable, internal balance of the human body.
Cannabinoids as medicine
The endocannabinoid system has rapidly become a field of interest to scientists, doctors, and researchers alike. It is a complex system that plays many important roles in the human body.
The use of medical cannabis is the most effective known method for stimulating the endocannabinoid system. The exogenous cannabinoids THC and CBD interact with the endocannabinoid system, producing widespread therapeutic effects. This is why they have become a frequently prescribed medicine worldwide. MEDCAN is committed to improving access to medical cannabis in Switzerland as well.
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are natural chemical messengers of the body. They occur in large numbers and can be classified as either endogenous or exogenous.
Endogen
"Endo" means "originating in the body." Endogenous cannabinoids are produced in the body. They interact with cannabinoid receptors and regulate basic functions such as mood, appetite, pain, sleep, etc.
Exogen
Cannabinoids are those that enter the body through the food chain, mucous membranes, lungs, etc. They are commonly found in cannabis, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). When ingested, they send signals to the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and produce physical and psychological effects in the body.
Endocannabinoids – the body's own cannabinoids
Endocannabinoids are cannabinoids produced in the human body. They are formed within fatty acids such as omega-3. The two best-known endocannabinoids today are:
Anandamide is the first endocannabinoid discovered by scientists. Its name comes from the Sanskrit word "Ananda," meaning "bliss." It plays a key role in regulating appetite and pain. Its effects on the body are comparable to those of cannabis. Feelings such as joy and euphoria, as well as the reward system, are also influenced by anandamide. Studies have shown that physical activity promotes the release of anandamide.
2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is an endocannabinoid that activates the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. It has been detected in the brain, liver, lungs, spleen, and kidneys of rats.
These endocannabinoids are called "short-term" neurotransmitters (messenger substances) because they are only produced when the body signals an urgent need for them. Many other endocannabinoids exist, such as noladinether, virodhamine, and N-arachidonoyldopamine (NADA). However, their role in the body is not yet fully understood.
Endocannabinoids – the “pilots” in the body
It is now widely believed that endocannabinoids regulate essential bodily functions and patterns. Ethan Russo, a cannabis researcher and member of various international organizations, suggests that low cannabinoid levels could be the cause of numerous diseases. This deficiency may contribute to serious conditions such as chronic pain or fibromyalgia, which are linked to the endocannabinoid system.
Exogenous cannabinoids – the administered cannabinoids
The counterparts to endocannabinoids are exogenous cannabinoids such as THC or CBD. These enter the body through cannabis use and remain there for extended periods. They activate the endocannabinoid system (ECS) more strongly than endogenous/naturally occurring cannabinoids.
Research has shown that the cannabinoid THC binds to both receptors (CB1 and CB2) and activates them in the same way as an endocannabinoid. The effects of THC are generally considered psychological, but this compound does far more than just produce a high. It has been shown that THC helps with chronic pain, nausea, loss of appetite, asthma, and glaucoma (specifically, brain tumors). Furthermore, THC has been shown to be effective in cancer treatment.
CBD does not actually bind to any receptors, but instead acts as an inhibitor of the FAAH enzyme. This slows down or prevents the breakdown of anandamide – possibly one of the most crucial endocannabinoids in the body. The result is an accumulation of anandamide in the brain.
While we are aware that THC has an obvious psychological effect on the mind, CBD is considered effective on a physiological level – that is, it has an effect on the organism. It works in the following ways for serious illnesses:
- Inhibition of tumor growth
- Relief or prevention of inflammation and nausea
- Positive effects in the treatment of diabetes, post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, rheumatoid arthritis, epilepsy, cardiovascular diseases, psychoses and anxiety disorders
- Relief from pain caused by muscle cramps or neuropathic pain (nerve pain)
Cannabinoid receptors – the signal receivers
To date, two cannabinoid receptor types have been identified: the CB1 receptor, primarily located on neurons, and the CB2 receptor, primarily located on immune system cells. Furthermore, there is evidence suggesting the existence of other, as yet unidentified, receptors.
CB1 receptors are found throughout the human body, but predominantly in the brain and spinal cord, that is, in the central nervous system. They are concentrated in regions associated with behavior. For example, they influence the hypothalamus, which helps regulate appetite, and the amygdala, which plays a role in memory and the emotional processing of experiences. They are also found in nerve endings, where they reduce the perception of pain.
CB2 receptors are typically found in high concentrations in immune cells, the gastrointestinal tract, and the peripheral (outer) nervous system. When activated, these receptors trigger an anti-inflammatory immune response, which is believed to influence the body's immune response in certain diseases.