Is the effect of CBD a “miracle”? No.

But there is actually something magical about how this natural substance works.

The unique relationship between CBD and our bodies

CBD has been in the spotlight these last years for the wide range of positive effects people experience from it. It’s used for everything from sleep and anxiety to pain. But how is it that a single compound can have such an extensive impact?

It’s owed to a neuromodulatory system we all carry, namely, the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). It’s best known for its vital role in aligning and harmonizing the various complex nervous systems altogether, ultimately, achieving homeostasis.

In other words, the Endocannabinoid System is what keeps our minds and bodies in balance. It sets in when something is “out of whack”; if you are experiencing an abnormal sensation of pain, your body activates the Endocannabinoid System to set things right again.

What is the connection between the ECS and Cannabis plants such as hemp?

Our own bodies produce endocannabinoids (“endo” is Greek for “inside”). The most researched endocannabinoids are 2-AG and anandamide.

The Cannabis Sativa L plant, on the other hand, contains phytocannabinoids (“phyto” is Greek for “plant”). The most studied of these are CBD, THC and CBG.

Endo- and phytocannabinoids share a very similar molecular structure and thus interact significantly: CBD (Cannabidiol), for example, is able to stimulate the production of endocannabinoids.

The simple explanation for the common name is that our Endocannabinoid Systems were discovered through research on the phytocannabinoids in Cannabis, a groundbreaking discovery made in the late 1980s.

Why haven’t we heard anything about it since its discovery in the 1980s?

The Endocannabinoid System is undoubtedly fascinating. 

So, why is it that such a fundamental physiological system doesn’t share the same pages with other well-known bodily functions in our biology books? Even in medical schools or universities, it’s rarely taught. 

In terms of reputation, Cannabis’ potential psychoactive effects have long trumped the plant’s therapeutic potential, limiting its clinical use. Some also argue that the plant was intentionally kept away from the public for political reasons.

Regardless, it is certainly unfortunate that we have limited our search for further groundbreaking knowledge about this revolutionary discovery because of a single psychoactive trait in a plant (which actually occurs only in a few strain varieties).

In most cases, hemp is not considered psychoactive at all. On the contrary, the plant probably contains at least one hundred more cannabinoids with therapeutic potential.

Fortunately, more and more countries are opening up to applications from hemp and cannabis, so we are optimistic that we will gradually give our endocannabinoid systems the attention they need.

After all, the ECS simply contributes to a better quality of life.

–

Stay informed about LAYV®’s mission: sign up directly for our newsletter and become a member of our community.