We are familiar with terms like circulation or immune system, but not so much The endocannabinoid systemFundamental but largely unknown, perhaps because it was discovered in the 1990s in the context of research examining the effects of cannabis on the mind and body.
time investigationExperts have found that humans and most mammals have it Cannabinoid receptors in the body, which led to the discovery of the first endocannabinoid produced naturally by the body. It is important to emphasize that this system exists in every person and is active even if cannabis has never been used.
The endocannabinoid system, the body’s thermostat
Some of the components of the endocannabinoid system are found in all vertebrates (mammals, birds and fish) and its main function is to create a mechanism that has not yet been established. Neuromodulation in the central nervous system.
It is generally described as a biological network similar to the central nervous system and is vital to the proper functioning of the body, which does not focus solely on the brain.
It is a kind of thermostat that regulates various physiological functions of our body. Balancing and stabilization Activity and production of various organs and systems of the body.
The endocannabinoid system is responsible for controlling a wide range of biological functions, such as Sleep, mood, temperature control, immune response, memory or appetite.
It consists of enzymes, endogenous cannabinoids and receivers Cannabinoids, proteins that are activated by cannabinoids and which are primarily present in:
- CB1 receptors: Distributed in the central nervous system (nerves of the brain and spinal cord). They are like a kind of traffic police, controlling the level and activity of most neurotransmitters. They regulate and regulate the activity of any system that needs adjustment, such as hunger or temperature.
- CB2 receptors: Found in the peripheral nervous system, in the nerves of the rest of the body. They help control our immune function and are known for their work in modulating intestinal inflammation, contraction and pain during inflammatory bowel conditions.
The receptors and endocannabinoids work very synchronously, as if they were a key and a lock. These receptors react with two main endocannabinoids, such as anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG), the main representatives that the body creates only when needed, endogenous compounds that can stimulate cannabinoid receptors and correct physiological imbalances.
What does the endocannabinoid system do?
The goal is to allow the brain to communicate with these areas, as well as the digestive and immune systems. In addition, another main goal is to maintain homeostasis, That is, the biological harmony and balance in the body, in which all organs function optimally, in response to changes in the external and internal environment of the body.
The endocannabinoid system is involved in it pain, inflammation, metabolic and cardiovascular dysfunctions, general immune reactions (asthmaallergy and arthritis) and tumor expansion. In addition, it plays an important role in the functioning of the central nervous, gastrointestinal, reproductive, skeletal or metabolic systems.
Research into this system tells us that a better life means an alert endocannabinoid system, as it acts as A mediator in the regulation of memory and learningAppetite, stress response, pain sensation, mood, sleep or inflammation.
Thus, the endocannabinoid system will act as a kind of system software that will allow it to perform its functions effectively.
What happens when the endocannabinoid system malfunctions?
As mentioned earlier, the body produces its own cannabinoids, endocannabinoids, to maintain balance. However, it can also be stimulated by exogenous cannabinoids such as cannabidiol or D9-tetrahydronabiol (THC). The interaction between THC and CB1 is what causes the psychoactive effects of this compound.
But as research on the endocannabinoid system progresses, people are starting to talk about it Clinical endocannabinoid deficiencyA theory that cautions against the potentially pathological nature of low endocannabinoid tone.
This is related Chronic diseases such as migraines, fibromyalgia or irritable bowel syndrome. These disorders have in common points of sensitivity to pain or a higher incidence of anxiety and depression.
Despite this, More clinical evidence is needed Regarding possible endocannabinoid deficiencies, however, it is becoming increasingly clear that endocannabinoid maintenance plays an important role in achieving a healthy lifestyle.
Source: El Diario
