The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a complex network of cell receptors and the molecules used to transmit messages. These are the most common types of receptors in the human body and they help to regulate normal body functions such as sleep, appetite, mood, motor control, immune function, pleasure, pain, reproduction/fertility, memory, and body temperature. When the ECS is in balance, the body enters a state of homeostasis which is defined as the tendency of organisms to auto-regulate and maintain their internal environment. Most diseases are a result of or cause ECS dysfunction.
Biosynthesis
Endocannabinoids, named after cannabinoids from cannabis, are naturally produced neurotransmitters known as endogenous ligands. These neurotransmitters are the agonist molecules that act as chemical "messengers" in the endocannabinoid system. These messenger molecules bind to and signal the receptors in the ECS to regulate different organ functions.
The human body naturally produces endocannabinoids by synthesizing them from the essential fatty acids (EFAs) in the foods we consume. An unhealthy diet that lacks essential fatty acids (EFAs) can cause an endocannabinoid deficiency resulting in many ailments. Other classic medicinal herbs, like echinacea, also contain non-psychoactive cannabinoids that act on the receptors in the ECS.
The human body naturally produces endocannabinoids by synthesizing them from the essential fatty acids (EFAs) in the foods we consume. An unhealthy diet that lacks essential fatty acids (EFAs) can cause an endocannabinoid deficiency resulting in many ailments. Other classic medicinal herbs, like echinacea, also contain non-psychoactive cannabinoids that act on the receptors in the ECS.
Cannabinoids from Cannabis
Compounds called Cannabinoids, found in the cannabis plant, also have the ability to bind to endocannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system. Cannabinoids from cannabis simply imitate or increase the production of our endocannabinoids. Replacing and boosting endocannabinoids, with plant cannabinoids found in cannabis, creates homeostasis within the body. Homeostasis is defined as the state of steady internal conditions maintained by living things. Most people who are ill have a dysfunctional endocannabinoid system, or may not produce proper amounts of endocannabinoids from the lack of essential fatty acids in their diet.