Scientists, doctors, and ordinary people are in favor of legalizing cannabis. Not all countries are able to take such a decisive step. For the most part, only medical cannabis is allowed. Coffee shops are only available in the Netherlands and cannabis seed shops in many countries. While many countries prohibit smoking weed. Serious organizations even require that candidates take drug tests before being hired. But why is there so much controversy about marijuana? How does it affect the body? It's all about the endocannabinoid system.
Disclaimer: we are not advocating smoking marijuana. This article was published to familiarize you with how cannabis affects the human body. It is intended for people who are 18 years of age or older.
What is the endocannabinoid system
The endocannabinoid system (abbreviated as EC) is a complex chain of several links. It consists of receptors and molecules that are responsible for the balance of physiological processes. This system is responsible for several important body functions:
- dreaming
- emotional state
- feeling of hunger
- immunity;
- pain sensation.
This system includes endocannabinoids. These are molecules produced in the body. They act on the corresponding receptors. The most famous cannabinoids that can affect this system include CBD (cannabidiol).
How CBD affects the human EN system
The EN system is responsible for transmitting signals from synapses. In addition, it is involved in suppressing inflammation, increasing the body's defenses, thereby maintaining optimal physical condition.
Hemp contains cannabidiol (CBD). This substance is not able to affect the psyche in comparison to THC. It is the latter that ensures that smoking weed can be enjoyable. CBD binds directly to the internal cannabinoid system. In this case, CBD interacts with several receptors:
- CB1. There is not a direct interaction with this receptor, but an indirect connection. At the same time, it affects its structure and changes its activity. As a result, the concentration of anandamide increases. This substance directly affects a person's ability to feel pain and regulate emotional state.
- CB2. Interaction with this receptor leads to changes in the body's immune system. As a result, inflammation is suppressed. Therefore, medical marijuana use can be prescribed for certain diseases.
CBD also binds to other body systems. Especially the serotonin receptors are not left out. Marijuana vapors can suppress anxiety, eliminate insomnia, and relieve seizures and pain.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is worth noting that the endocannabinoid system and marijuana are connected. Marijuana use causes THC and CBD to travel in the bloodstream to the brain itself. It is there that they come into contact with the endocannabinoid system. This is a network of receptors responsible for regulating various physiological processes, from sleep to hunger.
The dose of marijuana affects the intensity of the effect and how long it lasts. The method of use also matters. The body of a particular person perceives cannabis in a certain way.
The CBD in the herb binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors and other molecules. Potentially, the use of marijuana can achieve several positive effects:
- pain relief;
- suppression of anxiety and stress;
- elimination of inflammation.
Cannabis improves health and can overcome various negative symptoms. At the same time, marijuana must be prescribed by a certified doctor. There must be direct evidence of this.
