Written by Inesa Ponomariovaite, Health Coach & Hemp Expert
Inesa is the visionary founder and CEO of Nesa’s Hemp, the world’s first-ever full-spectrum CBDa oil. It is created through a unique process Inesa developed that preserves all the healing compounds of the hemp plant. This promotes optimal healing and restores the body to its natural state.
Have you ever heard about the endocannabinoid system? It is often described as the body's master regulator and controls several biological processes from simple cravings like thirst and hunger to complex biological activities like pain relief, mental health, fertility, immunity, and hormonal balance. It is safe to say that our whole existence hangs on the proper functioning of the endocannabinoid system. In case you are hearing about the ECS for the first time, we welcome you to embark on this journey of discovery with us. This article will unravel several mysteries around the ECS and how to optimize it for better function.
What is the endocannabinoid system?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex biological system found in mammals, including humans, as well as in other vertebrates such as birds, reptiles, and fish. It was discovered in 1988 by Allyn Howlett and W.A. Devane. The ECS is often described as the master regulator/switch and plays a significant role in determining how your body acts or responds to several biological processes from the time you were conceived to when you die. The endocannabinoid system is made up of three major components; the cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids and enzymes.
The ECS regulates various physiological and cognitive processes such as mood, memory, appetite, pain sensation, blood sugar, reward centers, metabolic functions, hormonal balance, and immune response. It is highly involved in every activity we engage in as humans.
How does the endocannabinoid system work?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) works through a complex network of receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes. The process involves 6 simple steps which are shown in the image below:
Image source: Nesas Hemp Media
How to empower the endocannabinoid system
Empowering the endocannabinoid system (ECS) involves adopting lifestyle habits and practices that support its functions. Here are some ways to empower the ECS:
Regular Exercise: Research shows that people who engage in regular exercise are more likely to have higher levels of endocannabinoids than people who practice a sedentary life. Note that cannabinoids like anandamide are directly involved in runner’s high and provide the pleasure of running or exercising.
Diet: It has been established that consuming a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, can support endocannabinoid production and receptor function. These foods promote the production of endocannabinoids and allow them to interact smoothly with their receptors.
Phytocannabinoids: Phytocannabinoids are compounds found in the cannabis or hemp plant. They perform similar roles to endocannabinoids. Adding pure phytocannabinoids like CBD, CBDa, and CBG from quality hemp sources into your wellness routine can help supplement the ECS and promote internal balance. Phytocannabinoids when taken, helps to augment the roles of your endocannabinoids. This means when you use phytocannabinoids like CBD and CBDa, they trigger your endocannabinoid system to perform its role correctly. Note that not all cannabis products are the same and the cannabis industry is not regulated. This is why insisting on quality cannabis products like Nesas Hemp is the best way to empower your endocannabinoid system. High quality cannabis products must come from premium-grade organic hemp, grown with zero additives and toxins. It must be tested by a certified third party lab and accompanied with the right certificate of analysis, and a traceable batch number.
Adequate Sleep: Getting sufficient sleep is essential for ECS function. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support endocannabinoid regulation.
Herbal Supplements: Certain herbs and botanicals, such as echinacea and black pepper, contain compounds that can support ECS function by inhibiting endocannabinoid breakdown enzymes.
Reducing Toxins: Minimize exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants, which can interfere with ECS signaling and function.
Mindfulness Practices: Practices that promote mindfulness and present-moment awareness, such as yoga and tai chi, may support ECS function by reducing inflammation and stress.
Limiting Alcohol and drug use: Excessive alcohol and drug consumption and drug use may reduce the effectiveness of receptors in the ECS. Limiting alcohol use will help keep your endocannabinoid system active and help in interacting with receptors.
Benefits of an empowered endocannabinoid system
Reduced clinical endocannabinoid deficiency syndrome
Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency Syndrome (CECD) is a theoretical concept suggesting that certain medical conditions may arise from insufficient activity or dysfunction of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). It was proposed by Dr. Ethan Russo in 2008. Based on his findings, imbalances in endocannabinoid signaling can lead to symptoms associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia, migraines, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis (MS) and epilepsy.
Improved balance
When the ECS is empowered, it performs its functions optimally. This will include promoting overall wellbeing by better regulating neurotransmitter release for mood, sleep, and appetite, while also exerting neuroprotective effects. It will influence gastrointestinal function and inflammation, contributing to gut health and pain modulation. Additionally, since the ECS tend to regulate immune responses, it will have a better control on inflammation and promote immune balance. It will help mitigate stress, and regulate cortisol release. Furthermore, the ECS facilitates cellular communication, ensuring coordinated responses to internal and external stimuli.
Conclusion
The ECS is a complex system that regulates numerous physiological processes, extending beyond those mentioned in this article. As understanding of the ECS deepens, its unique role in guiding daily activities and sustaining life will become increasingly evident. With each new finding, we uncover more about its unique mechanisms and potential therapeutic implications. As research progresses, we anticipate a more comprehensive understanding of the ECS's significance, empowering individuals to optimize their health and well-being through targeted interventions that harness its regulatory potential.
Read more from Inesa Ponomariovaite
Inesa is a Health Coach and Hemp Expert who assists people with proven methods to stay healthy by utilizing the healing power of plants. She is an advocate for healthy living, demonstrated by her success in helping her mother beat cancer, a result she is replicating with people around the world. Inesa believes in the power of nature and that everyone deserves to live their best life without total dependence on low-quality pharmaceuticals. As the CEO and founder of Nesa's Hemp, the world’s first full-spectrum CBDa hemp extract, she is on a mission to educate people about the healing power of hemp while providing top-quality hemp products tested by FDA-approved laboratories.
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