How to stimulate the endocannabinoid system?
Unknown endocannabinoid system
The first mention of the endocannabinoid system dates back to the late 1980s and early 1990s. It is not only a human prerogative, it is found in the body of all mammals and in earthworms and anemones, among others. However, some species in the animal kingdom such as honeybees or opisthobranchs have not shown the presence of cannabinoid receptors and are depleted of the ECS.
The endocannabinoid system regulates and controls a variety of essential bodily functions. Hundreds of tiny actions are involved, sending information to nerve, vascular or digestive centers (and many others). Endocannabinoids provide the impetus for action, influencing processes such as learning and memory, emotion processing and mood, sleep, appetite, pain and stress control, and body temperature. They also influence the body's immune or inflammation responses, as well as liver, heart and muscle coordination. Receptors take the "message" and put it into practice. Enzymes eventually break down those endocannabinoids that have already fulfilled their function. Together, this is an irreplaceable set of processes that maintains balance in the body and enhances the function of other organs.
But cannabinoids are far from the only thing that can affect ECS. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBN (cannabinol) can bind directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors, and CBD (cannabidiol) supports the function of naturally occurring endocannabinoids. CBC (cannabichromene), CBG (cannabigerol) and THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) also do their part. Each component acts on the body to stimulate the endocannabinoid system.
It is not easy to understand the terms. Cannabinoids are compounds that mimic the effects or structure of cannabinoids naturally produced by the body (endocannabinoids) and activate or block receptors in the ECS. Their natural source is the cannabis plant.
Self-help ECS support
The function of the endocannabinoid system can also be positively influenced by lifestyle or diet. Other factors, such as poor food quality and lots and lots of raw materials full of pesticides (chlorpyrifos or pyperonyl butoxide) or plastic packaging with phthalates that disrupt the hormonal system in the body and block cannabinoid receptors, can do a lot of damage for a change.
Essential fatty acids
Arachidonic acid is essential for the production of endocannabinoids. It is relatively easy to obtain by consuming omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. We should not underestimate the intake of these unsaturated fatty acids, which our bodies cannot produce. The ratio between them should be balanced (1:1), usually animal sources are preferred to vegetable ones, which puts a lot of stress on the body. The diet should be rich in eggs, fish and poultry, walnuts, almonds, seeds (flax, chia, sunflower and hemp) and oils (soya, corn, safflower).
In the case of an imbalance or long-term deficiency of one or the other acid, the cardiovascular system suffers in particular and neurological problems may occur.
Chocolate
Cocoa and at least 70 per cent chocolate are an interesting alternative to treat yourself to something extra and support your overall health at the same time. The compounds contained are very similar to endocannabinoids and prevent their breakdown. This increases their quantity in the body and better protects the organism against heart disease, stroke or the development of dementia, among other things.
Herbs and spices
People are slowly returning to natural alternatives for health promotion, replacing prescription drugs with many side effects. Some herbs contain compounds that stimulate the endocannabinoid system.
Beta-caryophyllene is found in lemon balm, black pepper, cloves, hops or cinnamon. This terpene acts positively on the CB2 receptor and has strong anti-inflammatory effects.
Echinacea is usually not used for a long time, only two to three weeks at a time, but it improves the function of the immune system, strengthens the body's defences and protects against infections. It is a potent CB2 receptor agonist.
Turmeric is very popular especially in India, China, Thailand and some countries in South America, but it is also known for its positive effect on the human body. It increases the production of endocannabinoids, is a powerful antioxidant and protects against inflammation, glaucoma or heart disease.
The endocannabinoid system can also be stimulated by various activities and changes in attitude to life.
- Social interaction (natural and non-stressful environment)
- Yoga and breathing exercises
- Osteopathy (a method which assumes that most problems are posture related and aims to restore the skeletal and muscular system)
The endocannabinoid system has the task of maintaining the balance of the internal environment even when there are fluctuations in the external one. Regular exercise also helps. The ECS is connected to the brain and nervous system. It cannot be fooled, however, and recognizes and interprets reluctance and resistance to movement as stress that prevents its proper functioning. There is no point in forcing oneself into certain activities. Just choose the ones you enjoy and support the endocannabinoid system.
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