What are cannabinoids?

Today, everyone knows a little about cannabis. We know in broad outline what this unique and promising plant consists of. Even though we (in Denmark) have only just begun to focus on it. We therefore focus on cannabinoids, as these are essential for the plant's many health-promoting aspects.

Today we know of at least 85 different cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. In particular, we know CBD and THC as two of the best known cannabinoids. And due to the body's own endocannabinoid system (ECS), cannabis among researchers is often referred to as “man's most symbiotic plant". It is called the plant because cannabis contains molecules that are very similar to the molecules that the human body itself contains.

TWO KINDS OF CANNABINOIDS - OWN OF THE BODY, AND THEN FROM PLANTS

There are basically two well-known classifications of cannabinoids (we deliberately ignore synthetic cannabis, as currently. proves dangerous to use for us humans):

1. Endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) naturally produced in our own body.
2. Phyto-cannabinoids (plant cannabinoids), which include found in the cannabis plant.

CANNABINOIDS INCLUDE IMPORTANT BUILDINGS

The term “cannabinoids” covers the essential fats that our own body uses as a signaling substance to communicate between specific cell types in our body. This collection of important signaling substances and cells in the body is generally referred to as “the endocannabinoid system”(ECS).

The cannabinoids have a synergistic effect. Each cannabinoid also has its own individual properties that help both on its own and in interaction with others. Cannabis oil contains everything the body needs in everyday life: Essential vitamins, minerals, proteins, enzymes, antioxidants, flavonoids and other essential fatty acids.

endocannabinoids

The cannabinoids the body itself makes are called endocannabinoids. Today we know at least 8-9 different endocannabinoids in detail. It is believed that the endocannabinoids themselves are created in both the brain and the body as needed in connection with potential illness and the like.

The body creates its endocannabinoids to adjust and stimulate various "potential danger situations". e.g. apoptosis (programmed cell death), appetite stimulation, level of pain, sleep and neuroprotective actions - as well as a wide range of other important physiological processes.

Cannabinoids have a vital effect on the body's energy absorption, flexible transport of nutrients, metabolism, cell division, energy storage, etc. And together with our own ECS, cannabinoids take care of repairing cells when they are injured or aging.

THE CANNABINOID'S COOPERATION WITH THE BODY'S RECEPTORS

Whether cannabinoids are autoproduced in your brain or ingested sublingually (under the tongue), inhaled via a home-rolled joint, lubricated body like ointment or the like, they perfectly fit a variety of specialized receptors around the body. The largest collections of these receptors can be found in hippocampus (which regulates memory), cerebral cortex (understanding), cerebellum (motor), basal ganglia (motion), hypothalamus (appetite) as well almond kernel (emotions).

The cannabinoids are captured by our widespread ECS as important contributors as health “communicators”. This then produces a beneficial effect on the body's own ability to bring the body into balance (again).

THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM (ECS)

Our endocannabinoid system (ECS) was only finally identified in the 1980s. It consists of 2 kinds of receptors. These 2 types of receptors can be stimulated and modulated by cannabinoids that are produced naturally in the body or ingested via cannabis.

1: CB1 receptors: Found primarily in the nervous system. But also found in connective tissue, genitals, glands and other vital organs.

2: CB2 receptors: Found primarily in the immune system. But also found in spleen, liver, heart, kidneys, bones, blood vessels, lymphatic cells and genitals.

Some cannabinoids have greater "kinship" with one type of receptor compared to the other. With its complex actions in our immune system and nervous system, ECS is also literally an important bridge between body and mind. Cannabinoids therefore fit like a glove in the cannabinoid receptors we have in the body's own ECS.

One thing is clear: A functional ECS in our body is crucial to health. From conception, the embryonic implantation in our mother's womb, to breastfeeding and growth. But also to later respond to injuries and wear and tear in adulthood. So endocannabinoids help the body survive in a fast, permanently changing and increasingly challenging environment.

THE CANNABIS PLANT IS HEALING IN OTHER THAN HIMSELF

The cannabis plant also makes use of, for example, THC as well as other cannabinoids to promote its own health and prevent disease. Cannabinoids have antioxidant properties that also protect the plant from dangerous ultraviolet radiation. Here, the cannabinoids effectively neutralize the harmful free radicals generated by UV rays and protect the cells of the plant.

So all in all, the cannabis plant must be said to be "man's best friend", when we especially focus on health and healing. Read more about the body's own endocannabinoid system (ECS) here: https://oilsbysimpson.dk/kroppens-endocannabinoide-system/

SOURCES:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabidiol