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Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency and Supplementing with Cannabis
by Peter Kershaw , contributing writer
Just about every athlete has a passing knowledge of the practical benefits of endorphins . Long-distance runners refer to the euphoria they feel when endorphins kick in as “ the runner ’ s high .” Endorphins are classified as endogenous opioids , meaning they are opioid-like peptides produced within the body . The mechanism of their production and their associated receptor sites is referred to as the Endogenous Opioid System ( EOS ).
Endorphins aren ’ t the only endogenous opioids we produce , but they ’ re certainly the most commonly known . The EOS consists of neurons that produce three opioids : beta-endorphin , met- and leu-enkephalins , and dynorphins . These opioids act as neurotransmitters and neuromodulators . Their characteristics make them surprisingly similar in their effects to morphine , including euphoria and pain suppression . They serve as an anesthetic to tamp down the aches and pains that might otherwise make running a marathon or competing in a triathlon all but intolerable . The EOS is the most studied innate pain-relieving system , but it ’ s not the only one in our bodies . We also have an Endogenous Cannabinoid System ( or Endocannabinoid System ), and it regulates far more than just pain and feelings of euphoria .
In 1964 , the “ godfather of cannabis research ,” Israeli organic chemist Raphael Mechoulam , PhD , isolated and revealed the structure of THC and CBD . Dr . Mechoulam was also key to identifying the components and functions of the Endocannabinoid System ( ECS ). 1 In 1992 , Mechoulam isolated the first endocannabinoid , a molecule that was ultimately classified as a CB1 receptor partial agonist — arachidonoyl ethanolamide — which he named “ anandamide .” Since then , over 120 more endocannabinoids have been identified ( many of which we ’ re not yet certain of their function ), with work ongoing to identify even more .
Functions of the ECS
The endocannabinoid system consists of endogenous cannabinoids , cannabinoid receptors ( e . g ., CB1 , CB2 ), and the enzymes that synthesize and degrade endocannabinoids . The ECS serves a vital role in maintaining the body and mind ’ s homeostasis , regulating , among other things :
● Appetite and digestion
● Metabolism
● Pain
● Inflammation
● Immune system responses
● Emotions / Mood
● Stress , anxiety
● Learning and memory
● Motor control
● Sleep
● Cardiovascular system function
● Muscle formation
● Bone remodeling and growth
● Liver function
● Reproductive system function
● Skin and nerve function
Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency
In 2004 , neurologist and psychopharmacology researcher Dr . Ethan B . Russo published a concept paper in which he posits , “ This study examines the concept of clinical endocannabinoid deficiency ( CECD ), and the prospect that it could underlie the pathophysiology of migraine , fibromyalgia , irritable bowel syndrome , and other functional conditions alleviated by clinical cannabis .” 2 Unsurprising , at the time Dr . Russo released his study it was met in the U . S . with considerable skepticism . However , as more U . S . states legalized medical cannabis , Dr . Russo ’ s thesis gained support . His original paper came to be cited in numerous other clinical research papers .
Since then , his “ concept ” has been elevated to “ theory ” and supported by numerous other research scientists . In 2016 , Dr . Russo published Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency Reconsidered : Current Research Supports the Theory in Migraine , Fibromyalgia , Irritable Bowel , and Other Treatment-Resistant Syndromes . 3 While correlation does not equal causation , there is an undeniable correlation between depressed and deficient endocannabinoid levels and disease , both physical and psychological .
The cause for CED can sometimes be a genetic predisposition . But in most cases , it ’ s due to poor diet , lack of exercise , environmental toxins , and a stressful lifestyle . Making healthy lifestyle choices can improve ECS function and return the body and mind to homeostasis . The downside of this , however , is the time needed to accomplish that goal .
Supplementing with Cannabis
For a person in overall good health , it may be assumed their ECS is also functioning adequately . However , where a person ’ s physical health has been compromised , or their mental / emotional health is assaulted ( e . g ., trauma ), it ’ s quite likely their ECS has also been compromised . As such , the patient may benefit from supplementing with cannabis .
24 January 2025