The Leaf THE LEAF Sept-October 2019 | Page 20

Interesting Facts About Cannabis And The Endocannabinoid System Anonymous Author 24.09.2018 Researchers are still trying to wrap their minds around the endocannabinoid system; how it functions and its role in our overall health. After all, it wasn’t until the 1990s that scientists inadvertently discovered the body’s CB1 receptors within the brain and central nervous system when attempting to determine what effects THC have on the human body. It’s becoming clear that the endocannabinoid system is responsible for balancing many of our body’s regulatory and immune system functions. 1. Most medical professionals have little to no knowledge of the body’s ECS 2. The endocannabinoid system works in overdrive when diseases are present Scientists have found that with a variety of illnesses, the ECS system shows increased activity and greater expression to restore the body’s natural balance. 3. The ECS is the reason why cannabis relieves so many medical conditions Ingesting cannabinoids signals the body to create more endocannabinoids and build more receptors. Triggering this system naturally limits inflammation and repairs cells, among many other therapeutic benefits. The previously mentioned, “Ignorance Is Not Bliss” study reads, The discovery of the ECS will replace the current medical system of managing and treating disease. Instead of management of symptoms after disease has occurred, we will prevent disease and cancer by manipulation of the ECG. 4. There are more endocannabinoid receptors which outnumber other neurotransmitter receptors in the brain In a 2013 survey, appropriately titled “Ignorance Is Not Bliss,” researchers found that only “13 percent of U.S. medical schools teach the endocannabinoid system to future doctors.” Cannabis research is limited primarily due to its federally illegal status, which prevents government institutions like the FDA from conducting clinical studies. But medical marijuana research is expanding and more patients are demanding access, so there’s a good chance that teaching ECS curriculum to medical students may be mandatory in the upcoming years. 5. You don’t need psychoactive THC to stimulate the endocannabinoid system CBD found in industrial hemp is among many cannabinoids which activate the ECS to provide a range of physical and psychological health benefits. However, THC and CBD combined pack a powerful punch by bringing out the other’s best traits.