I’ve talked before about the human endocannaboid system, and the CB1 and CB2 receptors, but what are they? Well, let’s talk about that. It wasn’t until scientists began doing research early in the 20th century that they knew humans had an endocannabinoid system. When it was discovered, scientists learned that this system helps regulate our physiology, mood, appetite, and our responses to everyday experience.
CB receptors sprinkled throughout our brains and bodies make up this system. In fact, we can even produce cannabinoids without introducing CBD into our bodies. CB1 receptors are largely contained in the brain, central nervous system, connective tissues, gonads, glands, and related organs. CB2 receptors, on the other hand, are located throughout the immune system and related organs—tissues of the spleen, tonsils, and thymus gland. They also can be found in greater concentrations throughout the gastrointestinal system.
Researchers are learning, however, that many humans have a deficiency of CBD, which is critical for good health. An imbalance sets people up for all kinds of diseases of the immune and nervous systems. In order to kick-start a therapeutic response, we can apply or ingest CBD to great benefit.
In fact, according to an article in Project CBD, “extensive preclinical research—much of it sponsored by the U.S. government—indicates that CBD has potent anti-tumoral, antioxidant, antispasmodic, antipsychotic, anticonvulsive, and neuroprotective properties. CBD directly activates serotonin receptors, causing an anti-anxiety effect, as well.”
Best of all, CBD benefits are nontoxic. So, there you have it, in a nutshell, the endocannabinoid system and why CBD can be used to treat diseases.