Your endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating a wide array of body processes that maintain our health. The body naturally produces endocannabinoids, which interact with cannabinoid receptors throughout the body and cause chemical responses that keep the body in balance. In some cases the body doesn’t produce enough endocannabinoids, or enough receptors, for the endocannabinoid system to function properly. As a result, many functions aren’t regulated properly and the body becomes unbalanced, possibly allowing diseases to arise.
This is why supplementing with cannabinoids found in plants like hemp and cannabis, can be effective at alleviating some conditions. There are also compounds that can mimic a cannabinoid. These compounds are also able to bind to cannabinoid receptors and have a positive effect on the endocannabinoid system. So far, researchers have identified two types of cannabinoid receptors. CB1 receptors are present in our connective tissues, glands, organs, gonads and nervous system. CB2 receptors are found in the immune system. Here are some herbs and plants that can support your endocannabinoid system.
CBD Oil
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one type of a true cannabinoid. It is a plant oil that is somewhere in between a fatty oil and an essential oil. Unlike true essential oils, which are obtained via steam distillation, CBD must be extracted from the plant using solvents or by vacuum distillation. It is a thick, viscous oil. CBD is found in both hemp and in the Cannibas sativa (marijuana) plant. Another cannabinoid that is only found in the Cannibas sativa plant is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Depending on the genetics of the person, and the health condition that is being addressed, the most effective solution varies in the ratio of THC to CBD. Endocanna Health is one lab that can test your DNA (or use a test you’ve already done) to specify the proper ratio for your situation.
Copaiba and Other Essential Oils
Copaiba is a true essential oil that is steam distilled from the resin of the Copaifera officinalis tree. It is one of the highest anti-inflammatory essential oils known. And it is a compound that mimics a cannabinoid. Copaiba contains the chemical constituent beta-caryophyllene (BC), as does CBD oil. But BC is also found in ylang ylang, black pepper, oregano, clove, lavender, basil and many other essential oils. So although not the same as CBD, it could also provide support for your endocannabinoid system.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a coneflower that’s known offers powerful support to the immune system. People often use echinacea, either as a tea or in a supplement, to reduce the chances of catching a cold or reducing the duration of a cold.. Some other benefits of echicnacea are its ability to alleviate pain and improve mental health.
Echinacea contains compounds which are known to bind to and activate cannabinoid receptors. When engaging with CB2 receptors, the compounds found in echinacea, can help regulate immune function and reduce inflammation.
Helichrysum Essential Oil
Helichrysum italicum is a plant that’s known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal properties. The plant has been used for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. The essential oil that is distilled from it often used as a natural mood stabilizer and for immune system support. It appears to be an adaptogenic oil in that it brings the body to a point of homeostasis.
Helichrysum is also a major producer of compounds that are some of the most structurally diversified types of phytocannabinoids that are found in the cannabis plant. So again, it’s not the same as CBD oil, but it may provide support to your endocannabinoid system.
Holy Basil and Maca Root
Holy Basil is also known as tulsi. Holy basil is an adaptogen that can help your body and mind adapt to anxious feelings with ease. It has been held sacred in India for thousands of years due to its ability to melt away ongoing tension and worry, and increase feelings of relaxation and calmness. It has also been used medicinally to treat ulcers, relieve joint pain, and more. Like other essential oils, holy basil contains β-caryophyllene, a compound that mimics those of cannabis by reducing inflammation and pain.
Maca root is a type of cruciferous vegetable that’s available in powder form. It’s considered an adaptogen that helps the body to deal with stress, and it has been used as a superfood in regions of the Andes Mountains for thousands of years. It also contains compounds that mimic the biological actions of cannabinoids.
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