Everything You Need to Know About ECS Deficiency

A majority of CBD’s success in the human body has to do with the hemp compound’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Research has found that the best CBD oil may be able to ward off an endocannabinoid deficiency in users. 

But what is the ECS? And how can cannabidiol help it? This article answers questions from novice to frequent hemp users alike on the compound’s relationship with the ECS.

What is the ECS?

The main function of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is to maintain bodily homeostasis. 

Scientists initially concluded that cannabinoid receptors could only be located in the brain and the nerves. However, by conducting more thorough research they were able to locate these receptors throughout the body. 

Some of the places that endocannabinoid receptors can be found are the skin, immune cells, liver, and heart.

What is the Endocannabinoid System Responsible For?

The ECS is one of the most widespread signaling systems in the entire human body. This system regulates several key functions in the body. These range from cardiovascular, nervous, and immune systems. 

There are three core components that make up the ECS: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes. 

Anandamide (AEA) and arachidonoyglerol (2-AG) are the two main cannabinoids in the ECS. These two molecules keep the internal functions in the body running efficiently. 

These endocannabinoids bind with receptors likewise found in the ECS to signal the entire system to function. The two main receptors in the ECS are CB1 and CB2 receptors. The former is found in the central nervous system, while the latter is found in the peripheral nervous system, specifically immune cells. 

The effects produced by the binding of an endocannabinoid molecule with a receptor depends largely on the receptor’s location and the specific endocannabinoid. The effects of these interactions may affect experiences of pain and inflammation. 

Enzymes are responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids after they’ve finished carrying out their function. The breaking down of endocannabinoids ensures that the body is able to create more endocannabinoids and restart the entire process efficiently. 

What Causes Endocannabinoid Deficiency? 

An endocannabinoid deficiency occurs when the endocannabinoid system isn’t functioning properly because of a lack of endocannabinoids or receptors. 

When CB1 receptors or endocannabinoid levels are low, many key bodily functions are not regulated. The ECS plays a role in regulating systems that protect the body from chronic pain, inflammation, and metabolic syndrome-related diseases.

Research suggests that illnesses related to the immune system and inflammation can be traced back to an ECS dysfunction. 

How Can I Strengthen my Endocannabinoid System?

Strengthening the ECS can help keep the body balanced, protected from diseases, and avoids the risk of an endocannabinoid deficiency. Adopting a healthy diet is one simple way to boost one’s ECS. Foods that are rich in essential fatty acids, chocolate, herbs, and spices, and tea can help keep the ECS running smoothly naturally. 

One of the crucial essential fatty acids that the ECS requires is Omega-3. Omega-3 helps build up cell walls. Since human bodies cannot naturally produce this molecule, its presence in the body can only be met through a healthy diet. 

Eating nuts, fish, and fortified food like yogurt and milk may be able to provide the body with enough Omega-3. 

Supplements can similarly increase endocannabinoid and receptor levels to keep the ECS running smoothly.

Cannabidiol, or CBD, may be able to support the body’s endocannabinoids that naturally occur. Research has also found that CBD’s interaction with certain receptors in the ECS can help in reducing inflammation and modulate serotonin levels. 

What Supplements Contain Cannabinoids?

The best CBD products are rich in cannabidiol. Although the research on this hemp compound is generally in the preliminary stages, what information that is available about CBD is promising.

Researchers have found that when CBD interacts with the CB1 receptor, users may be able to experience a significant reduction in pain. 

A survey conducted collected responses from consistent CBD users and their experience with pain after including cannabidiol into their daily lifestyle. 90% of the participants reported feeling a noticeable reduction in both the frequency and duration of their pain because of CBD. 

Scientists have also been able to observe CBD’s serotonin modulating abilities. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is directly related to the body’s experience of stress. When serotonin levels are low, people may develop anxiety disorders or depression.  

More research is needed for users and brands to understand the full scope of CBD’s abilities. However, its use as a supplement for the ECS is relatively safe. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared cannabidiol safe to consume and does not cause any drastic negative impacts. Users should still seek medical advice before consuming any cannabidiol products.

Is CBD Legal? Hemp-derived CBD products (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are legal on the federal level. Moreover, these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and products that have not been FDA approved. Likewise, you must be at least 21 years old to purchase these products. Talk to your physician or medical doctor for additional information.