How CBD Reacts With Our Bodies

by Emily Scott Emily Scott

Research reveals that Cannabidiol (CBD) can benefit a person’s health in myriad ways. In a study that revolved around analyzing the ‘search frequency of Cannabidiol’ on popular search engines, researchers from John Hopkins and the University of California discovered that the search rates grew by 136% in 2017, 165% in 2018, and more than 121% in 2020.

Since the human body is a complex machine, it’s fascinating how it can interact with various compounds, such as CBD. Let’s learn what Cannabidiol is and why researchers have been looking at its potential health, wellness, and therapeutic benefits.

Understanding Cannabidiol (CBD)

The cannabis plant is well-known for two compounds, delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD).

Until recently, THC was considered one of the most active constituents, which has potential mind-altering psychological effects when it breaks down due to heat during cooking or smoking and interacts with the body.

The other most abundant compound, out of over a hundred cannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant, is CBD, which has been slowly gaining pace in garnering immense popularity in the hemp and natural medicine world.

Unlike THC, CBD isn’t psychoactive and belongs to the class of molecules called Phyto-cannabinoids. This means it doesn’t alter a person’s state of mind; however, it’s known to produce preeminent body changes, including several significant medicinal benefits.

Before diving in to understand the effects of CBD, it’s imperative to examine its relationship with the endocannabinoid system in our bodies.

An Overview Of The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

Named after the plant that directed us to its discovery, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a beautifully complex system that plays a significant role in balancing the body's biological harmony and physiological systems responsible for maintaining optimal health.

The ECS is a relatively contemporary discovery; scientists began learning about it in the 1990s while researching the widespread and versatile plant-like molecules produced by our bodies.

Fun Fact: Scientists reveal that the ECS isn't unique to humans; it's also found in animals with the vertebra, including reptiles, birds, mammals, fish, and amphibians. 

Initially, the endocannabinoid receptors were thought to be present in our nerves and the brain, but today researchers have concluded that they're found throughout our body, including the skin. The ECS is involved in several bodily functions, including memory, sleep, pain, mood, metabolism, bowel movements, reproductive functions, appetite, stress, and immune system.

The ECS fundamentally has three main components:

1.      The endocannabinoids complement bodily functions and help them run smoothly.

2.      The enzymes appear in various forms and function to break down the endocannabinoids.

3.      The receptors exist throughout our bodies as a substance to which the endocannabinoids can bind.