Are you always in a bad mood? Is it hard to think straight? Blame your challenges on your Endocannabinoid System (ECS). It will straighten out your thoughts and rein in your irritability. Learn about how it works and how to manage its deficiencies.
What is the Endocannabinoid System?
The ECS is a biological network of endocannabinoids or neurotransmitters that connect to cannabinoid receptors and cannabinoid proteins that govern the nervous system.
It is a little-known system, though we know a lot about the conditions that develop when something disrupts it. It came to attention upon the discovery of Cannabis, which has medicinal uses. Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, a Professor in Medicinal Chemistry, came upon it while working at the lab in the Hebrew University.
He uncovered a neurotransmitter named Anandamide. It has a similar structure to Cannabis. He further discovered how compounds like Anandamide link to form the ECS. The ECS regulates cognitive and physiological processes like fertility, pain-sensation, memory, and mood.
It contributes to the cognitive effects of exercise as well. Have you ever wondered why you feel satisfied after a workout? Your ECS probably caused exercise-based euphoria, since it penetrates the blood-brain barrier. It also governs the immune system, appetite, and pain.
What is Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency?
Scientists believe that a deficiency in the ECS, known as Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency(CED), is the underlying cause of many illnesses. It is responsible for ailments relating to the immune system and inflammation.
CED happens if too many enzymes interfere with the way endocannabinoids work. They may not be able to send signals to cannabinoid receptors.
Symptoms then develop when the ECS isn’t working correctly. The body doesn’t have enough endocannabinoids to prompt the chemical responses that regulate bodily functions. As a result, it becomes imbalanced.
Conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Migraine, and Fibromyalgia are a result of a lack of endocannabinoids. A study on Endocannabinoids and migraine pain proves that CED does cause headaches.
Symptoms of CED
You have visited the doctor and taken all kinds of medications. Nothing seems to work. You may have CED, and here’s how to tell if you do.
1. Insomnia
First of all, you may have insomnia if you have CED. You struggle with sleep and cannot do so without medication.
2. Anxiety and Depression
Also, you’ll find yourself being crabby and unnecessarily anxious. CED makes it hard to overcome challenges.
3. Anger
Of course, that leads to problems with anger management. You’ll blow up more often than you should.
4. Inflammatory conditions
You may develop diseases related to inflammation, such as diabetes or arthritis. Problems may arise with your digestion.
5. Bone loss
Furthermore, you will lose bone mass. You will start losing bone mass due to a lack of calcium.
6. Pain
Another symptom of CED is chronic pain. You may have backaches or headaches so often that going to work is difficult.
7. Dementia-like symptoms
One more sign of a failing ECS is the presence of dementia-like symptoms. You may find yourself in poor mental health, forgetting the names of people, even if they are close to you. Misplacing objects is also common.
8. Family history
Finally, you’re likely to have a weak ECS if your parents have cancer or other inflammatory conditions. CED can be hereditary.
Coping with CED
A sure way to protect the ECS is with herbs rich in cannabis. We know that this misunderstood plant has medicinal properties and can heal when consumed appropriately. These common herbs have it in the right amounts.
1. Black Pepper
First of all is black pepper, which has the right amounts of cannabis and is a safe addition to dishes.
This spice has potassium, which regulates your heart rate. It has calcium, and therefore builds bones. This study proves that Piperine is an anti-inflammatory substance that governs gut health.
2. Oregano
Also on this list of natural remedies is oregano, a well-loved herb. It has small amounts of cannabis, which protect against bacteria and inflammation. Studies have also found that it is rich in antioxidants.
3. Basil
Another herb that curbs inflammation is basil. It aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory effects. It balances the pH levels in the body, ensuring that it doesn’t become too acidic. This incredible cooking ingredient also fights free radicals.
4. Rosemary
Besides preventing brain aging, rosemary protects the digestive tract. It is an anti-inflammatory compound that protects the immune system.
5. Sage
Experts have found that sage, which has small amounts of cannabis, can treat diseases that arise from inflammation. These include conditions like gout, arthritis and heart diseases. Its antioxidant properties can treat chronic illnesses.
In all, the Endocannabinoid system is the key to preventing inflammation, infections, and chronic diseases. Natural remedies will guard it daily.
