How plant compounds like CBD work with your body: the endocannabinoid system explained
Many people use CBD oil or other cannabinoids as a natural support for their daily well-being. But how exactly does this work in the body? And why do plant-based substances like CBD seem so effective?
The answer lies in a unique system in our body: the endocannabinoid system , or ECS for short. In this blog post, we explain what the ECS is, how it works, and how plant cannabinoids—like those in CBD oil—can naturally interact with it.
What is the endocannabinoid system (ECS)?
The ECS is a biological regulatory system that plays a key role in maintaining homeostasis —or, balance in our bodies. It helps keep various processes in balance, such as:
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Mood and stress regulation
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Sleep-wake rhythm
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Pain perception
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Inflammatory reactions
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Skin health
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Immune function
Although the ECS was only discovered relatively recently (in the 1990s), we now know that it plays a role in almost every body system.
How exactly does the ECS work?
The ECS consists of three main components:
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Endocannabinoids – These are substances your body produces naturally. The best known are anandamide and 2-AG.
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Cannabinoid receptors – These are located throughout the body, particularly in the nervous system (CB1 receptors) and in the immune system and skin (CB2 receptors).
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Degradative enzymes – These ensure that endocannabinoids are broken down once they have fulfilled their function.
When your body becomes unbalanced, it temporarily produces more endocannabinoids. These bind to the CB1 or CB2 receptors to help the body restore its natural balance.
What are phytocannabinoids and how do they interact with the ECS?
Phytocannabinoids (pronounced fie-to-cannabinoids ) are cannabinoids derived from plants such as hemp. The best-known is CBD (cannabidiol), but there are others, such as CBG and CBN.
These substances are structurally very similar to the body's own endocannabinoids. Therefore, they can interact with the cannabinoid receptors in the ECS in a similar way—albeit in a slightly different (and usually milder) way.
CBD doesn't bind directly to CB1 or CB2 receptors, but it does influence how these receptors function. For example, CBD can:
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Increasing the availability of the body's own endocannabinoids
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Slow down the action of enzymes that break down these substances
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Indirectly support the balance in the ECS
In other words, CBD doesn't stimulate your body, but supports your body's ability to strive for balance on its own .
Why do people react differently to CBD?
Because everyone's ECS works slightly differently, the experience with CBD can vary from person to person. Factors such as lifestyle, genetics, stress levels, and diet all play a role. Therefore, it's important to listen carefully to your body and start slowly with a low dose.
Zensey CBD: pure, natural and tailored to your well-being
At Zensey, we believe in the power of natural support. Our CBD oils are carefully developed to seamlessly integrate with your daily routine, without unnecessary additives. They're made from organic, EU-certified hemp and rigorously tested for purity.
Want to discover which CBD oil best suits your needs? Browse our selection in thewebshop or feel free to contact us for personalized advice.
Finally
The endocannabinoid system is a fascinating part of our body, constantly working towards balance. Plant-based cannabinoids like CBD can naturally support this system. By better understanding your ECS, you can manage your health and well-being more consciously—in a way that suits your body.
