Exploring Endocannabinoids

Cannabis-based self-care and natural wellness starts with a basic understanding of the inner workings of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), or how the body’s physical makeup corresponds to the effects of the cannabis plant.  Increased research and testing over the last few years is showing new possibilities and benefits of cannabis every day. 

What are endocannabinoids?

Endocannabinoids occur naturally as lipid-based neurotransmitters produced as necessary by the body and responsible for assisting with various functions.

When was the first endocannabinoid discovered?

The initial endocannabinoid was discovered in 1992 by Czech chemist Lumir Hanus, working alongside American pharmacologist William Devane. Both were researchers under professor Raphael Mechoulam at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Israel.  

Detailing the Different Types of Endocannabinoids

There are two different kinds of endocannabinoids currently known to us: Anandamide & 2-AG. Each holds different properties. 

Anandamide:

•  Also known as N-arachidonoylethanolamine, it was the first endocannabinoid to be discovered.

• Acts as a naturally occurring arachidonic acid derivative.

• Responsible for binding to cannabinoid receptors. 

• Acts as a neurotransmitter, or messenger molecule, and assists with various bodily functions. 

 2-AG 

• Also known as 2-Arachidonoylglycerol.

• Acts as an endogenous agonist of the CB₁ receptor.

• Acts as the primary endogenous ligand for the CB₂ receptor.

• Helps to maintain bodily homeostasis. 

• Discovered to be the brain’s most endogenous cannabinoid ligand.

The Future of Exploring the Endocannabinoid System

According to an article written by Peter Grinspoon, MD, contributor to the Harvard University Medical School, the possibilities of exploring the endocannabinoid system offer some vastly promising hopes for the future: 

“We are truly at the dawn of an age of discovery of the ECS and the development of new medicines that may help alleviate some of the cruelest diseases that people (and animals) suffer from. I am incredibly excited to see what discoveries await us as we continue to untangle the mysteries of the ECS.”

Here at LRP, we believe in the cannabis plant’s ability to change lives for the better. With further investigation into the functions of the ECS, we’re hopeful for new discoveries and the benefits people will see from them. 

For more information on cannabis-related topics such as endocannabinoids, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for updates on our Lazy River Products Blog Page!