According to this source, the endocannabinoid system is a complex of CB1 and CB2 membrane receptors, ligands, and enzymes responsible for the synthesis and breakdown of these molecules. On the one hand, it ensures the proper functioning of the various vital biological systems in our body. On the other hand, it helps restore the body’s balance and maintain it in an optimal state. That said, many scientists argue that medical conditions such as migraines, fibromyalgia, and irritable bowel syndrome have a latent cause in a defective endocannabinoid system. So, what exactly is a clinical endocannabinoid deficiency (CECD)? Table of Contents Understanding the Endocannabinoid System Focus on Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency Understanding the Endocannabinoid System Let’s Not Get Ahead! Indeed, it seems important to explain, first and foremost, what the endocannabinoid system is. Specifically, its composition and its role in the human body. As mentioned earlier, the endocannabinoid system refers to a group composed of CB1 and CB2 membrane receptors, ligands, and enzymes responsible for the synthesis and degradation of these molecules. Following this, you’re probably wondering what these famous CB1 and CB2 receptors are for. Generally speaking, their role is to serve as access points for cannabinoids (both internal and external) to interact with the endocannabinoid system. Continuing with this in mind, where is each of these receptors located? CB1 receptors: they are found primarily in the central nervous system, but also in the peripheral nervous system (in small quantities). Regarding the central nervous system , it is found primarily in the
hippocampus
, the
cerebellum , thebasal ganglia
, and the spinal cord. Regarding the peripheral nervous system It is found in the lungs, gastrointestinal system, uterus, and testicles. It’s worth noting that CB1 receptors are less abundant in the hypothalamus, thalamus, and brainstem, where they are thought to play a significant role. Furthermore, the euphoric and anticonvulsant effects of cannabis are believed to originate from these receptors. CB2 receptors: These are found in various parts of the immune system, specifically the spleen. Indeed, these receptors are thought to be responsible for the anti-inflammatory effect, and possibly other therapeutic effects, of cannabis. They also appear to influence certain neurophysiological processes in the brain. Now that we’ve focused on the endocannabinoid system, you’ve seen its great importance. But what if one of its components is defective? Focus on Clinical Endocannabinoid DeficiencyFirst and foremost, it’s important to establish the basics. Under what circumstances do we speak of
- clinical endocannabinoid deficiency? On the one hand, when the human body reports a lack of endocannabinoids. On the other hand, when receptors are missing or defective. In short, we speak of CECD when the body is unable to maintain the balance of its physiological systems. This, in turn, can lead to certain illnesses.So, what are these illnesses? Indeed, Dr. Ethan Russo, a cannabinoid researcher, in this study* published in 2004, indicates that a lack of cannabinoids can cause the following:Migraine Dr. Russo specifies that examples of AEA (anandamide) are involved in serotonin production and pain modulation. From this perspective, he suggests that high serotonin levels contribute to migraines. Along these lines, a deficiency in anandamide production could contribute to migraines due to impaired serotonin regulation. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): It has been shown that people with IBS have higher serotonin levels in their blood. As mentioned above, high serotonin levels are not beneficial to the body. Fibromyalgia: Indeed, nociceptors are responsible for detecting pain and transmitting the signal to the brain. Dr. Russo believes that “the endocannabinoid system regulates nociceptive thresholds.” Therefore, in the absence of this regulation, chronic pain can develop. The study emphasizes that “cannabinoids have demonstrated an ability to block the spinal, peripheral, and gastrointestinal mechanisms that promote pain.” Research on clinical endocannabinoid deficiency and its potential consequences is very limited. Nevertheless, since 2004, the body of knowledge on this subject has been gradually expanding. Along these lines, in addition to migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, and fibromyalgia mentioned above, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease are potentially linked to endocannabinoid deficiency. We remain hopeful that a coordinated, rather than individual, study can be conducted by multiple researchers. This would allow clinical endocannabinoid deficiency to be clearly defined and presented, along with the diseases it causes. Ultimately, this would lead to the development of effective therapies to alleviate the suffering of patients. While waiting for that moment, CBD.FR invites you to discover its High-quality, organic CBD oils that are very popular in France!
