shows whether one form of CBD is better than another for treating particular conditions. So scientists don’t yet know whether CBD contained in a whole-plant hemp extract or isolated CBD in carrier oil is more effective. How the different forms of CBD interact with the cannabinoid and other receptors in the human body, and how CBD modifies these systems for better or worse, is also yet to be researched.
The following sections detail how CBD molecules interact with receptors in your brain and beyond.
Blocking THC from receptors
Receptors are proteins that bind to neurotransmitter molecules to create a signal that tells your body to perform a particular function. This binding and linking is like a lock-and-key system that unlocks a series of events. For example, the way that CBD attaches itself to receptors is a key that can unlock (that is, cause or accelerate) a reaction that addresses imbalances and promotes equilibrium.
These receptors exist all over the human body, from the brain to every internal organ. You have a host of receptors in your body — in your skin and throughout your organs — that interact with CBD, which makes you a great candidate for supplementing with CBD. (Unless you aren’t a human, in which case the research is still out for you.)
The ECS is composed of two notable receptors: the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1, found in the brain and nervous system) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2, found throughout the immune and other operating systems). These receptors are designed to receive information through cannabinoid chemicals. The body naturally produces these cannabinoids, and they’re also delivered through foods and nutrients. CBD has been shown to interact with the receptor system by interfering with other cannabinoids’ ability to directly bind to the receptors. Imagine a game of billiards. The pockets are the receptors; the solid balls are CBD, and the striped balls are another cannabinoid — for example, THC. The striped ball’s (THC’s) goal is to get into (bind with) the pocket (receptor). If a solid ball (CBD) stops just in front of the pocket, it’s technically interacting with the pocket by preventing the striped ball from going in.
TALKING ABOUT CLINICAL ENDOCANNABINOID DEFICIENCY
It’s no big secret that our human systems are chock full of deficiencies, mostly nutritional. So you probably won’t be surprised when I tell you that we have an endocannabinoid deficiency, too (officially called clinical endocannabinoid deficiency, or CED). This piece of endocannabinoid science is in its theoretical state, much like all cannabinoid and endocannabinoid research.
Endocannabinoid deficiency shows up when your body’s endocannabinoid system is operating in a state of malfunction. Researchers don’t know what could lead to a deficiency in the endocannabinoid system, so they’ve been exploring whether a variety of treatment-resistant syndromes may result from CED. Potential issues linked to CED include fibromyalgia, migraines, chronic fatigue, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Not stuff you want to ignore, even if your body would let you.
Whether CED is the cause of migraines and various other treatment-resistant syndromes is still unclear. What is clear is that a more balanced system can help reduce symptoms from these conditions. Your endocannabinoid system loves balance; this concept of balance is called endocannabinoid tone.
So what, outside of your own bodily capability of producing cannabinoids, can help you meet this deficiency? You can incorporate a few helpful ingredients — such as chocolate (cacao), black pepper, and rosemary — into your diet. And of course, there’s cannabis. The puzzle piece that fits like no other. (Simply or exclusively supplementing with cannabinoids such as CBD may or may not address endocannabinoid tone. No one knows yet.)
(Note: Don’t go searching the internet to see whether you suffer from “clinical endocannabinoid deficiency.” It’s just as new as all other cannabis science, and it’s far less supported than other long-standing theories about deficiencies and treatments in Western medicine.)
This blocking is significant because if THC cannabinoids directly bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors, you get a psychedelic effect. CBD prevents this “high” sensation. This changed interaction isn’t good or bad; it’s just part of a process.
Interestingly, CBD’s interaction with those receptors can increase the body’s endocannabinoid production by preventing the enzymes that break down endocannabinoids from doing their jobs. In your body, increased endocannabinoid production can potentially be beneficial (see the nearby sidebar for more information).
Checking out other receptors
CB1 and CB2 aren’t the only receptors in town. CBD has the incredible capability of interacting with more than 72 different receptors in the human body. Luckily, CBD’s promiscuity lends it to diverse applications, interactions, and functions. (Check out the preceding section for more on CBD’s interaction with CB1 and CB2).
Some of these other receptors and their functions are
TRPV1 receptors: CBD binds to this transitory receptor known for temperature regulation. It’s also recognized for mediating pain response and perception.
GABA-A receptor: GABA-A binds to neurons to decrease their activity; essentially, it calms them from overactivity that results in fear and anxiety. CBD is shown to change the shape of this receptor, increasing its calming effects on the brain. Preliminary research suggests it may go so far as to act as a sedative.
Serotonin: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that can directly affect your mood and emotions. When CBD interacts with TRPV1, it in turn can activate serotonin, reducing anxiety and boosting mood while mitigating pain response. Plainly speaking, CBD may relieve chronic anxiety.
Mu opioid receptors: Mu receptors are one of many different types of opioid receptors on nerve cells. They primarily determine how strong of a pain-relieving effect an opioid has. CBD interacts with mu opioid receptors in a way that potentially amplifies the effects of opioids. In other words, CBD may enhance the pain-relieving properties of opioids like morphine.
Dopamine: The dopamine molecule is a feel-good neurotransmitter. It plays a key role in human behavior, affecting goal-directed behavior and learning. CBD increases the quantity of dopamine in your body.
EXPLORING THE ROLE OF ENZYMES
Enzymes are the third key component in understanding how the endocannabinoid system encourages balance. The enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions. They help produce and break down endocannabinoids in the body.
Other enzymes transport ECS-specific proteins. Endocannabinoids are fat-soluble, and the human body is composed primarily of water. Therefore, the endocannabinoids need an enzyme to move them to the area of interest. These enzymes react to periods of imbalance; when the balance is restored, other enzymes break down the endocannabinoids, and business as usual resumes.
Recognizing CBD’s Physical and Mental Effects
Dr. Bradley Alger, one of the most recognized researchers in the endocannabinoid brain sciences, notes that “the endocannabinoids are literally a bridge between body and mind. By understanding the endocannabinoid system, we begin to see a mechanism that could connect brain activity and states of physical health and disease.”
The true nature of CBD and how it can work with the human body is still somewhat unknown (thanks, lack of research), but some of the most affected conditions are seeing some relief with CBD.