Page 7 - eBook-CBD-englisch

1.3 EXOGENOUS CANNABINOIDS
The counterparts of endocannabinoids are exogenous cannabinoids that enter
the body when cannabis is taken and remain there for long periods of time.
This activates the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to a greater extent, allowing it
to function at a higher and more productive level than would normally be the
case.

1.4 THC AND CBD

Research shows that the cannabinoid THC binds to both receptors (CB1 and
CB2) and activates them in the same way as an endocannabinoid. The effects of
THC are generally considered to be psychological, but this compound does
much more than just cause intoxication. It has been proven that THC also helps
with chronic pain, nausea, appetite, asthma and glaucoma. In addition, the
cannabinoid has been shown to be effective in cancer treatment and
interestingly, it even has a symbiotic effect on the body when taken together
with CBD. CBD does not actually bind to any receptors, but instead acts as an

inhibitor of the enzyme FAAH. This slows down or prevents the breakdown of
anandamide - possibly one of the most crucial endocannabinoids in the body.
The result is a build-up of anandamide in the brain.
While we are aware that THC has an obvious psychological effect on the mind,
CBD is considered to be effective at the physiological level. However, it is
generally known that CBD helps in the treatment of serious medical conditions.

1.5 FUNCTIONS OF THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM
The endocannabinoid system generally regulates all the basic functions and
patterns that our body has to perform. These include mood, sleep, appetite,
metabolism, pain, immune function, inflammation, digestion, reproduction and

many more. Cannabinoid receptors are found throughout the body, a large
number of CB1 receptors are located in the central nervous system, while CB2
receptors are more commonly found in immune cells, the gastrointestinal tract
and the peripheral nervous system. This can give you an idea of the variety of
functions that the endocannabinoid system offers us.