Primary Cannabinoid Receptors
CB1
– Primarily located in the brain and spinal cord and play a role in nerve signalling. They are also found in the digestive tract, reproductive system, lungs, kidneys, liver, pituitary and thyroid glands, fat cells and muscle cells.
CB2
– Primarily located in the immune system.
Secondary Cannabinoid Receptors
Transient Receptor Potential Channels (TRP)
– Membrane proteins involved in the modulation of ion entry.
Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptors
– A group of nuclear hormone receptors.
Regulatory functions
The endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating many of the body’s natural functions including:
Pain & Inflammation
Research has indicated that cannabinoid receptors within the brain are capable of suppressing pain and inflammation. Cannabis medicine is currently being prescribed by doctors to treat chronic pain, nerve pain, as well as a variety of other sources of pain.
Appetite
The endocannabinoid system plays a role in regulating the body’s food intake. THC has been shown to increase appetite and regulated cannabis products already exist for the treatment of weight loss in patients undergoing treatment for cancer or HIV.
Sleep
Research has shown that anandamide, an endocannabinoid that shares structural similarities with THC, can affect sleep patterns. Due to the similar effects of THC and anandamide on the body, THC can be sedating at certain doses.
Nausea
Research indicates that THC and other cannabinoids can block the signals in the body that result in nausea and vomiting. Many patients in regulated jurisdictions are already utilizing medical cannabis to reduce these symptoms in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Anti-seizure
CBD has anti-seizure properties and is already being utilized as a treatment option for patients with certain types of uncontrolled epilepsy such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS).
Mood management
Dosage depending, THC has been shown to produce a pleasant euphoria and feelings of relaxation in patients. However, if the dosage consumed is too high, it can result in feelings of anxiety/paranoia. Additionally, CBD has been noted to have anti-anxiety properties, and can reduce the potential of THC to induce anxiety/paranoia.
Memory & Learning
Areas of the brain responsible for regulating memory/learning contain a high concentration of cannabinoid receptors. This may explain the observed potentials of cannabinoids to be useful in the treatment of panic disorders, PTSD and other conditions related to memories/feelings of extreme fear.
While currently ongoing, there is still much research to be done to fully understand the endocannabinoid system and its role in maintaining homeostasis within the human body.
