In the early 1990s, scientists have found that the endocannabinoid system plays a key role in regulating basic bodily functions. The endogenous compounds activate the cannabinoids in the system, thus managing sleep, memory, mood, the immune system, and pain.

There’s scientific evidence that cannabinoids present in the marijuana plant are similar to endocannabinoids. Thus, they can mimic the functions of these endogenous compounds. Let’s learn how exactly marijuana works in the body.

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What’s The Endocannabinoid System?

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex system that exists in the body. It comprises endocannabinoids, which bind to cannabinoid receptors. The enzymes help in breaking down the endocannabinoids. For instance, fatty acid amide hydrolase breaks down anandamide.

The ECS handles various functions. Imagine you are jogging in the park. Suddenly, your foot slips and you fall on the ground, thus causing pain. After that, the central nervous system works for reducing pain and recruits enzymes, which produce endocannabinoids, primarily anandamide.

Anandamide, also called the bliss molecule, is responsible for regulating mood and memory. Research says that low anandamide levels are associated with anxiety and depression. So, many medications help in reducing pain and depression by increasing anandamide levels.

2-arachidonoylglycerol is effective in managing inflammation and regulating various functions linked to the immune system.

What’s Medical Marijuana?

Marijuana refers to dry flowers or concentrates obtained from the cannabis plant. Research says that the plant contains more than 100 cannabinoids, which possess amazing therapeutic properties. THC and CBD are the two important cannabinoids.

As per federal law, marijuana in any form is illegal in the United States. However, 33 states have legalized cannabis for medical purposes. If you live in a marijuana legalized state, you can obtain a medical marijuana card Fresno to buy, possess, and use cannabis for managing your symptoms.

Each state has its MMJ qualifying conditions list. The California list includes cancer, anorexia, AIDS, chronic pain, cachexia, spasticity, seizures, severe nausea, migraines, arthritis, glaucoma, etc.

Marijuana And Endocannabinoid System

The body’s naturally produced endocannabinoids work as messengers. They activate the cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system, mainly CB1 and CB2 receptors. After the endocannabinoids have finished their job, the enzymes break them down.

Since cannabis cannabinoids are similar to endocannabinoids, they can mimic the functions of the latter. In other words, when you consume marijuana, the cannabinoids activate the receptors in the ECS. For instance, THC binds directly with the CB1 and CB2 receptors, thus delivering medicinal effects. However, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid CBD doesn’t bind to either of these receptors directly. Instead, it enhances the ability of receptors to bind to endocannabinoids.

A recent study confirmed that the endocannabinoid 2-AG reduced the anxiety-inducing effects between the amygdala and the frontal cortex. 2-AG binds to the same receptors as THC, a major psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis.

Studies show that cannabis can help ease insomnia by interacting with the endocannabinoid system. Anxiety and depression patients often experience sleep problems. According to a study published in 2008, high-THC strains can help improve sleep. Researchers found that THC reduces REM sleep, thus promoting deep sleep. Additionally, THC can help PTSD patients reduce nightmares.

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CBD delivers various medical benefits without causing high effects as THC. Some scientific evidence suggests that CBD may influence the medicinal effects of medications by interacting with the endocannabinoid system and inhibiting the activity of liver enzymes cytochrome P450.

Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online

You require a doctor’s recommendation to buy, possess, and use marijuana for managing your condition. Now, it’s very easy to apply for a medical cannabis card Fresno through telemedicine. Here’s the complete process-

• Sign up an account
• Talk to a licensed doctor via the HIPAA-compliant software
• Receive MMJ recs in PDF format

Final Thoughts

The endocannabinoid system regulates basic functions in the body, including sleep, mood, memory, etc. The endocannabinoid deficiency can result in various health issues, and cannabinoids found in the marijuana plant can help correct it. Research says that phytocannabinoids have a similar chemical structure as endocannabinoids.

Since the levels of cannabinoids and terpenes play a key role in the medicinal effects on your body, make sure you get the right strains. You can also seek professional help regarding this.
See a doctor online to get your medical marijuana card Fresno.