CBD works through an interaction with one of the most important systems in our body, The Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS helps us maintain homeostasis (a state of bodily equilibrium), by regulating a range of physiological processes – from hormonal activity and immune system, to mood, memory, stress, pain sensation, and appetite. In other words, the ECS is instrumental in keeping us mentally and physically healthy.
The Endocannabinoid System is made up of endocannabinoids (a type of neurotransmitters) and CB1 and CB2 receptors (the two most understood receptors of the ECS). We can think of endocannabinoids as keys that unlock the receptors. Whereas many phytocannabinoids (plant-derived cannibinoids), like THC, are able to act as keys for CB1 and CB2 receptors like endocannabinoids, CBD has very little binding affinity to either receptor. Instead it can help one of our body’s endocannabinoids, anandamide (known as the “bliss” cannabinoid), stay in the body longer. It also binds to other receptors like serotonin and adenosine, which through stimulation help with pain regulation, inflammation control, sleep, anxiety, nausea, and stress.