The Human Body, CBD, and the Endocannabinoid System
CBD is the abbreviation for the specific cannabis-derived compound, Cannabidiol. Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the many active compounds that are naturally produced in cannabis known as cannabinoids. Not only found in cannabis, cannabinoids are produced in the body of most mammals (including humans) as part of the Endocannabinoid system.
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is the master regulator of the human body. The main health systems which depend on the ECS include:
- Digestive system,
- Central nervous system,
- Immune system, and
- Cardiovascular system.
The ECS acts as a biological communication system to regulate the important functions of the body. Italian scientist Vincenzo DiMarzo described the role of the ECS in human health as helping us to “eat, sleep, relax, protect, and forget.”1️⃣
Endocannabinoid Receptors
Within the ECS, there are the endocannabinoids which are the molecules that keep your internal functions running smoothly. The method of communication by the ECS is with endocannabinoid receptors. Endocannabinoids bind to the endocannabinoid receptors which then signals that the ECS needs to take action. Two of the main endocannabinoid receptors are CB1 and CB2. From the chart, you can see all of the internal organs that CB1 and CB2 receptors are responsible for. 
When the human body is fighting a disease, the ECS is impaired. Therefore, in nearly all disease states, including cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, chronic pain, sleep disorders (just to name a few), the endocannabinoid receptors are essentially offline.
This is where CBD steps in and stimulates the endocannabinoid system; there by, promoting homeostasis, protecting the brain, buffering stress, reducing pain sensation, fighting disease, and decreasing inflammation.
The methods of introducing CBD to the endocannabinoid system include but are not limited to tinctures, topicals, edibles, and smokeables. When introduced to the human body internally or topically, CBD stimulate the endocannabinoid receptors thus prolonging the natural life cycle of the body’s endocannabinoids.