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Cannabinoids? What Are They?

Cannabinoids are a group of naturally occurring chemical compounds produced by cannabis plants and some other botanicals, as well as the human endocannabinoid system (ECS).

There are two types of cannabinoids: phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoids. Each is named based on where they are derived. The prefix phyto- means “plant,” and phytocannabinoids originate from plants. The prefix endo- means “within,” and these cannabinoids are produced within the body. Both interact with the endocannabinoid system of the nervous system.

Over 100 cannabinoids have been identified. Two of the best-known are CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Each compound interacts with cannabinoid receptors within the ECS. Cannabinoids can elicit both psychoactive and non-psychoactive effects. Below are a few of the more prevalent cannabinoids and their primary effects:

CBD (Cannabidiol): This therapeutic cannabinoid has many beneficial properties (pain relief, anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea and others) but is non-intoxicating. Research continues to inform us about CBD’s potential.

CBG (Cannabigerol): The first cannabinoid ever identified, CBG has displayed antifungal, antibacterial, antidepressant and pain-relieving properties. Like CBD, it is non-intoxicating.

CBN (Cannabinol): This cannabinoid has been shown to help sedate the body, alleviate pain and nausea and support a sense of calm – with minimal side effects.

CBC (Cannabichromene): Studies have demonstrated CBC’s benefits for mood, pain, inflammation, brain cells and even acne. It is non-intoxicating and aids in the entourage effect.

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): This cannabinoid has significant intoxicating effects. (It’s the component that produces the high Cannabis is known for.) THC has been proven to sedate and relax, and it also affects cognition, consciousness, mood and energy levels.

Taken alone, each cannabinoid can produce different effects in the body. When taken together, cannabinoids may work in synergy to enhance the cannabis plant’s functional benefits overall and may create vastly different experiences with different benefits and impact depending on the ratio of different cannabinoids.

Full-spectrum formulations are as close to nature as possible. The whole-plant hemp extract contains all of the cannabinoids and terpenes. They work better together – and this is commonly referred to as the “entourage effect.” Visit us at AngelWingsShop.com

Drop by Angel Wings Wellness 12 Rogers Street Gloucester to find out more how CBD can improve the quality of your life! Friday and Saturday 11-4 or call for an appointment 978-985-4592

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YES! You Have An Endocannabinoid System!

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a recently discovered network within the human body. Scientists studying THC first identified the ECS in the 1990s. The system is named for cannabinoids. The prefix endo- means “within” or “inside.”

Think of it like your body’s air traffic controller. The ECS makes sure that important messages are delivered from the brain to cells and back again – with no traffic jams or detours.

The ECS includes neurotransmitters (chemical signals) and cannabinoid receptors in the brain and all over the body. Those receptors regulate immunity, sleep, mood, learning and memory, appetite and digestion, metabolism, bone and muscle formation, skin and nerve function and motor control. As you can imagine, the ECS plays a significant role in overall health.

How does the ECS work? Your body is always looking for balance, or homeostasis. The ECS helps with that goal, by increasing or decreasing the activity of different systems in the body as needed. The ECS exists (and is active) in your body even if you don’t consume cannabinoids – but those compounds stimulate your body’s receptors. That’s how they influence things like pain, inflammation, sleep, etc.

WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT THE ECS?

The ECS is made up of two types of cannabinoid receptors, internal neurotransmitters (endocannabinoids) and cannabinoid receptor proteins expressed throughout the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. The ECS actively regulates functions involved in physiological and cognitive processes. It also contributes to homeostasis by modulating the immune, cardiovascular and reproductive systems.

The endocannabinoids of the ECS are AEA (the predominant player, also known as anandamide and N-arachidonoylethanolamine) and 2-AG (2-arachidonoylglycerol), and the enzymes that break those endocannabinoids down are FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase) and MAG lipase (monoacylglycerol lipase).

The two types of cannabinoid receptors vary in both location and function:

CB1 Receptors: Found in the brain and central nervous system. These receptors manage the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and glutamate. When THC binds to CB1 receptors, it induces the high associated with cannabis by interrupting the release of neurotransmitters.

CB2 Receptors: Found in the peripheral nervous system, these receptors are most abundant in the immune system. They help regulate inflammation, cell survival and proliferation. Think of them as a switch that turns these intracellular processes off and on as needed. Binding to CB2 receptors does not cause any intoxication.

AngelWingsShop.com

Drop by Friday Saturday 11-4 and grab some free samples or get a free wellness consultation and find out how CBD can improve the quality of your life! Or call for an appointment….978-985-4592

Drop by Friday Saturday 11-4 and grab some free samples or get a free wellness consultation and find out how CBD can improve the quality of your life! Or call for an appointment….978-985-4592

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Arthritis Pain?

If you have chronic arthritis pain, you may be wondering about cannabidiol (CBD) as a treatment. CBD, along with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other chemicals, is found in marijuana. But unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive — that is, it does not cause the intoxication or high associated with marijuana use.

There’s a good chance you’ve tried it already: according to a 2019 Gallup poll, about 14% of Americans report using CBD products, and the number one reason is pain. The Arthritis Foundation conducted its own poll, and found that 29% reported current use of CBD (mostly in liquid or topical form), and nearly 80% of respondents were either using it, had used it in the past, or were considering it. Of those using it, most reported improvement in physical function, sleep, and well-being; of note, a minority reported improvement in pain or stiffness.

Stop by Angel Wings Wellness for a free consultation and FREE samples to see if CBD can improve the quality of your life! Fridays and Saturdays 11-4 or call for a private appointment. 12 Rogers Street