Cannabis affects people differently, and here's why
Hi Friends!
In our previous blog “So what exactly is a cannabinoid?” we talked about phytocannabinoids, but did you know not only are there phytocannabinoids which are found in the cannabis plant, there are endocannabinoids which are found in the body? 🤯
Although humans have been consuming cannabis for centuries, we didn’t know why or how the phytocannabinoids interacted with our system until 1988. In 1988, Allyn Howlett and William Devane at the St. Louis University School of Medicine determined that the mammalian brain has receptor sites that respond to compounds found in cannabis. These receptors are named cannabinoid receptors and are located throughout the body. The CB1 receptors are mainly found in the brain (central nervous system) and CB2 receptors are primarily associated with the immune system. These receptors determine the effects of cannabis when consumed.
But the story gets even better. We like stories here at Stori 😉
After the discovery of the first cannabinoid receptor in 1988, scientists discovered that humans produce cannabinoids - called the endocannabinoid. "Endo" meaning produced naturally inside of your body. Similar to the phytocannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, the endocannabinoids activate the cannabinoid receptors. 🤯 In 1992, they discovered the endocannabinoid called anandamide (AEA) and later 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). The AEA is know as the bliss molecule which regulates mood and emotions. 2-AG reduces inflammation and regulates perception, mood, emotions, pain, and sleep cycles.
What is the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) ?
In the pursuit of further understanding of phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoids, scientists came across an unknown molecular signaling system within the body, the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS is just one of the many systems in the human body. The ECS affects many functions including pain, temperature, metabolism, memory, mood, sleep and our immune system. The ECS helps the body maintain balance and achieve homeostasis.
Our bodies and our ECS systems all work differently. That is why it's important to keep track of what products work for you personally. A strain that you like might not be desirable for your friend. It's important to personalize your cannabis experience by keeping track of what works for you and when.
The Stori App helps you to track your cannabis product inventory and preferences, even if you don't have a Stori at home just yet. It allows you to make notes and rate products you explore. Try it today!