Clinical Applications

» Supports/Balances/Modulates the Endocannabinoid System*

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an extensive biological signaling system composed of three core components: endocannabinoids, cannabinoid (CB) receptors, and enzymes. In the last 30 years, research on the ECS has expanded our understanding of this complex system. Located throughout the body, the primary role of the ECS is to maintain homoeostasis in a wide variety of physiological and cognitive processes, including appetite control, energy balance, and sensations of pain, sleep, mood, and memory. Endocannabinoid system signaling also plays an important role in the stress response, healthy inflammatory activity, immune activation, fertility, and pre- and post-natal development. The body of science elucidating the benefits of manipulating ECS activity continues to evolve, and the promise of a wide variety of physiological benefits persists. [1-4] Cannabinoids are chemical messengers involved in the complicated monitoring, signaling, and modulation mechanisms that occur in the ECS when it is triggered by changes in the body. The biological purpose of the ECS is to respond to endocannabinoids; however, the system also recognizes and responds to exogenous cannabinoids. The first CB receptor and endogenous receptor ligand (endocannabinoid) were identified in the early 1990s. Since then, additional receptors, their lipid mediators, and signaling pathways have subsequently been characterized. The two major endocannabinoids are anandamide, named for the Sanskrit word ananda which means bliss, and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG). These endocannabinoids are fatty acid neurotransmitters (arachidonic acid derivatives) that safeguard, coordinate, and fine-tune ECS messaging. There are two main enzymes responsible for breaking down anandamide and 2-AG once they’ve carried out their functions; they are fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol acid lipase, respectively. Exogenous cannabinoids can be synthetic, or they can be plant-based terpenes, botanical extracts, or phytocannabinoids that naturally occur in many plant species ranging from hemp and echinacea to cloves and black pepper. Endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids are structurally different but share many chemical similarities, and both directly interact with CB receptors in the body. [1-3] The two most prominent CB receptors, known as CB1 and CB2, are differentiated by their physiological action and location within the body. CB1 receptors are concentrated in the brain and central nervous system, whereas CB2 receptors occur mostly in peripheral tissues, including the gastrointestinal tract and the immune, reproductive, arterial, and endocrine systems. The wide distribution of the receptors is what allows the ECS to participate in such a range of physiological processes.

DIRECTIONS: Take one to two softgels daily, or as directed by your healthcare professional. Consult your healthcare professional prior to use.

Individuals taking medication should discuss potential interactions with their healthcare professional. Do not use if tamper seal is damaged.

STORAGE: Keep closed in a cool, dry place out of reach of children.