Many people vow that CBD works wonders for their chronic pain, sleeplessness, migraines, and even depression. But why does CBD work when other, more corrosive prescription drugs, often do not? It all comes down to CBD’s ability to work with ECS. 

In 1992, researchers discovered the endocannabinoid system, or ECS. What is the ECS? It is an amazingly vast network in the human body that helps the body maintain homeostasis, or balance. The ECS plays an important role in regulating the secretion of hormones and helps regulate sleep, memory, mood, temperature, the immune system, appetite and digestion, pain, reproduction and fertility, and inflammation.  

The ECS is composed of CB1 and CB2 cell receptors. CB1 and CB2 receptors are found throughout the body. CB1 receptors are found mainly in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more prevalent in our immune system, the gastrointestinal system and the peripheral nervous system.  

These receptors are like locks, and cannabinoids are like keys that fit in these locks.  Endocannabinoids are cannabinoids that are produced within our body. Phytocannabinoids, like CBD or THC, are produced in cannabis plants, and, incredibly, just happen to fit into the CB1 and CB2 receptors in our bodies.  

Given that the ECS regulates such a wide range of functions, if that system becomes imbalanced, it can lead to a host of problems. Research suggests that a depleted ECS can cause migraines, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, and other medical conditions. (Try Warfighter Hemp’s CBD Bath Bombs for a soothing, CBD infused soak)

As we mentioned above, CBD is a phytocannabinoid and a “key” that fits into the “locks” (aka receptors) in our ECS.  More good news – CBD is an endocannabinoid modulator. This means that it can help to bring an endocannabinoid system that is out of balance back into balance. It does this by increasing the availability of endocannabinoids in the body. Endocannabinoids are created within your own body, so when CBD increases the availability of endocannabinoids in your body, it is helping your ECS to operate more effectively.  

Because of these unique characteristics of CBD and the extensive network of the ECS in the human body, CBD has the potential to provide myriad health benefits.