Cannabidiol (CBD) may be the second-most-prominent compound of the cannabis plant, but these days, it’s certainly the most talked about among the general population. Though slightly less dominant and historically less sought after than its high-inducing counterpart, THC, CBD has become a major trend not just in the cannabis industry, but also in health and wellness, food, and even cosmetic products. Budding mainstream interest in CBD, combined with mounting evidence detailing its therapeutic benefits, has made us all curious about this non-intoxicating cannabinoid and what it can do for us. Though we have a long way to go in mastering the science of CBD and unlocking its full medicinal potential, we do have a working understanding of how CBD molecules interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce a variety of therapeutic benefits. Here’s a quick primer on your body’s endocannabinoid system, how it interacts with CBD, and the potential benefits we can reap from this interaction. The first endocannabinoid was discovered by Raphael Mechoulam, along with National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) researchers William Devane and Dr. Lumir Hanus, in 1992, which makes it a relatively new scientific discovery. Though further research is still needed to fully understand the mechanics of the ECS, researchers have identified its presence throughout the entire body, maintaining an internal regulatory balance, or homeostasis, in several bodily functions. CBD and Your Endocannabinoid System, Explained
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