As I continue learning all about cannabis medicine, I find myself asking the same question probably twice a week.
How can one plant treat such a numerous and diverse set of diseases?
It is truly amazing that the oil from one plant can help with so many issues including anxiety, chronic pain, cancer, migraines, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome, irritable bowel disease, seizure disorders, autism, multiple sclerosis and more.
How can we explain this?
I think that one way to explain it is that we have our own endocannabinoid system that is present in most of the cells in our body. It promotes homeostasis which is defined as a state of natural physiological balance in which there is neither an excess nor deficit of activity. It also regulates our neurons that fire along synapses.
The endocannabinoid system consists of endocannabinoid molecules called anandamide and 2-AG that are similar to THC and CBD respectively. It also has receptors that bind these endocannabinoid molecules called CB1 and CB2 receptors. The cannabinoids in the cannabis plant interact with the endocannabinoid system and its receptors.
The endocannabinoid system has been found in our brain/central nervous system, immune system, cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract-liver and pancreas, reproductive system, musculoskeletal system, skin, adrenal glands, lung tissue, and adipose tissue.
Since the endocannabinoid system is integral to our homeostasis and overall well being, I believe that the cannabis plant interacting with this important and complex system is what allows the cannabis plant to treat so many different conditions.
To learn more about how cannabis can help you please call our office to set up an appointment!
Sincerely,
Dr. Kurzman