CBD for Anxiety

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network of chemicals and receptors in our bodies and our pets’ bodies that help regulate various physiological functions and maintain balance known as homeostasis. Think of it as a team of messengers and receivers working together to ensure everything runs smoothly. The messengers, called endocannabinoids, are naturally produced by our own bodies. They travel around and bind to specific receptors, known as cannabinoid receptors, which are found throughout our body, including our brain, immune system, organs, and other tissues. Researchers have also discovered these endocannabinoids also bind to several other receptors.

When endocannabinoids bind to these receptors, they send signals that can affect things like pain sensation, mood, appetite, memory, sleep, immune function, and more. Essentially, the endocannabinoid system helps regulate these processes and keep our bodies in homeostasis.

In addition to the messengers and receptors, there are also enzymes that break down the endocannabinoids once their job is done. This ensures that the system remains balanced and doesn’t go into overdrive.

Interestingly, the endocannabinoid system can also interact with phytocannabinoids (also known as cannabinoids) found in the cannabis plant, such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These cannabinoids can mimic the effects of our natural messengers – to an extent- or interact with the receptors in different ways, leading to various effects on the body and mind.

The endocannabinoid system itself can sometimes dysfunction, which refers to a situation where the natural balance and function of the endocannabinoid system is disrupted or not working properly. Think of it like a miscommunication or a glitch in the system. Just like any other system in our body, the ECS can sometimes experience problems that can affect its ability to regulate different functions normally. This is where supporting the ECS with phytocannabinoids, things like CBD, come into play. By supporting the ECS with chemicals that are similar to the chemicals the body produces or offering more, we can supplement the ECS to hopefully create balance once again.ith other medications, this sedation may be excessive. Excessively sedate patients may seem dizzy or have trouble walking. If the sedation is severe, please skip the next dose of the medication and contact your veterinarian to discuss decreasing the dose.