The human body is, in a way, like Goldilocks – consciously and unconsciously we want things to be “just right”.
The market has exploded with interest in CBD, and for good reason. This post explores its incredible influence on our bodies’ desire for things to be “just right”, aka homeostasis.
Before we dive into CBD’s effect, let’s briefly explore the body’s physiology. What does homeostasis mean, anyway?
Generally speaking, human physiology is first and foremost a balance between polar opposites, the yin and yang, so to speak. This balance between all the bodies’ systems creates homeostasis. For example, in looking at the immune system, the opposites are inflammation and anti-inflammation. When these two are balanced, your immune system functions as it should.
Essentially, all our bodies’ systems are connected, as you may have experienced with your own health. This maintenance of homeostasis for all systems is a complex balancing act. So how does your body maintain homeostasis?
Patricia Ramos lists the 5 different ways:
- Maintaining normal fluctuations in body temperature
- Maintaining normal blood pressure range
- Regulating glucose levels
- Excrete toxins (through the urinary system)
- Maintaining a normal pH scale
Let’s now introduce CBD and the Endocannabinoid System, a fundamental communication system in your body. In conjunction with the above ways the body maintains homeostasis, the endocannabinoid system regulates all your body’s systems through receptors.
Ever since the endocannabinoid system was discovered 30 years ago, it has been found that CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the most potent natural mediators of this system.
Ramos states that CBD has demonstrated incredible power to “interact with, support, and unlock the healing potential of your endocannabinoid system.”
In essence, the endocannabinoid system helps to maintain homeostasis by using cannabinoid receptors to monitor the body’s reactions. Cannabinoids create chemical responses to address issues of imbalance in the body.
So is CBD for you? The benefits of this natural compound are difficult to ignore. Do your research, monitor your body after taking CBD, and see for yourself 