More than 300 years after farmers had begun growing hemp as a staple crop in the United States, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) was discovered in the 1990s by researchers studying bioactive compounds in the Cannabis sativa plant. Since that time, cannabinoid receptors have been discovered in many different areas of the human body, such as the brain, digestive tract, and immune system. Research continues to reveal diverse physiological functions of the ECS, unique properties of endogenous (endocannabinoids) and exogenous (phytocannabinoids) cannabinoids, and strategies to support ECS tone and function. In this talk, Erik Lundquist, MD explores phytocannabinoids(e.g., cannabidiol [CBD]) found in hemp extract, including bioactive properties and a growing body of literature informing potential therapeutic applications.
Hemp and the Endocannabinoid System
Eric Lundquist, MD Thursday, August 12, 2021, at 11 AM PT
Hemp Oil Extract and Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) Synergize to Enhance Pain Relief
During the past decade there has been an increasing interest in cannabis-derived natural products for pain management with a better safety profile and adequate pain relief. Recently, researchers at the University of California, Irvine evaluated the analgesic effects of two natural ingredients—both individually and in combination—in in vivo experiments: a proprietary, organic, full-spectrum hemp oil extract and PEA. Read on to learn how effective these ingredients were in treating acute and chronic pain.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a biological system that plays diverse roles in regulating various aspects of health. ECS actions on the central and peripheral nervous systems are numerous, such as helping to moderate stress responses and pain sensations, supporting mood and memory, and performing immunomodulatory functions like reducing inflammation, to name a few. This video animation outlines the role of phytocannabinoids in the ECS.
The Role of the Endocannabinoid System and Palmitoylethanolamide in Managing Pain and Addiction
The US Department of Health and Human Services has brought a new level of awareness to the opioid crisis in America. Innovative research into understanding pain and addiction is opening novel avenues for targeting different phases of the addiction cycle. In this blog post, Kari Hamrick, PhD, RD and Elnaz Karimian-Azari, PhD outline an overview of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and its potential for treatment of addiction.
If you recommend hemp products for your patients to address stress, minor pain, or any other conditions, your patients may have more questions than you have time to address in an office visit. We’ve created a Hemp FAQ for you to share with your patients to help them understand the differences among the many hemp products, the benefits to taking hemp, and the best delivery format for your individual goals.
Seeking other patient resources? We have created a patient resources page to help you serve your patients better. These resources are created by Metagenics Institute researchers and clinicians who provide practical guidelines and tips for healthy eating and healthy living for you to share with your patients.
