Why is it called EndoCannabinoid System ?

The name "endocannabinoid system" is based on its interaction with cannabinoids from cannabis and not with other plants or substances, such as sage. The system was not named "salvianoid" or based on other plant substances because the endocannabinoid system was primarily discovered through the study of cannabinoids found in cannabis (Cannabis sativa), which is the most well-known plant containing cannabinoids.

The term "endocannabinoids" originates from the word "cannabinoids," which refers to the chemical components derived from cannabis (Cannabis sativa). The prefix "endo-" means "within the body" and is used to denote the natural substances produced endogenously in the human body (and in other animals).

In summary, the human body produces endogenous cannabinoids... Endocannabinoids are natural substances produced by the body that act on receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This name was chosen because these molecules in the human body chemically resemble phytocannabinoids (such as THC and CBD) found in cannabis but differ as they are internally produced by the body.

The discovery of the endocannabinoid system in 1992, when scientists identified anandamide (AEA) as the first recognized endocannabinoid, suggested that the human body has a natural mechanism that affects various functions through cannabinoids.

This connection explains why endocannabinoids are considered part of a natural regulatory system that influences many biological functions, from pain to mood and appetite.

In contrast, sage (Salvia officinalis), for example, does not contain the same category of cannabinoids. Although sage and other plants have therapeutic properties, they lack the same chemical composition or mode of action in the body that characterizes cannabis and the endocannabinoid system.

Therefore, the term "cannabinoid" is directly associated with the chemical cannabidiol, derived from cannabis, which is fundamental to the functioning of this system.

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has existed on Earth long before humans.

According to scientific research, the endocannabinoid system has been recognized as an extremely ancient system that exists in many animal species, from vertebrates to invertebrates.

The endocannabinoid system seems to have evolved approximately 600 million years ago.

Recent discoveries indicate that the system's essential components, such as the CB1 and CB2 receptors, already existed in early animals, such as fish and invertebrates.

Some elements of the system have also been detected in invertebrates, such as leeches and sea urchins, confirming its antiquity.

Modern humans (Homo sapiens) appeared approximately 300,000 years ago, according to the latest data from paleoanthropological and genetic studies.

The endocannabinoid system, therefore, predates humans by far and has evolved to regulate essential biological functions common to many animal species. The discovery of this system and its function has transformed our understanding of biology and health.

Earth indirectly supports the ECS as it is the habitat that fosters the evolution and preservation of the species possessing it. While Earth itself has not been found to have an ECS as an entity, the ECS is part of the vast biological diversity that characterizes it.

Aside from cannabis (Cannabis sativa), other plants contain substances similar to phytocannabinoids, although they are typically not identical molecules.

Some of these have been studied for their effects on the endocannabinoid system (ECS):

• Echinacea (Echinacea spp.): Contains compounds called alkylamides, which can influence CB2 receptors, particularly those related to immune responses.
• Hops (Humulus lupulus): Contains terpenes and cannabinoid-like substances, such as β-caryophyllene, which is a CB2 receptor agonist.
• Black pepper (Piper nigrum): Also contains β-caryophyllene, which interacts with the ECS and contributes to anti-inflammatory effects.
• Cocoa (Theobroma cacao): Contains substances that mimic the action of endocannabinoids, such as anandamide, and may influence endocannabinoid production.
• Pomegranate (Punica granatum): Contains polyphenols that may indirectly affect the ECS, although more research is needed in this field.
• Black truffle (Tuber melanosporum): Has been reported to contain anandamide, the same endocannabinoid found in the human body.
• Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea): Studies suggest possible effects on mood and stress regulation.
• Valerian (Valeriana officinalis): Traditionally used for calming effects, though the precise mechanisms in the ECS are not fully understood.
• Helichrysum (Helichrysum): Contains cannabinoids, primarily cannabigerol (CBG), and is traditionally used for respiratory problems and inflammation.
• Flaxseeds: Contain compounds with effects similar to cannabidiol (CBD), influencing the immune system.

While cannabis is the most well-known plant with phytocannabinoids, many plants produce substances that affect or interact with the endocannabinoid system.

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