This article provides an overview of the role of cannabinoids in the endocannabinoid systems, including how these compounds interact with CB1 receptors and how these can affect the immune system. It also discusses how cannabinoids can affect the cardiovascular system.
Do Cannabinoids inhibit neurotransmitter release?
The endocannabinoid system is a complex neuromodulatory system composed of receptors, enzymes, and ECs that act as a retrograde signalling mechanism and inhibit neurotransmitter release. It is a key player in central physiological processes including learning and memory. The system also regulates anxiety, depression, and addiction. The actions of cannabinoids on this system involve inhibiting transmitter release via their retrograde interactions with CB1 receptors on the brain.
Studies have indicated that cannabinoids have beneficial effects on several different bodily systems, including the immune system. These receptors are present in important bodily tissues, including the testes and ovaries. In addition, they have a wide range of effects on the circulatory system and the immune system. (1)
Endocannabinoid-based therapies have been developed for various health conditions. These drugs are a new type of treatment for various neurological diseases. Research shows that cannabinoids are neuroprotective, and their modulation of the eCB system may prevent retinal diseases. (2)
Cannabinoids stimulate the endocannabinoid system
The Endocannabinoid System is an active cell signalling system in the human body that regulates several functions. It is composed of two types of receptors, CB1 and CB2, and is found mainly in the nervous and immune systems, but also has receptors throughout the body. The Endocannabinoid System regulates everything from pain perception to appetite and mood.
There are many herbs that contain compounds that stimulate the endocannabinoid system. One is beta-caryophyllene, which is an agonist of the CB2 receptor. It is often used in the treatment of inflammatory conditions. Other herbs, such as camelia sinensis, contain curcumin, a compound that boosts endocannabinoid levels. (3)
Cannabinoids are a class of chemicals produced by the cannabis plant and act as neurotransmitters in the body. They have a range of effects and are found in relatively small amounts in hemp and cannabis. The cannabinoids produced by cannabis and hemp are similar to those produced by the human body.
How do Cannabinoids interact with CB1 receptors?
Cannabinoids are small molecules produced by the human body and interact with cannabinoid receptors in various tissues. They act on a wide variety of physiological processes, activating signalling pathways and presynaptic receptors. These chemicals also play an important role in neuronal plasticity, regulating inhibition/excitation and long-term plasticity. Researchers have identified two cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, which are present in numerous tissues. They each have a unique action. (4)
This system evolved over 500 million years ago and is found throughout all vertebrates. It is designed to maintain a state of homeostasis, or balance, within the body. Scientists have discovered that endocannabinoids interact with these receptors, which are located throughout the body. The endocannabinoid system is important for maintaining the body’s balance and preventing disease.
It has been suggested that the endocannabinoid signalling pathway is involved in the central control of female reproductive events. It may also regulate follicular maturation and development. For women to ovulate, the level of intrafollicular AEA must be high enough to allow fertilisation of the oocyte. However, excessive levels of cannabinoids inhibit ovulation.
Cannabinoids affect the immune system
Cannabinoids affect the immune system through their interaction with the immune cells. These cannabinoids have two types of receptors, the CB1 and CB2, which are found in various parts of the immune system. Anandamide affects the communication between immune cells and inhibits immune function, while 2-acrachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) enhances immune function by increasing the production of nitric oxide, which destroys target cells. (5) The effects of these cannabinoids have been demonstrated in animal models and cell based studies. Additionally, the use of cannabis has been linked to increased white blood cell counts in HIV-positive men.
The immune system and circadian rhythms are closely related, with the immune system operating optimally at specific times. This is because it is most active during certain hours of the day, and is more likely to heal wounds during these times. Researchers have noted that disruptions to the circadian rhythms in humans can affect the immune system, which could explain why night shift workers are more susceptible to certain immune system disorders.
The research is ongoing.
About Us
CannaTelehealth, specialises in providing online consultations for various healthcare needs, including assistance with alcohol addiction. Our platform is designed to facilitate the use of advanced telehealth technology by medical professionals, ensuring the security and privacy of patient information in compliance with regulations.
We have developed an online system that simplifies the process of booking appointments with qualified and experienced General Practitioners, Nurse Practitioners, who can assist patients in accessing prescriptions for Medicinal Cannabis for their medical conditions. Our telehealth system is fully supported by our clinical team, guaranteeing that all consultations are conducted by appropriately qualified healthcare professionals.
Our doctors are authorised to prescribe Medicinal Cannabis under Schedule 8 of the Therapeutic Goods Act. In the initial consultation, your nurse or doctor will collaborate with you to determine the suitability of Medicinal Cannabis for your specific symptoms and conditions. If deemed appropriate, they will then apply for TGA approval for your electronic prescription, which can be presented at your pharmacy of choice.
Medical Cannabis Doctors Online Treatment and Consults
CannaTelehealth’s doctors have extensive experience in assessing patients for medicinal cannabis. Prior to having an online consultation with our healthcare professionals it is a good idea to write down your questions before your consultation so that you don’t forget them.
Our doctors will review your medical history and confirm that you meet the criteria for a medicinal cannabis prescription under the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Special Access Scheme. We will then either prescribe medication through the Authorised Prescriber pathway or submit your application to the TGA and you should receive your product within 2 business days.
All our doctors are trained under the TGA authorised prescriber scheme and have detailed knowledge of how cannabis affects the body. Our doctors are also able to recommend the best dosage and type of cannabis for your condition. Our doctors are able to prescribe all forms of medicinal cannabis including capsules, tinctures, sprays and vape cartridges.
The cost of your medical cannabis will vary depending on your condition and the specific product that is recommended for you.
Our clinic offers bulk billing for patients who have been approved by the DVA. This is worth checking for your eligibility criteria for this discounted online consultation.
Book a consultation – Follow the simple steps to engaging with an online health professional who will assess your eligibility for alternative treatments such as medicinal cannabis and what might be the cause of your chronic pain.
To contact us at CannaTelehealth you can either go directly to the website and add your details directly to our ‘Contact Us Form’ We will contact you within 1 hour. Normally our online healthcare professionals who are pain medicine specialists will have a booking time within 1 day if suitable. Alternatively you may contact us via info@cannatelehealth.com.au.
References
- De Petrocellis L, Di Marzo V. Non-CB1, non-CB2 receptors for endocannabinoids, plant cannabinoids, and synthetic cannabimimetics: focus on G-protein-coupled receptors and transient receptor potential channels. J NeuroImmune Pharmacol. 2010;5:103–121. doi: 10.1007/s11481-009-9177-z.
- Cannabinoids Regulate Sensory Processing in Early Olfactory and Visual Neural Circuits Thomas Heinbockel1,* and Alex Straiker2 Front Neural Circuits. 2021; 15: 662349. Published online 2021 Jul 7. doi: 10.3389/fncir.2021.662349
- Curcumin induces peripheral antinociception by opioidergic and cannabinoidergic mechanism: Pharmacological evidence
- Danielle Diniz Aguiar 1, Amanda Cristina Reis Gonzaga 1, Ana Luiza Higino Teófilo 1, Fernanda Almeida Miranda 1, Andrea de Castro Perez 1, Igor Dimitri Gama Duarte 1, Thiago Roberto Lima Romero 2 Life Sci. 2022 Mar 15;293:120279. doi: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120279. Epub 2022 Jan 12.
