Boost Immunity Month Week 3: Supplements- Immune Support

This week I would like to dig deep and discuss supplements to boost your immunity. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), there isn’t any evidence to support that the use of any one supplement will prevent or treat COVID-19; however, there are studies that show specific supplements may strengthen your body’s natural immune response. I am going to go over each of these in detail so you can decide what may be best for you.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C has been shown to help you fight off a cold faster as well as ease cold symptoms if you are taking it on a regular basis and prior to getting sick. It is an antioxidant and can help reduce inflammation, even lung inflammation. Vitamin C supports barriers that keep germs like viruses and bacteria from entering the body. It can help kill bacteria that does get in and can also support your immune cells so they can do their job.

Some good sources of vitamin C can be found in:

·        Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and limes

·        Tropical fruits like kiwi, mango, and papaya

·        Strawberries

·        Leafy greens

·        Cantaloupe

·        Broccoli 

·        Bell peppers

·        Tomatoes

Vitamin C should be obtained from food in your diet; unfortunately, many of us are not eating enough items that contain the 75mg in a recommended daily allowance for women and 90mg a day for men. Studies have actually shown that a dose of 1,000mg per day of vitamin C were needed to have an effect on the common cold. For the best absorption rates, smaller doses are recommended. Taking two doses of 500mg would be better than one dose of 1,000mg. Always ask your doctor what dose would be right for you. Vitamin C is also used to help with anxiety, depression and other mood disorders.

Vitamin C is also popular to use to protect against infection since it boosts overall immune health. This vitamin supports the function of various immune cells. It can improve their ability to protect against infection. Vitamin C is also necessary for cellular death, which helps clear out old cells and replaces them with new cells. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant by protecting against damage caused by oxidative stress. This occurs when free radicals collect in your body. Oxidative stress will negatively affect your immune health and has been linked to many diseases.1

Vitamin C intake on a regular basis has been shown to reduce the duration and even severity of upper respiratory tract infections. Another study showed that regularly taking vitamin C supplements reduced the occurrence of a common cold in individuals with high physical stress like soldiers or marathon runners.2 High doses of intravenous vitamin C treatments have been used with those who have severe infections like sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) that resulted from a viral infection.3 The limit for taking vitamin C is 2,000mg. Daily doses normally range between 250 and 1,000mg. Check with your doctor to see what dose would be right for you.

Vitamin D

This is a fat-soluble nutrient that is essential to the health and proper functioning of your immune system. Vitamin D enhances the effects of your white blood cells. These are an important part of your immune defense. It decreases inflammation which, in turn, promotes a healthier immune response. Many of us are deficient in this important vitamin. When we are low on Vitamin D we can see an increase risk of upper respiratory tract infections, including the flu and asthma.

Some studies have shown that vitamin D supplements may improve the response to antiviral treatments in those with certain infections, hepatitis C and even HIV. Extremely low levels of vitamin D can also drop your liver functions and create toxicity in your body. A friend of mine recently was told by her doctor that she needed to boost her vitamin D levels to 6,000 daily for nine weeks to replenish her low levels. Her body was not absorbing the vitamin D tablets, so she had to opt for natural sunshine and food to get her levels back up to normal levels. My friend was severely depleted. Depending on your blood levels, a normal daily dose of 1,000 to 4,000 IU should be sufficient. I, personally, take 5,000 IU and sit in the sun for 10 minutes every day.

You can also get vitamin D from foods, but they are few and far between. For example, fish like salmon, sardines and tuna all have vitamin D. A piece of salmon can have up to 700 IUs if wild caught. Farm raised is only 200-300 IUs. A can of sardines has 177 IUs. An egg has 50 IUs. Portabella mushrooms have 1 IU per mushroom and one ounce of cheese has 7 IUs. In order to meet your daily dose you would have to eat a lot of mushrooms and cheese and at least 8 pieces of salmon every day!

In order for my friend to bring her levels of vitamin D back to a normal range, she sat in the sun for one hour every day for two weeks to get her liver function back up to 100%. Her feet stopped swelling and her toxicity levels diminished.

The primary function of vitamin D is to help your body maintain optimal blood levels of calcium and phosphorous. You can get these through exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, as well as from food and a daily supplement. If you are worried about sunburns, reach out as I have an amazing organic sun cream that I highly recommend. It blocks the bad UV rays while allowing the good UV rays in. You can read, pronounce and eat the ingredients. With so many studies around the toxic chemicals in over the counter sunscreen causing skin cancer, it is very important to know what you are putting on your skin to protect it.4

Zinc

Is a mineral that is essential for immune system function. Zinc is need for immune cell development and can play an important role in inflammatory response within the body. When you are deficient in this nutrient it can significantly affect your body’s immune systems ability to function properly, which will increase your risk of infection and disease. Zinc can help keep pneumonia and bronchial issues at bay.

Numerous studies have show that zinc supplements may protect against respiratory tract infections including the common cold that can settle in the chest leading to bronchitis or pneumonia.5 Zinc can help several symptoms like nasal drainage, nasal congestion, sore throat and cough. According to the NIH, zinc has been found to help produce and activate the T-cells (t-lymphocytes) which can trigger your body to respond to infections.

For a faster recovery, you can take zinc when you start getting sick (within the first 24 hours) to decrease the total duration of the illness or infection including the common cold. Taking a daily dose of 40mg is safe for healthy adults on a long-term basis. Anything more than this could interfere with copper absorption which can actually increase your risk of infection.

You can also find zinc in the foods you eat. Zinc plays an important role in reducing the severity and duration of illness as it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Here are some good sources of zinc in foods:

·        Shellfish

·        Meat

·        Oysters 

·        Cashews

·        Chickpeas

·        Whole grains like oats and bran products

Elderberry

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra), is full of antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Elderberry has been made into syrups that have been used for the common cold, flu, seasonal allergies and bacterial sinus infections. Elderberry works by reducing the swelling in the mucus membranes. Some studies show that elderberry extract reduces the duration of the flu and some doctors believe it can help boost your immune system against the coronavirus infection.

In test-tube studies, elderberry extract showed compelling antibacterial and antiviral potential against bacterial pathogens that lead to upper respiratory tract infections. 6 It has been shown to activate and enhance the immune system response. Elderberry comes in syrup form as well as pill form, lozenges and tinctures. One study showed those who took 15ml of elderberry syrup four times a day experienced improved symptoms four days sooner than those who didn’t take it.7

Echinacea

Echinacea is a type of plant in the daisy family. Certain species have been shown to improve immune health. Echinacea has been shown to have antiviral effects and help fight respiratory viruses including rhinoviruses and respiratory syncytial virus.8 One research study showed that taking a daily echinacea product may have improved the response to the flu vaccine in those who had breathing difficulties like asthma or bronchitis. These high-risk types could be more affected by the complications of the coronavirus come the fall and winter seasonal months.

This herb has been used as a medicinal plant in many ancient cultures for centuries. Echinacea comes in many forms including syrups, capsules, lozenges and teas. Consult with an herbalist before using to find the appropriate dosing.

 Garlic

Garlic has powerful antiviral properties that can be helpful in reducing the severity of symptoms of flu or the common cold. Garlic may shorten the duration of a cold. It has been shown to boost your immunity by stimulating white blood cells like NK (natural killer) cells and macrophages. You can eat garlic fresh or take it in the form of a pill supplement.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are known to be high in B vitamins like riboflavin and niacin as well as selenium. These are needed to keep your immune system running at 100% optimum. Mushrooms are also high in polysaccharides. These are sugar-like molecules that boost your immune function.

Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries in ancient cultures. They were used to prevent and treat infection and disease. There are over 270 species that are known to have immune boosting properties.9 Reishi, shitake, lion’s mane, cordyceps, maitake and turkey tail are all types that have been shown to benefit a healthier immune system. Some types of mushrooms can help reduce symptoms of asthma and lung infections.

In a randomized, eight week study 79 adults were given 1.7 gras of cordyceps mycelium culture extract and showed a 38% increase in the activity of white blood cells that protect against infection (NK cells).10 Turkey tail variety has been shown to have powerful effects on enhancing the immune response, especially in those with certain types of cancer.11 Mushroom products can be found in concentrated forms of tinctures, teas, powders and supplements.

 Selenium

Selenium is a mineral that has a variety of uses. It is an effective antioxidant and can boost immune function. Selenium supplements may improve antiviral defense against influenza strains, including H1N1.12 If you have an autoimmune disorder, be careful as it could have a negative impact on your immune system.

Astragalus

Astragalus is an herb used in Traditional Chinese medicine. This herb is used to strengthen the immune system and treat upper respiratory infections, seasonal allergies, common cold, bacteria, viruses and the swine flu. One research study showed that taking 160mg of astragalus root extract by mouth for three to six weeks found improvement in symptoms of runny nose, itching and sneezing due to seasonal allergies.

Andrographis

This herb contains andrographolide a terpenoid compound found to have antiviral effects against respiratory viruses including influenza A and enterovirus D68.13 It has also been used as a painkiller/fever reducer as well as a treatment for the common cold, diarrhea, fever due to infections, jaundice and as a health tonic to treat the liver and cardiovascular health.

Taking Andrographis extract along with Siberian ginseng could improve symptoms of the common cold when taken within 72 hours of feeling symptoms. A study of patients with the flu who took a specific Andrographis extract along with Siberian ginseng felt better quicker than patients taking amantadine, a drug approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prevent Asian flu. The patients also experienced fewer complications of the flu like breathing problems, sinus pain and coughing or bronchitis.

Licorice

The licorice root contains many elements, including glycyrrhizin, that could help protect against viral infections. It exhibits antiviral activity against acute respiratory-syndrome-related coronavirus (SARS-CoV).14 Licorice root can loosen congestion and reduce inflammation. It is also used to help stomach ailments including leaky gut, ulcers and indigestion. When used as a gargle it can soothe the pain of a sore throat. It can also be taken as a powder/tea or in a pill form.

Turmeric

This spice has shown many positive health effects. Curcumin is the main active compound in turmeric and is well known for its anti-inflammatory effects, but also for its support of the immune system when it activates many types of immune cells. Eating turmeric along with black pepper and a healthy fat shows that the absorption increases in the body by up to 2000%.

Turmeric is used in curry sauces, but can be used in a variety of dishes. Turmeric powder can be used in egg dishes, smoothies, soups, rice, potatoes and vegetables. It pairs well with fish, poultry and red meat. Turmeric has also been used in lattes and teas. Adding a half of a teaspoon of dried turmeric and a pinch of black pepper to a cup of almond milk, oat milk or low-fat milk to create a “Golden Milk” that can help you sleep well.

Curcumin is used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic activity. It helps reduce inflammation and boosts the body’s immune response.

Propolis/Honey-Local

Propolis is the resin-like material produced by honeybees. It is used as a sealant in the hives, but it has amazing immune enhancing effects. It has been used for boosting the immune system. It is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory manager. Some studies have shown that it can help prevent or reduce the duration of common colds as well as upper respiratory tract infections. You can find propolis from local honey and beekeepers. You can use it in smoothies, tea or capsule/liquid form. You can dilute it in water and gargle for a sore throat and mouth sores.

 Acai Berry

This berry is one of the most nutritious berries on the planet. It is native to the Amazon rainforest and has been used for centuries for its healing, immune-boosting and energizing properties. Research shows the antioxidant-rich berry may suppress and repair any oxidative damage to the body. It can also encourage the production of human gamma delta T cells which are an important part of the immune system. When given directly to people it boosted their white blood cells which ensures a healthy immune system.

Key benefits:

·        Energy Booster

·        Aids weight loss

·        Promotes healthy skin

·        Helps digestion

·        Powerful antioxidant (stops bad cell production)

·        Immune System booster

·        Improves Cellular health.

·        Promotes healthy heart function

·        Anti-Aging effects

·        Reduces irritation

·        Improves mental function.

Moringa

Moringa oleifera is a plant native to northern India. Ancient cultures have used the leaves, flowers, seeds and roots for centuries. It has many important vitamins and minerals. The leaves have seven times more vitamin C than oranges and 15 times more potassium than bananas, without the sugar. The plant also contains calcium, protein, iron and amino acids that help in building and repairing muscles.

Moringa is packed with antioxidants to protect your cells from damage and could boost your immune system. Some studies have also shown that these antioxidants can lower blood pressure as well as reduce fat in the blood and body.

It has been used as a remedy for the following:

·        Joint pain- can lower fluid swelling and pain in Rheumatoid arthritis

·        Heart health

·        Cancer- Tests show that the leaf extract slowed growth of pancreatic cancer cells and helped chemotherapy work better.

·        Bacterial, viral and fungal infections

·        Diabetes- Studies show the insulin-like proteins can help lower blood sugar and how the body releases insulin.

·        Long-lasting inflammation

·        Memory- some experts believe that the antioxidants and other health-promoting plant chemicals could health inflammation in the brain.

You can find moringa in a pill form, oil, tea and leaf extracts made from powders and added to water. Do not use if you are pregnant or breast feeding and always talk with your doctor if you are any other medications prior to using moringa.

 Ginger

 This root is known for it’s calming effects on the stomach lining, but it is also full of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Like garlic, it also has antibacterial and antiviral properties that help boost the body’s immune system.

Freshly cut, crushed or grated ginger is great to use in a daily tea or use ground ginger in your recipes. It can be added to smoothies, stews, veggies and on meats, fish and poultry. It can be taken as a supplement, but ask your doctor for dosage support.

Probiotics

Probiotics are the live bacteria and yeasts in your gut that are beneficial for immune health and digestive health. Your body is full of bacteria, good and bad. Probiotics are known as the “helpful” bacteria that we need. It is well known that 80% of your immune cells are located in the gut! Research has also shown that probiotics could help treat seasonal allergies and have some benefits for immune-related diseases and viral infections.

Each probiotic will depend on the type of bacterial strains it contains as well as the parts per billion. The one I am currently using has 15 strains and over 50 billion Colony-Forming Units (CFUs). Scientists have found that the combination of lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium have been very helpful in treating the immune system as well as hay fever symptoms.

You can get your probiotics by eating foods like yogurt and sauerkraut or in a pill form. Discuss your needs with your doctor or the Registered Nutritionist or Dietician at a Health Foods Store to find the right one for you. I have taken one to help boost mood as well as another one to help with women’s health.

While vitamins and supplements can help fill in the gaps in your diet, the best way to load up on essential nutrients and boost your immunity is to get them straight from food. Your body will absorb and use vitamins and nutrients better when they com from a dietary source; however, I also know that this isn’t always easy to do, especially if you or your child is a picky eater.

Staying hydrated can also boost your immune health. Water helps your body produce lymph, which carries the white blood cells and other immune system cells. Try to avoid beverages that can dehydrate you like coffee or have too much sugar like sodas, sports drinks and even alcohol. Eat more hydrating foods like cucumbers, celery or watermelon.

Foods high in antioxidants are your best bet for keeping your immune system running on all cylinders. Antioxidants help you fight off damage from pollution and other toxins you get from your environment. If you have too many of these toxins in your system, it can lead to disease including cancer.

Here are some good food sources to incorporate into your diet:

·        Red Cabbage

·        Red Grapes

·        Berries

·        Nuts

·        Dark chocolate

·        Leafy greens

·        Beets

·        Sweet potatoes

·        Carrots

·        Artichokes

·        Certain beans

It is also good to add in more protein to your diet. Protein is made up of amino acids and amino acids are used as fuel for the immune system. They support the immune functions of our intestinal cells. Your immune system can become weak if you are deficient in protein and could put you at risk of developing disease. How much you need will depend on your age, body size, health status and stage of life. Check with your healthcare provider to see what would be a good dosage for you. If you are vegan or vegetarian you will need to supplement and increase your protein and amino acid intake as well as take supplements to support the lack of animal protein you are not receiving.

Good sources to add into your diet:

·        Eggs

·        Minimally processed or organic beef and pork

·        Fish-not farm raised

·        Poultry like chicken and turkey

·        Greek and icelandic yogurts

·        Nuts

·        Beans and soy products

Another supplement you can add to your daily regime is using a hemp CBD tincture. More and more studies are popping up with the overall benefits of hemp CBD.

CBD is short for cannabidiol- one of the many cannabinoids or molecules produced uniquely by the cannabis family. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, the psychoactive element in marijuana, CBD is non-psychoactive. It doesn’t have a strong effect on cognitive brain activity and doesn’t cause the “high” associated with marijuana.

Every variety of the cannabis family produces cannabinoids, including hemp. CBD and THC are the most well-known cannabinoids, there are many different types and just recently more research and significant resources have been poured into studies.

Our brains have specific receptors designed to accept cannabinoids. These are known as our CB1 and CB2 receptors. These are responsible for the assimilation of cannabinoid molecules into your system, resulting in either an increase in immune responses or the psychoactive “high” depending on which version you take.

With the current opioid epidemic, there has been a great deal of interest in the therapeutic effects of CBD. Dr. J. Hamptom Atkins, Co-Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Research (CMCR) at the University of California, San Diego is conducting rigorous studies of CBD for its potential treatment of schizophrenia and autism. In, fact, according to the ClinicalTrials.gov, a federal database of accredited clinical trials worldwide, there are about 150 trials in progress that are testing CBD as a potential treatment for a variety of conditions, including; autism, skin conditions, alcoholism and schizophrenia.

The New England Journal of Medicine published a clinical trial20 in 2017 finding that CBD was highly effective in reducing seizures in those suffering from Dravet syndrome, a rare form of epilepsy. With this finding, the FDA was able to approve the oral CBD solution Epidiolex to treat this rare disease.

Dr. J. Hamptom Atkins has also seen interest in the possible anti-inflammatory effects of CBD for use in arthritis throughout the body. In fact, recent in vitro research21 has shown that CBD treatment may help reduce the inflammation for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

The research community has only just begun to pursue more detailed studies into the distinct effects of various cannabinoids, but they do believe the potential of CBD is very promising.

What is the difference between Full Spectrum vs CBD Isolate oil?

A Full Spectrum CBD means the entire Hemp plant is used in the extraction and it contains all the cannabinoids that can be extracted from the hemp plant: 

• CBD (cannabidiol)
• CBDA (cannabidiolic acid) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in Cannabis that reportedly has therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of cancer.
• CBN (cannabinol) CBN is created when THC-A oxidizes. CBN can be used effectively as a sleep aid or sedative.
• CBG (cannabigerol) is a cannabinoid that shows promise as an antibacterial agent and an anti-inflammatory.
• CBC (cannabichromene) has been shown to encourage the human brain to grow by increasing the viability of developing brain cells in a process known as neurogenesis.
• CBL (cannabicyclol) a non-psychotomimetic cannabinoid found in Cannabis that reportedly exerts therapeutic effects. 

·        CBV (cannabivarin) CBV is an oxidation product of tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV, THV).

o   THCV is an appetite suppressant.

o   THCV may help with Diabetes. Research shows promise in THCV’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance.

o   THCV may reduce panic attacks. It appears to curb anxiety in PTSD patients without suppressing emotions.

o   THCV may help with Alzheimer’s. Tremors, motor control and brain lesions appear to be improved by THCV.

o   THCV stimulates bone growth. Because it promotes the growth of new bone cells. THCV is being looked at for osteoporosis and other bone related conditions.

• CBDV (cannabidivarin) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in Cannabis that reportedly has therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of pain, mood disorders, and inflammatory diseases.
• CBCV (cannabichromevarin) CBCV is known first and foremost to be an effective anticonvulsant.
• CBGV (cannabigerovarin) One of the most beneficial medicinal cannabinoids offered by the cannabis herb is cannabigerovarin, a derivative of cannabigerol, a molecule that has been described as the “mother of all cannabinoids” due to its role as the molecular source of all other cannabinoids — including THC and cannabidiol.

·        CBGM (cannabigerol monomethyl ether) CBGM has comparable results as that of CBG and can help patients with the conditions like; Severe nausea, Glaucoma, Chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, Psoriasis, Arthritis, Cancer. CBGM is yet to be explored at a much deeper level. But what we can see clearly is that the compound seems to have great medical potential in terms of treating different disease symptoms.

·        CBE (cannabielsoin) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid derived from CBD. It is produced metabolism of CBD, or exposure of CBD to the elements. 

• CBT (cannabicitran) CBT is likely a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that, when present alongside THC, can lessen THC’s myriad psychoactive effects.

There has been some concern because extracting all of these cannabinoids from the hemp plant also means that there are trace amounts of THC – which is the psychoactive aspect of cannabis – in CBD oil. However, these amounts are tiny and heavily regulated (to a maximum of 0.3%), which minimizes the psychoactive risks of Full Spectrum Hemp CBD oil. To be considered legal, THC levels cannot exceed these regulations.

There are hundreds of active compounds in the plant including terpenes and flavonoids, most prominent being kaempferol, luteolin or quercetin. These are high in antioxidant properties and count as the most important health benefits of flavonoids. Most flavone compounds also show significant anti-inflammatory, antifungal and diastolic effects on the body. 

Terpenes (/?t??rpi?n/) Terpenes are a large and diverse class of organic compounds, produced by a variety of plants, particularly conifers, and by some insects. They often have a strong odor and may protect the plants that produce them by deterring herbivores and by attracting predators and parasites of herbivores. Although sometimes used interchangeably with "terpenes", terpenoids (or isoprenoids) are modified terpenes as they contain additional functional groups, usually oxygen-containing. 

Terpenes and terpenoids are the primary constituents of the essential oils of many types of plants and flowers. Essential oils are used widely as fragrances in perfumery and traditional medicine, such as aromatherapy. Synthetic variations and derivatives of natural terpenes and terpenoids also greatly expand the variety of aromas used in perfumery and flavors used in food additives. Vitamin A is a terpenoid.

Flavonoids have been shown to protect against thrombosis, a main cause in stroke victims 15. 

Flavonoids23 is a group of natural substances found in fruits, vegetables, grains, bark, roots, stems, flowers, tea and wine. These natural products are well known for their beneficial effects on health and efforts are being made to isolate the ingredients so called flavonoids. Flavonoids are now considered as an indispensable component in a variety of nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, medicinal and cosmetic applications. This is attributed to their anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic and anti-carcinogenic properties coupled with their capacity to modulate key cellular enzyme function. 

Hemp is a botanical medicine designed by nature and contains a diverse spectrum of active molecules that work together within your body. It has a rich therapeutic history. In fact, before it was prohibited, physicians across the globe prescribed the cannabis plant with other herbs for a wide range of conditions17: 

·        Aphrodisiac uses

·        Menstrual cramps

·        Heavy bleeding

·        Sore urination

·        PMS

·        Sorenness during sex

·        Nausea during pregnancy

·        Menopause

·        Post-partum hemorrhage

·        Difficult childbirth

Many medical practitioners were disappointed when it was taken from the medical community in the early 20th century. 

Pharmaceutical companies have tried to capture cannabis’ therapeutic properties by extracting single molecules such as THC crystals or CBD isolate. Unfortunately, these purified forms are typically less effective, or have unwanted side effects when compared to using the whole plant. 

THC is the most abundant and psychoactive compound found in cannabis; however, the hemp plant is bred to be high in the CBD and low in the THC, while marijuana is high in THC and some strains have a higher CBD content.  

It was thought that the THC was the active ingredient behind all the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, but with more research they found that purified THC can relieve pain, nausea and muscle spasms, it came with some serious downsides; increased anxiety, memory issues and could lead to atrophy in the brain’s hippocampus. 

However, when scientists use the whole-plant extract with a higher CBD and low THC (Hemp Plant) they found more positive effects including being more effective at fighting breast cancer cells than THC alone19. 

Endocannabinoid System

Our bodies produce natural endocannabinoids that work with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) receptors to maintain health in all our bodily systems. However, what happens when we don’t produce enough of these endocannabinoids?

Ethan Russo, M.D. Director of Research and Development of the International Cannabis and Cannabinoids Institute has a theory22 that clinical endocannabinoid deficiency could be the cause behind migraines, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome and other treatment-resistant syndromes. The endocannabinoid system is present in every major bodily system, which is how it’s malfunction can cause such a plethora of conditions.

Endocannabinoid deficiency isn’t talked about, outside the cannabis (hemp or marijuana) community. In fact, sadly, medical schools are rarely teaching their students about the ECS and its overall functions. The truth of the matter is that there are more cannabinoid receptors present in the body than all of other neurotransmitters put together. The endocannabinoid system is very vast and should be studied by anyone getting into the health and wellness field.

The Endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an organization of specialized neurotransmitters that connect cannabinoid receptors, located throughout the body, mostly within the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Scientists have determined two primary receptors, CB1 and CB2. Both are present in the central and periphery regions of the body. The CB1 receptor regulates and effects the central nervous system-brain, lungs, liver & kidneys. The CB2 receptor focuses on the immune system and hematopoietic cells that generate blood cells through the body.

Endocannabinoids are created naturally within the body and then bind with the CB1 and CB2 receptors to carry out essential life functions. When the body is thrown out of balance, it will signal the endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors to give it a boost.

The function of the ECS is quite massive and there is continued research happening regarding the network of receptors and how the endocannabinoid system is playing a bigger role in creating homeostasis than originally thought. Homeostasis (balance within the body) is the primary function of the ECS. Keeping the body in harmony and balance with all the bodily functions is not an easy task.

The ECS ensures that you are functioning at your best possible self; pain free, getting quality sleep, no racing brain, no depressive thoughts, strong immunity and so forth. Your ECS will monitor and regulate most of the basic functions of your body including; digestion, reproduction, mood, sleep, metabolism, hormone regulation, memory, inflammation, appetite, movement, immune function, neuroprotection and pain management.

This is where the CBD comes into the story to help the endocannabinoid system. It interacts with the system by serving as a regulator and bring the body back to homeostasis. CBD becomes a buffer and can act multi-directionally, unlike most active ingredients which can either lower an element or raise it. If the body is in need of more cannabinoids it can increase the quantity, or if the body needs less it can work within the body to decrease the amount. This is what makes CBD so unique to your health and wellness.

CBD is not present in the body and needs to be sourced from the outside, in our case from the Hemp plant. It will bind with your CB1 and CB2 receptors and communicates with your ECS to determine how it can “be of service” in your body in terms of homeostasis. This is how it can help with any endocannabinoid deficiency you may have.

Research has discovered many links to medical conditions that can result from a lack of cannabinoids, including: migraine sufferers, fibromyalgia and even irritable bowel syndrome have all shown significant change from the use of CBD. What researchers have found is that there is an eerie connection between the ECS and those mis-understood medical conditions where pain can come form a “mystery factor”. When there is an endocannabinoid deficiency there will be a higher likelihood of odd pains and disorders like Alzheimers, Parkinsons and MS.

CBD and THC will bind with the endocannabinoid receptors and increase the level of cannabinoids in the system, bringing the body back into homeostasis. A higher level of CBD and a low level of THC (below .3%) has been shown to bring the central nervous system into a more calm and focused state, without a psychoactive high. This is why the Hemp CBD is preferred by anyone seeking a more herbal or holistic medical treatment for their ailment. CBD has been shown to better manage specific ailments; epilepsy, schizophrenia, inflammation and so many more.

Look for more studies on the benefits of hemp CBD in the next coming years.

Resources:

1.      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5927356/

2.      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6124957/

3.      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7070236/

4.      https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/

5.      https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27255474/

6.      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3056848/

7.      https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15080016/

8.      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4058675/

9.      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2845472/

10.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6441223/

11.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6044372/

12.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6165773/

13.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6186950/

14.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12814717/

15.  https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2012/05/flavonoid-compound-can-prevent-blood-clots/

16.  https://www.aicr.org/cancer-research-update/2012/december_5_2012/cru-flavonoids-prevention.html

17.  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/228559586_Cannabis_Treatments_in_Obstetrics_and_Gynecology_A_Historical_Review

18.  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006295218302387).

19.  https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1611618

20.  https://academic.oup.com/rheumatology/article/53/5/802/1798167

21.  https://www.analyticalcannabis.com/articles/the-difference-between-cannabinoids-and-terpenes-311502.3

22.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5576607/

23.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5465813/

 https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/health-benefits-moringa

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