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• Effect of CB1 receptors in the body |
CB1 receptors are among the most important components of our endocannabinoid system . This system ensures that many processes in the body remain balanced—for example, mood, pain perception, appetite, and even memory. The abbreviation "CB" stands for "cannabinoid receptor." CB1 receptors were only discovered in the 1990s and have since revolutionized research.
CB1 receptors are located primarily in the brain and central nervous system. There, they control the release of various neurotransmitters. This also explains why cannabis can have such a powerful effect on the mind and perception. In addition to the brain, CB1 receptors are also found in other organs, such as the liver, fatty tissue, and the digestive tract—albeit at a much lower density.
You can imagine the CB1 receptors as a kind of keyhole. The "key" to this is provided by endogenous substances such as anandamide or external substances such as THC from the cannabis plant. When the receptor is activated, it triggers a cascade of signals in the body. This is precisely what makes CB1 receptors one of the most exciting targets for modern medicine and research.
The functions of CB1 receptors are extremely diverse. On the one hand, they regulate the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, GABA, and glutamate. They thus influence our mood, pain perception, and even memory performance. It's no wonder, then, that the endocannabinoid system is increasingly attracting scientific attention.
Interestingly, activation of CB1 receptors can have both calming and activating effects, depending on which part of the brain or nervous system they are located in. This explains why cannabis consumption has a relaxing effect on some people, while others tend to become nervous or agitated.
CB1 receptors also play a major role in appetite. Researchers have discovered that their activation can trigger cravings. This is even used medically, for example, in cancer patients suffering from severe weight loss as a result of their treatment.
But there's also a downside: Overstimulation of the CB1 receptors can be linked to psychological problems such as anxiety or panic attacks. Some people even report so-called cannabis nightmares. You can find out more about this in our article on cannabis nightmares. .
Why does cannabis have such a powerful effect on us? It's quite simple: THC, the main active ingredient in cannabis, binds directly to CB1 receptors. This activates signaling pathways in the brain that are responsible for the typical "high." The effect is highly dose-dependent. Small amounts of THC often produce a euphoric and relaxing effect, while large amounts can lead to paranoia or even hallucinations.
Interestingly, THC tolerance is also explained by the CB1 receptors. Regular cannabis users cause the receptors to become "tired" or even partially degrade. This is called receptor downregulation. As a result, one must consume more and more to achieve the same effect. Some cannabis users want to reverse precisely this effect – for example, by taking a break or using products that support liver function. This is where the bitter substances from Nature+ from Canasups comes into play, which could indirectly help with the breakdown of THC.
The so-called "endocannabinoid deficiency syndrome" is also associated with a malfunction of the CB1 receptors. There is debate about whether this could contribute to chronic pain, migraines, or certain mental illnesses. However, this has not yet been conclusively proven. But researchers are working hard on this.
An interesting aspect: CBD, the non-psychoactive component of cannabis, doesn't bind directly to CB1 receptors. Instead, it indirectly alters their signaling. This could explain why CBD has an anxiolytic effect while also somewhat weakening the psychoactive effects of THC. You can find out more about this in our article on CBD and THC .
CB1 receptors cannot yet be directly influenced by supplements—at least not in the sense of a targeted activation or deactivation. However, there are some products that could indirectly support the endocannabinoid system . One example is Nature+ from Canasups. It contains bitter compounds that stimulate liver function. An active liver ensures that THC is broken down more quickly, which in turn could influence the occupancy of the CB1 receptors.
Omega+ from Canasups also plays a role here. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the formation of so-called endocannabinoids, the body's "key" to the CB1 receptors. A balanced supply of omega-3 could therefore help keep the endocannabinoid system in balance. Studies suggest that an omega-3 deficiency could be linked to dysregulation of the CB1 receptors. You can also read more about this in the article on omega fatty acids and the endocannabinoid system .
And then there's Mango+ . This product contains myrcene, a terpene that can also influence the permeability of the blood-brain barrier. Some believe this allows cannabinoids to reach the CB1 receptors more easily. While this doesn't directly affect the receptors themselves, it could explain why Mango+ can seem to enhance the effects of cannabis.
Important: No supplement can prevent a cannabis overdose or a bad trip. But especially with regular use, products like those from Germany's leading brand for innovative cannabis supplements can provide support for body and mind. Of course, this is never a substitute for a healthy approach to cannabis.
In any case, research into CB1 receptors remains exciting. After all, they hold the key to many of cannabis's effects – both positive and negative. And who knows: Perhaps there will soon be targeted therapies controlled by CB1 receptors. Until then, the rule is: educate yourself, consume consciously, and, if in doubt, take a break.
Have you had any experiences that you attribute to the activity of your CB1 receptors? Perhaps during cannabis use, or even during breaks? Feel free to share them with us – we're curious!
Sometimes we don't even consider how tiny molecules can have such a profound impact on our well-being. Or we suddenly wonder why the brain sends such strange signals.
