The ECS—which interacts with cannabinoids including THC and CBD—is a complex cell-signaling system that regulates various physiological processes including appetite and mood. Photo credit: Botanical Sciences.
Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, Ph.D., CTC, CNHP in ECS and Naturopathic Medicine, is a cannabis therapy consultant, founder and education director of the Cannabis Holistic Institute.
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a complex and vital internal communication network in the human body. Its primary job is to maintain homeostasis, or balance, across nearly every physiological system, including the nervous, immune, digestive, endocrine, and muscular systems. Though only discovered in the 1990s, the ECS is now recognized as one of the body’s master regulators.
The ECS consists of:
- Endocannabinoids: Naturally produced compounds like anandamide and 2-AG that interact with ECS receptors.
- Receptors: CB1 receptors are found primarily in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more common in immune cells and peripheral tissues.
- Enzymes: Break down endocannabinoids after their job is done.
From a naturopathic viewpoint, the ECS is the bridge between body, mind, and spirit. It supports the body’s innate intelligence and self-healing capacity. For cannabis therapy consultants, the ECS is the key to customizing wellness strategies using specific cultivars, cannabinoids, and terpenes.
Nervous System: Mood, Pain and Neurological Health
The ECS is deeply integrated into the nervous system, influencing neurotransmitter activity, neuroplasticity, and inflammation. It plays a vital role in managing stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain.
Recommended Cannabinoids:
- CBD: Calms the nervous system and protects neurons.
- THC: Eases pain and elevates mood in small doses.
Helpful Terpenes:
- Linalool: Found in lavender and cultivars like Do-Si-Dos. Effects are calming and anti-anxiety.
- Myrcene: Found in mangoes and Granddaddy Purple. Effects are sedative and analgesic.
Cultivars to Try:
- Harlequin: High in CBD, helps with anxiety and clarity.
- ACDC: High-CBD, neuroprotective, non-intoxicating.
Naturopath Tip: Pair cannabis with nervous system tonics like skullcap or milky oats to enhance its calming effects.
Immune System: Inflammation and Autoimmunity
The ECS modulates the immune response, particularly through CB2 receptors. It helps prevent overactive immune reactions while supporting the body’s ability to defend against pathogens.
Recommended Cannabinoids:
- CBD and CBG: Both are potent anti-inflammatories.
- THC-A: A raw, non-psychoactive form of THC with strong anti-inflammatory effects.
Helpful Terpenes:
- Caryophyllene: Found in black pepper and cultivars such as Girl Scout Cookies. It can bind directly to CB2 receptors.
- Humulene: Found in hops and cultivars like Headband. Many know it for its anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressing effects.
Cultivars to Try:
- Cannatonic: High-CBD, excellent for reducing inflammation.
- Lifter: Rich in CBD with a mild uplifting effect.
Naturopath Tip: Use tinctures or full-spectrum capsules for chronic immune conditions. Combine with anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric or ginger.
Digestive System: Gut-Brain Axis and Appetite
The ECS is key to gut function, influencing appetite, motility, enzyme secretion, and gut-brain communication. It also has been known to help manage conditions like nausea, IBS, and Crohn’s disease.
Recommended Cannabinoids:
- THC: Stimulates appetite and reduces nausea.
- CBD: Can reduce gut inflammation and eases discomfort.
- CBN: Helpful for nighttime digestive issues.
Helpful Terpenes:
- Limonene: Found in citrus peels and Super Lemon Haze. It has a mood-lifting effect.
- Pinene: Found in pine and strain like Jack Herer. It’s an anti-inflammatory and supports gut health.
Cultivars to Try:
- Sour Diesel: Energizing with digestive benefits.
- Northern Lights: Sedating and helpful for IBS-related pain.
Naturopath Tip: Pair with a demulcent herb, like marshmallow root and probiotics to support gut lining repair and friendly flora balance.
Endocrine System: Hormones and Stress
The ECS regulates the endocrine system, influencing the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenals, and reproductive organs. It helps maintain hormonal balance and stress adaptation.
Recommended Cannabinoids:
- CBD: Supports hormonal balance and lowers stress.
- THCV: May support metabolic function and suppress appetite.
- CBG: Supports adrenal health and focus.
Helpful Terpenes:
- Geraniol: Found in roses and Strawberry Diesel; hormone-balancing and mood-enhancing.
- Bisabolol: Found in chamomile and Pink Kush; calming and also supports endocrine health.
Cultivars to Try:
- Pennywise: Balanced THC: CBD ratio, supportive for mood and hormonal swings.
- Remedy: Gentle high-CBD cultivar ideal for stress and hormonal imbalance.
Naturopath Tip: Integrate with adaptogens like ashwagandha, holy basil, or maca during times of stress or hormonal transition (menopause).
Cardiovascular and Musculoskeletal Systems
The ECS supports heart health and bone integrity by modulating inflammation, blood flow, and pain signalling. It’s especially helpful for those with arthritis, muscle tension, or circulatory concerns.
Recommended Cannabinoids:
- CBD: Can reduce blood pressure and systemic inflammation.
- CBC: Promotes bone growth and may also help with pain.
- THC: Potent pain relief; use in small, monitored doses.
Helpful Terpenes:
- Eucalyptol: Found in eucalyptus and cultivars like Headband. An antioxidant, it also promotes circulation.
- Camphene: Found in fir needles and cultivars like Strawberry Banana. It may also support cardiovascular health.
Cultivars to Try:
- Ringo’s Gift: High in CBD, great for pain and inflammation.
- Blue Dream: Balanced effects, helpful for musculoskeletal relief and mental clarity.
Naturopath Tip: For chronic pain or injury, use topicals (like salves) in combination with other medicinal plants for targeted and systemic support.
Tips for Selecting the Right Cultivar
- Know Your Intention: Identify your wellness goals. Are you seeking pain relief, hormone balance, anxiety support, or digestive healing?
- Understand Cannabinoid Ratios: A 1:1 THC: CBD ratio is often well-balanced for beginners. Higher CBD ratios are generally better for daytime use and clarity.
- Explore Terpene Profiles: Terpenes shape your experience just as much as cannabinoids. Use aroma and effect-based intuition or consult lab-tested profiles.
- Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with low doses and increase gradually as needed.
- Track Your Response: Keep a journal to document cultivars, doses, and how your body responds.
The ECS is a powerful reflection of your body’s ability to heal, adapt, and regulate. From a holistic perspective, cannabis is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but a versatile tool that works best when used intentionally and in alignment with your unique constitution.
When integrated with naturopathic practices like herbal medicine, nutrition, movement, breathwork, and emotional healing, cannabis can become a deeply supportive ally. Whole-plant, terpene-rich cannabis medicine offers an elegant way to support your ECS and reconnect with your body’s inner rhythms.
Whether you’re managing stress, chronic illness, hormonal changes, or simply seeking more balance, cannabis can meet you where you are. So be sure to listen carefully, dose thoughtfully, and choose cultivars that reflect your needs.
All information in this article is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources. Please check with your Cannabis Educated Primary Health Care Physician or Educated & Trained Cannabis Therapy Consultant before beginning any new diet or lifestyle change.
Leave a Reply