For further reading, you can explore sources such as:
NIH – The Endocannabinoid System: An Overview https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877694/
Healthline – How the Endocannabinoid System Affects Your Health
https://www.healthline.com/health/endocannabinoid-system
Medical News Today – What is the Endocannabinoid System?
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/endocannabinoid
Also see https://sc.edu/uofsc/posts/2023/02/conversation_marijuana.php
Difference Between Phytocannabinoids and Endocannabinoids
Phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoids are both cannabinoids but originate from different sources and play distinct roles within the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
Phytocannabinoids
Source: Derived from plants, primarily the Cannabis sativa plant.
Examples: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
Function: Interact with the ECS by binding to cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), mimicking the effects of endocannabinoids.
Role in the Body: They can influence various physiological processes such as pain, inflammation, mood, and appetite by interacting with the ECS.
Endocannabinoids
Source: Naturally produced within the body (endogenous).
Examples: Anandamide and 2-AG (2-arachidonoylglycerol).
Function: Serve as signaling molecules that bind to cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) to regulate homeostasis.
Role in the Body: They are involved in maintaining internal balance, affecting processes like pain modulation, immune response, mood regulation, and appetite control.
Key Differences
Origin:
Phytocannabinoids: Plant-derived.
Endocannabinoids: Produced naturally by the body.
Production:
Phytocannabinoids: Found in cannabis plants and extracted for use.
Endocannabinoids: Synthesized on-demand by the body in response to specific stimuli.
Interaction with ECS:
Phytocannabinoids: External cannabinoids that can enhance or disrupt the normal functioning of the ECS.
Endocannabinoids: Integral to the normal functioning and regulation of the ECS.
Usage:
Phytocannabinoids: Used in various medical and recreational contexts for their therapeutic effects.
Endocannabinoids: Naturally occurring and continuously regulating physiological processes without external input.
Effects:
Phytocannabinoids: Can produce psychoactive (THC) or non-psychoactive (CBD) effects.
Endocannabinoids: Typically do not produce noticeable psychoactive effects but maintain homeostasis.
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