Philip Blair, MD
From stress and anxiety to depression and chronic pain, mental health issues touch the lives of millions of people around the world. While traditional treatments have brought relief to many, researchers are now finding hope in a different direction — the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This complex network of receptors and molecules are responsible for regulating several biological functions, including mood, sleep, and pain perception.
In this article, we look at the impact of endocannabinoid system dysregulation in relation to stress and its impact on maintaining balance within the body, including mental health and well-being. We will examine the different approaches of improving the function of the ECS to target mental health conditions, we uncover the therapeutic benefits of using dietary cannabinoids.
Understanding Endocannabinoid System Dysregulation
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis throughout the body. It consists of three main components: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes. Endocannabinoids, such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), are produced by the body and act as signaling molecules. They bind to cannabinoid receptors, namely CB1 and CB2, which are found throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems.[1]
When the ECS becomes dysregulated, it can have profound effects on our health. Dysregulation can occur due to various factors, including chronic stress, trauma, genetics, and environmental influences. Stress, an inevitable part of life, triggers a cascade of physiological responses in the body. The ECS, particularly the CB1 and CB2 receptors, interacts with stress pathways, aiming to restore equilibrium. However, chronic or excessive stress can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to ECS imbalances.[2]
In cases of prolonged stress, the ECS may become less responsive or overactive. This dysregulation affects the production and reception of endocannabinoids, impacting their ability to modulate stress responses effectively. This dysregulation can lead to imbalances in neurotransmitter signaling, contributing to an array of health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, chronic pain, and even certain autoimmune conditions.
The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in Mental Health
Research has shown that the endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in maintaining mental health and well-being. The ECS helps regulate the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which are involved in mood regulation and emotional processing. When the ECS is functioning optimally, it helps maintain homeostasis and regulates recovery from stressors, including balanced mood and emotional stability.
However, when the ECS becomes dysregulated, it can contribute to the development of mental health disorders. Studies have found that individuals with depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often have lower levels of endocannabinoids and alterations in cannabinoid receptor expression. This suggests that targeting the ECS may offer new therapeutic avenues for treating these conditions.[3]
Common Mental Health Disorders Linked to ECS Dysregulation
Endocannabinoid system dysregulation has been implicated in various mental health disorders. One such disorder is anxiety, which affects millions of people worldwide. Studies have shown that dysfunctions in the ECS, particularly alterations in the expression of CB1 receptors, can contribute to the development of anxiety disorders.[4]
Depression is another mental health condition that has been associated with ECS dysregulation. Research has found that individuals with depression often have lower levels of endocannabinoids, such as anandamide, and alterations in CB1 receptor activity. These findings suggest that targeting the ECS could be a promising approach for developing new antidepressant medications.[5]
Chronic pain is yet another condition that is closely linked to ECS dysregulation. The ECS plays a crucial role in pain perception and modulation. When the ECS becomes imbalanced, it can lead to increased pain sensitivity and the development of chronic pain conditions. By targeting the ECS, researchers hope to develop novel pain management strategies that can provide relief to those suffering from chronic pain.[6]
As an example, when the endocannabinoid AEA is depleted, it could lead to some serious problems. In a review of anandamide researchers found that inhibiting the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) that breaks down this endocannabinoid may represent an attractive therapeutic target for the treatment of CNS conditions. Knocking out the FAAH enzyme in mice leads to more than 10-fold elevation of AEA levels within many brain regions. Drugs that block this enzyme and elevate AEA have demonstrated effectiveness in regulating anxiety, depression, inflammation, and acute pain thus living up to its nickname as the “internal bliss molecule.”[7]
Restoring Balance: The Role of Cannabinoids
Phyto-cannabinoids, compounds found in cannabis and other plants that are similar to those produced naturally within the body, interact with the ECS. They can influence ECS activity, potentially restoring balance in cases of dysregulation caused by chronic stress.
CBD (cannabidiol) is one such cannabinoid gaining attention for its therapeutic potential. Research suggests that CBD may indirectly influence ECS receptors, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety without the psychoactive effects associated with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
β-Caryophyllene (BCP) is also well established as a dietary phyto-cannabinoid. BCP is a natural sesquiterpene found in various plants, including cannabis, cloves, and black pepper. What makes BCP intriguing is its unique ability to interact broadly and diversely with the ECS.[8] Unlike other cannabinoids, BCP doesn’t directly bind to CB1 receptors but acts as a strong, selective agonist at CB2 receptors, influencing their activity.[9]
How CBD and Other Cannabinoids Can Regulate the ECS
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants that has gained significant attention for its potential therapeutic benefits. CBD interacts with the ECS by modulating the activity of cannabinoid receptors and influencing the production and breakdown of endocannabinoids.
Research has shown that CBD can help regulate the ECS and restore balance in individuals with ECS dysregulation. CBD has been found to increase the levels of endocannabinoids, such as anandamide, and enhance the activation of cannabinoid receptors. This can have a profound impact on mental health, as it can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and chronic pain.[10]
CBD modulates many key components of the ECS and extended system. Classically, CBD binds poorly with endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. Instead, CBD regulates important enzymes in the formation and degradation of the two primary endocannabinoids: Anandamide and 2-AG. CBD increases levels of 2AG by stimulating biosynthesis enzyme diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL). CBD also raises levels of anandamide (AEA) by inhibiting fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) that metabolizes (AEA) and blocking its cellular uptake. Both endocannabinoids have direct effects on the primary CB1 and CB2 receptors.[11] [12] [13] [14]
In addition to CBD, other cannabinoids have also shown promise in regulating the ECS. For example, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, has been found to activate CB1 and CB2 receptors and modulate neurotransmitter release. However, due to its psychoactive effects, THC may not be suitable for everyone. Other cannabinoids, such as cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabichromene (CBC), are being studied for their potential therapeutic effects on mental health.
Cannabinol (CBN) is an oxidized by-product of THC. Studies have shown that CBN can potentiate the sedative effect, and it shares anti-convulsant, anti-inflammatory and CB2 receptor effects with CBD. CBC has no affinity to CB1 and CB2 receptors but does possess anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzyme (COX). Finally, CBG is the precursor phytocannabinoid compound of THC, CBD, and CBC and is only produced in trace amounts in cannabis. CBG reduces pain, erythema, and inflammation through the inhibition of peripheral lipoxygenase enzyme (LOX). In addition, CBG has an antidepressant effect.[15] Thus, various cultivars, blends and combinations of cannabinoids can emphasize different potentially therapeutic mechanisms for various conditions. This is unlike most pharmaceuticals that generally have a single physiological target toward receptors, signaling molecules or enzymes influencing the course of an illness.
Non-cannabis agents such as beta-caryophyllene (BCP) also support the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the context of stress regulation and maintaining homeostasis, along with protecting the body from chronic inflammation. BCP parallels many mechanisms of CBD such as inhibition of FAAH, TRPV1-4 while stimulating opioid, dopamine, serotonin, and g-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and PPAR-γ.[16] [17] [18]
In a similar way BCP affects the endocannabinoid system by increasing the tissue levels of 2-AG, AEA, PEA, OEA, and the expression of CB receptors. BCP also increases the expression of PPAR-α receptor, spares the basal tissue levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) that is so important in neuronal membranes, and reverses the increase of lipoperoxides that are a major cause of inflammation within the body.[19]
But BCP goes a few steps further than CBD by inhibiting MAGL (monoacylglycerol lipase activity), the enzyme that degrades 2-AG. Thus BCP induces increases in levels of both prominent endocannabinoid, 2-AG and AEA, such that this process could be “classified as a new mechanism of endocannabinoid-mediated analgesia.”[20]
Research on the Impact of CBD on Mental Health and Well-Being
Numerous studies have investigated the effects of CBD on mental health and well-being. Research has shown that CBD has anxiolytic properties, meaning it can reduce anxiety symptoms. A study published in the Journal of Neurotherapeutics found that CBD significantly reduced anxiety in individuals with social anxiety disorder.[21]
CBD has also shown promise in the treatment of depression. A review published in Neurotherapeutics found that CBD has antidepressant effects in animal models and limited clinical evidence suggests its potential as an antidepressant in humans. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying CBD’s antidepressant effects.
When it comes to chronic pain, CBD has demonstrated analgesic properties. A study published in the European Journal of Pain found that CBD reduced pain and improved sleep for individuals with chronic pain conditions. These findings support the potential use of CBD as an alternative or adjunct therapy for chronic pain management.[22]
BCP As a Natural Support for ECS Balance
Research suggests that BCP, by selectively targeting CB2 receptors, may help regulate the ECS and alleviate stress-related symptoms. Its interaction with these receptors triggers responses that contribute to reduced inflammation, anxiety relief, and potentially improved mood regulation.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: BCP’s interaction with CB2 receptors modulates inflammatory responses, potentially reducing inflammation associated with stress-related conditions.[23]
- Anxiety and Mood Management: Studies indicate that BCP may have anxiolytic properties, aiding in stress and anxiety reduction by influencing ECS activity.[24]
- Pain Relief: By engaging with CB2 receptors, 5-HT1A serotonin receptor and nitric oxide, BCP could contribute to pain management, offering relief from stress-induced physical discomfort.[25] In fact, the combination of CBD and BCP produces a synergistic analgesic effect without the cannabinoid receptor-1 side effects probably through an inflammatory mechanism.[26]
- Neuroprotective: Through CB2 receptors and other ECS processes beta-caryophyllene induces neurogenesis and neuritogenesis. Consequently, BCP has therapeutic potential in the prevention and treatment of numerous neurodegenerative conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Friedreich’s ataxia, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.[27]
- Addiction: β-caryophyllene (BCP) blocks addictive cravings and prevents withdrawal symptoms of all drugs of abuse through multiple mechanisms. CB2 receptors are found specifically in the brain reward areas. In preclinical and numerous case studies, BCP relieved pain, anxiety, depression, and cravings for substances of abuse such as opioids, alcohol, nicotine and even food.[28]
Holistic Approaches for ECS dysregulation and Homeostasis
While CBD, BCP and other cannabinoids show promise in regulating the ECS, it’s essential to complement its potential benefits with holistic approaches.
- Physical Activity and Exercise: Exercise is another natural way to support a healthy endocannabinoid system. Physical activity has been found to increase endocannabinoid levels and enhance ECS signaling. Regular exercise has been shown to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and alleviate symptoms of depression.[29]
- Mind-Body Practices: Managing stress is crucial, as chronic stress has been shown to dysregulate the ECS. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as mindfulness exercises, meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can aid in stress reduction and support ECS balance.[30]
- Quality Sleep: Adequate sleep is also essential for maintaining a healthy ECS. Sleep deprivation has been linked to ECS dysregulation and increased susceptibility to mental health disorders. Prioritizing quality sleep by practicing good sleep hygiene can support optimal ECS functioning and mental well-being.[31]
- Healthy Lifestyle and Diet: Additionally, certain dietary changes may help support ECS balance. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish and flaxseeds, have been shown to enhance endocannabinoid signaling and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. In fact, oil has been found to induce CB2 receptor expression in adipose tissue. Avoiding processed foods and excessive sugar intake can also help maintain ECS health.[32]
Seeking Professional Help for ECS Dysregulation
While natural remedies such as CBD and BCP can support ECS balance, individual responses can vary, emphasizing the importance of personalized approaches and consulting healthcare professionals before integrating BCP or any new supplement into one’s regimen.
Embracing a holistic lifestyle that supports ECS function can also significantly impact stress management and overall health.[33] It is essential to seek professional help for severe ECS dysregulation and mental health disorders. Mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists and psychologists, can provide personalized treatment plans and therapies to address ECS dysregulation and its associated symptoms.
Professionals may recommend a combination of traditional treatments, such as psychotherapy and medication, along with novel approaches that target the ECS. These treatment plans are tailored to individual needs and aim to restore ECS balance and improve mental health outcomes.
Promoting Mental Health and Well-Being Through Endocannabinoid System Balance
The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in maintaining mental health and well-being. Dysregulation of the ECS can contribute to the development and progression of various mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, and chronic pain.
By targeting the ECS, researchers are exploring new avenues for developing therapeutic interventions. CBD. BCP, and other cannabinoids have shown promise in regulating the ECS and alleviating symptoms of mental health disorders. Additionally, natural remedies, lifestyle changes, and professional help can support ECS balance and promote mental well-being.
As the understanding of the endocannabinoid system continues to evolve, new possibilities for treatment and a brighter future for mental health emerge. By unraveling the intricate connections between the ECS and mental health, we pave the way for innovative interventions that can bring relief and improve the lives of millions.
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Published February 24, 2024
About the Author
Retired Colonel (Dr.) Philip Blair is a board-certified family physician licensed in Washington State. He graduated from West Point in 1972 and attended University of Miami School of Medicine and trained as a family physician. He had assignments in Georgia, Louisiana, Washington, Oklahoma, Texas, Hawaii, Kansas, Italy, Korea, Germany, and the Gulf War.
In 2014 he was introduced to cannabidiol. Since then, he has treated several thousand patients with CBD in his clinical practice. Currently he is researching the terpene β-Caryophyllene as an alternative to medicinal cannabis. Blair Medical Group SPC provides physician-formulated BCP products that everyone can use to support, restore, and activate the endocannabinoid system as well as addressing chronic pain and inflammation-related conditions.
BCPlus products are available at blairmedicalgroup.com. Dr. Blair is also available for private consultations and speaking engagements. Please contact him at DrBlairMD@icloud.com and (360) 991-4791.