The Comprehensive Guide to Anandamide
Anandamide is a common name among most scientists. It represents a certain molecule that researchers named ‘Sanskirt,’ which refers to divine happiness or bliss. It’s one of the core hormones in the body, and it behaves similarly to THC in marijuana. Anandamide is vital for various biological functions and emotions.
The effects of anandamide on biological functions and emotions have led to many individuals nicknaming it ‘the bliss molecule.’
What is Anandamide?
Scientists researching THC’s effects on the human brain initially discovered anandamide in Israel in 1992. Furthermore, the marijuana godfather Raphael Mechoulam later classified this vital molecule. During the study, the godfather of cannabis theorized that the body must produce or secrete similar chemicals if the human brain had receptors that THC could cause effects. Later modern science proved that this theory was correct, forming the basing of the current endocannabinoid system.
During the initial discovery, the original name of the anandamide was arachidonoyl ethanolamide. This name is vital for describing molecular structure and shape. However, after the discovery and transformation, most individuals currently refer to the molecule as AEA or anandamide.
Understanding Anandamide in the Endocannabinoid System
Experts refer to anandamide as a molecule that occurs naturally in the body. Anandamide occurs as a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid, which plays an integral role in your endocannabinoid systems.
Studies show that the endocannabinoid system is very important in our bodies. This system helps regulate numerous biological functions throughout the body and maintains a balanced homeostasis state. Homeostasis is one of the vital factors in the body, as it refers to maintaining a balanced internal body environment. The balancing process includes controlling blood pressure, body temperature, water balance, etc.
Comprehensive Explanation of the Endocannabinoid System
The latest research views anandamide as a ligand. Viewing this molecule as a ligand means the anandamide works by binding itself to a particular receptor. Remember, receptors and ligands resemble each other and fit like a key and lock. The resemblance and proper fitting to each other elicit a certain response in the body to help you achieve a particular system or result in the body.
Studies show that the presence of anandamide affects the maintenance of internal body processes. The molecules influence the body’s homeostasis by binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors exist naturally and primarily in your nervous system and brain, while CB2 receptors exist elsewhere. Experts reveal that you can easily find the CB2 receptors in the body’s immune system.
These receptors have numerous health benefits to the body. Researchers reveal that cannabinoid receptors' abundance throughout the body systems and organs enhances their functionality. For instance, these receptors play an integral role in maintaining your health. Remember, these receptors appear or are present in various different systems, including endocannabinoids. The anandamide in the endocannabinoid system has different physiological features and functions.
What is the Function of Anandamide in Your Body?
Anandamide functions in the human body by binding to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. After binding, the process activates them, triggering various reactions. Besides the CB1 and CB2, the binding can also activate other receptors. Studies show that this process can activate the type 1 vanilloid receptors, which can be vital in destroying cancerous cells. This reason makes many individuals link marijuana to alleviating some cancer symptoms.
Anandamide is a fat-soluble and fatty acid molecule, making it easy to pass through the body’s blood-brain barrier. Passing through the blood-brain barrier is key in enhancing various functions or stimulating body processes. Remember, this molecule acts as the primary neurotransmitter while passing through the nervous system. Working as a neurotransmitter facilitates the proper transmission of appropriate signals between the different brain nerve cells. Furthermore, the molecule plays a vital role in regulating dopamine and the transportation of calcium molecules. These roles make it an essential part of your body’s nervous system.
Anandamide is also an important molecule in the human brain. This molecule helps you achieve various brain functions, ranging from influencing motor function and perception of memory to responding to pain.
Studies also reveal taking small to moderate amounts of anandamide improves your memory. However, experts warn against taking more or substantial amounts, as it may result in forgetfulness. Therefore, taking minimal to moderate quantities will be vital to enjoying the numerous benefits. Scientists propose you consider using lower THC doses when taking marijuana, as THC works like anandamide. The moderate use of THC or anandamide might help you deal with various mental disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease.
Besides the Central Nervous System and the brain, anandamide also is vital in the cardiovascular system. These molecules function in the cardiovascular system as a vasodilator. As a vasodilator, it helps to enhance your cardiovascular system and improve your heart health.
In the cardiovascular system, anandamide helps to relax the blood vessel walls and allows the expansion as blood passes through them. The molecule enhances these effects naturally when the weather gets too hot. Helping in the expansion and contraction allows your blood to get closer to the skin's surface to cool before reaching its appropriate destination. High blood pressure is one of the most killer cardiovascular conditions; anandamide can provide a long-lasting solution. The molecules enhance the constriction and validation of the blood vessels, helping to regulate blood pressure and flow.
After fertilization, anandamide will also be vital for the early development of the unborn. This molecule plays a key role in the embryo's implantation on the uterus walls or lining. Thus, anandamide is essential in creating the first connections between the baby and the mother immediately after fertilization. Its function during pregnancy makes experts relate to a special group of molecules (prostaglandins). Prostaglandins are important in ensuring a healthy pregnancy throughout the delivery period. Furthermore, they play a primary role in triggering uterine contractions as you approach labor or delivery.
Besides its effects during pregnancy and delivery, prostaglandins also play a key role when your body responds to inflammation. The involvement in the inflammatory responses explains why this property resembles the effect of using CBD and cannabis to alleviate severe pain.
Summary of the Roles that Anandamide Plays in the Body
Research shows that anandamide is one of the common and important molecules in the body. The molecules play a key role in helping the body to achieve various processes. Below is a summary of the vital roles that this molecule plays in the human body:
● Acts as a neurotransmitter, influencing your moods, appetite, and moods
● anti-inflammatory
● Plays a key role in fertilization and having a healthy pregnancy
● Dilates and constricts the blood vessels
Anandamide Vs. Stress Response
We’ve got various things, such as physical, health, and psychological factors, that cause stress. The body has different ways of responding to stress. Studies show that exposing your mind or body to stressing factors results in increased production or increased anandamide levels within the body. Researchers carried out a certain study in 2012 and published it in ‘Neuropsychopharmacology.’ The study involved approximately 71 healthy participants, exposing them to acute steering factors.
The researchers considered subjecting the volunteers to an intense mock job interview to stimulate acute stress. Besides the mock job interview, the researchers asked the participant to perform a basic arithmetic task. The participants were to take this task in front of ‘unsmiling’ assessors. Furthermore, these participants could achieve the tasks by viewing their progress on a television monitor.
After the processes or tasks, the researchers passed the participants over the non-stressful interview. These interviews involved friendly assessors and researchers. During the second interview, the researchers allowed the participants to discuss their interests and hobbies with the researchers.
After the process or study, these researchers measured the anandamide levels of these subjects. Remember, the researchers noted the anandamide level after every encounter or stage. Besides taking the measurement, the participants completed questionnaires on their anxiety and mood levels after the process. The findings reveal that the participants reported a significant increase in the anandamide levels following stressful encounters.
More so, the researchers noted more increase in anandamide levels among the Caucasian participants than in the Asian and African-American ones. The study also concluded a significant increase in anandamide levels in male than female participants.
From the findings, it's evident that the human body will release anandamide when you’re subjected to highly stressful conditions. Releasing this molecule is one of the ways the body responds to stress. Studies show that the increased anandamide levels also help to protect your body against the adverse effects of anxiety and stress.
Later in 2012, another group of researchers conducted a study to ascertain the relation between depression and endocannabinoids. The study revealed that females with extreme anxiety recorded lower anandamide levels during the period than healthy ones. The results suggested that long-term anxiety appears to subsidize as the anandamide levels rise due to acute stress or anxiety.
THC and Anandamide: Similarities and Differences
Studies show that THC has a similar molecular shape to anandamide. Remember, it’s a popular and the most intoxicating cannabinoid in marijuana. After consuming THC, its molecules work by binding with CB1 receptors, influencing the body like the anandamide.
THC has the ability to influence the nervous system and brain. The ability to influence these vital body organs and systems enhances the intoxicating properties of the cannabinoids. However, cannabinoids also have medicinal benefits, like relaxing muscles, stimulating patient appetite, and relieving nausea and chronic pains.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is another popular cannabinoid that can further enhance the medical benefits of THC. Unlike THC, CBD doesn't bind directly with the CB1 receptors, resulting in an increase in anandamide action within the endocannabinoid system.
Lastly, the other major difference between THC and anandamide is their breakdown rate in the body. Studies show that anandamide is fragile, making it easy for the body to break down quickly. An enzyme, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), is responsible for breaking down this molecule. Remember, this molecule is usually not in a never-ending bliss state as the body and enzymes break it down very quickly.
In contrast, THC is very strong, allowing it to remain within the body systems for a long time, up to several hours after consuming THC-infused products. More so, THC contains metabolites like THC-COOH that can remain within the body for longer. The duration varies depending on the frequency of marijuana products, especially those with high THC content.
Can You Increase Your Anandamide Levels?
Anandamide comes with numerous benefits, which leaves many individuals wondering if they can enhance or boost the levels of anandamide in the system. You can boost the level of this essential molecule in the body by adding certain meals with anandamide to your diet. The molecule in these meals will function similarly to your body. For instance, you can consider taking a pack of chocolate, as it has a wide range of vital compounds, including anandamide.
Studies show that taking chocolate will be vital in boosting your anandamide levels. Nevertheless, it'll be vital to understand that milk chocolate has high sugar & fat content and also low anandamide levels. Preferably, it'll be wide to consider high-quality dark chocolate with some raw cacao nibs or high cocoa content.
Black truffles are another food with appropriate levels of anandamide and beneficial endocannabinoids. Despite offering the best sources of anandamide, these products are too expensive, making only a few individuals able to afford them in their diet. Nevertheless, they offer the best, healthy, delicious treat or inclusion on special diets or occasions.
Some studies suggest that exposing your body to short-term cold temperatures will help enhance anandamide levels. For instance, taking a cold shower twice a day may enhance your feeling and help you achieve the best feeling.
Final Thoughts on Anandamide
Anandamide offers the body numerous vital functions, such as relieving pain, alleviating inflammation and influencing memory. With the numerous health benefits, there has been an increase in individuals purchasing these products in the past decades.
Nevertheless, you must still understand many things about this beneficial molecule and its possible benefits. Fortunately, many scientists and researchers have dedicated their time to conducting studies to help you understand the effects of this hormone on your endocannabinoid system.
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