Phytocannabinoids can influence the transmission of neuronal messages. Certain cannabinoids impact feelings of hunger, anxiety, pain, and others.
But how does it work ?
1. When our body is in a particular situation (like stress, pain, hunger, etc.), neurotransmitters act as messengers by transmitting information to the brain via our nervous system. When they reach a neuron, they cross the synaptic cleft from the presynaptic vesicle to the postsynaptic vesicle, thus continuing their journey through the nervous system.
2. Before continuing their journey, neurotransmitters stimulate the production of endocannabinoids in the postsynaptic vesicle. These endocannabinoids bind to CB1 receptors located in the presynaptic vesicle, which modifies the release of neurotransmitters and therefore the message transmitted.
3. Endocannabinoids regulate the release of neurotransmitters, thereby increasing or decreasing the message of stress, pain, etc. Exogenous cannabinoids (from outside the body) also influence the modulation of neurotransmitters and inhibit enzymes that interfere with the natural action of endocannabinoids.