Topicals + CB receptors

A quick reminder: our skin is full of both CB1 and CB2 receptors, part of the Endocannabinoid System in our body, a system designated to utilize Cannabis.

Throughout the body, CB1 receptors are located in peripheral nerve terminals, and are found in highest concentration in areas of the brain that regulate pain arising from stimulation of nerve cells. When THC is applied topically, it fits into CB1 receptors on nerve cells in the skin similar to a key fitting into a lock. The THC turns the nerve cell OFF, in turn switching all nerve cells further up the pathway off, effectively disrupting the “help!” signal that cell was previously sending to the brain.

CB2 receptors, found in concentration in our tissue, stimulate the release of anti-inflammatory agents such as histamine and serotonin when influenced by cannabinoids. THCa and CBN are both excellent anti-inflammatory agents.