You may be asking the big question, is Hemp an Adaptogen? And in this article, we’ll cover how hemp cannabinoids work to create homeostasis (balance and order) by activating the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).
WHAT ARE HEMP ADAPTOGENS?
Firstly, the term adaptogens are referred to as “substances used in herbal medicine for the claimed stabilization of physiological processes and promotion of homeostasis.”
Most of us are exposed to varying degrees of disruptive stress in our environments that trigger off a stress-response in the body. This is especially true for those who experience ongoing stressful responses such as anxiety, depression or paranoia. By utilizing hemp adaptogens, it means a person can maintain normal levels of functioning within their bodies even when exposed to these stressors, hence reducing the level or frequency of symptoms such as anxiety.
Homeostasis is the ability to maintain that internal functioning even if there are adverse and disruptive environmental stimuli.
TYPES OF ADAPTOGENS
Adaptogens have been used for thousands of years, including hemp adaptogens. Other examples of adaptogens are ginseng, holy basic and maca. Adaptogens are varieties of plants that each have their own unique properties of assisting the body in adapting to and managing stress. Some of these herbs have anxiolytic, immune boosting and antimicrobial effects, along with assisting in the protection of organs and the prevention of muscle spasms. Hemp adaptogens, called cannabinoids, offer many of these same benefits, but their effects can be boosted through the “entourage effect” when combined with terpenes. This means you can experience double the effect than using any single adaptogen from hemp alone. This is why whole plant, full spectrum hemp oil is the most advantageous.
HOW DO HEMP ADAPTOGENS WORK
Hemp cannabinoids are being hailed for their ability to bring balance and order to the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Cannabinoids do this by correcting a cannabinoid deficiency in the body. It’s thought of, that since the ban of cannabis from our food supply in 1930, we’ve become chronically deficient in cannabinoids, causing our ECS to become dormant. Through correcting a deficiency, we can activate the ECS so it can do its job; to oversee the healthy and balanced functioning of all bodily systems.
The ECS doesn’t just benefit biological processes in the body, it can also assist in the healthy altering of human behaviour by reducing mental distress such as anxiety and depression. Through this, people are better able to move through the world with more freedom and balance, interacting with others in a more positive, comfortable manner. Hemp cannabinoids provide the ECS with the compounds it needs to activate and function fully.
HOW IS HEMP ADAPTOGENIC
Hemp adaptogens are multi-faceted in their ability to benefit biological processes in mammals. Yes, that includes dogs, cats and humans. Hemp adaptogens, specifically, cannabinoids, are antimicrobial. Their effects are also heightened when combined with a terpene such as myrcene or limonene through the “entourage effect.”
The cannabinoid CBD, when combined with the terpene linalool, are a anxiety reducing dream team. For increased awareness and focus, alpha-pinene and CBD are an excellent combination. Another strong team is CBD and beta-caryophyllene, which boosts antioxidant activity in the body.
If you’re asking, “is hemp an adaptogen” hopefully this article answered your question. You’ll find many more articles just like this one on our blog covering all things hemp, cannabis and the endocannabinoid system.