Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, with its benefits ranging from pain relief to the reduction of anxiety and depression. However, recent research has shown that cannabis may also play a crucial role in balancing homeostasis in the body.
Homeostasis is the process by which the body maintains a stable internal environment despite changes in the external environment. It involves various physiological processes, including the regulation of body temperature, blood pressure, and glucose levels. Homeostasis is essential for optimal health and wellness, and imbalances can lead to various health problems.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex system of receptors and enzymes that plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis in the body. The ECS is activated by endocannabinoids, which are naturally produced by the body. However, the ECS can also be activated by cannabinoids, which are compounds found in the cannabis plant.
There are two primary cannabinoids found in cannabis: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the psychoactive component of cannabis, responsible for the “high” associated with its use. CBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and has been shown to have numerous health benefits.
One of the ways in which cannabis can help balance homeostasis is through its effects on inflammation. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to various health problems, including autoimmune diseases, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. CBD has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects, which may help balance the immune system and prevent chronic inflammation.
Cannabis may also help balance the nervous system, which plays a crucial role in homeostasis. The ECS is present throughout the nervous system, and cannabinoids have been shown to affect various aspects of nervous system function, including neurotransmitter release and neuronal excitability. Studies have shown that CBD may help reduce anxiety and depression, improve sleep quality, and even protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Another way in which cannabis may help balance homeostasis is through its effects on the digestive system. The ECS is present throughout the digestive system, and cannabinoids have been shown to affect various aspects of digestive function, including motility and inflammation. Studies have shown that CBD may help reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), two common digestive disorders.
There is also evidence to suggest that cannabis may help balance the cardiovascular system. The ECS is present throughout the cardiovascular system, and cannabinoids have been shown to affect various aspects of cardiovascular function, including blood pressure, heart rate, and vascular tone. Studies have shown that CBD may help reduce blood pressure and improve vascular function, potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
It is important to note that while cannabis may have significant health benefits, it is not a panacea. Cannabis use can have side effects, and there is still much we do not know about its long-term effects on health. Additionally, the legal status of cannabis varies by country and region, and individuals should consult with their healthcare provider before using cannabis for any medical purposes.
In conclusion, cannabis may be a valuable tool for balancing homeostasis in the body. Its effects on the ECS can help regulate various physiological processes, including inflammation, nervous system function, digestive function, and cardiovascular function. While further research is needed to fully understand the health benefits of cannabis, its potential as a tool for promoting health and wellness is promising.
DMT, or dimethyltryptamine, is a powerful psychedelic compound found in various plants and animals, including the ayahuasca vine and the Bufo Alvarius toad. While its use has primarily been associated with spiritual and recreational purposes, recent research has suggested that DMT may have therapeutic potential in treating a range of mental health conditions.
DMT is known for producing intense and profound hallucinations, often described as otherworldly or mystical. This experience, referred to as a “breakthrough” or “peak” experience, typically lasts around 15-30 minutes when taken in its pure form. Ayahuasca, a brew made from the ayahuasca vine and other plants, contains DMT and is used traditionally in shamanic ceremonies in South America. The use of ayahuasca has been associated with healing, personal growth, and spiritual insight.
Research into the therapeutic potential of DMT is still in its early stages, but there are several indications that it may be useful in treating certain mental health conditions. For example, one study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that DMT administration improved mood and decreased anxiety and depression in a group of volunteers. Another study found that DMT had a positive effect on patients with treatment-resistant depression, improving symptoms in some individuals.
DMT may also be useful in the treatment of addiction. A study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs found that ayahuasca use was associated with a reduction in problematic drug use among a group of individuals struggling with addiction. Similarly, another study found that DMT administration led to decreased alcohol use and increased feelings of connection to others in a group of heavy drinkers.
One of the ways in which DMT may be useful in treating mental health conditions is by inducing a sense of ego dissolution or “oneness” with the universe. This experience has been associated with increased feelings of empathy and connection to others, which may be particularly useful in treating conditions such as depression and addiction, which often involve feelings of isolation and disconnection. Additionally, the profound experiences induced by DMT may help individuals gain new perspectives on their lives, leading to increased self-awareness and personal growth.
It is important to note that while DMT may have therapeutic potential, it is also a powerful substance with potential risks and side effects. DMT can cause intense hallucinations, and individuals who are prone to psychotic episodes or have a history of mental health conditions may be at greater risk for negative experiences. Additionally, DMT is a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, meaning that it is illegal to possess or use outside of approved research settings.
Despite these risks, research into the therapeutic potential of DMT is ongoing. As more studies are conducted, we may gain a better understanding of how this powerful substance can be used to treat mental health conditions and improve the lives of those struggling with addiction, depression, and other conditions.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell signaling system that plays a vital role in maintaining homeostasis in the body. Homeostasis is the ability of the body to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. The ECS consists of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes, which work together to regulate various physiological processes.
Endocannabinoids are cannabinoids produced naturally by the body. The two main endocannabinoids are anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These endocannabinoids are produced on-demand and act as signaling molecules that activate cannabinoid receptors.
There are two main cannabinoid receptors in the ECS, known as CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are primarily found in the immune system and peripheral tissues.
The ECS also contains enzymes that break down endocannabinoids. These enzymes, called fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), break down anandamide and 2-AG, respectively.
The ECS regulates several physiological processes, including appetite, pain, mood, immune function, and sleep. It plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis by regulating these processes and ensuring that they function optimally.
For example, the ECS plays a role in regulating appetite by modulating the release of hormones that control hunger and satiety. CB1 receptors in the hypothalamus of the brain are responsible for regulating food intake and energy expenditure. When activated by endocannabinoids, CB1 receptors increase appetite and reduce energy expenditure, leading to weight gain.
The ECS also plays a role in pain modulation. Endocannabinoids act on CB1 receptors in the nervous system to reduce the release of neurotransmitters that transmit pain signals. This can help to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
In addition, the ECS plays a role in regulating mood and stress. Endocannabinoids act on CB1 receptors in the brain to regulate the release of neurotransmitters that are involved in mood and anxiety, such as serotonin and dopamine. This can help to reduce anxiety and improve mood.
The ECS also plays a role in regulating immune function. CB2 receptors are found on immune cells, and endocannabinoids can act on these receptors to reduce inflammation and modulate immune responses. This can help to prevent excessive inflammation and reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Sleep is another process regulated by the ECS. Endocannabinoids act on CB1 receptors in the brain to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Studies have shown that endocannabinoids can increase sleep duration and improve sleep quality.
The ECS also plays a role in regulating the cardiovascular system, bone metabolism, and reproductive function. It is involved in the regulation of many physiological processes, and its dysregulation has been implicated in several diseases, including obesity, diabetes, anxiety disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases.
In conclusion, the endocannabinoid system plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis in the body. It regulates several physiological processes, including appetite, pain, mood, immune function, and sleep. The ECS consists of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes, which work together to ensure that these processes function optimally. Dysregulation of the ECS has been implicated in several diseases, highlighting its importance in maintaining overall health and well-being.
Cannabis is a plant that has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for thousands of years. It contains a number of active compounds, including cannabinoids, which have been found to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and signaling molecules that helps to regulate a wide range of physiological processes, including mood, appetite, pain, and sleep.
One of the most important functions of the ECS is maintaining homeostasis, or balance, in the body. Homeostasis is the ability of the body to maintain a stable internal environment, even in the face of external stressors. For example, when the body is exposed to a hot environment, it responds by sweating to cool down and maintain a stable internal temperature. Similarly, when the body is exposed to a pathogen, it mounts an immune response to fight off the infection and maintain a stable internal environment.
The ECS plays a key role in regulating many of the body’s physiological processes that are involved in maintaining homeostasis. It has been found to be involved in regulating the immune system, the cardiovascular system, the digestive system, and the nervous system. It has also been found to be involved in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep.
Cannabinoids, the active compounds in cannabis, have been found to interact with the ECS in a number of ways. For example, THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, has been found to activate the CB1 receptor in the ECS. This receptor is found in high levels in the brain and is involved in regulating mood, appetite, and pain. When THC activates this receptor, it can produce feelings of euphoria, increased appetite, and pain relief.
CBD, another important cannabinoid found in cannabis, has been found to interact with the ECS in a different way. It has been found to block the enzyme that breaks down anandamide, a naturally occurring cannabinoid that is involved in regulating mood, appetite, and pain. By blocking the breakdown of anandamide, CBD can increase its levels in the body and produce feelings of relaxation, pain relief, and improved mood.
Despite the many potential benefits of cannabis for homeostasis, there are also some potential risks. One of the main risks associated with cannabis use is the potential for addiction. THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, has been found to be addictive in some people. This can lead to a number of negative consequences, including impaired cognitive function, decreased motivation, and social withdrawal.
Another potential risk of cannabis use is the potential for adverse side effects. Some people may experience side effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, and impaired coordination. In rare cases, cannabis use can also lead to more serious side effects such as psychosis and cardiovascular problems.
In conclusion, cannabis and homeostasis are intimately connected. The active compounds in cannabis have been found to interact with the ECS in a number of ways, and can produce a wide range of effects on the body and mind. While cannabis has many potential benefits for homeostasis, it is also important to be aware of the potential risks and to use it in a responsible and safe manner. As with any substance, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using cannabis for medicinal purposes.
Ginkgo biloba, or maidenhair, is a tree native to China that has been grown for thousands of years for a variety of uses.
Because it’s the only surviving member of an ancient order of plants, it’s sometimes referred to as a living fossil.
While its leaves and seeds are often used in traditional Chinese medicine, modern research primarily focuses on ginkgo extract, which is made from the leaves.
Ginkgo supplements are associated with several health claims and uses, most of which focus on brain function and blood circulation.
Ginkgo contains high levels of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are compounds known for their strong antioxidant effects (3, 4Trusted Source).
Antioxidants combat or neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals.
Free radicals are highly reactive particles that are produced in the body during normal metabolic functions, such as converting food to energy or detoxification.
Yet, they also have the potential to damage healthy tissues, contributing to accelerated aging and disease development.
Research on ginkgo’s antioxidant effects is promising. However, it remains unclear exactly how it works and how effective it may be at treating specific diseases.
SUMMARY
Ginkgo contains potent antioxidants, which fight the damaging effects of free radicals and may be behind most of its health claims.
Inflammation is part of the body’s natural response to injury or invasion by a foreign substance.
In the inflammatory response, various components of the immune system are recruited to fight against the foreign invader or heal the injured area.
Some chronic diseases trigger an inflammatory response even when there is no illness or injury present. Over time, this excessive inflammation can cause permanent damage to the body’s tissues and DNA.
Years of animal and test-tube research shows that ginkgo extract can reduce markers of inflammation in both human and animal cells in a variety of disease states (2Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source, 6Trusted Source).
Some specific conditions in which ginkgo extract has shown to reduce inflammation include:
Arthritis
Irritable bowel disease (IBD)
Cancer
Heart disease
Stroke
While this data is encouraging, human studies are needed before drawing concrete conclusions about ginkgo’s role in treating these complex diseases.
SUMMARY
Ginkgo has the ability to reduce inflammation caused by various conditions. This may be one of the reasons it has such broad health applications.
In traditional Chinese medicine, ginkgo seeds were used to open “channels” of energy to different organ systems, including the kidneys, liver, brain and lungs.
Ginkgo’s apparent ability to increase blood flow to various parts of the body may be the origin of many of its supposed benefits.
One study in people with heart disease who supplemented with ginkgo revealed an immediate increase in blood flow to multiple parts of the body. This was attributed to a 12% increase in levels of circulating nitric oxide, a compound responsible for dilating blood vessels (7Trusted Source).
Similarly, another study showed the same effect in older adults who were treated with ginkgo extract (8Trusted Source).
Additional research also points to ginkgo’s protective effects on heart health, brain health and stroke prevention. There are multiple potential explanations for this, one of which may be the anti-inflammatory compounds present in the plant (9Trusted Source, 10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source).
More research is needed to fully understand how ginkgo affects circulation and heart and brain health.
SUMMARY
Ginkgo can increase blood flow by promoting the dilation of blood vessels. This may have applications for the treatment of diseases related to poor circulation.
Ginkgo has been repeatedly evaluated for its ability to reduce anxiety, stress and other symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline associated with aging.
Overall, research results are inconsistent in this area.
Some studies show a marked reduction in the rate of cognitive decline in people with dementia using ginkgo, but others fail to replicate this result.
A review of 21 studies revealed that when used in conjunction with conventional medicine, ginkgo extract may increase functional capabilities in those with mild Alzheimer’s (12Trusted Source).
Another review evaluated four studies and found a significant reduction in a spectrum of symptoms associated with dementia when ginkgo was used for 22–24 weeks (13Trusted Source).
These positive results could be related to the role that ginkgo may play in improving blood flow to the brain, especially as it relates to vascular types of dementia.
Overall, it’s too soon to definitively state or refute ginkgo’s role in treating dementia, but recent research is beginning to make this piece clearer.
SUMMARY
It cannot be concluded that ginkgo treats Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, but it might help in some cases. The chances of it helping seem to increase when used alongside conventional treatment.
There is some speculation that ginkgo may enhance brain function in healthy individuals.
A handful of small studies support the notion that supplementing with ginkgo may increase mental performance and perceived well-being (14Trusted Source, 15Trusted Source).
Results from studies like these have given rise to claims linking ginkgo to improved memory, focus and attention span.
However, a large review of research on this relationship concluded that supplementing with ginkgo did not result in any measurable improvements in memory, executive function or attention capacity (16).
While supplementing with ginkgo may improve mental capability, there are no guarantees.
SUMMARY
Some research shows that ginkgo may improve mental performance in healthy people, but the data is inconsistent.
A handful of animal studies have observed reductions in anxiety symptoms that may be attributed to the antioxidant content of ginkgo (17Trusted Source, 18Trusted Source).
In one study, 170 people with generalized anxiety were treated with either 240 mg or 480 mg of ginkgo or a placebo. The group treated with the highest dose of ginkgo reported a 45% greater reduction in symptoms of anxiety, compared to the placebo group (19Trusted Source).
While supplementing with ginkgo may reduce anxiety, it’s still too early to draw any definitive conclusions from the available research.
SUMMARY
Some research shows that ginkgo may help treat anxiety, though this is likely due to its antioxidant content.
A review of animal studies suggests that supplementing with ginkgo may help treat symptoms of depression (18Trusted Source).
Mice who received ginkgo before an unavoidable stressful situation were less emotionally affected by the stress than the group that did not receive the supplement.
The study indicated that this effect was related to ginkgo’s anti-inflammatory properties, which improve the body’s ability to cope when stress hormone levels are high.
Nonetheless, depression is a complex condition that may have a variety of root causes.
More research is needed to better understand the relationship between ginkgo and how it may affect depression in humans.
SUMMARY
Ginkgo’s anti-inflammatory effects give it the potential to treat depression. More research is needed.
Very little research has investigated how ginkgo relates to vision and eye health. However, early results are promising.
One review showed that people with glaucoma who supplemented with ginkgo experienced increased blood flow to the eye, but this didn’t necessarily translate to better vision (20Trusted Source).
Another review of two studies evaluated the effect of ginkgo extract on the progression of age-related macular degeneration. Some participants reported an improvement in vision, but this wasn’t statistically significant across the board (21Trusted Source).
Many of these positive results seem to be related to increased blood flow to the eye.
It’s unclear if ginkgo would improve vision in those who don’t already suffer from vision impairment.
More research is needed to determine whether ginkgo can increase vision capacity or slow the progression of degenerative eye disease.
SUMMARY
Some early research shows that supplementing with ginkgo may increase blood flow to the eyes but not necessarily improve vision. More research is needed.
Very little research is available on ginkgo’s ability to treat headaches. However, depending on the root cause of the headache, it may help.
For example, it’s well known that ginkgo has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. If a headache or migraine is caused by excessive stress, ginkgo may be useful.
Additionally, if a headache is related to reduced blood flow or constricted blood vessels, ginkgo’s ability to dilate blood vessels may improve symptoms.
On the contrary, some migraines are caused by the excessive dilation of blood vessels. In this situation, ginkgo may have little to no effect.
But these examples are just inferences and don’t substitute hard evidence.
If you want to try ginkgo for your migraines, it’s unlikely that it will cause much harm. Just be aware that it may not necessarily help.
SUMMARY
Because of its ability to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation, ginkgo may be an effective treatment for some types of headaches.
Some research indicates that ginkgo may improve symptoms of asthma and other inflammatory respiratory diseases like COPD.
This is attributed to the anti-inflammatory compounds in ginkgo, which may allow for reduced inflammation of the airways and increased lung capacity (23Trusted Source).
One study in 75 people evaluated the use of ginkgo extract alongside glucocorticosteroid medication therapy for managing asthma symptoms (24Trusted Source).
The levels of inflammatory compounds in the saliva of those who received ginkgo were significantly lower than those who received traditional medication alone.
Another study in 100 people evaluated the use of a mixture of Chinese herbs, which included ginkgo, for treating COPD symptoms.
Those who used the herbal formula reported a considerable reduction in cough and bronchitis at a three-month follow-up, compared to the control group (25Trusted Source).
At this point, it cannot be determined if this improvement can be attributed to ginkgo alone, or if it was a synergistic effect of the other herbs used in the treatment group formula.
While these results are encouraging, more research on this specific application of ginkgo is needed.
SUMMARY
Ginkgo may treat symptoms associated with respiratory diseases because of its anti-inflammatory effects. More research is needed.
Ginkgo has the ability to improve blood levels of nitric oxide, which improves circulation via the dilation of blood vessels (7Trusted Source).
As a result, ginkgo may also be useful for treating various symptoms of sexual dysfunction by improving blood flow to those areas of the body.
Some research has investigated using ginkgo to treat sexual dysfunction caused by the use of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs). Results indicated that ginkgo wasn’t any more effective than a placebo in these cases.
Additionally, there may be an interaction between ginkgo and SSRI medications, which could render them less effective.
One study evaluated the use of ginkgo to increase sexual desire and contentment in women who were concurrently undergoing sexual psychotherapy (27Trusted Source).
The combination of ginkgo and therapy were effective over a longer term compared to a placebo, but supplementing with ginkgo alone was not.
The rationale for using ginkgo to treat sexual dysfunction makes sense, but research does not support it at this time.
SUMMARY
Ginkgo may improve symptoms of sexual dysfunction due to its impact on blood flow. However, research has not proven it to be effective.
It’s important to talk to your doctor before including ginkgo in your routine.
For most adults, the risk associated with taking ginkgo is relatively low, but there are cases in which ginkgo could cause serious harm.
If you are allergic to plants that contain alkylphenols or taking certain medications, you should not take ginkgo.
Possible side effects include:
Nausea
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Headaches
Stomach pain
Rash/allergic reaction
Ginkgo has the potential to interact unfavorably with certain medications. Some interactions could increase the risk of bleeding.
Possible adverse medication interactions include:
Blood thinners (Warfarin, aspirin)
SSRIs/MAOIs/antidepressants (Prozac, Zoloft)
NSAIDS (ibuprofen, Tylenol)
SUMMARY
As with any supplement, it’s important to consult your doctor before taking ginkgo biloba and stop use if you develop any negative side effects or adverse medication interactions.
Ginkgo biloba has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities and an ability to improve circulation.
Together, these characteristics have the potential to affect numerous body systems and diseases, although the science behind it still has some catching up to do.
While ginkgo has been used for centuries, it’s not completely understood how it works. Much of the available research is inconsistent or inconclusive, and it’s important to keep that in mind.
As with any herbal supplement, there are risks involved. Ginkgo could lead to serious health complications if you are allergic or taking certain medications.
If you’re thinking of including ginkgo in your regimen, be sure to consult your doctor first.
THIS ARTICLE WAS ORINGALLY PUBLISHED ON HEALTHLINE
The Tatty Journal 