How Phytocannabinoids and Endogenous Cannabinoids Can Team Up for Better Balance
- Jesse Christianson
- Oct 9
- 2 min read
As stated in the previous blog, Let's build on our knowledgea and see how phytocannabinoids can be useful!
Our bodies have a built-in system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system helps regulate things like mood, sleep, appetite, pain, and immune responses.
The ECS has receptors (CB1, CB2, and others)
It has enzymes to make or break down internal cannabinoids (endocannabinoids)
And it interacts with signals in many parts of our body.
Who are the Endogenous Cannabinoids?(Discussed in-depth in previous weeks)
“Endogenous” means they come from inside you. Two main ones are:
Anandamide (AEA)
2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)
These are made on demand in your cells and help send signals to receptors to calm things down or bring them into balance.
For example, when nerves are overactive, endocannabinoids can reduce the signal, acting as a kind of “brake.”
Enter Phytocannabinoids (Plant Cannabinoids)
These are cannabinoids that come from cannabis plants—THC, CBD, CBG, CBC, etc.
What makes them interesting is that many of them can interact with the same receptors or influence the system around them. Some ways this happens:
Mimicking or modulating the signal. For instance, THC binds directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors.
Supporting enzyme activity. Some phytocannabinoids affect the enzymes that break down endocannabinoids (so the body’s own molecules can last longer).
Synergy through “entourage effect.” Phytocannabinoids + terpenes may work together, enhancing effects while reducing unwanted ones.
Modulating receptor environment. Some rare phytocannabinoids may alter receptor sensitivity or expression.
Why Together They Might Be Better
When your body’s endocannabinoids are low or not perfectly balanced, such as with Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency theory, adding phytocannabinoids can help:
Boosting signal strength. If your own endocannabinoids aren’t enough, phytocannabinoids can help fill in the gap.
Extending signal life. By slowing down the breakdown of endocannabinoids, they help your natural system do more.
Fine-tuning. With multiple cannabinoids (THC, CBD, CBG, etc.), you can modulate (adjust) how strong or mild the effect is.
In pain studies, for example, both endocannabinoid modulators and phytocannabinoids show promise. Animal models suggest combining them may improve outcomes.
Important Notes & Safety
Not every cannabinoid has been studied in humans for safety and long-term use
High doses of THC may overwhelm the system, causing side effects
Cannabis has a bi-phasic effect — meaning that both too little and too much can produce the opposite of the desired outcome. Finding the right dose is key to achieving balance and therapeutic benefit.
Always consider your health history, medications, and use low starting doses
Verify product purity and safety via lab tests (COAs)
Bottom line: The idea is that your body’s natural cannabinoids and plant cannabinoids can work together—supporting balance, reducing strain, and making the ECS more resilient. The trick is smart, informed use, and always prioritizing safety.
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