By: Maureen Dube-Savage MS RD, Registered Dietitian, Holistic Cannabis Educator 

The plant Cannabis and the system in our body called the ECS, or Endocannabinoid System, works to support our mind and body’s balance. This discovery in the late 80s of a new physiological system working at the cell level, supporting all other known systems, has drawn much needed attention to learn all we can about this fascinating and diverse plant. With 90-plus years of Cannabis and its effects being mis-represented, with recent legalization, and now studies to support these known age-old uses, we are realizing we have another super food available to mankind once again.

Cannabis and Other Plants: Sharing Beneficial Properties

It has been discovered that the properties of the cannabis plant, mimic the properties of other plants, fruits and flowers. The essential oils from herbals we know and commonly use are also in Cannabis. As an example, similar to the relaxing effects of lavender, there are properties in the Cannabis plant called linalool that also give these calming qualities. Each species and varietal of the Cannabis plant will have different effects on our bodies. Similar to the vast different species and varietals of grapes in wine, there will be differences in Cannabis by region, grower and growing conditions. We have this understanding that one can be affected differently by a white wine in California, than a white wine grown in France. The same goes for Cannabis. When you are properly guided by someone who has studied these properties and effects, you will discover your personal routine for balance.

Whole Cannabis Consumption: Direct Path to ECS Balance

The most direct way to support balancing the ECS is to supplement your health routine with any consumption of the whole Cannabis plant. There are many traditional ways of consuming this plant, which include inhaling the flower, eating the raw leaves, oils, or seeds, cooking the roots or extracting the oil to take by mouth or with food. Each part of the plant has its own medical health value to target specific needs. As a registered dietitian, I especially appreciate the heart-healthy profile of the valuable omega 3:6 from Cannabis hemp heart seeds and hemp cold-pressed oils. These are now commonly found in most grocery stores and are superior over chia seeds and olive oil. You will find your hemp oil in the refrigerator section, and should be kept cold and used in 6 months for the best nutritional quality and taste.

Alternative Approaches: Balancing the ECS Without Cannabis

If the consumption of Cannabis does not fit into your comfort zone or lifestyle, I respect your health choices. However, you are not out of luck as there are several ways to affect your ECS. As we learn more about how to use the Cannabis plant, we also have learned that you can affect the ECS without Cannabis. Yes, you heard that right. It is well known that the traditional health pillars also positively balance the ECS. Managing pillars of health (1) that emphasize a balanced diet, sleep, stress, movement, mindfulness, and relationships in a positive way will do your body and mind real good.

Eating More Plants: Unlocking ECS and Overall Health

So here we are again, back to the fact that all plants are here to nourish the earth, our minds and bodies. To affect your ECS, and your overall health, ta-da….eat more plants. Any plants, fruits, seeds, leaves or flowers. If it comes from the ground, give it a round. Putting a focus on increasing the amount of plants you eat at each meal, is certainly the clearest message I can put out over and over again as a dietitian. How many more studies do we need to hear about how plants are good for you? Find your favorites first, and build on that list. Take a look at vegetarian recipes to give you flavor and cooking suggestions. Know that herbs of all kinds are superfoods of themselves. Experiment to boost the nutrition in any plant dish with some spices to affect your Endocannabinoid system to find whole body balance.

References:

1. de Melo Reis, Ricardo Augusto et al. “Quality of Life and a Surveillant Endocannabinoid System.” Frontiers in neuroscience vol. 15 747229. 28 Oct. 2021, doi:10.3389/fnins.2021.747229

About Maureen Dube-Savage:

Maureen Dube-Savage has been working in nutrition for 30 + years. She has further discovered the healing power of plants through her Holistic Cannabis Certification, adding the tool of therapeutic Cannabis to the Canna Care pillars of her health plan.

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Effective Cannabis Newsletter is a platform to educate on the vital role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in one's health. The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information contained in or available through this newsletter is for general information purposes only. It is not medical advice; it is health awareness.