Cannabidiol (CBD) is a major cannabinoid found in the cannabis family of plants. It is used as an active ingredient in many health and wellness products because it can be useful for alleviating the symptoms of many common day ailments. You must know that cannabinoids like CBD and THC produce their physiological effects because they are like the endogenous cannabinoids produced by our bodies. So, they influence the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates homeostasis. In this article, we will discuss the influence of dark chocolate on the functional benefits of CBD.
Cacao And Cannabis
You must know that the Cannabis Sativa and Theobroma cacao plants produce cannabinoids and terpenes. Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give plants, spices, etc, their unique aroma. Apart from this, they also produce therapeutic effects when you ingest them. Furthermore, you must know that these plants have been used in ancient cultures for thousands of years due to their health benefits.
Cannabinoids And ECS
As already mentioned in the introduction, cannabinoids produce their effects by stimulating the ECS. The ECS is an expansive network of receptors that are found in every part of the body that regulates homeostasis. These receptors interact with cannabinoids like a lock and key mechanism. For instance, CBD produces its effects by binding with CB2 receptors of the ECS.
The Cannabinoids In Cacao
Cacao, the raw material used for making dark chocolate contains the following compounds: N-linoleoyl ethanolamide and N-oleoylethanolamide. These compounds are responsible for inhibiting the action of the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). FAAH is responsible for the metabolism of anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
Due to the inhibitory action of N-linoleoyl ethanolamide and N-oleoylethanolamide on FAAH, anandamide levels in the brain increase, and because of this, your mood improves. You must also know that anandamide is a neurotransmitter, which is also referred to as the bliss molecule.
CBD And The Entourage Effect
Relaxation and reducing anxiety are two important CBD health benefits. This is because, when you ingest it, it improves the levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and anandamide. It has been found that when CBD is combined with dark chocolate, the therapeutic effects of this cannabinoid are enhanced. This is because of the entourage effect; the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids found in CBD extract and cacao work synergistically to enhance the therapeutic effect of each cannabinoid. Also, due to this, the bioavailability of cannabidiol is improved, and its effects last longer.
We hope that the details shared above clarified your doubts about the influence of dark chocolate on the functional benefits of CBD.
