Cannabis oil raises questions for many consumers. What is it used for? What does it do? What is the ideal dosage? It is difficult to give an unequivocal answer to these questions. Everybody reacts differently to the “cannabinoids” that are the oil’s active substances. Fact is that these substances have an influence on all of our body functions. To explain their precise modes of operation, we need to briefly look at the physiology of the body.

 

All body systems are connected to each other

Most major systems in the body are well-known: the nervous system, the lymphatic system, the digestive system. These bodily processes we have learned about in schools and have been studied by doctors for ages. Notwithstanding, our body is a cybernetic system: a system of systems. This overarching system consists of subsystems that are highly dependent on each other.

It is actually impossible to see these systems as separated from the others, because everything is tightly connected with everything else. A good example of this relationship is a heart attack. This problem arises in our internal organ system, but is also reflected in the musculoskeletal system, through referred pain in the arms and shortness of breath. Or what about menstruation? Symptoms such as back pain and weak legs are an example of our hormones acting on the musculoskeletal system.

Cybernetics: Studying the relationship between systems

Cybernetics is the research field tuning in on communication and control processes within living organisms and machines. It analyzes the ability of humans and animals to respond to changes and to input from the environment. You could describe the latter as feedback mechanisms. Like a thermostat adjusting the inner temperature based on the outer environment, the human body knows how to translate complicated feedback into “simple” actions such as walking or picking up a glass of water.

The endocannabinoid system: Conductor of our body

You may have heard of the endocannabinoid system. Many health care professionals will claim to have heard of it; however, it remains a poorly understood system. This does not make it less important; in fact, the system is interwoven with our whole body. Receptors for cannabinoids are everywhere, from brain to fat tissue. The system is so closely tied to our bodily functioning that it is actually involved in all physiological processes within the body. All major systems are linked to the endocannabinoid system. The latter system therefore plays anything but a minor role in our body. It acts like the body’s conductor.

Activate your endocannabinoid system to optimize mind and body

Whatever your personal situation or context, triggering this system contributes to the optimization of body and mind. There are two groups of active substances that exercise influence on our endocannabinoid system. The first are the endocannabinoids produced by the body itself. Production happens when you exercise. The second are the “exo-cannabinoids” that are found, for example, in the cannabis plant and are sold in the form of cannabis oil.

Cannabis oil: What dose is right for you?

When dosing cannabinoids, it is important to listen to your own body. The most suitable dosage is strongly dependent on your personal circumstances. In general, you may want to begin with a dose of one to two drops, up to three times per day. Test this amount over the course of approximately one week. Notice any difference? Increase the dose step-wise over the course of an additional three to four days until you feel an effect. This effective amount can then be used for two to three weeks. Thereafter, check if you can reduce the dosage if necessary. There are no known contraindications and cannabis oil is very safe. You can use it for prolonged uninterrupted periods, even at higher doses.