All mammals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is involved in almost every system in you and your pet’s body. – cardiovascular, digestion, relaxation, and even the cognitive and memory functions. The ECS is also a key factor in the mammalian body’s anti-inflammatory efforts. The ECS is controlled by receptors, which scientists call the CB1 and CB2 receptors.

CBD works directly with the ECS system by “antagonizing” the CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are one of the most abundant receptors in the brain and are found in almost every neuron in a mammal’s body. CB2 receptors are found almost exclusively in the immune system.

Cannabidiol (CBD) and related cannabinoids found in the hemp plant are the only compounds in the natural world that work with these receptors. According to scientists, this means that the mammalian body (yes, including all dogs and cats) have evolved to actually require CBD in order to function at our optimal levels of health.

Another important scientific find is that these receptors, when activated by CBD, allow for two-way communication between a mammal’s various body systems. Previously, scientists thought the body’s signals went in one direction only. This is one of the main reasons scientists think CBD is so effective at treating spasmodic, inflammatory, pain, anxiety and many other health issues.

The National Cancer Institute, a division of the United States National Institutes of Health, has even stated that CBD (cannabidiol) has shown anti-cancer properties in multiple scientific clinical studies – including the ability to actually kill cancer cells. They also state that, when used in conjunction with chemotherapy, the chemotherapy is more effective at killing cancer and the surrounding healthy cells have higher survivability.