When it comes to cannabis, understanding how the body processes it can make a big difference in your experience. A crucial factor in this process is enzymes—these tiny proteins work behind the scenes, helping your body break down cannabinoids like THC and CBD so they can interact with your system.
In this blog, we’ll explore how enzymes influence everything from the effects you feel to how long cannabis stays in your body.
Enzymes and the Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is like your body’s internal balance keeper.
- The ECS plays a major role in regulating:
- Mood
- Sleep
- Pain
- Appetite
- Immune response
- The ECS is made up of three key components:
- Endocannabinoids: your body’s natural cannabis-like compounds
- Receptors: structures that interact with endocannabinoids
- Enzymes: proteins that break down endocannabinoids.
Enzymes are essential for maintaining a smoothly functioning endocannabinoid system.Their job is to break down cannabinoids after they have completed their function..
- Two important enzymes include:
- FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase): FAAH primarily works on anandamide, often called the “bliss molecule,” which is an endocannabinoid that affects mood and pain.
- MAGL (monoacylglycerol lipase): MAGL helps break down 2-AG, another endocannabinoid that impacts inflammation and immune function.
- Role of enzymes in processing cannabinoids:
- Enzymes like FAAH and MAGL also process cannabinoids such as THC and CBD.
- Once cannabinoids bind to receptors and produce their effects, FAAH and MAGL ensure they don’t stick around too long, helping to restore balance in your system.
Enzymes and Metabolism
Understanding how cannabis is processed in the body is crucial for grasping its effects. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors involved:
- Processing cannabis: When you consume cannabis, it doesn’t just interact with your body immediately — it first needs to be processed by enzymes, particularly in the liver. This is where the CYP450 enzyme family comes into play. These enzymes break down a wide range of substances, including cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
- Impact on effects of cannabis: The metabolism of cannabis by CYP450 enzymes directly influences the duration and intensity of its effects. For example, THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis) is converted into a metabolite called 11-hydroxy-THC, which is known for producing stronger and longer-lasting effects, especially when consumed in edibles.
- Metabolism variability: Not everyone metabolizes cannabis at the same rate. Genetic variations can cause differences in CYP450 enzyme activity from person to person. Some people have faster or slower enzyme activity, which explains why cannabis affects everyone differently.
- Personalized effects: This variability explains why some people may experience longer-lasting effects, while others may feel the effects wear off more quickly. These differences in enzyme activity contribute to the personalized nature of cannabis experiences.
Enhancing or Inhibiting Enzymes for Desired Effects
Did you know that certain foods, supplements, and medications can actually affect how your body processes cannabis? This happens because some of these substances can either enhance or inhibit enzyme activity, particularly in the CYP450 family.
- Enzyme inhibitors: For instance, grapefruit juice is a well-known enzyme inhibitor. It slows down the activity of CYP450 enzymes, meaning that if you’ve had some grapefruit juice, it could slow the breakdown of cannabinoids like THC. This can lead to more intense and longer-lasting effects from cannabis because your body isn’t processing it as quickly. Similarly, medications such as some antibiotics or antifungals can also inhibit enzyme activity, amplifying the effects of cannabis.
- Enzyme Enhancers: On the flip side, certain substances can enhance enzyme function, speeding up the metabolism of cannabis. For example, foods rich in fiber or supplements like St. John’s Wort are thought to boost CYP450 activity. This could lead to a quicker breakdown of THC and CBD, making the effects shorter or less intense.
If you’re looking to prolong or soften your cannabis experience, being mindful of what you consume before or after using cannabis can help you achieve the desired effects. It’s a fascinating way to personalize your cannabis journey by understanding the role enzymes play and how to work with them.
Using Enzyme Science to Customize Your Cannabis Experience
Now that we’ve explored how enzymes influence your body’s response to cannabis, how can you use this information to tailor your experience? Here are some tips:
- Choose your consumption method wisely: If you want a longer, more intense high, edibles might be the way to go. Since they’re processed by enzymes in the liver, the effects can last longer than inhalation methods.
- Be mindful of what you eat and drink: Consuming grapefruit juice, fiber-rich foods, or certain supplements before or after cannabis use can either prolong or reduce the effects depending on how they interact with your enzymes.
- Start slow and track your reactions: Because everyone’s enzyme activity varies, the same cannabis product can affect two people differently. Start with a low dose and track how long the effects last and how strong they feel. This can help you understand your body’s unique relationship with cannabis and fine-tune future use.
- Consider your own genetics: If you find that cannabis affects you differently than others, genetics may play a role in how your body metabolizes cannabinoids. Being aware of this can help you adjust your dose or consumption method to get the most out of your experience.
One-on-One Education for a Personalized Cannabis Experience at Peake ReLeaf
Enzymes may be small, but their role in shaping your cannabis experience is anything but minor. From how quickly you feel the effects to how long they last, understanding the relationship between enzymes and cannabis can help you better tailor your experience to your body’s unique needs.
If you’re curious to learn more, Peake ReLeaf is here to help. Explore our educational resources or stop by for personalized guidance from our knowledgeable staff. We’re always ready to help you curate your cannabis experience, so it’s just right for you!
The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
