Hemp oil is an effective health supplement because it is rich in phytocannabinoids. Specifically, hemp oil is well-known for containing cannabidiol, or CBD. These compounds interact with our pet’s endocannabinoid system to produce therapeutic effects. 

As pet parents, we are attentive to what we give our pets. Let’s gain a better understanding of phytocannabinoids such as CBD by looking at the endocannabinoid system. 

Phytocannabinoids (phtyo meaning plant) are plant-derived compounds that interact with the cannabinoid receptors. The two major cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, send messages to the cells to keep the body in homeostasis, or balance. Homeostasis influences numerous functions of the body. 

While these receptors are found throughout the body, CB1 receptors are located prominently in the brain and CB2 receptors are found in abundance outside the nervous system. The location of these receptors is telling of the effect cannabinoids have on the body. 

The cannabinoid receptors are a part of a larger system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The endocannabinoid system regulates necessary functions of the body. Nearly all vertebrates have an endocannabinoid system, which means humans and pets alike can benefit from hemp oil. 

Phytocannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system similarly to compounds we create naturally in the body. The presence of the endocannabinoid system allows phytocannabinoids to be beneficial compounds.