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What are Glial and Mast Cells?
Glial cells are various types of companion cells in the central and peripheral nervous system. Once thought to be nothing more than the glue that holds the brain together, these cells are now understood to have a much more complex role in the brain besides simply acting as a scaffold. Glial cells are responsible for nourishing neurons, facilitating nerve impulses, and exerting an inflammatory response on neurons. Dysregulation and over-activation of glial cells can have a detrimental effect on the nervous system
Mast cells are a type of immune system cell that responds to chemical signals from tissue injury. When mast cells “degranulate,” they release a payload of inflammatory cytokines, NGF, histamines, and other molecules in the surrounding tissue. These chemicals attract white blood cells and activate their immune response against pathogens. Mast cells also activate nociceptors (pain receptors) with the chemicals they secrete. Overactive mast cell activation induces an increase in the density and sensitivity of pain receptors and can play a part in a variety of chronic pain issues.
How does it work?
It was discovered that mammals have a specific receptor cell known as the endocannabinoid system, which is closely interconnected with the nervous and immune system. CBD has been shown to boost every function of our cannabinoid receptors to help soothe and relax us. PEA has an affinity for the cannabinoid-like G-coupled receptors, although it has no affinity for the classical cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. This is why it is sometimes referred to as a non-psychoactive “indirect endocannabinoid.”
It does not block pain signals the way opioids and other analgestics do. Instead it works upstream by supporting the healthy function of glial cells and mast cells.
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