By Luke Sumpter


Unless you’re a scientist or an avid health nerd, you probably haven’t heard the word “homeostasis” since biology class. This in-built mechanism strives to keep the body in balance. Every time a stimulus, such as heat or physical exertion, challenges our body, homeostatic mechanisms ensure things don’t go too far in any direction. Below, you’ll learn all about homeostasis, and if cannabis manages to influence this vital process.

What Is Homeostasis?

Mechanisms within the human body work tirelessly to keep our physiology in a state of balance. Our bodies work optimally when certain variables are kept within specific “goldilocks zones”. Examples of this include:

  • Blood pH between 7.35–7.45
  • Blood pressure between 90/60–120/80mmHg
  • Body temperature of around 37°C

Science refers to this biological balancing act as homeostasis. The Encyclopaedia Britannica defines[1] it as “any self-regulating process by which biological systems tend to maintain stability while adjusting to conditions that are optimal for survival”. While we’re at rest, without the variables of illness and infection, our body quite easily maintains processes such as blood sugar regulation, potassium and calcium balance, immune system activity, and hydration. However, things become a bit more challenging when we're exposed to certain stimuli, including infection, physical exertion, hunger, and high temperatures.

What Is Homeostasis?

How Homeostasis Works

How does homeostasis work? It takes an orchestrated effort. Our bodies house trillions of cells that make up myriad tissues, organs, and glands (not to mention the trillions of commensal bacteria that call your body home).

Keeping all of these systems and cells working in harmony—and functioning well enough to keep us alive—requires communication. Various systems within the body work in concert to maintain homeostatic boundaries through hormonal excretion and electrical signalling. Our endocrine system, composed of several glands and organs, releases a cocktail of hormones that play important roles in keeping the body in a state of balance. Our central and peripheral nervous systems also send lightning-fast signals across the body that help to monitor, respond, and regulate. Together, the endocrine and nervous system form feedback loops that underpin homeostasis.

How Homeostasis Works

Feedback Loops

Feedback loops are mechanisms that the body uses to maintain homeostasis. There are two different kinds: positive, and negative feedback loops. Negative feedback loops feature four main stages in the form of stimulus, sensor, control, and effector. Using body temperature regulation as an example, these stages look like this:

  • Stimulus: A fever causes body temperature to rise above 37°C.
  • Sensor: Nerve cells in the skin and brain detect a rise in body temperature.
  • Control: The hypothalamus works as a biological thermostat to regulate body temperature.
  • Effector: The hypothalamus triggers hormonal cascades that result in the dilation of blood vessels and increased sweating. As the body loses heat, it gradually returns to the homeostatic sweet spot, and this mechanism ceases.

Whereas negative feedback loops work to oppose the initial stimulus, positive feedback loops boost the initial stimulus. These mechanisms work by seeing a process through to the end, instead of pulling things back into balance. Examples of positive feedback loops include the continuous release of oxytocin during contractions of childbirth, and the feeding of newborns that stimulates further milk production.

Homeostasis and Disease

The timeline of human progress has seen science conquer certain diseases that plagued our ancestors. However, the comforts of modernity, including sedentary living, high caloric intake, and access to inflammatory foods, have given rise to a set of diseases relatively rare among predecessors. These include:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Certain forms of cancer
  • Obesity
  • Atherosclerosis
  • Autoimmunity (the immune system attacking the body)
  • Certain psychiatric disorders

According to immunobiology researchers Maya Kotas and Ruslan Medzhitov, these conditions share two key factors in common[2]: they stem from malfunctioning homeostatic mechanisms, and they’re associated with chronic inflammation. While used as a means of defence against injury and infection, inflammation causes myriad physiological issues if it spirals out of control. Environmental variables, including diet, can displace physiological processes from their homeostatic zones. Take for example the excess consumption of sugar and subsequent dysfunction in glucose metabolism.

Cannabis and Homeostasis

Ongoing studies are pitching cannabis and its constituents against a plethora of disease models. Researchers are particularly interested in a subset of cannabis-derived metabolites known as cannabinoids. These molecules are able to influence the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the universal regulator of the human body. The ECS earned this prestigious title given its ability to drive homeostasis across myriad physiological systems; it underpins bone remodelling, governs neurotransmitter firing, facilitates skin functions, and even regulates our mood.

This vital system features three key parts: signalling molecules known as endocannabinoids, receptors that these molecules bind to, and enzymes that manufacture and break down these molecules.

Interestingly, cannabis-derived cannabinoids share a similar molecular structure to those created within the body. This means they’re also capable of binding to ECS receptors, and therefore have the capacity to influence our universal regulator. Constituents in cannabis can essentially “hack” this master regulatory network. However, to what degree these molecules impact our physiology remains the focus of scientific investigation.

THC and Homeostasis

You’ve heard of THC. This cannabinoid exists as the non-psychoactive cannabinoid acid THCA in raw flowers. Following exposure to heat, the molecule becomes THC, a compound capable of binding to certain ECS receptors in the brain, giving rise to the quintessential cannabis high.

Because THC binds to the two main receptors of the ECS, researchers are keen to find out if it can influence homeostasis across different systems. Researchers from Portugal[3] are testing the effects of THC on endocannabinoid homeostasis in human placenta, and scientists are also exploring the role THC plays in apoptosis. This term describes a tightly regulated process that dictates the controlled destruction of cells. Ultimately, apoptosis helps to keep cellular populations at healthy levels. In conditions such as cancer, the mechanism of apoptosis fails, which causes cells to multiply uncontrollably. Several studies[4] are testing THC on different types of cancer to see if it can induce apoptosis and impact cellular homeostasis in a positive manner.

THC and Homeostasis

CBD and Homeostasis

So, what about CBD? Does this cannabinoid offer any promise when it comes to influencing the ECS and homeostasis in the body? Just like with THC, scientific investigations surrounding CBD remain early and inconclusive. However, numerous studies are exploring how CBD impacts elements of the ECS. For example, researchers from Germany are looking to determine if CBD works to block the action[5] of the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), a protein responsible for breaking down the endocannabinoid anandamide—a vital player in homeostasis. CBD also interacts with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), a group of nuclear receptors involved in lipid and glucose homeostasis.

Deficiencies in the Endocannabinoid System

The ECS plays such an important role in body-wide homeostasis that things quickly go awry when the system malfunctions. The theory of clinical endocannabinoid deficiency[6] (CECD) posits that detrimental drifts in ECS function can result in the manifestation of disease. Neurologist and leading voice within the cannabis space Dr Ethan Russo presents the factor of endocannabinoid tone—an ideal quantity of circulating endocannabinoids within an individual's body—to dictate optimal homeostasis. These important signalling molecules are formed on demand from dietary compounds. However, environmental factors such as dietary deficiencies, as well as genetic factors, might reduce endocannabinoid tone below functional thresholds. Russo voices that skewed endocannabinoid tone could result in several health conditions, including:

If this theory turns out to be true, interventions aimed at tinkering with endocannabinoid tone would help to manage symptoms. Strategies known to alter endocannabinoid levels include:

  • Plant-derived cannabinoids
  • Dietary omega fatty acids
  • Aerobic exercise (running, swimming, cycling)
  • Massage and acupuncture

Why Homeostasis Is Important

The mechanisms that underpin homeostasis keep us alive. Without them, simply going for a run or catching a cold would lead to our demise. Functional homeostatic regulation systems are key to the health of an organism. Given the role of the ECS in this vital mechanism, cannabis and its constituents are front and centre in research related to maintaining optimal homeostasis. Though research is preliminary, scientists are keen to unravel this complex but undeniably vital aspect of human biology.

External Resources:
  1. homeostasis | Definition, Function, Examples, & Facts | Britannica https://www.britannica.com
  2. Homeostasis, Inflammation, and Disease Susceptibility - PMC https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. Effects of cannabis tetrahydrocannabinol on endocannabinoid homeostasis in human placenta | SpringerLink https://link.springer.com
  4. Anticancer mechanisms of cannabinoids - PMC https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. Cannabidiol enhances anandamide signaling and alleviates psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia - PMC https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency Reconsidered: Current Research Supports the Theory in Migraine, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowel, and Other Treatment-Resistant Syndromes - PMC https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Disclaimer:
This content is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources.

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Privacy Policy - Royal Queen Seeds

To ensure a safe online environment and guarantee adequate data protection, we strictly comply with all legal requirements. In this privacy statement, we provide information about how and for what purpose data is collected, safety measures, storage periods and contact details.


COMPANY NAME: SNORKEL SPAIN, SL (hereinafter ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS)

C/ Vilar d'Abdelà, 5 (nave 1) CP: 08170 de Montornès del Vallès

+34 937 379 846

support@royalqueenseeds.com


The present Privacy Policy sets out the terms on which we will treat personal data at ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS; this includes any personal data collected through our website https://www.royalqueenseeds.com/ as well as any other data we process in the course of our business activities.

ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS collects the following personal data for the purposes listed below:

SECTION 1 – PERSONAL INFORMATION WE COLLECT

1.1 Account purchases

Account purchases can only be made if you are in possession of a personal account. When you create an account or purchase something from our shop, as part of the buying and selling process we collect the following personal information that you provide to us:

This information is required for delivery. In addition, when you browse our shop, we automatically receive the Internet Protocol (IP) address of your computer. Based on this information, we can optimise your online experience and at the same time protect our online environment.

Purpose of data collection

We collect and store account-related data for the following purposes:

(a) to carry out obligations arising from any contracts between you and us, and to provide you with information, products and services that you may request from us;

(b) to set up, manage and communicate with you about your account and your orders;

(c) to conduct market research and analysis;

(d) to confirm your age and identity, and to detect and prevent fraud.

1.2 Newsletters

With your explicit permission, we may send you newsletters about our shop, new products and other updates. We send newsletters based on your explicit consent. In the event that you purchase a product, and in accordance with current regulations, we may send you commercial communications in accordance with the legitimate interest of our company, always about products or services similar to those you have purchased or contracted. In any case, you may exercise your right of opposition through the channels announced in this Privacy Policy. The following information is collected in relation to the newsletter:

We do not need to know the sex of the person in order to send the newsletter (data minimisation: by law we must ask for data that is strictly necessary to provide the service, and in this case knowing the sex is not necessary to send the newsletter).

Purpose of data collection

The data collected is used to:

(a) personalise our emails, including your name and gender;

(b) provide gender-specific content.

You can withdraw your consent at any time by using the link provided in the newsletter or the contact information provided in section 2.

1.3 Customer service and contact form

In order to provide appropriate support, our customer service employees have access to information related to the account. Consequently, their support will be highly effective and friendly. The data provided in our contact form is used by our CRM provider, SuperOffice. We will only use your details to respond to your message.

SECTION 2 – LEGITIMATE INTEREST

If you have purchased any of our products, please note that we may process your personal data for promotional purposes, based on Royal Queen Seeds' legitimate interest only to offer you products or services from our company and about products or services similar to those you have purchased. You may exercise your right to opt out of future messages by the means set out in this Privacy Policy or through any notification you receive.

2.1 How do you withdraw consent?

If you change your mind, you can withdraw your consent for us to contact you for the purpose of collecting, using, or disclosing your data at any time by reaching out to us at: support@royalqueenseeds.com.

SECTION 3 – DISCLOSURE

We may disclose your personal information if we are required to do so by law or if you breach our Terms of Service.

SECTION 4 – HOW LONG DO WE KEEP YOUR DATA?

At Royal Queen Seeds, we will not retain your data for longer than is necessary for the purposes described in this Policy. Different retention periods apply for different types of data; however, the longest period we will normally hold any personal data is 10 years.

4.1 Account information

Data relating to the account remains relevant for as long as the consumer is in possession of an account. Therefore, the data remains documented for as long as the account exists. When our customers delete an account, the associated data will be deleted within a reasonable period of time. Requests regarding the inspection or correction of stored personal data or the deletion of an account can be sent to support@royalqueenseeds.com.

4.2 Newsletters

In the event that you give us your consent to inform you about our products or services, we will keep your data until you express your wish not to receive any further communications from us. However, we regularly (every month) carry out a relevance check. Registered customers (and their personal information) will be deleted whenever customers do not reply to our request. In addition, our newsletter mailing has an opt-out feature. Consumers can withdraw their consent by using this opt-out feature.

SECTION 5 – COOKIES

Cookies are small information files that notify your computer of previous interactions with our website. These cookies are stored on your hard drive, not on our website. Essentially, when you use our website, your computer displays its cookies to us, informing our site that you have visited before. This allows our website to function more quickly and remember aspects related to your previous visits (such as your username), making your experience more convenient. At Royal Queen Seeds, we use two types of cookies: functional and analytical.

5.1 Functional Cookies

Functional cookies are used to enhance your online experience. Among other things, these cookies track what is added to your shopping cart. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

5.2 Analytical Cookies

Analytical cookies are used for research and market analysis. The data collected with these analytical cookies is anonymous, making it unusable for third parties. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

SECTION 5 – THIRD-PARTY SERVICES

Third-party services are required to conduct transactions and provide our services. In general, the third-party providers we use will only collect, use and disclose your information to the extent necessary to enable them to perform the services they provide to us.

However, certain third-party service providers, such as payment gateways and other payment transaction processors, have their own privacy policies regarding the information we must provide to them for your transactions.

We encourage you to read the privacy policies of these providers so that you can understand how these providers will handle your personal information.

In particular, certain suppliers may be located or have facilities located in a different jurisdiction than yours or ours. Therefore, if you choose to proceed with a transaction involving the services of a third party, your information may be subject to the laws of the jurisdiction in which that service provider or its facilities are located.

Once you leave our website or are redirected to a third-party website or application, you are no longer governed by this Privacy Policy or the Terms of Service of our website.

Web analytics service (anonymous data)

On this website we have integrated an element of a web analytics service (with anonymisation functionality). Web analytics can be defined as the gathering, processing and analysis of data about the behaviour of visitors to websites. An analytics service collects, among other things, data about which website a person came from (the so-called referrer), which sub-pages they visited or how often and for how long they visited a sub-page. Web analytics is mainly used for website optimisation and for a cost–benefit analysis of internet advertising.

Courier service

To complete deliveries we use a courier service. This courier service carries out the delivery between our company and the consumer's home. To complete these logistics, the company requires access to the consumer's name and address information.

Mailing service

Royal Queen Seeds uses a third-party mail service provider to send its newsletter. This provider has access to limited account information related to opt-in consent (e.g. email address).

Marketing services

Royal Queen Seeds has the support of a company that specialises in marketing and communication activities. Their access to personal information is very limited and mostly anonymous.

Payment services

At Royal Queen Seeds we use external payment services to handle our transactions (e.g. credit card payments).

SECTION 6 – SECURITY

To protect your personal information, we take reasonable precautions and follow industry standard best practices to ensure that it is not inappropriately lost, misused, accessed, disclosed, altered or destroyed.

If you provide us with your credit card information, the information is encrypted using secure socket layer technology (SSL) and stored using AES-256 encryption. Although no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, we follow all PCI-DSS requirements and implement additional industry standards that are commonly accepted. Information related to the account is protected with a hashing method. This method transforms the information into a generated hash. As a result, confidential information is protected and invisible, even to us. In addition, our databases are exceptionally protected against unauthorised access. For example, access to the database is only possible and permitted via approved IP addresses (e.g. from Royal Queen Seeds headquarters). Other attempts and addresses are rejected at all times.

Furthermore, data is anonymised as much as possible, so it cannot be directly linked to a specific consumer. With this data, however, we may be able to carry out market research and analysis. In addition, the third parties concerned (e.g. mailing service) are examined prior to our collaboration, comply with the GDPR from the EU and receive a processing agreement. Within Royal Queen Seeds, employees are assigned different access permissions. Specific permission provides access only to information that is strictly required to perform a task. Digital security measures are subject to change and must meet high requirements to ensure the safety of online customers. That is why, at Royal Queen Seeds, we appoint a security officer. Regular verification and improvement of security measures (where necessary) are part of the role.

SECTION 7 – CHANGES TO THIS PRIVACY POLICY

We reserve the right to modify this Privacy Policy at any time, so please check back regularly. Changes and clarifications will be effective immediately upon being published on the Website. If we make substantial changes to this policy, we will notify you here that it has been updated so you will know what information we collect, how we use it and under what circumstances, if any, we use and/or disclose it.

SECTION 8 – YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO: