About the speaker: Dr. Chris D. Meletis, Naturopathic Physician

Dr. Chris D. Meletis is an educator, international author and lecturer. His personal mission is “Changing World’s Health One Person at a Time.” He believes that when people become educated about their body, that is the moment when change begins. He has authored over a dozen books and in excess of 200 national scientific articles in such journals and magazines as Natural Health, Alternative and Complementary Therapies, Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients, Life Extension and Natural Pharmacy.

Dr. Meletis served as Dean of Naturopathic Medicine and Chief Medical Officer for 7 years at the oldest Naturopathic Medical School in North America. He was awarded the 2003 physician of the year by the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians.  He has a deep passion for helping the underprivileged and spearheaded the creation of 16 free natural medicine healthcare clinics in the Portland metropolitan area of Oregon.

Our discussion will review the latest science regarding nurturing the endocannabinoid system for optimal HPA axis, the role in immune responsiveness, and pain and stress relief will be examined, with several Monday morning clinical pearls infused throughout the talk.
 
When the endocannabinoid system is working properly it keeps your HPA axis working its best, too. The endocannabinoid system can act as a gatekeeper of the HPA axis, preventing it from becoming overactive and churning out too much cortisol. It can also prevent the HPA axis from becoming underactive.
 
A balanced endocannabinoid system and the way it interacts with the HPA axis play a role in offsetting these two effects of stress. The therapeutic use of CBD — through its interaction with the endocannabinoid system — is known to reduce fear conditioning and boost mood.
 
CBD’s interaction with dopamine receptors is evidence that the endocannabinoid system is involved in regulating mood during stress. CBD’s ability to promote a more relaxed and happy mood during stress is likely due at least in part to its effects on dopamine receptors.