Endocannabinoid System
The regulator.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell-signaling system identified in the early 1990s by researchers exploring THC, a well-known cannabinoid. Cannabinoids are compounds found in cannabis.
Experts are still trying to fully understand the ECS. But so far, we know it plays role in regulating a range of functions and processes, including:
sleep
mood
appetite
memory
reproduction and fertility
The ECS exists and is active in your body even if you don’t use cannabis.
The ECS involves three core components: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes.
Endocannabinoids
Endocannabinoids, also called endogenous cannabinoids, are molecules made by your body. They’re similar to cannabinoids, but they’re produced by your body.
Experts have identified two key endocannabinoids so far:
anandamide (AEA)
2-arachidonoylglyerol (2-AG)
These help keep internal functions running smoothly. Your body produces them as needed, making it difficult to know what typical levels are for each.
Endocannabinoid receptors
These receptors are found throughout your body. Endocannabinoids bind to them in order to signal that the ECS needs to take action.
There are two main endocannabinoid receptors:
CB1 receptors, which are mostly found in the central nervous system
CB2 receptors, which are mostly found in your peripheral nervous system, especially immune cells
Endocannabinoids can bind to either receptor. The effects that result depend on where the receptor is located and which endocannabinoid it binds to.
For example, endocannabinoids might target CB1 receptors in a spinal nerve to relieve pain. Others might bind to a CB2 receptor in your immune cells to signal that your body’s experiencing inflammation, a common sign of autoimmune disorders.
Enzymes
Enzymes are responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids once they’ve carried out their function.
There are two main enzymes responsible for this:
fatty acid amide hydrolase, which breaks down AEA
monoacylglycerol acid lipase, which typically breaks down 2-AG
What are its functions?
The ECS is complicated, and experts haven’t yet determined exactly how it works or all of its potential functions.
Experts have linked the ECS to the following processes:
appetite and digestion
metabolism
chronic pain
inflammation and other immune system responses
mood
learning and memory
motor control
sleep
cardiovascular system function
muscle formation
bone remodeling and growth
liver function
reproductive system function
stress
skin and nerve function
These functions all contribute to homeostasis, which refers to stability of your internal environment. Today, experts believe that maintaining homeostasis if the primary role of the ECS.