The Endocannabinoid System

For most of history, little was understood about the effects of cannabis on the human body. In the 1990’s, however, scientists discovered what is known as the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is a biological network of endocannabinoids and receptors that help regulate a variety of physiological processes. These receptors are found throughout the body and help regulate mood, appetite, digestion, stress, sleep, immune function, pain, and memory. Endocannabinoid receptors are activated by cannabinoids, which are chemical compounds that the body naturally produces. Interestingly, cannabinoids are also found in the cannabis plant, which mimic the effects of cannabinoids produced by the body.

Though there are several different cannabinoids derived from cannabis, the two most popular are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Cannabinoids such as THC or CBD activate endocannabinoid receptors, which respond differently depending on the cannabinoid and perform different bodily tasks. Additionally, there are two receptor types: CB1 and CB2. Discovered first in the early 1990’s, CB1 receptors are largely found in the brain (the hypothalamus, hippocampus, and amygdala) and nervous system, where CB2 receptors exist mostly in immune cells throughout the body. In turn, CB1 and CB2 receptors are responsible for regulating different physiological functions. CB1 receptors are primarily associated with regulating movement, coordination, cognition, memory, and emotion. Conversely, CB2 receptors are associated with inflammation, pain, and appetite. Together, these receptors play a vital role in maintaining homeostasis and can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions. Furthermore, understanding how external cannabinoids such as THC and CBD affect the body can help one better use cannabis products for health benefits.

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