The Importance of The Endocannabinoid System

Last updated: September 25, 2023

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

The endocannabinoid system is a complex signaling system found in human and animal bodies.

Scientists identified it in the 1990s, following research on the THC molecule. Experts are still working to understand the exact functioning of the ECS.

However, we already know that it plays a key role in regulating many functions and physiological processes, including the sleep-wake cycle, well-being and mood, appetite and metabolism, pain sensation, inflammation, and additional reactions of the immune system.

It also affects learning and memory, motor skills, cardiovascular function, muscle formation, bone growth, fertility, liver function, anxiety, skin health, and the functioning of the nervous system and social behavior.

Importance and Functions of the Endocannabinoid System

This important system regulates various physiological processes, such as fertility and embryonic development, immune system activity, pain perception, well-being and mood, memory, and appetite.

Historical Background of Cannabinoids

Scientists identified the ECS in the 1990s. The first endocannabinoid, arachidonylethanolamide (AEA), also known as anandamide, was isolated in 1992 by the Mechoulam laboratory.

It was classified as a partial antagonist of the CB1 receptor. Shortly after, the laboratory isolated another endocannabinoid called 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).

The original study on the endocannabinoid system can be read in the original language here.

Functioning of the Endocannabinoid System

What powers the endocannabinoid system?

Endocannabinoids
Endocannabinoid receptors
Enzymes

What is CBD?

Learn more about CBD here

The Meaning of Endogenous

Endogenous means that something is produced by the body. Endogenous cannabinoids are substances produced by the body itself. They are similar to cannabinoids from a chemical perspective, but the body produces them for its own needs.

There are two well-known endocannabinoids:

They help maintain homeostasis, which is the balance of the body necessary for life. The human and animal body produces these cannabinoids according to their needs, and their concentration varies.

The Presence of Endocannabinoids in Our Body

Molecules produced in our body are called endogenous cannabinoids, or more commonly, endocannabinoids, specifically anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol.

These molecules are found throughout our body and bind to receptors on cell walls, forming a functional system.

Here’s an example of how they would work. Endocannabinoids can target CB1 receptors in the spinal cord to relieve pain. Others can bind to CB2 receptors on immune cells, for example, during inflammation.

These functions help maintain the stability of the human body’s internal environment, called homeostasis. If an external force, injury, or high temperature disrupts the balance of the body, the endocannabinoid system helps the body function optimally.

According to current scientific views, the primary role of the endocannabinoid system is to maintain homeostasis so that our body can function optimally.

The Skin’s Receptors as Endocannabinoid Receptors

These receptors are found in the body. Endocannabinoids bind to them to signal the endocannabinoid system to take action.

There are two main types of endocannabinoid receptors:

CB1 receptors, mostly found in the central nervous system, and

CB2 receptors, mainly located in the peripheral nervous system, especially in immune cells.

Endocannabinoids can bind to either of these receptors. The effects produced depend on the location of the receptor to which the endocannabinoid binds.

Enzymes

Enzymes are responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids when they perform their function.

Therefore, two main enzymes are primarily responsible:

Amidohydrolase, which breaks down AEA
Monoacylglycerol lipase, which breaks down 2-AG

Scientists have confirmed that the endocannabinoid system and the body’s endocannabinoids are important for various processes. But how does this process work with phytocannabinoids, such as the psychoactive THC or the well-known CBD?

The Interaction between THC and the Endocannabinoid System

In the body, THC binds to the receptors of the endocannabinoid system, just like endocannabinoids.

This allows it to influence numerous physiological processes. Some effects of THC are desirable and used in medicine (USA).

The Meaning of CBD and Its Relationship to the System

Another major cannabinoid found in cannabis is cannabidiol (CBD). Unlike THC, CBD does not have psychoactive or mind-altering effects.

Similarly to THC, CBD can bind to the receptors of the endocannabinoid system (cannabinoid receptors), although indirectly.

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