Endocannabinoid System

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a body-wide regulatory network of receptors (CB1, CB2), endogenous cannabinoids (anandamide, 2-AG), and enzymes that synthesize and degrade them. The ECS modulates pain, mood, appetite, sleep, immune function, and homeostasis. Phytocannabinoids like THC and CBD work by interacting with this system.

Example: Cannabinoids work because they engage the body's existing endocannabinoid system.

Etymology: Coined in the 1990s as researchers identified CB1 (1990) and CB2 (1993) receptors.