BASICS OF THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM

Curious about the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and it's roles in health? Look no further. The ECS is a complex cell-signaling system that plays a role in regulating a wide range of physiological processes, including appetite, mood, pain sensation, and immune function. The ECS is composed of three main components: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes.

Endocannabinoids are molecules produced naturally by the body that bind to cannabinoid receptors. There are two main types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 receptors, which are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system, and CB2 receptors, which are primarily found in the immune system and peripheral tissues. Receptors are proteins that are found on the surface of cells and are responsible for receiving signals from endocannabinoids.

Enzymes are responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids once they have fulfilled their signaling roles. The two primary enzymes in the ECS are fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which breaks down anandamide, and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), which breaks down 2-AG.

Overall, the ECS plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis, or balance, within the body. When the body is out of balance, the ECS can help to restore equilibrium by regulating various physiological processes.