Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
Also known as: ECS
Definition
The endocannabinoid system is a body-wide signaling network involved in pain, mood, sleep, immune function, and many other processes.
The ECS consists of three components: endocannabinoids (compounds the body produces), receptors (CB1 in the brain and nervous system, CB2 in the immune system and peripheral tissues), and enzymes that synthesize and break down endocannabinoids.
Plant cannabinoids interact with this system. THC binds directly to CB1 receptors. CBD's interaction is more complex — it doesn't bind to CB1 directly but appears to modulate the system indirectly. Research on the ECS is one of the most active areas in modern pharmacology.
Related terms
- CannabinoidCannabinoids are a class of chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. The plant contains more than 100 of them.
- PhytocannabinoidA phytocannabinoid is a cannabinoid produced by a plant — distinguishing it from endocannabinoids, which the human body produces.
- CBD (Cannabidiol)CBD is one of more than 100 naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a 'high.'
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)THC is the cannabinoid responsible for the psychoactive 'high' associated with marijuana. Hemp-derived CBD products may contain up to 0.3% THC under federal law.
Last reviewed: