Skip to content
Dr. Cannabis

Glossary

Endocannabinoid system

A signalling network of receptors, naturally produced cannabinoids, and enzymes that helps regulate pain, appetite, mood, sleep, and immune function.

The endocannabinoid system was discovered while researchers were trying to work out how THC produces its effects. It consists of CB1 and CB2 receptors, endogenous cannabinoids the body makes itself (principally anandamide and 2-AG), and the enzymes that build and break them down.

CB1 receptors are concentrated in the brain and central nervous system; CB2 receptors sit mostly in peripheral and immune tissue. THC produces intoxication because it binds CB1 directly. Compounds that act mainly at CB2, such as beta-caryophyllene, do not.

Also written as: ecs, endocannabinoid.

Related terms

Sources

  1. Gertsch J, Leonti M, Raduner S, et al. Beta-caryophyllene is a dietary cannabinoid. PNAS. 2008;105(26):9099-9104.(DOI 10.1073/pnas.0803601105)Accessed 2026-08-15.