What Is The Endocannabinoid System?

The endocannabinoid system is a critical regulator of our nervous, immune, and endocrine systems. Tiny receptors called endocannabinoid receptors are located around the body and are designed to send and receive chemical messages that control pain, inflammation, immune function, and nervous system activation.

The body has two primary endocannabinoids that work together to control this system:

1. Anandamide
2. 2-AG

THC, the psychoactive component of the cannabis plant, more closely resembles 2-AG, triggering the endocannabinoid receptors associated with serotonin in the brain — which is what gives it psychoactive effects.

On the other hand, CBD is more closely related to anandamide — which acts as more of a regulator for the endocannabinoid system, supporting homeostasis of various organs throughout the body.