Glossary
Endocannabinoid system
The network of receptors, endogenous ligands, and enzymes that cannabinoids act upon.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a signalling network involving CB1 and CB2 receptors, endogenous ligands (anandamide, 2-AG), and metabolic enzymes (FAAH, MAGL). It modulates pain perception, mood, sleep, appetite, immune function, and more. Exogenous cannabinoids — THC and CBD — engage with this system, which is why cannabis-based medicines have such a broad potential indication space. Individual variation in ECS tone partly explains why cannabinoid responses differ significantly between patients.
Related terms
- CannabinoidA class of compounds that interact with the endocannabinoid system — includes plant-derived (THC, CBD), synthetic, and endogenous forms.
- THC (Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol)The principal psychoactive cannabinoid in the cannabis plant.
- CBD (cannabidiol)Non-psychoactive cannabinoid with established use in some seizure disorders and emerging use in anxiety.