Endocannabinoid System - What Is It and How Does It Work?

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a biological system composed of endocannabinoids that are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in brains and bodies of mammals.  These cannabinoid receptors play a pivotal role in the physiological effects when cannabinoids interact with the body and mind and as a result, control the processes associated with mood, memory, and pain.  There are two cannabinoid receptors - CB1 which is largely responsible for neurological processes and CB2 being responsible for physiological processes.

Where are the CB1 and CB2 Receptors?

CB1 receptors are primarily located on nerve cells in the brain, spinal cord, and central nervous system.  These receptors are abundant in the throughout the following:

•  Basal Ganglia - movement;
• Cerebellum - movement;
• Cerebral Cortex - higher cognitive function;
• Hypothalmus - appetite control and stimulation;
• Hippocampus - learning, memory, and stress;
• Medulla - chromoreceptor responsible for nausea and vomiting; and
• Spinal Cord - peripheral sensation including pain.

While CB1 receptors are primarily located in the brain and are responsible for a variety of neurological processes, other aspects of the body where these receptors are located include:

• Endocrine Gland located in the thyroid;
• Upper airways of mammals;
• Kupffer cells, heptocytes, and hepatic stellate cells all located within the liver;
• Gonads and endocrine glands located in the ovaries;
• Myometrium located in the uterus;
• Epithelial and smooth muscle cells located in the prostate; and
• Gonads, Leydig cells, and sperm cells located in the testes.

CB2 receptors on the other hand are primarily found on cells within the immune system and its associated organs.  These receptors are most commonly found in the:

• Retinal pigment eipthelial and RPE cells of the eye;
• Stomach;
• Cardiovascular System;
• Pancreas;
• Digestive Tract; and
• Bone

How Does the ECS Promote Wellness For the Body?