What does “Anandamide” mean?

One of the two principal endocannabinoids produced by the human body.

Anandamide in plain English

One of the two principal endocannabinoids produced by the human body.

Anandamide acts at cannabinoid receptors in a broadly similar way to THC, but is produced on demand and broken down quickly by an enzyme, so its effects are brief and local.

It has been proposed as relevant to pain modulation, mood and appetite. Attempts to raise its levels by blocking its breakdown have been an active drug-development route.

Frequently asked questions

What does anandamide mean?

One of the two principal endocannabinoids produced by the human body.

Sources and further reading

Every factual statement on this page is drawn from the following public sources. Links open in a new tab and are not affiliated with Flora House.

  1. NICE guideline NG144: Cannabis-based medicinal products
  2. NHS: Medical cannabis (and cannabis oils)
  3. MHRA: The supply, manufacture, importation and distribution of unlicensed cannabis-based products for medicinal use

Patient guide · Written by the Flora House editorial team · Last reviewed: 8 September 2026