What does “Endocannabinoid system” mean?
The body's own signalling system of cannabinoid molecules, the receptors they act on, and the enzymes that build and break them down.
Endocannabinoid system in plain English
The body's own signalling system of cannabinoid molecules, the receptors they act on, and the enzymes that build and break them down.
It regulates the intensity of other processes — pain signalling, appetite, mood, sleep, immune activity and memory — rather than driving any single function of its own.
It was discovered through research into how THC works. Claims that a wide range of conditions must respond to cannabis because the system is widespread do not follow: broad receptor distribution predicts broad side effects at least as reliably as broad benefit.
Frequently asked questions
What does endocannabinoid system mean?
The body's own signalling system of cannabinoid molecules, the receptors they act on, and the enzymes that build and break them down.
Sources and further reading
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