The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a complex biological system in the human body. Medical researchers discovered it in the 1990s, but much is still unknown about how it works. Experts know that it impacts several major biological processes, including appetite, sleep, mood, and memory, but there is much more yet to be discovered.

The ECS has three components: receptors, enzymes, and Endocannabinoids. These parts function regardless of whether someone uses CBD or not.

To understand how CBD can contribute to regulating the biological processes mentioned, it is key to know that both CBD and the body’s own natural Endocannabinoids are part of a group of chemicals called cannabinoids, meaning they are both structured in a way that allows them to interact with the body’s ECS receptors.

AN Overview of each component:

Receptors exist throughout the body and are a substance to which endocannabinoids bind;

Enzymes appear in many forms, but only two types of enzymes break down endocannabinoids; and

Endocannabinoids complement the body by keeping internal functions running smoothly.

Understanding the effects of CBD involves examining the relationship between the receptors and Endocannabinoids.

There are two types of receptors in the ECS: CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are primarily in the central nervous system and are responsible for governing coordination, movement, pain, appetite, memory, mood, and other functions. The CB2 receptors are in the peripheral nervous system, influencing pain, and inflammation.

After the enzymes break down the cannabinoids, the endocannabinoids look to bind with receptors. Researchers believe that CBD does not directly attach itself to the receptor but influences it in some way. Activating these receptors is what allows for many of the health benefits that people associate with CBD.