The ECS is a relatively recently discovered biological system within the human body that regulates vital functions such as pain, emotions, immune system, digestion, appetite, sleep, motor control, cardiovascular system and more.

While the existence of the ECS has been known in the scientific community for several decades, there has been limited research in the area, which has translated into limited attention and public awareness. Since the 20th century, there has been an increasing amount of publications and interest in the physiological process that maintain homeostasis (i.e., a state of balance) and what happens when our bodies are not in homeostasis.

The ECS is a multifunctional signalling system, which aims to remain us in homeostasis at any time by cross-signalling with other systems within the body. An unbalanced ECS has been observed associated with different diseases.

This is the reason why targeting the ECS (by e.g., cannabinoids) to regain its balance holds the potential to alleviate different disease symptoms and treat multiple diseases.

The ECS consists of receptors, endocannabinoids (cannabinoids made in the body), and enzymes. The ECS enzymes produce the endocannabinoid signaling molecules, like N-arachidonylethanolamine (anandamide i.e., AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), to help our body remain in balance. These molecules bind to ECS receptors.

Cannabinoids can bind to cannabinoid 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid 2 (CB2) receptors. CB1 is mainly found in the brain and nervous system. CB2 is mainly found in the immune system and peripheral body parts.