The endocannabinoid system

The first cannabinoids in the cannabis plant were identified by the chemist Raphael Mechoulam, who described the structures of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Since then, researchers have discovered more than 80 active compounds in the plant.

Cannabinoids from cannabis can interact with the human body because we are already equipped with cannabinoid receptors. In fact, every vertebrate carries these receptors and can therefore be influenced by the cannabinoids found in hemp.

What is the endocannabinoid system?

Together, these cannabinoid receptors form what is known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). It can be understood as a meta-system that constantly works to maintain homeostasis — balance — within the body. The system is built around two main receptor types: CB1 receptors, found mainly in the brain and nervous system, and CB2 receptors, found in cells of the immune system. The body also produces its own endocannabinoids, signalling molecules that interact with the receptors. This signalling is part of how the body, for example, dampens pain.

Cannabinoids play a central role in many essential functions: appetite, blood pressure, blood flow to the brain, digestion, nausea, immune response, inflammation, memory, mood, movement, pain, reproduction and stress. The body's own endocannabinoids soften pain signals when they become too strong, and can even help protect brain cells after impact. This broad influence makes the ECS one of the most important physiological systems for maintaining health.

How CBD interacts with the ECS

The endocannabinoid system can benefit from CBD extracted from hemp, because the plant's phytocannabinoids are structurally similar to the body's own endocannabinoids. CBD can therefore interact with both humans and animals through the ECS, supporting correct signalling between the body's systems and helping restore natural balance.

In that sense, the endocannabinoid system can be compared to a conductor leading an orchestra: it directs our biochemical systems and, as mentioned, can ask certain parts of the body to turn down pain signals so that discomfort becomes more manageable.

Source: Kvamme, Sinikka (2017). The unlikely discovery of the endocannabinoid system — the brain's "dimmer switch". STOF, pp. 21–25.