Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

A biological regulatory system present in all mammals, consisting of endocannabinoids (naturally produced by the body), cannabinoid receptors (primarily CB1 and CB2), and the enzymes that synthesize and break down endocannabinoids. The ECS plays a role in regulating mood, memory, appetite, sleep, pain, and immune function. Plant cannabinoids like THC and CBD produce their effects by interacting with this system. The ECS was discovered in the early 1990s and remains an active area of research.