What is the endocannabinoid system?

Was ist das Endocannabinoid-System?

Table of contents

Table of contents
• Definition and discovery
• The main components: receptors, endocannabinoids & enzymes
• Functions in the body
• The connection to cannabis
• How you can support your endocannabinoid system

Definition and discovery

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a regulatory system in the body that was only discovered in the 1990s. It plays a central role in maintaining homeostasis—the body's internal balance.

The name is derived from the word “cannabis” because research into cannabinoids such as THC and CBD led to the discovery of this complex network.

The main components: receptors, endocannabinoids & enzymes

The ECS consists of three main components:

  • CB1 receptors , which are mainly found in the brain and central nervous system
  • CB2 receptors , which are mainly active in the immune system
  • Endocannabinoids such as anandamide or 2-AG, which the body produces itself
  • Enzymes responsible for the breakdown of endocannabinoids

These components work together to regulate processes such as sleep, mood, pain perception, appetite, and immune response.

Functions in the body

The ECS acts like the body's own tuner: When the body becomes unbalanced, the system automatically activates to restore equilibrium. Its role in the nervous system is particularly interesting – here, for example, CB1 receptors influence the release of neurotransmitters.

The ECS affects many organs—including the skin, liver, heart, intestines, and brain. It can even intervene to regulate stress or inflammation.

The connection to cannabis

Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD from the cannabis plant are similar to the body's own endocannabinoids – and can thus bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Therefore, many of the effects of cannabis can be explained by its interaction with the ECS.

THC, in particular, has a strong effect on the CB1 receptors in the brain and is responsible for the well-known "high." CBD, on the other hand, acts more indirectly, affecting enzymes and other receptors.

You can find out more about the active ingredients in the article “Terpenes and their effects” .

How you can support your endocannabinoid system

A healthy lifestyle promotes a well-functioning ECS. This includes sleep, exercise, omega-3 fatty acids, and the targeted use of plant substances.

Canasups' Omega+ product contains high-quality omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support the ECS. CB1 and CB2 receptors are located in cell membranes, and their structure is directly related to fatty acids.

You can find out more about this in the article “Omega fatty acids and cannabis” .

NATURE+ can also help. It contains bitter substances that stimulate liver function, which plays a key role in breaking down THC. Even the ancient Egyptians used bitter substances to naturally reduce their THC tolerance.

You'll find all products exclusively at Germany's No. 1 cannabis supplement retailer . Canasups stands for quality, purity, and innovation.

By the way: The endocannabinoid system is not a newfangled trend, but an integral part of our body – and has been for millions of years ;)

Want to learn more? Then read our article "5 Tips for an Energized Morning."

Of course, there are also Canasups on Insta & TikTok – we look forward to your visit!