What Is the Function of Endocannabinoids?

Endocannabinoids are natural cannabis-like lipid-based neurotransmitters produced by the human body. 

The endocannabinoid system was discovered in the 1990s by scientists studying tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a compound found in cannabis (marijuana). It is believed cannabis affects humans by mimicking our naturally produced endocannabinoids.

The function of endocannabinoids is to maintain stability in the body’s systems (homeostasis). 

The endocannabinoid system affects an extensive range of body processes, including: 

• Pain
• Mood
• Appetite
• Memory
• Stress
• Sleep
• Metabolism
• Immune function
• Reproductive function 

Understanding the endocannabinoid system may allow medical practitioners to use cannabinoids therapeutically to treat a wide variety of conditions, such as:

• Mood and anxiety disorders
• Movement disorders such as Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease
• Nerve pain
• Multiple sclerosis
• Spinal cord injury
• Cancer
• Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis)
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Glaucoma
• Obesity/metabolic syndrome
• Osteoporosis