It was only in 1992 that the molecular reasons for the biological activity of cannabis extracts were made clearer by the discovery of anandamide (N-arachidonoylethanolamine). This compound was the first member of a new family of bioactive lipids collectively termed “endocannabinoids.” Tribute to Professor Raphael Mechoulam, The Founder of Cannabinoid and Endocannabinoid Research – PMC
The ECS comprises three primary components: endogenous cannabinoids known as endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes that synthesize and break down endocannabinoids. These components have a modulatory role by interacting directly and indirectly with other body systems to maintain physiological homeostasis.
Lu, H. C., & Mackie, K. (2021). Review of the Endocannabinoid System. Biological psychiatry. Cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging, 6(6), 607–615. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.07.016
