Cannabidiol (CBD), the Endocannabinoid System, and Regulation of Everyday Stress and Anxiety
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is composed of endogenous ligands called endocannabinoids that interact with cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and CB2. Receptors are present in the hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands, acting as a “gatekeeper” of the HPA axis and playing a role in stress resilience and homeostasis. It can prevent the HPA axis from becoming over- or underactive, especially in states of chronic stress.