Homeostasis is “any self-regulating process by which biological systems tend to maintain stability while adjusting to conditions that are optimal for survival.” Homeostasis is the balance of the internal environment of the body. This means when the external conditions fluctuate, the internal mechanism adjusts to ensure that the internal environment remains in check. For example, when the external temperatures increase, the body initiates mechanisms such as sweating so that the body temperature remains moderate. The same applies to hormonal levels, hunger and other important functions in the body.
Through the interactions of endocannabinoids with endocannabinoid receptors, the body is able to keep all systems in check. Some important functions regulated by the ECS are:
• Appetite
• Pain
• Immunity
• Digestion
• Mood
• Memory
• Temperature
• Sleep
• Motor control
• Fertility
