Natalie Saunders, B.A., LicAc Updated on: 4 Mar, 2020
What Is Anandamide?
“…Anandamide was initially discovered in Israel in 1992 by scientists researching THC’s effects on the brain. In the laboratory of Raphael Mechoulam, the godfather of cannabis research, it was theorized that if our brains have receptors that can be affected by THC, then our bodies must produce similar chemicals of their own. Ultimately, this theory proved to be correct.
This seminal discovery became the basis of much of what we know about the endocannabinoid system today.
When discovered, anandamide was originally called arachidonylethanolamide, a description of its molecular shape and structure. Now we refer to this molecule as anandamide or AEA for short…”
Anandamide and the Endocannabinoid System
“…Anandamide is a molecule that is naturally produced by the human body. It is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid and a crucial component of the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system has a vital role in regulating many of the body’s biological functions and maintaining a state of homeostasis. Homeostasis can be defined as “the maintenance of a balanced internal environment by an organism.” It includes the control of body temperature, blood pressure, and water balance, among other things…”