These receptors are found throughout your body. Endocannabinoids bind to them in order to signal that the Endocannabinoid System needs to take action.
There are two main endocannabinoid receptors:
CB1 receptors, which are mostly found in the central nervous system
CB2 receptors, which are mostly found in your peripheral nervous system, especially immune cells
Endocannabinoids can bind to either receptor. The effects that result depend on where the receptor is located and which endocannabinoid it binds to.
For example, endocannabinoids might target CB1 receptors in a spinal nerve to relieve pain. Others might bind to a CB2 receptor in your immune cells to signal that your body’s experiencing inflammation, a common sign of autoimmune disorders.