Glossary: Integrative Medicine and Nutrition

Endocannabinoid

Naturally occurring, lipid-based neurotransmitters. Endocannabinoids and their receptors occur in the brain and throughout the body, affecting mood, pain, and behavior as modulators of the ANS and the immune system. Endocannabinoids, also called endogenous cannabinoids, are similar to cannabinoids found in cannabis but they are made within the body.

Endogenous

Caused by factors inside the organism or system, as in an endogenous psychic depression.

Entrainment

A state in which two or more of the body’s oscillatory systems, such as respiration and heart-rhythm patterns, become synchronous and operate at the same frequency.

Epigenetics

How the environment affects gene activity.

Eustress

A term coined by Dr. Hans Selye that refers to a positive stressful challenge, such as that occurring when one is training for a marathon or learning the skills required for a new job.

Exogenous

Caused by factors (such as food or a traumatic factor) or an agent (such as a disease-producing organism) from outside the organism or system, as in exogenous obesity or exogenous psychic depression.