New research comes in on the effects of THC and CBD every day. A new term, "entourage effect" has been making headways in the weed research world. Promising better highs for higher prices, is the "entourage effect" all it's cracked up to be?
What is the “entourage effect”?
The “entourage effect” refers to the phenomenon where different compounds in marijuana work in synergy to create a magnified effect that is greater than its parts. Think of a symphony playing in concert to produce a deep, magical, and powerful sound. One that could not be achieved by a single instrument alone.
You know how marijuana gets you high? That's because of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) - it's the most famous compound in the plant. But did you know there are lots of other compounds in there too that can help with different things? One of them is cannabidiol (CBD), which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Similarly, terpenes are aromatic compounds that give marijuana its distinctive smell and taste which also have therapeutic properties, like linalool, known for its calming and relaxing influence.
Therapeutic Benefits
Scientists believe that this super team-up of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in marijuana enhances each other's effects on the body and brain, playing an essential role in the plant's therapeutic potential. For example, some studies have found that THC and CBD work together to produce a more potent pain-relieving effect than either compound alone. Whilst another research study in 2018 found that combining flavonoids and terpenes with CBD could improve the overall anti-inflammatory benefits of CBD.
These additional parts of the plant, called the flavonoids and terpenes, can give vape extracts more color, more flavor, and a better sensation to the user. Or so they say.
While these effects need further research, research has shown that adding flavanoids and terpenes to CBD improves the taste and feeling it has on the body. Another finding is that the entourage effect could help lower the chance of adverse side effects.
Other reports, of increased psychological benefits, need to be further tested for veracity.
Origins and the Future of the Entourage Effect
Essentially how research into the entourage effect started as hearsay. Weed connoisseurs reported a more “full and balanced” effect when their CBD and THC extracts and vapes included extracts from the whole plant.
Studies have shown that these extra cannabinoids do cause some neurochemical action. They can even monitor this by analyzing how these substances affect the cannabinoid receptor. Though there is still a lack of understanding on the mechanism behind the effects.
The gold standard of clinical research, double-blind studies, will come eventually but until all marijuana products are fully legalized, it may be a “pipe dream”.
As always, before purchasing a CBD product, do your research and find the product that is best for you.