What is the Entourage Effect?
The legal recreational cannabis industry has its lingo. Newbies, the canna-curious, and established cannabis users alike may feel slightly intimidated by the vast number of new terms adopted by the industry, so we are here to help break down one of the biggest buzzwords being discussed around the globe: “The Entourage Effect.” This relatively new buzzword has risen to prominence in the last decade, but what exactly is the entourage effect?
Before we delve into the complexities of the entourage effect, it’s essential to recognize that this concept is not only backed by facts; it’s also steeped in philosophy. So, while we can trust the science (to an extent), we must also recognize that the bulk of the notion behind “the entourage effect” is supported by informal research, including anecdotal reports.
The Entourage Effect Broken Down
The entourage effect is a theory that when all the cannabis plant’s chemical compounds are combined, a synergistic, full-spectrum dynamic occurs for an enhanced, even greater benefit as they work in tandem. Since there are more than 400 chemical compounds identified in cannabis plants, they are classified as flavonoids, fatty acids, vitamins, cannabinoids, minerals, and terpenes.
First, What Are Flavonoids?
Flavonoids are natural substances in fruit, vegetables, tea, wine, and flowers. The cannabis plant’s flowers are made of phenolic structures that have helpful components found in pharmaceutical and natural products. Flavonoids have strong medicinal properties, including anti-carcinogenic, and the fact that they are a powerhouse of antioxidants. Many flavonoids are abundant in teas and foods for boosting their antioxidant properties, and are recognized by their flower pigments.
Terpenes, Cannabinoids, & CBD
Cannabis-derived terpenes are the substances that give the cannabis plant its strain-specific properties, including aroma and taste. Terpenes are abundant in all plants, not just cannabis sativa.
Dozens of cannabinoids and other compound classes including the most popular active phytochemicals THC and CBD make up the cannabis plant. Each compound has its own identifiable, beneficial features that help make you feel relaxed, energized, focused, or euphoric.
Cannabinoids are the beneficial substances found in cannabis plants. For centuries, cultures have embraced certain cannabinoids like CBD to treat minor pain, lower anxiety, and treat eyesight problems, as well as as an anti-inflammatory. Nation-wide observational studies are underway to evaluate how edible cannabis may help those suffering from chronic back pain.
Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a chemical derived from the cannabis sativa plant. CBD from hemp (a cannabis plant with very small amounts of THC) has been approved to treat seizures in the United States. Research also suggests that CBD may be effective for improving pain, muscle tightness, and frequent urination in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Full spectrum CBD contains all the naturally beneficial properties of this popular cannabis extract, with very little to no THC. Full spectrum CBD products are available all over the world and have been eagerly embraced by the natural supplement industry.
What Is the Entourage THC Effect?
Most novice and experienced cannabis users are aware that the more concentrated with THC a cannabis flower or product is, the more potent its effects will be. Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the most prominent psychoactive component that makes people feel mentally “high” when enjoying cannabis.
When THC is combined with full spectrum CBD, they interact and provide additional therapeutic benefits when taken together versus taking each compound on its own. For example, a 2011 review suggests that CBD may help lessen some of the less helpful effects of THC, including sedation and hunger
THC and CBD are the two most researched phytocannabinoids so naturally, they have been studied the most. The British Journal of Pharmacology published their findings from a 2011 study that found that taking phytocannabinoids (specifically THC and CBD) with terpenes may help treat pain, anxiety, inflammation, epilepsy, fungal infections, and even cancer.
In addition to being recognized as one of the most popular cannabinoids, THC has been studied extensively and has been used in clinical trials to help alleviate nausea related to cancer treatment.
Entourage Effect Wrap Up
When flavonoids, terpenes, cannabinoids, and other beneficial cannabis compounds are used simultaneously, their individual benefits are elevated, and their combination works together to produce new and different effects. Enter the entourage effect.
Until you are certain of how each new cannabis product will impact you, industry experts agree that discovery and experimentation should be viewed as a marathon, versus a sprint. Take it slow, while introducing only one new variable at a time until you feel confident knowing how you will react.
The best and safest place to indulge in your old favorites and uncover new, rare gems within your budget, is to order them to be conveniently delivered to you. With Doobie, you can sample a wide selection of top shelf to value cannabis products, delivered straight to your door with a side of happiness.
