What is the Entourage Effect When It Comes To Cannabis?
Did you know that cannabis plants contain more than 120 different phytocannabinoids? As more research is conducted about the amazing effects of cannabis plants and their compounds, one discovery has been the entourage effect. But what is the entourage effect? The entourage effect is the theory that various compounds in cannabis work together to create unique effects and benefits.
What is the Entourage Effect?
Some research has determined that when CBD and THC are used together, they produce what is referred to as “the entourage effect.” The entourage effect is the theory that the compounds in cannabis work together, and when taken together, they will produce a greater effect. Some people believe that certain combinations of cannabis compounds can boost the potential benefits and lessen the unwanted side effects.
THC and CBD
There are two most famous compounds in cannabis: THC and CBD. CBD and THC actually have the exact same molecular structure: two oxygen atoms, 21 carbon atoms, and 30 hydrogen atoms. However, despite their identical chemical structures, CBD and THC don’t have the same psychoactive effects. CBD is psychoactive, but it doesn’t produce the same “high” as THC.
How THC and CBD Work Together
While many debates revolve around THC vs. CBD, and comparing which one is better, they can also be seen as complementary compounds that can help you get the most out of your cannabis use. THC and CBD work together in many ways, and they can be consumed together or separately.
But some research suggests that taking the two together is more effective than taking either alone. This is thought to be due to an interaction between phytocannabinoids and terpenes referred to as the entourage effect. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t make you high. This is due to a difference in how the atoms are arranged.
History of the Entourage Effect
The phrase “entourage effect” was first introduced in 1998. It was proposed by Raphael Mechoulam, a chemist at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Mechoulam and his colleagues were studying the molecule 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), which binds to the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2.
Compounds That Make Up the Entourage Effect
Three main groups of compounds contribute to the entourage effect. These are:
Phytocannabinoids
Phytocannabinoids are plant cannabinoids or the “feel” or “bodily effect” compounds. There are up to 150 cannabinoids in the cannabis plant.
Terpenes/Terpenoids
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds in cannabis. They give cannabis its unique smell. The cannabis plant contains up to 200 different terpenes.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are the flavor compounds. They contribute to the color, smell, and flavor of the cannabis plant. They are also important for the reproduction of cannabis.
Research About the Entourage Effect
While there is much we don’t know yet about the entourage effect, there is a lot of interesting research that shows the potential benefits of taking THC and CBD together. There is a lot to learn about how cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids work together and separately in the human body.
The Entourage Effect Might Benefit Certain Conditions
A 2011 review of studies published in the British Journal of Pharmacology found that taking terpenes and phytocannabinoids together might be beneficial for certain conditions, including:
- Epilepsy
- Pain
- Anxiety
- Inflammation
- Cancer
- Fungal infections
CBD Might Reduce Unwanted Effects of THC
After taking THC, some people experience unwanted side effects like hunger, anxiety, and even sedation. Studies from the same earlier 2011 review found that CBD can reduce these side effects, which is an additional benefit of taking the two together.
Phytochemicals Might Be Beneficial for Brain Health
Some 2018 research found that certain flavonoids and terpenes might provide anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Researchers believe that these compounds could improve the therapeutic potential of CBD.
More Research is Necessary About the Entourage Effect
The entourage effect is an interesting theory, a lot more scientific research is necessary to thoroughly understand it and its potential benefits.
How to Experience the Entourage Effect
If you are interested in experiencing the entourage effect yourself, here are some tips. You will want to use cannabis products that contain a wide range of cannabinoids and terpenes. Full-spectrum CBD products, and broad-spectrum cannabis oils and tinctures like Naked Roots offers, are ideal.
What About the CBD Entourage Effect?
While the entourage effect is certainly exciting, CBD still carries plenty of potential benefits without THC. There are several benefits of using CBD on its own in one of its many forms. At Naked Roots, we offer all different types of CBD, from tinctures to bath bombs to softgels and even tinctures for your favorite pet!
Benefits of CBD On Its Own
If THC isn’t your thing, that’s okay. Some people do not like the side effects of THC. There is evidence that CBD can help with a variety of issues and conditions, without any THC at all. At Naked Roots, our CBD products don’t contain any THC.
CBD May Support Sleep
CBD is an all-natural sleep aid. There is evidence that mixing CBD and melatonin can help you get a better night’s rest. (Another type of entourage effect!)
CBD May Help Reduce Stress and Anxiety
There is evidence that CBD can help balance situational stress and anxiety. We are all stressed, right? A drop of CBD oil on your tongue or a softgel before that big meeting can help reduce your situational anxiety.
CBD May Help Relieve Pain
Researchers have also investigated the pain-relieving effects of CBD, like perhaps after a tough workout.
Try Naked Roots CBD Today
While it might be true that THC and CBD work better together than alone, cannabis affects everyone differently. Everyone has different goals when it comes to cannabis use. You might find that CBD alone works best for you. If you are interested in incorporating CBD into your wellness routine, try Naked Roots. Naked Roots is the right CBD brand for you. Our premium broad-spectrum CBD products are THC-free, but you can always mix and match with your favorite THC product. Try Naked Roots today!
