If you’re familiar with the cannabis industry, you may have heard the term “entourage effect” thrown around. But what exactly is the entourage effect, and why is it important? In this article, we’ll provide a helpful guide to understanding the entourage effect, including what it is, how it works, and why it matters.
What Is The Entourage Effect?
The entourage effect is a term used to describe the way that the various compounds in the cannabis plant work together to produce a more powerful effect than any single compound could produce on its own. Specifically, the entourage effect refers to the synergistic relationship between the different cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in the cannabis plant.
How Does The Entourage Effect Work?
The entourage effect works by enhancing the effects of individual compounds through interaction with one another. For example, CBD and THC are both cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, and they have different effects on the body. THC is psychoactive and produces the “high” associated with cannabis use, while CBD is non-psychoactive and has been found to have a variety of potential health benefits. However, when these two compounds are used together, the entourage effect kicks in, and CBD can help to mitigate some of the negative effects of THC, such as anxiety and paranoia.
In addition to cannabinoids, terpenes are also believed to play a key role in the entourage effect. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including the cannabis plant, and they are responsible for the plant’s unique flavor and aroma. However, terpenes may also have therapeutic properties of their own, and when combined with cannabinoids, they can help to enhance the overall effect of the cannabis plant.
Why Does The Entourage Effect Matter?
The entourage effect matters for a few reasons. First, it suggests that using the whole cannabis plant (as opposed to isolated compounds) may be more effective for certain conditions. For example, a study published in the Journal of Pain found that whole-plant cannabis extract was more effective than isolated THC in reducing chronic pain in cancer patients. This suggests that the other compounds found in the cannabis plant may enhance the pain-relieving effects of THC.
Additionally, the entourage effect may also help to explain why some people prefer full-spectrum CBD products (which contain a range of cannabinoids and other compounds) over isolated CBD products. Full-spectrum CBD products may provide a more potent effect due to the presence of other compounds in the cannabis plant.
Finally, understanding the entourage effect may also help to guide future research into the potential therapeutic benefits of the cannabis plant.