The entourage effect is a term used by scientists and cannabis growers to describe the way more than 80 cannabinoids and over 100 terpenes work together to produce the therapeutic magic for which cannabis is so highly praised. The synergy of all these compounds working together is what makes cannabis so effective. In this blog post, we will explore the entourage effect in more detail and discuss why it matters.
When was the Entourage Effect discovered?
The entourage effect was first described in 1998 by Israeli scientists Raphael Mechoulam and Shimon Ben-Shabat. They discovered that the combination of THC and CBD is more effective than either substance alone. The reason for this is that THC and CBD work together and modulate each other's effects. THC is responsible for the psychoactive effect of cannabis, while CBD is known for its therapeutic benefits. When these two compounds are combined, they produce a more balanced effect that is beneficial for both the body and the mind.
The entourage effect is not limited to THC and CBD. There are more than 80 different cannabinoids in cannabis, all of which have different effects on the body. In addition, there are over 100 different terpenes, which are aromatic compounds that contribute to the smell and taste of cannabis. These terpenes also have their own unique effects on the body.
What are terpenes?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that are responsible for the smell and taste of cannabis. These terpenes also have their own unique effects on the body. Some terpenes can enhance the effects of THC, while others can counteract it.
Some common terpenes are: Myrcene, limonene, alpha-pinene and linalool. Each of these terpenes has its own smell and taste. Myrcene, for example, is responsible for the earthy smell of cannabis. Limonene is responsible for the refreshing smell of citrus fruits.
While terpenes are found in many different plants, they are particularly abundant in cannabis. In fact, there are over 100 different types of terpenes in cannabis! Each cannabis variety has its own unique combination of terpenes that give it its own smell, taste and effect.
What are cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are a class of molecules that interact with cannabinoid receptors in the body. These receptors are found in the brain, nervous system and immune system. Cannabinoids can be produced by the body itself (endocannabinoids) or they can come from plants (phytocannabinoids). The best known phytocannabinoid is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active ingredient of cannabis. Cannabidiol (CBD) is another well-known phytocannabinoid.
There are many different cannabinoids, and they all have different effects on the body.
So why is the entourage effect so important?
Because the combination of all these cannabinoids and terpenes is what gives cannabis its therapeutic potential. When these compounds work together, they produce a more powerful effect than any one of them on its own. This is the entourage effect.
Does the entourage effect exist in CBD oil?
The entourage effect is not only present in CBD oil, but it is also responsible for the therapeutic benefits of CBD oil. However, it is important to know that it is only present in full-spectrum CBD oil.
Different types of CBD: full spectrum vs. broad spectrum vs. isolate
Full-spectrum CBD products contain all the cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, including traces of THC. CBD broad spectrum products also contain all cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, but without THC. CBD isolate products only contain cannabidiol, but no other cannabinoids or terpenes.
So which product should you choose?
That depends on your needs and preferences. If you want the full effect of the interaction of all cannabinoids and terpenes, full spectrum is the right choice. If you are worried about THC showing up in a drug test, then broad spectrum or isolate would be a better choice.
Have you tried CBD before? Which type have you tried? Let us know in the comments below!