There is still so much that has yet to be understood about the various cannabinoids that make up the hemp plant. Some of the most notable ones include cannabidiol or CBD, and tetrahydrocannabinol, or as it is more commonly known, THC. Both provide some of the same and different effects; however, together, these effects are enhanced.
The entourage effect refers to the effect produced when all of the cannabinoids of the hemp plant including CBD and THC are taken together. While this effect is technically a theory, it has been proven through research that taking CBD and THC together versus separately can enhance the effects of both phytocannabinoids. Doing so can also be therapeutic.
More research is still needed to back the entourage effect, so having a full understanding of it is still out of hand’s reach. However, research has shown that Cannabinoids do have neurochemical actions. As they affect cannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system.
What is the Entourage Effect?
Though the entourage effect, as of now, still remains a theory, using CBD and THC together is often encouraged in favor of it. If you’re wondering, however, why the word “entourage” is attached to this theory, you’ll be surprised that the name is quite fitting for many reasons. One of those reasons has to do directly with the effects.
The word entourage traditionally refers to a group of people surrounding or accompanying one very important person. It’s more or less a group of people that enhance the abilities of that one person. In many ways, that exactly what THC does when combined with CBD: it enhances the effects of it.
“To understand the concept, think of it in terms of human interactions. We all have gifts and abilities that can carry us to a certain point in life. Sometimes, we’ll meet another person who has different gifts and abilities.
When partnerships are formed between two people, and abilities are combined, achievements can be made that were otherwise unimaginable.”
Source: What Is The CBD Entourage Effect?
The combination of CBD, THC, as well as other components of the cannabis plant, such as terpenes, chemicals found in the plant, give the “ordinary” effects associated with all three a boost. Likewise, the therapeutic effects and potential health benefits are also enhanced, making the combination’s popularity among users rise.
Currently, there has been research surrounding the entourage effect that has proven its effectiveness to be false. While the effects of the theory are not necessarily found as completely false, the adverse effects are more of a concern.
Benefits of the Entourage Effect
There’s no denying the fact that CBD, in conjunction with THC and terpenes, has proven to be rather effective, but in what ways exactly is the entourage effect beneficial? Similarly, what effect does the theory have on your body?
These are some of the questions that surround the theory’s validity and the research around it. The entourage effect has proven beneficial in enhancing the effects generally caused by CBD; however, with the addition of THC, these effects can last longer, and, in many ways, both components counteract the less desirable aspects of each other.
For instance, THC is the component of the cannabis plant that causes a “high,” but when used in conjunction with CBD, this high is reduced. This is partly due to the fact that hemp contains more CBD than THC and, therefore, cancels out most of the THC. The resulting effect of the high you would normally feel is thus relieved.
There are no benefits that stem directly from the entourage effect, but rather the regular effects of CBD and THC, without the high, are boosted. In a way, the compounds of the entourage effect enhance each other’s chemistry. This, in part, makes the experience more enjoyable in the absence of the psychoactive effects.
Because the components interacting with each other influence the overall entourage effect, user experience is enhanced. The act of treating your body with CBD and THC is therefore taken to a whole other level. Think about it – not only can you extend the benefits of CBD, but you can also enhance the effect.
Terpenes and Their Role in the Entourage Effect
Terpenes are a component of the hemp plant whose role in the entourage effect is often overlooked by many unfamiliar users. It’s typically a term used in discussions of the benefits of using CBD. Perhaps, if you are familiar with the term, you’ve heard it used in this instance or similarly.
For those who haven’t heard of it, however, it might be of use to learn more.
Terpenes are chemical components of the hemp plant and are classified as organic hydrocarbons. They are natural components and are also often referred to as terpenoids. While both terms are often used jointly, they differ slightly in their meaning. Terpenes refer to the chemical component before it has dried out.
Once dried out, the terpenes undergo oxidation and is then classified as terpenoids.
While cannabinoids directly affect the various systems of the body through interacting with the cannabinoid receptors, terpenes don’t necessarily perform the same job. Instead, terpenes take the effect that the cannabinoids create while interacting with the receptors and enhances it. This is what then causes the entourage effect once when in combination with THC.
When all components come together, this more or less creates a therapeutic effect, as all aspects of each one come together to create a sort of harmony. Who knew the entourage effect could provide such harmony, let alone terpenes!
How Do You Experience The Entourage Effect?
If by now you are completely convinced and you’d like the see the outcomes of the entourage effect all for yourself, there are a few things you should consider before doing so. While the entourage effect is easily attainable, there are some aspects that can make experiencing it easier or harder.
The first thing you should consider is the CBD product you use.
CBD oil is most likely the best choice to use in this case, as it can be ingested and offers the strongest effects. There are, however, several types of CBD oil that you can use, and some offer more benefits than others. For starters, you will want to avoid anything that is described as “pure” CBD oil.
This is often anything but the case with CBD oil advertised as pure. Instead, aim for CBD oil that is labeled “broad spectrum” or “full spectrum.” Both of these types of CBD oil are the most likely closest you can get to high-quality and offer a range of benefits all on their own. These benefits stem from natural components such as:
- CBG, a minor cannabinoid
- CBC, cannabichromene
- Additional cannabinoids
- Terpenes
With these additional components, you can increase your chances of experiencing the entourage effect.
Overall, considered that each strain of hemp differs slightly from the other, the entourage effect may not always take place at the same level each time. For instance, if you take a CBD oil that doesn’t contain as many of the additional components listed above, it may be harder to experience the entourage effect.
Additional Resources
For more information on terpenes and its role in the entourage effect, visit these links below:
Terpenes And The “Entourage Effect”
The Entourage Effect | CBD And Synergies With Other Cannabinoids
For more information on how CBD and THC come together to create the entourage effect, visit this link below:
