What is the Entourage Effect? - Marijuana and the Entourage Effect
- 1. What is the endocannabinoid system?
- 2. What is the entourage effect?
- 3. Why it works?
- 4. Thc and cbd ratios
The research behind the Entourage Effect, a theory that different compounds work together to increase efficacy.
Cannabis is a powerhouse plant, full of beneficial compounds called cannabinoids. There are more than 120 cannabinoids found in the plant and veritably hundreds of different compounds like terpenes and esters that give the plant its unique flavor. Scientists believe there are even more potential uses of these cannabinoids yet to be discovered. The most popular cannabinoids are THC and CBD. While people believe that consuming CBD alone will work wonders, research suggests that CBD coupled with THC works much better. That’s the entourage effect, which is nothing short of magic.
While it might seem overwhelming, it’s not as much as it seems. Let’s get into it:
What is the endocannabinoid system?
The ECS, or endocannabinoid system, helps maintain the balance of functions like managing inflammation and pain, fertility and others. The CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body interact with the cannabinoids and allow you to feel the effect.
Each receptor deals with a different part of the body. While the CB1 is strictly in the nervous system, the CB2 receptors can be found in the rest of your body.
THC and CBD each have a different interaction with the receptors. The THC relation with the receptors has relieving effects on pain, insomnia, appetite loss, and it’s also responsible for the euphoric and uplifting feel.
What is the entourage effect?
The entourage effect is based on the THC and CBD content ingested. Generally, the THC is the one in charge of the psychedelic sensations that will make you feel euphoric. The CBD is known for its medicinal properties and is a great choice as an alternative treatment option. Used for relieving symptoms associated with inflammation, its main effects act on migraines, sleep deprivation and headaches, and the functioning of the immunity system.
This is not to say that THC doesn’t have beneficial effects. On the contrary, studies demonstrated the symbiotic relation of THC and CBD and how they compliment each other into better, more positive, effects. This combo can actually treat many symptoms thanks to the way endocannabinoids in the body and the cannabinoids form the oil interact with each other. These have a mutually beneficial collaboration.
Some users would prefer to stick solely to CBD oils due to the level of pureness and direct effects. However, there are more types of CBD oils: broad spectrum, full-spectrum CBD isolates.
What are CBD isolates?
If you’re looking for the purest form of CBD, then the isolates are right up your alley. The isolates contain around 99% of CBD so it’s as pure as it gets. CBD isolates are terpenes found on a cannabis plant when it’s ready for harvest. Terpenes are not exclusive to cannabis, they can be found in all kinds of plants. In fact, they’re an important component in aromatherapy and are widely known for their pungent smell and frosty looks.
Terpenes contribute to the state of relaxation of the body and mind. Usually, thanks to them, your mood will also improve and you’ll be left feeling uplifted and happy.
Full spectrum oil has in its composition all the main components of the cannabis plant: THC, CBD and terpenes. There is a slight chance you’ll find a small dose of THC, often no more than 0,03%, CBD and terpenes.
Although the small THC content is quite noticeable in terms of effects, some drug tests might pick it up so use it cautiously.
Besides the possible risks of appearing on a drug test, many fear the effects of the THC content. In this case, it exists to amplify the positive aspect of CBD and to promote enjoying the full effects of the oil rather than making you high.
How does the full spectrum CBD oil work in the body?
When you consume the full spectrum CBD oil, it interacts with the receptors present in the body directly and it allows you to experience everything a cannabis plant has to offer.
Why it works?
The effects of the relation between CBD and THC have been quite researched and the results accentuate the beneficial properties on conditions such as infections, cancer symptoms, inflammation, chronic pain and anxiety. More often than not, if you’re going to start consuming CBD oil, it’s better to consume cannabinoids and terpenes as a whole, rather than separately.
If you use both CBD and THC, then the possible side-effects of THC will be tamed down. Basically, when using THC, there’s always the risk of negative reactions like dry eyes, dry mouth and the obvious red eyes. When together, the relation between the two can be described as agonist and antagonist. In practice, the agonist (THC) connects with the CB1 receptors due to their identical chemical structure. Although with the THC in oil the side-effects might be mild, some consumers might experience unmanageable psychoactive effects like paranoia and panic attacks.
Then, the CBD comes in. CBD is a negative allosteric modulator, meaning that it changes the shape of the CB1 receptors. This results in an alteration of the THC’s effects. This results in less side effects and a more positive overall experience.
THC and CBD ratios
As it’s the case for all medicinal supplements and treatments, always try and consult your doctor before trying to consume cannabis products. The effects of cannabis manifest differently based on each person so it’s better to be followed by a medical professional. In case your practitioner doesn’t want to recommend cannabis oils or to write a prescription, consider seeking a second opinion from a medical professional that has more experience with cannabis products.
In general, when starting out with cannabis products, the best way to go is to start with small doses. Whether you’re trying oils, capsules, edibles or gummies, first try one for a day and keep track of the effects. For example, if you’re starting with 5mg capsules, then give it a few days before upping the dosage. The same goes with gummies or other edibles that can be released in the body after a few hours.
The full-spectrum oils are definitely a great choice for treating various conditions thanks to its wide range of positive effects. However, make sure to consume them based on your physician's recommendations and when you’re sure you’re not up for a drug test.
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