The Entourage Effect is a phenomenon that has revolutionized the cannabis industry. But what is it? And why should we care about it? Let’ explore what the Entourage Effect is, how it works, and what it means for anyone using cannabis or related products.
What is the Entourage Effect?
The Entourage Effect is a concept that describes the synergistic interaction of cannabis compounds, such as terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids, that produce an enhanced medical or therapeutic effect. The idea is that when these compounds are combined, there is a much greater therapeutic benefit than when they are taken alone.
The Entourage Effect was first proposed by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, a professor at Hebrew University in Israel. He and his team of researchers conducted a study in 1998 that showed that certain combinations of cannabinoids and terpenes had a more powerful effect than either compound alone. This is what led to the development of the Entourage Effect theory.
In simple terms, the Entourage Effect is when you have the perfect combination of compounds. It’s important to note that the Entourage Effect is different from the synergistic effect that occurs when two or more compounds are combined. The Entourage Effect is more complex and involves a wide range of compounds.
How Does the Entourage Effect Work?
The Entourage Effect works through a combination of several different compounds. Terpenes are compounds found in cannabis that give it its unique aroma and flavor. Terpenes also have medical benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety effects.
Cannabinoids are compounds found in cannabis that interact with the human endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating a variety of bodily processes. The two most well-known cannabinoids are THC and CBD. While THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, CBD is non-psychoactive and has numerous medical benefits.
Flavonoids are compounds found in cannabis that give it its bright colors and have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. There are more than 20 flavonoids so far identified in cannabis.
When these compounds interact with each other, they create the Entourage Effect. For example, when THC and CBD interact, they can produce an enhanced medical or therapeutic effect. Similarly, when terpenes and flavonoids interact with each other, they can produce an enhanced therapeutic effect. The key idea is trying to get a full spectrum of all these compounds, in the correct amounts. There’s realistically 100+ years of research still needed to truly figure out which specific compounds are needed to produce the desired effects. We are still operating off a lot of guess work and basic studies show good indications that the Entourage Effect with certain compounds does yield positive results. To what extent of success and desired effect is yet to be perfected.
The Role of Terpenes in the Entourage Effect
Terpenes are a key component of the Entourage Effect as they are responsible for the unique aroma and flavor of cannabis. They are also responsible for some of the medical benefits of cannabis, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-cancer effects. Terpenes are a key factor in what makes a certain cannabis strains unique. They are why certain strains effects vary outside of what their THC and other cannabinoid percentage is.
Terpenes just by themselves not even considering an Entourage Effect can have great medicinal benefits. Some of the most common terpenes found inside cannabis are limonene, caryophyllene, myrcene, pinene, and terpinolene. Each one has unique smells, and unique effects. For example, limonene is a natural terpene found in the peels of oranges and lemons and is sometimes found inside of certain cannabis strains. It can cause an elevated mood and has anti-fungal properties. Another example is the terpene pinene, found more commonly in pine needles and in many plants in nature in general. Pinene has anti-anxiety and pain relief effects. Looking to see which terpenes are inside your cannabis products can be a great way to narrowing on desired effects you’re looking for.
The Entourage Effect can vary depending on the strain of cannabis, as clearly mentioned above with terpenes being a key factor. Each strain contains different combinations of terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids. Due to research still being very limited on precise measurements of which compounds, it’s best to try different strains to see which is most beneficial to you. By understanding the Entourage Effect, users can choose the cannabis product that is most effective for their needs beyond just going for flavor and smell.
What to do with the Entourage Effect
So, are you ready to unlock the magic of the Entourage Effect? Now that you know that when looking at cannabis products its more than just THC or CBD. It’s about which specific strain, what terpenes are in that strain, what flavonoids, and so on. A great way to try to determine the milligram amounts in the product you’re interested in is asking for a COA or a Certificate of Analysis of their 3rd party lab tests. These tests not only prove the product is safe from contaminants, but also provides a breakdown of compound weight found inside. If you are unsure when viewing a product or a COA, be sure to ask the brand you’re shopping from if they can provide more specific details of the product. Always be sure to check with your doctor before taking any cannabis products if you take any medications.
We hope this very brief and simple coverage of the Entourage Effect has been useful. We will be sure to write more a more in depth guide on the key specifics of terpenes, flavonoids, and their effects when paired with certain cannabinoids down the road!
