What is the Entourage Effect?

If you keep up with CBD news or have done a bit of research, you may be familiar with the term “entourage effect.” For those who have not heard of the entourage effect, it is the systematic interactions between cannabinoids to produce more potent natural effects by working off each other, creating an increased benefit from the combination of cannabinoids.

One of the fascinating components of the hemp industry is seeing how the combination of cannabinoids works together to produce amazing benefits through this “teamwork” (entourage effect). Throughout this blog post, we will take a more in-depth look into the entourage effect and how it works to create the mass of benefits that can help you, as a consumer, and your customers.

HOW THE “ENTOURAGE EFFECT” WORKS

Our bodies are designed with a biological system made up of endocannabinoids called the endocannabinoid system. Endocannabinoids are internal lipid-based neurotransmitters that have the ability to combine themselves with cannabinoid receptors located throughout our body. The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in helping regulate an array of physiological and cognitive processes, including memory and mood.

Researchers discovered that different cannabinoids, found in the cannabis plant, interact with our bodies in sophisticated and unique ways. Among the number of cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, THC and CBD are the most familiar and widespread ones. THC can produce psychoactive effects, whereas CBD does not. In addition to THC and CBD, other cannabinoids like Cannabigerol (CBG), Cannabinol (CBN), Cannabichromene (CBC) and more come together to create the “cannabinoid spectrum.” When the CBD is extracted, other compounds are also extracted from the plant, including terpenes, flavonoids and other cannabinoids. Depending on the strain and type of extraction used, there will be different cannabinoid profiles for each product – Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum or CBD Isolate.

Full Spectrum and Broad Spectrum contain this “cannabinoid spectrum,” which promotes an “entourage effect” of benefits for the user. The cannabinoids and terpenes present in Full Spectrum and Broad Spectrum CBD interact with our endocannabinoid system to support homeostasis of our bodies.

UNIQUE BENEFITS

Interestingly enough, when cannabinoids mix, they have an altered behavior in the presence of one another. This entourage effect creates unique benefits that would never be capable if the cannabinoid were to be taken by itself. A 2010 study examined the effects of pure THC on one group and a THC/CBD combo on the other. Amazingly enough, the group that took the THC/CBD combo reported feeling less discomfort, as well as an increased benefit from the duo, rather than taking the THC by itself.

The entourage effect works with more than just a combination of THC and CBD. It works with other cannabinoids as well, such as CBN, CBG, CBC, and more, and even through the combination of terpenes and flavonoids. Extracting the natural cannabinoids from the plant enhances the overall benefits available from CBD.

TERPENES

Terpenes can affect cannabinoid behavior as well. Depending on what terpenes are located in the plant, the cannabinoids can have different benefits. The combination of the individual terpenes with cannabinoids produces remarkable results that aid and benefit the user substantially. As more research is done, more studies will learn of the potential synergistic effects these terpenes will have when combined and how they interact with one another to provide even more benefits.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF CBD FOR DIFFERENT REASONS

CBD Isolates still have their place. They are produced by removing all other compounds from the plant – terpenes, flavonoids and other cannabinoids, including THC – to leave just the CBD for the consumer. This form of CBD is best used for those that are concerned with drug testing at their place of employment or have a sensitivity to THC, and do not need the benefits of other cannabinoids.

As compared to CBD Isolate, Full Spectrum CBD is able to provide the consumer with a more robust oil due to the power-packed combination of components from the plant. Full Spectrum CBD is best for those that want the full benefits of the entourage effect and do not mind trace amounts of THC in their CBD product.

In looking at the composition of Broad Spectrum CBD, it falls between Full Spectrum CBD and CBD Isolate. Similar to Full Spectrum CBD, the user is getting the benefits of the entourage effect because it contains multiple cannabinoids. However, the THC is non-detectable parts per million (ppm). This extraction of CBD is best for those that want more than just CBD Isolate, but are either hesitant to have THC in their product or live in states with strict THC laws.

To determine which products suit your needs the best, it is important to do your research and find out the exclusive benefits provided from each type of product.