What is the Entourage Effect?
What is the Entourage Effect & What Causes It?
Ever wonder why some cannabis strains hit just right, while others feel a little off? It’s not just about THC percentage. It’s about the full spectrum of compounds working together.
The entourage effect is a theory that explores how the various compounds in cannabis work together to enhance its effects. Instead of acting alone, cannabinoids and terpenes interact synergistically, potentially offering more significant and targeted benefits.
THC and CBD may be the most well-known cannabinoids, but cannabis is packed with hundreds of other active compounds (aka phytochemicals) that contribute to its unique properties. Understanding the entourage effect can help cannabis consumers make more informed choices about products and their potential effects.
What is the Entourage Effect?
The entourage effect refers to the idea that cannabis compounds are more effective when used together rather than in isolation. This theory suggests that a phytochemically diverse cannabis product, containing a mix of cannabinoids and terpenes, may offer greater, or more nuanced, therapeutic benefits compared to products made with a single isolated compound.
For instance, a cannabis flower potent in cannabinol (CBN) can offer a heavier and more physically relaxing effect that many folks enjoy in the evening.
A simple way to think about the entourage effect is like a group of great friends. Imagine going to a party alone versus showing up with a group of friends who bring out the best in you. Similarly, cannabinoids and terpenes work better together, amplifying each other’s strengths.
The concept of the entourage effect gained traction in the late 1990s when researchers studying medical cannabis noticed that whole-plant formulations appeared to be more effective in some cases than individual cannabinoid extracts.
More recently, we see incredible stories about full-spectrum benefits of extracts like RSO (Rick Simpson Oil). This celebrated cannabis innovation has supported a diverse range of medical patients managing conditions ranging from leukemia to epilepsy. Further research will help unravel the therapeutic potential of the entourage effect, but the entourage isn’t just for medical patients, anyone can enjoy the spectrum of effects cannabis has to offer.
Decoding the Theory: What We Know About the Entourage Effect
Though there are still many unknowns when it comes to understanding the complexities of the entourage effect, researchers and consumers alike are starting to pick up on the subtle differences between cannabis chemovars.
Chemovars refers to the natural chemical ‘fingerprint’ of each cannabis strain. Each individual compound adds their own flavor and effect to the mix, creating one-of-a-kind experiences. This can be difficult to study with accuracy, as there are so many variables to consider.
However, researchers across the world are working hard to create consumer-informed maps of cannabis effects, to help predict patterns with chemovar combinations and give consumers a little more insight when shopping for cannabis.
Which Cannabis Compounds Are Responsible for this Effect?
The entourage effect is all about teamwork, and the key players in this synergy are:
Cannabinoids: The most well-known are THC (psychoactive) and CBD (non-psychoactive), but others like CBG, CBC, and THCV bring their own unique effects.
Terpenes: These delicious compounds don’t just give cannabis its signature scent, they also play a role in shaping its effects, influencing mood, relaxation, and focus.
Flavonoids & Other Aromatics: While not as widely studied, these compounds can shape effects and bioavailability of other cannabis compounds, possibly offering enhanced therapeutic properties.
Think of it like aromatherapy: just as lavender essential oil is known for its calming vibes, cannabis terpenes like linalool may bring out more relaxing effects when paired with cannabinoids. It’s all about finding the right blend to maximize the plant’s natural potential.
How Cannabis Compounds Work Together
The entourage effect is believed to work through metabolic interactions within the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This process simply refers to your body’s way of digesting chemicals within your nervous system. Some cannabinoids and terpenes will block the absorption of THC, while others intensify its effects assisting in more efficient absorption.
This is why myrcene, a terpene also found in mangos and garlic, enhances THC’s psychoactive effects. On the flip side, CBD may slow the breakdown of THC, ultimately prolonging its effects while reducing its psychoactive intensity.
Is the Entourage Effect Exclusive to Cannabis Compounds?
Nope! It’s possible to experience similar synergies when you consume cannabis with other botanical terpenes and fruits. Terpenes found in citrus and other tropical treats can enhance the energizing and creativity-boosting effects of cannabis, while other essences found in Chamomile can promote rest.
This exciting twist makes edibles and botanical-infused cannabis products feel and taste incredible, offering their own unique and satisfying experience.
What are the Potential Benefits?
While more research is needed, studies suggest that cannabis products with many active compounds may offer:
Enhanced pain relief: A 2021 review found that combining cannabinoids may improve tolerance and support for pain management.
Improved epilepsy spasm control: A 2018 meta-analysis showed that a lower dose of CBD-dominant extracts was needed to reduce seizures compared to pure CBD.
Neuroprotection: A 2019 study suggested that terpenes and cannabinoids may work together to protect brain cells and reduce inflammation.
Mood and mental balance: Some research suggests CBD may counteract THC’s potential anxiety-inducing effects, providing a more balanced experience.
The Whole Plant Advantage: Why More is More
The entourage effect is a fascinating concept that could explain why phytochemical-rich cannabis products often produce more pronounced and complex effects than single-compound extracts. While research is still ongoing, many cannabis consumers swear by the benefits of whole-plant formulations.
Whether you're looking for relief, relaxation, or creative inspiration, understanding how cannabinoids and terpenes work together may help you make more informed choices and pick your perfect bud, for every occasion.
Sources:
Christensen, C., Rose, M., Cornett, C., Allesø, M. 2023. Decoding the Postulated Entourage Effect of Medicinal Cannabis: What It Is and What It Isn't. August 21. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10452568/
Lewis, McKenzie. 2024. The Ultimate Guide to Rick Simpson Oil (RSO). Nov 22. https://www.cannamd.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-rick-simpson-oil-rso/
Singh, Y., Bali, C. 2013. Cannabis Extract Treatment for Terminal Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia with a Philadelphia Chromosome Mutation. Nov 28. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3901602/
Vigil, J.M., Stith, S.S., Brockelman, F., et al. 2023. Systematic Combinations of Major Cannabinoid and Terpene Contents in Cannabis Flower and Patient Outcomes. https://jcanabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-022-00170-9
Eybna. n.d. The Terpiodic Table™. https://eybna.com/terpenes/the-terpiodic-table/
Anand, U., Pacchetti, B., Anand, P., Sodergren, M. 2021. Cannabis-Based Medicines and Pain: A Review of Potential Synergistic and Entourage Effects. https://doi.org/10.2217/pmt-2020-0110
Pamplona, F.A., da Silva, L.R., Coan, A.C. 2018. Potential Clinical Benefits of CBD-Rich Cannabis Extracts Over Purified CBD in Treatment-Resistant Epilepsy: Observational Data Meta-analysis. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fneur.2018.00759/full
Weston-Green, K. 2018. The United Chemicals of Cannabis: Beneficial Effects of Cannabis Phytochemicals on the Brain and Cognition. https://doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.79266
Hudson, R., Renard, J., Norris, C., Rushlow, W.J., Laviolette, S.R. 2019. Cannabidiol Counteracts the Psychotropic Side-Effects of Δ-9-THC in the Ventral Hippocampus. Oct 30. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6820200/