Cannabinoids, understanding the entourage effect
All CBD enthusiasts agree that hemp varieties differ in taste and smell, but also in their effects on the body, even with equivalent cannabinoid concentrations. This is due to the famous entourage effect...
What is the entourage effect?
The entourage effect was first described in 1998 by an Israeli cannabis researcher, Raphaël Méchoulam. It is defined as the way in which the different compounds in hemp interact synergistically to give the plant its unique properties.
The researcher even believed that the different components of cannabis have a much more powerful effect when used together than when used separately. Since then, research in the medical field has also demonstrated the entourage effect. For example, psychopharmacologist Ethan Russo has studied the effects of Sativex, a medication containing cannabis that is used for multiple sclerosis. According to his data, only 4 out of 250 people experienced psychotic effects when taking this drug which combines THC and CBD, whereas 40% of pure THC users experienced adverse events.
More recently, Brazilian researchers compared studies conducted between 2013 and 2017 on patients taking pure CBD or hemp plant extracts. 71% of those using the latter experienced improvements, compared to 36% of those who only used CBD.
A lot of research is still being done on the entourage effect. With more than 480 molecules identified to date, hemp still has many secrets to be discovered!
The entourage effect and CBD
Cannabis’ entourage effect has mainly been studied within the medical field. But it may also be of interest if you use CBD for recreational purposes or for improving your well-being.
The entourage effect is largely due to the presence of terpenes and flavonoids in hemp. Terpenes are the aromatic molecules that give CBD products their characteristic flavours and smells, enjoyed by weed enthusiasts. Some of the main terpenes present in hemp, such as myrcene, pinene and limonene, are also well-known among aromatherapy and alternative medicine practitioners. Limonene, with its pleasant lemon flavour, is known for its stress and anxiety relieving properties. Pinene, which smells like pine trees, is known for its anti-inflammatory effects and for improving alertness. Terpenes interact with CBD to enhance its efficacy. Some researchers believe that terpenes act on cannabinoid receptors.
Therefore, choosing a hemp variety rich in terpenes can help you to restore your daily well-being. By taking full spectrum CBD, you will combine both the pleasure of the taste with an enhanced effect thanks to the synergy between cannabinoids and terpenes! It may also be very beneficial to use CBD oils in massage therapy to release muscle tension and relax sore areas.
Flavonoids, particularly prevalent in the tops of cannabis plants, are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. They also interact with cannabinoids, although there is still a lack of understanding concerning the mechanism of action. Finally, it is the flavonoids that give cannabis its colour.
Choosing the right CBD is, therefore, not just about choosing the cannabinoid content and product form. By choosing full spectrum CBD that is rich in terpenes and flavonoids, you will benefit from the entourage effect for a guaranteed recreational experience and great well-being.
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Marescot February 23rd 2023Bonjour.
Quelles huiles pourriez-vous me conseiller pour traiter une anxiété sévère dans un temps avec un effet rapide et sur la durée
Merci pour votre retour
Cordialement
Miranda E February 28th 2023