Exploring the Dynamic Chemistry of Cannabis Compounds in the Entourage Effect
Since its legalization, cannabis has been shown to have numerous therapeutic benefits, all of which may be linked to a mechanism in cannabis compounds known as the Entourage effect.
The entourage effect is enabled by a slew of cannabis compounds that work together to bring about its therapeutic benefits. There are more than 100 compounds found in the cannabis plant all with unique properties.
Notably, not all products will assist you in capitalizing on this phenomenon. For example, we have isolates that only contain one cannabis compound.
Though still a theory, some research has contributed to a better understanding of the entourage effect, but more research is needed.
In any case, many users have reported noticing a difference when using marijuana products that contain more than one cannabis compound versus those that do not.
What Is the Cannabis Entourage Effect?
Cannabis is a plant with a rich array of chemical compounds, each with unique properties and potential effects. Cannabis has over 100 compounds that entail, cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
Understanding these compounds is essential for unravelling the mysteries of the cannabis entourage effect.
In a nutshell, the entourage effect is a hypothesis that all these compounds work synergistically to promote the therapeutic benefits of cannabis.
The common compounds associated with cannabis are THC and CBD (as they are the most researched and abundant) but there’s more to the plant.
There are lesser-known cannabinoids like cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN) that show promise in various therapeutic applications.
Understanding Cannabis Compounds
The cannabis plant is known to have many compounds which are broadly classified into three types; cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids.
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are the more prevalent and better-researched compounds in the cannabis plant. They one way or the other play a lead role in the cannabis entourage effect.
Cannabinoids are chemicals in cannabis that cause psychoactive/ drug-like effects all through the body, affecting the central nervous system and immune system.
There are several cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant;
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It’s the main active and psychoactive compound in cannabis that causes the “high” of marijuana. Its potential medical benefits include helping relieve chronic pain, appetite and sleep.
- Cannabidiol (CBD). It’s a non-intoxicating compound in cannabis also prevalent in cannabis. It’s known to potentially help with sleep, anxiety and pain.
- Cannabinol (CBN). It’s a minor, non-intoxicating cannabis compound. CBN is rare and its extraction makes the products expensive to purchase. It’s a potential antibacterial and appetite stimulant.
- Cannabigerol (CBG). It’s better known as the mother of all cannabinoids, as they are derived from CBGA, an acidic form of CBG. Its also a minor cannabinoid with potential benefits in combating glaucoma and Inflammatory bowel disease
Moreover, cannabinoids are thought to work better together. For example, one study showed using CBD and THC together for pain management was more effective than using THC alone.
Therefore, consuming products containing more cannabinoids may help you tap into the cannabis entourage effect better.
Terpenes
Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds in plants with a critical influence on the cannabis entourage effect. They are responsible for the smell and taste of different cannabis strains.
Terpenes are believed to protect plants from predators and harsh weather.
Humans, on the other hand, may benefit from the interactions of terpenes with the cannabinoids to produce the effects users link to different strains. This may even explain the differences users experience with two different strains with similar cannabinoid content.
Some terpenes are psychoactive but don’t give a “high” like THC. Rather they may influence how cannabinoids interact with our bodies.
Research suggests terpenes may have potential therapeutic benefits such as antimicrobial properties, combating anxiety, depression and sleep disorders.
Some common terpenes found in cannabis include:
- Limonene
- Humulene
- Linalool
- Myrcene
- Beta-caryophyllene
Flavonoids
Cannabis flavonoids, also called canna flavins, give the plant its colour pigmentation and also heavily influence its flavour.
Research on these cannabis compounds is still limited. However, the compound is found to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. These properties work with other present compounds in the plant to promote its potential therapeutic benefits.
Common flavonoids in cannabis include:
- Beta-Sitosterol
- Cannflavins A. B and C
- Quercetin
- Kaempferol
Marijuana Products That Encourage the Cannabis Entourage Effect
Cannabis products are made with the intention of capturing a specific audience.
For example, a CBD isolate has all other compounds stripped to retain a pure CBD product without terpenes or flavonoids.
Such a product is good for those that intend to smoke without the odour of cannabis and also for medicinal purposes.
Then again, there are products made to preserve all the compounds in cannabis hence facilitating the cannabis entourage effect.
For users looking to tap the numerous potential benefits associated with the cannabis entourage effect here are a few products to consider;
- Full-Spectrum and Broad Spectrum Oil
Ful-spectrum is a cannabis oil that possesses all cannabis compounds with a predominant cannabinoid.
For example, a full-spectrum THC oil has all other compounds like CBD (less than 1%), terpenes and flavonoids present but a high THC content, all for a holistic experience.
Moreover, we have broad-spectrum oil which has one cannabinoid and all other cannabis compounds. That means Broad spectrum THC oil has terpenes and flavonoids, minus THC or any other cannabinoid.
- Caviar
Caviar is cannabis buds rolled in hash oil; hash oil is a marijuana extract commonly known as a concentrate. The resultant product is a high THC, terpene-rich cannabis product.
Soaking the flower in hash oil makes for a potent and flavorful product resulting in an unparalleled experience. Its high potency, THC content and rich terpene profile help users tap into the entourage effect.
- Live Resin
Live resin is cannabis concentrate made from freshly harvested buds that are flash-frozen. Freezing the buds immediately after harvesting helps preserve the rich terpene and cannabinoid content of the plant material.
The specialized extraction process preserves the natural profile of the cannabis plant, capturing its aromatic compounds and cannabinoids in their freshest form.
The product is consumed by dabbing or vaping. Its high terpene content offers users an intense and flavorful experience.
- Flower
Flower is the harvested buds of a cannabis plant.
The cannabis flower is an unprocessed product that preserves the plant’s natural taste, flavour, terpenes and cannabinoids.
It’s the most basic way to tap into the cannabis entourage effect potentially.
Top 3 Products to Experience Cannabis Entourage Effect
1. Caviar- Bubba OG
Experience the beauty of the cannabis entourage effect with Caviar-Bubba OG
This is an Indica dominant concentrate boasting up to 25% THC content. The strain has a pungent earthy flavour with a floral aroma.
Cannabis caviar Bubba OG is an exceptionally potent and flavorful product, delivering a powerful punch of cannabinoids and terpenes.
The combination of Bubba OG’s relaxing and calming effects with the intensified potency of cannabis caviar creates an experience that can be deeply sedating and euphoric.
You can purchase caviar from a weed dispensary in Canada that allows you to buy weed online and have it delivered to your doorstep by mail order.
2. Live Resin – Amnesia Haze
Live Resin – Amnesia Haze is made from a Sative dominant strain that makes it good for daytime use.
The product is rich with terpenes, flavonoids and less than 1% CBD content. The contents ensure the cannabis entourage effect with CBD and THC interaction enhanced by other present cannabis compounds.
Users are to expect a unique and stimulating experience with the product. Moreover, it may help relieve depression, fatigue, chronic pain and depression.
Amnesia Haze live resin is potent with 22% THC content, It’s advisable to start with small amounts and advance to avoid being overwhelmed by the effects.
3. Strawberry Gelato (AAAA) – Popcorn Nugs
There’s no better way to explore the cannabis entourage effect than by smoking Strawberry Gelato (AAAA) – Popcorn Nugs.
The popcorn nugs deliver intense relaxing effects that can potentially help wind down after a stressful day or help you get some good shut-eye.
Strawberry Gelato has a pleasant aroma with a fresh strawberry overtone accented by fresh spicy cherries and earthy herbs.
The 26 – 28% THC level coupled with the present terpenes supports the strain function in helping alleviate fatigue, stress depression and pain.
Purchase High-Quality Cannabis Products From Lowpricebuds
There’s a lot yet to be explored regarding the cannabis entourage effect.
The phenomenon is made possible by compounds in cannabis working together to produce its potential medicinal benefits.
Notably, there are specific products that promote the synergetic properties of cannabis in the body.
At LowpriceBud we source terpene-rich THC and CBD products that put you in the roadmap of a unique cannabis experience.
Whether it’s moon rocks, flower or caviar we have premium products for every consumer. Contact us today to make an order.