Entourage effect explained
Entourage effect explained. There are literally hundreds of unique chemical elements and compounds that make up a marijuana plant. The high everyone loves is partially created by the two most popular compounds which are THC and terpenes. Just about everyone has heard of THC and CBD but can you name any of the other cannabinoids found in your favorite plant? There have been over 100 different cannabinoids identified and isolated from cannabis. Each provides it’s own effect when smoked, vaped, or eaten. When all of these cannabinoids, terpenes, and additional compounds are consumed together it produces a feeling known as the ‘entourage effect.’
Endocannabinoid System
The human Endocannabinoid System (ECS) interacts with each cannabinoid in their own ways. THC for example makes you feel high. CBD makes you feel calm and relaxed. The minor cannabinoids like CBN and CBG have their own effects. It’s when you consume all of these compounds together that you feel what’s known as the entourage effect.
The THC molecule binds to cannabinoid receptors in different ways depending on what other cannabinoids are present in your system at the time. Flower with high levels of CBD tend to make you feel less euphoric and more relaxed. Certain terpenes have been to know to reduce the negative effects some strains produce like paranoia and memory loss.
The term Full Spectrum is used to describe any marijuana or hemp product that contains all of the cannabinoids and compounds in the spectrum. Broad Spectrum is a term used to describe mainly hemp products that contain all of the cannabinoids and compounds except THC. Most retailers that sell medical hemp and marijuana products consider full spectrum products are more effective than their broad spectrum counterparts.
CBD and terpene levels are more popular with growers than ever before whereas in the past the only thing they cared about was how much THC was in each strain.This makes a big difference for consumers. With a greater selection and difference between strains customers are able to experience different types of highs.
Updated 6/11/2021
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