When you observe your cannabis buds closely, you’ll notice they’re adorned with glistening, adhesive droplets of resin. Embedded within this resin are numerous therapeutic compounds that contribute to the diverse effects and advantages of cannabis. Utilizing cannabis has shown potential in providing relief for various medical conditions as proven by studies. If you’re seeking to use cannabis medicinally in Minnesota, it’s advisable to possess a Medical Marijuana Card in Minnesota.
While you’re probably already familiar with the plant’s two most renowned compounds, THC and CBD, there’s a plethora of other compounds that the plant generates in smaller quantities. These compounds appear to play a supplementary role in shaping the overall effects of a specific strain.
This notion, suggesting that different cannabis compounds collaborate to produce distinct effects and benefits, has been termed “the entourage effect.”
Understanding the Entourage Effect
When we engage in smoking or vaporizing cannabis, our bodies absorb a multitude of botanical compounds. Each of these compounds carries its own distinct effects and benefits, and their behavior can undergo transformations in the presence of other compounds. This phenomenon is what we call the entourage effect.
Think of it as similar to how your mood might shift based on your social surroundings. Just as your demeanor changes when you’re alone, at a gathering with unfamiliar faces, or spending time with your closest confidant, the effects of cannabis compounds can vary depending on their companions.
To illustrate the entourage effect within the realm of cannabis, let’s focus on the two well-known compounds: THC and CBD. In a 2010 study, individuals dealing with cancer-related pain were administered either a pure THC extract or an extract containing nearly equal proportions of THC and CBD. The results revealed that those receiving the THC/CBD combination reported experiencing reduced pain.
Cannabinoids and Terpenes May Have Collaborative Interactions
The concept of the entourage effect is extensively explored in a comprehensive review titled “Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects,” authored by Dr. Ethan Russo. Dr. Russo, a seasoned neurologist and pharmacologist with a deep interest in cannabis compounds and their impact on the body, delves into this theory.
Within this review, Dr. Russo meticulously outlines the documented advantages of common cannabis compounds and, drawing from their pharmacological properties, elucidates the potential synergies they might exhibit. For instance, the cannabinoids CBD and CBG have demonstrated the ability to impede the bacterial infection MRSA. Consider the possibility of their enhanced efficacy when combined with the MRSA-combatting terpene pinene, or when formulated with terpenes that augment skin permeability.
Now, let’s examine a specific strain to further illustrate these concepts.
Strain: Granddaddy Purple
Cannabinoids and Terpenes Present: THC (diamonds), myrcene (blue), caryophyllene (fuchsia), pinene (green)
Possible Synergies: By recognizing the potential advantages of THC, myrcene, and caryophyllene, one might suggest the Granddaddy Purple strain to individuals seeking improved sleep (courtesy of myrcene), while simultaneously addressing discomfort and inflammation (attributed to THC and caryophyllene).
The abundance of cannabinoids and terpenes inherent in the cannabis flower is often why some enthusiasts favor the flower over extracts. Within the flower, numerous compounds with their distinct potential benefits coexist, making it a source of diverse enjoyment.
In “Taming THC,” additional potential synergies are explored, including:
- The presence of the pine-scented terpene pinene, which might counteract THC-induced memory impairment.
- The combination of CBD and the peppery terpene caryophyllene, which could offer benefits in addressing addiction.
- CBD collaborating with the citrus-scented terpene limonene, potentially providing relief from anxiety.
- The pairing of THC with the cannabinoid CBN, showing promise for heightened sedative effects.
To reiterate, it’s important to note that the entourage effect remains a theory without conclusive proof. However, given the growing interest in terpenes and emerging cannabinoids among consumers, we can anticipate a surge of forthcoming research in this realm.
If you’re considering obtaining a medical cannabis recommendation, consulting a 420 doctor Palmdale can provide you with expert guidance and evaluation.
Medications Containing Only THC and CBD
Cannabis flower undoubtedly boasts an extensive array of cannabinoids and terpenes due to its natural, unprocessed state. However, certain cannabis extracts also offer a diverse range of cannabinoids and terpenes. These are known as full-spectrum cannabis extracts.
These comprehensive extracts can take on various forms, such as oils, ingestible capsules, dabs, and vape cartridges. What distinguishes them as “full-spectrum” is their comprehensive compilation of chemical compounds. This means that a single extract could provide a combination of THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, myrcene, caryophyllene, limonene, and much more—all conveniently packaged together.
It’s important to note that not all cannabis extracts encompass the vast spectrum of compounds found in the cannabis plant. Some extracts undergo refinement processes to eliminate THC, known as broad-spectrum cannabis extracts. On the other hand, certain extracts are formulated to contain a sole compound, typically CBD or THC, and these are referred to as isolates.
While numerous individuals lean towards cannabis products rich in cannabinoids and terpenes, there are valid reasons for appreciating isolates. Opting for isolates provides the advantage of knowing precisely which cannabinoid you’re consuming, eliminating concerns about absorbing undesired cannabinoids.
Within the realm of THC-only medications, synthetic versions of THC come into play. The most common examples are Marinol (dronabinol) and Cesamet (nabilone). These FDA-approved pharmaceuticals are often prescribed to alleviate cancer-related pain or nausea. However, as highlighted in the earlier-mentioned 2010 study, these isolated medicines might not be as effective as combined formulations containing both THC and CBD.
Furthermore, considering that CBD plays a role in mitigating the adverse effects of THC, especially anxiety, it’s not difficult to grasp why some individuals favor combination formulations over pure THC. A 2011 survey focusing on various consumption methods revealed that a mere 1.8% of 953 patients preferred synthetic THC isolates over inhalation or infused methods.
