The Entourage Effect Explained

The language we use to describe the effects of hemp and cannabis has changed immensely in the last decade.  As pot has become legal either medicinally or recreationally in a large portion of the country, and hemp has become legal on a federal level, the stigma surrounding cannabis has largely dissipated.  The complexities of this plant are finally being recognized, and we have a new understanding of the way it interacts with our bodies.  Within this new understanding lies the entourage effect.  Read on to learn more about this mysterious phenomenon.

Cannabinoids

Before we dive into the entourage effect, let’s start with the components of cannabis that contribute to the effect.  Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds that make up the cannabis and hemp plants.  Legally, hemp is defined as cannabis containing .3% or less of THC.  For the purpose of this article, I will refer to both hemp and cannabis under the umbrella term of “cannabis”.  

The cannabinoids in cannabis bear a striking resemblance in terms of molecular structure to the cannabinoids found within our own bodies.  Those found in plants are known as phytocannabinoids, while those in our bodies are endocannabinoids.  Our endocannabinoids are part of our endocannabinoid system.  This system serves to regulate various functions within the body.  Since the cannabinoids found in cannabis are so similar to those in our bodies, these also interact with our ECS.  This interaction is responsible for the effects that we feel after ingesting cannabis.

Terpenes

Cannabinoids are not the only compounds in cannabis worth mentioning.  Terpenes are another set of compounds, known mainly for their contribution to the plant’s aroma.  In addition to being present in cannabis, terpenes are found in lavender, hops, thyme, rosemary, and many other plants.  Popular terpenes in cannabis include limonene, myrcene, and caryophyllene.  In terms of cannabis, however, they offer more than just a citrusy (limonene), or spicy (myrcene) scent.  They are currently being studied for potential therapeutic properties.

The entourage effect

Now that we understand what’s inside the plant we love so much, let’s finally explore the entourage effect.  This phenomenon, first postulated by “Grandfather of Cannabis” Raphael Mechoulam, suggests that cannabis is most effective when terpenes and cannabinoids work together.  In other words, a THC isolate would not be as effective as flower that contains a myriad of cannabinoids and terpenes.  The theory is that these compounds work synergistically in ways that are different than how they would behave if they were isolated.  

Like much of his other work, Mechoulam’s 1999 discovery was way ahead of its time.  Cannabis was a long way away from being legalized anywhere, and the public was not ready to perceive the plant as having the potential to be a complex healing agent.  However, times have changed.  Consumers now know to look for products that contain more than just THC.  If you ask your local budtender about what’s behind the counter, they can explain to you the terpene and cannabinoid content that will work together to yield the effects that you seek.  

How can you experience the entourage effect?

Here at DVNT, we offer a product selection that will allow you to experience the entourage effect for yourself!  Our blunts and prerolls contain more than just one cannabinoid.  Yes, the HHC or delta 8 will get you high, but we also add CBG.  CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in young plants, comparable to CBD.  So, in addition to feeling high, you’ll be reaping the benefits of this often overlooked cannabinoid.  Together with the HHC or delta 8, the CBG and the terpenes will work harmoniously to deliver a better experience.

The bottom line

Unlike humans, the compounds in cannabis actually prefer a group project.  Cannabinoids and terpenes interact in a way that is more effective than if they were isolated.  While more research is still needed to fully understand the entourage effect, what is known so far is certainly intriguing.  Plus, you can experience it for yourself without the trip to the dispensary.  Our convenient online store has you covered with products that ship directly to your door.  Whether you’re enjoying the entourage effect alone, or with your own entourage, DVNT has you covered with our excellent selection of blunts and prerolls.