The entourage effect in cannabis refers to the synergistic relationship between the various compounds found in the cannabis plant, such as cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. While many people are familiar with the cannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and its psychoactive effects, there are many other cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, such as cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabichromeme (CBC). These compounds, according to many licensed heath care professionals, may have potential health benefits. Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give the cannabis plant its unique scent and flavor, and may also have potential health benefits. Flavonoids are compounds that give plants their color and may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
When these compounds are consumed together in their natural state, they may have a greater effect on the body than when consumed individually. This is thought to be due to the way they interact with each other in what is called the entourage effect. For example, some research suggests that the combination of CBD and THC may have greater therapeutic effects than either compound alone, and that terpenes may enhance the absorption and effectiveness of cannabinoids in the body. However, more research is needed to fully understand the entourage effect and how it can be used to optimize the potential health benefits of cannabis.
In the meantime, we can explore some aspects of other cannabinoids.
CBG
CBG, or cannabigerol, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is considered a minor cannabinoid, as it is typically present in very small amounts in most strains of cannabis.
Like other cannabinoids, CBG interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating various physiological functions such as mood, appetite, and sleep. CBG is thought to have a number of potential health benefits, including:
Anti-inflammatory effects: CBG has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may be helpful in treating conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Neuroprotective effects: CBG has been shown to have neuroprotective properties, which may help to protect the brain from damage and degeneration.
Antibacterial effects: CBG has been shown to have antibacterial properties, which may be helpful in treating bacterial infections.
Appetite stimulation: CBG has been shown to increase appetite, which may be helpful for people who are undergoing chemotherapy or suffering from other conditions that cause loss of appetite.
While research on CBG is still in its early stages, it is considered a promising area of study for its potential therapeutic benefits.
(CONTINUED BELOW…)
CBN
CBN, or cannabinol, is a minor cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. CBN is formed from the degradation of THC, which occurs as the plant ages or is exposed to air or light.
CBN is typically present in only trace amounts in most cannabis strains, but it is thought to have a number of potential health benefits, including:
Sedative effects: CBN is thought to have sedative effects, and may be helpful in promoting sleep and relaxation.
Pain relief: CBN has been shown to have pain-relieving properties, and may be helpful in treating chronic pain.
Appetite stimulation: CBN has been shown to increase appetite, which may be helpful for people who are undergoing chemotherapy or suffering from other conditions that cause loss of appetite.
Anti-inflammatory effects: CBN has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may be helpful in treating conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
While more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of CBN, it is considered a promising area of study for its potential therapeutic properties. Some cannabis strains have been bred to have higher levels of CBN, and there are also CBN-specific products available on our shelves.
CBC
CBC, or cannabichromene, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is one of the lesser-known cannabinoids, but is thought to have a variety of potential health benefits.
Like other cannabinoids, CBC interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating various physiological functions such as mood, appetite, and sleep. CBC is thought to have a number of potential health benefits, including:
Anti-inflammatory effects: CBC has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may be helpful in treating conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
Pain relief: CBC has been shown to have pain-relieving properties, and may be helpful in treating chronic pain.
Neuroprotective effects: CBC has been shown to have neuroprotective properties, which may help to protect the brain from damage and degeneration.
Anti-depressant effects: CBC has been shown to have antidepressant properties, and may be helpful in treating mood disorders such as depression.
Anti-cancer effects: CBC has been shown to have potential anti-cancer effects, and may be helpful in treating various types of cancer.
While more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of CBC, it is considered a promising area of study for its potential therapeutic properties. Some cannabis strains have been bred to have higher levels of CBC.