Full-Spectrum CBD and the Entourage Effect

In 1998, famous scientists Raphael Mechoulam and Simon Ben-Shabat first mentioned the entourage effect. According to a study they had concluded, the human endocannabinoid system experienced heightened endocannabinoid activity. This resulted from various inactive compounds and other related compounds working together. Cannabis researcher Ethan Russo further advanced this phenomenon.

In 2011, Russo conducted a study on full-spectrum CBD to investigate the authenticity of the entourage effect. The conclusion was that cannabinoids and terpenes work in synergy with each other and other compounds in cannabis plants to produce advanced therapeutic benefits. In 2019, Ethan Russo further looked into the entourage effect by reviewing multiple studies and concluded that full-spectrum CBD products offered consumers enhanced benefits compared to isolates. So, what is the entourage effect? This piece covers everything you need to know about this phenomenon and how to apply it to your advantage. 

What is the entourage effect?

This refers to the synergy of effects experienced when consumers take full-spectrum CBD. It is believed that cannabis compounds – cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and essential oils – work together to heighten the overall benefits of the CBD product. For example, individuals experience heightened relief from stress and extra physical comfort through the entourage effect. These extra compounds help CBD attain its full potential. This increased efficacy is provided by whole plant extracts (full-spectrum) as opposed to isolates. 

What cannabis compounds contribute to the entourage effect?

CBD

CBD is the main ingredient in a full-spectrum CBD product. The cannabinoid is the most abundant compound in hemp and the second most abundant in marijuana. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that counters the psychoactive properties of THC. Unlike THC, CBN, CBC, and CBA, CBD does not directly bind with the endocannabinoid receptors. Instead, it interacts with the ECS at multiple molecular levels to provide the following therapeutic benefits;

• Relief from stress and depression
• Sleep promotion
• Suppressing psychosis 
• Relief from physical discomfort
• Correcting ECS deficiencies 

Other Cannabinoids 

There has to be other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids for the entourage effect to be effective. Cannabinoids THC (0.3% or lower), CBN, CBG, CBC, and their acidic precursors add to this phenomenon. As highlighted above, each of these compounds interacts with the ECS to intensify CBD’s benefits. 

Terpenes

There are more than 400 terpenes present in cannabis plants. They are divided into three categories, depending on the number of repeating units of the isoprene molecule: monoterpenes, diterpenes, and sesquiterpenes. Top terpenes include myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene, humulene, pinene, terpineol, and pinene. These are aromatic compounds that give cannabis plants their flavor and aroma. Additionally, terpenes have potent therapeutic potential. When combined with cannabinoids, terpenes offer a myriad of health benefits such as;

• Reduced stress
• Appetite stimulation
• Relief from physical discomfort
• Boost cognitive function
• Promote blood circulation
• Sleep regulation
• Alleviates nausea and vomiting

Flavonoids 

Flavonoids are the compounds behind the pigmentation of plants, including cannabis. Besides this function, these flavonoids offer a host of medical benefits that include;

• Antioxidant properties
• Improved blood circulation
• Blood pressure regulation 

Older studies supporting the entourage effect

Besides the studies highlighted at the beginning of this piece, numerous older studies support the entourage effect. The first is a 1981 study investigating how the CBD and THC content affected the activity of cannabis plants. According to the results, full-spectrum cannabis extract provided more than three times the activity compared to THC on its own. Additionally, the researchers noted that CBD’s ability to inhibit THC’s psychoactive effects helped improve the overall synergetic benefits. This conclusion goes hand in hand with the mountain of anecdotal evidence available.

A much older study conducted in 1976 tested the effects of THC when combined with CBD. The study involved 15 participants. The scientists observed that when administered together, CBD helped to attenuate the euphoric effects of THC in 73% of the participants. When taken alone, CBD did not display the same parameters when combined with THC. Though not conclusive, this study shone a light on the THC-CBD balancing properties and how this comes into play in promoting the entourage effect. 

Numerous studies support the phenomenon of the entourage effect. However, few studies suggest otherwise. Additional research, specifically focusing on the entourage effect, is warranted.