The Entourage Effect: How Cannabis Compounds Work Together

Cannabis consumption has come a long way from its traditional roots. One of the most significant discoveries in cannabis research is “the entourage effect." 

So What is The Entourage Effect?

The entourage effect is a theory suggesting that the full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in cannabis work together to create a more potent therapeutic effect than isolated compounds. This concept was first introduced by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, the pioneering cannabis researcher who discovered THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. According to Dr. Mechoulam, the interplay between these compounds enhances their individual effects, leading to improved therapeutic outcomes.

Cannabinoids and Their Roles

Cannabinoids are the primary active compounds in cannabis - there are over 100 cannabinoids present in the plant, each contributing unique effects. THC is primarily responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, while CBD is known for its non-psychoactive therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-seizure effects.

Terpenes and Their Influence

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They’re responsible for the distinct smells and flavours of different cannabis strains. Terpenes also play a significant role in the entourage effect by modulating the effects of cannabinoids. For example, Myrcene, a common terpene in cannabis, has sedative properties. Alternatively, Limonene is known for its uplifting and anti-anxiety effects.

How the Entourage Effect Works

The entourage effect operates on the principle that the various compounds in cannabis work together to produce a more effective result than any single compound could alone. 

Cannabinoids and terpenes interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signalling system in the human body that regulates various physiological processes such as mood, pain, and appetite. By binding to cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), these compounds can influence the ECS in complementary ways, enhancing their overall effects.

Scientific Evidence Supporting the Entourage Effect

Several studies have provided evidence supporting the entourage effect. A notable study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology found that certain terpenes and cannabinoids, when combined, produced a greater anti-inflammatory effect than when used individually. Another study published in the Frontiers in Neurology found that CBD-rich extracts were more effective in treating epilepsy than purified CBD alone, suggesting that other cannabinoids and terpenes in the extract contributed to its therapeutic effects.

Why the Entourage Effect Matters:

Enhanced Therapeutic Benefits

The entourage effect underscores the importance of using full-spectrum cannabis products that contain a wide range of cannabinoids and terpenes. For medical cannabis users, this means potentially better outcomes with fewer side effects.

Personalised Cannabis Experience

Understanding the entourage effect allows users to tailor their cannabis experience to their specific needs. By selecting strains with particular cannabinoid and terpene profiles, users can achieve desired effects, whether it's relaxation, pain relief, or enhanced focus. 

Implications for the Cannabis Industry

The recognition of the entourage effect has significant implications for the cannabis industry. It highlights the need for products taking advantage of the entourage effect. This transparency helps users make informed decisions and enhances the credibility of cannabis as a therapeutic agent.

The Entourage Effect and Omura

By smoking and burning your cannabis, up to 80% of cannabinoids get wasted. Omura’s cutting-edge convection oven combined with its proprietary heat curve, allows you to vaporize the terpenes alongside the cannabinoids to deliver the full spectrum Entourage Effect. The Omura oven is so efficient that the Series X has been lab tested to vaporize over 99% of the cannabinoids in a single session. 

By embracing the entourage effect, you can unlock the full potential of cannabis. It’s time to get the most out of your cannabis consumption with Omura.