Understanding The Entourage Effect: How CBD Flower Works with Other Cannabinoids
As the popularity of top shelf cbd flower continues to skyrocket, so too does our understanding of how it works within our bodies. Central to this is the concept of something known as the ‘entourage effect’ – a term coined in 1998 by Israeli biochemist Dr. Raphael Mechoulam which describes the synergistic relationship between different cannabinoids and terpenes, and their collective ability to produce an enhanced therapeutic effect. In short, when combined, these compounds have a greater impact on us than any single isolated component. Let’s take a closer look at what exactly the entourage effect is, and how the cannabidiol (CBD) flower interacts with other cannabinoids found within hemp plants.
What Is The Entourage Effect?
At its core, the entourage effect is a phenomenon whereby various compounds found within cannabis interact with one another to produce additional or increased therapeutic benefits that would not be present if taken separately. This isn’t limited exclusively to cannabis either; studies have suggested that many herbs and supplements work best when paired together, instead of consuming them individually.
The major cannabinoids typically associated with producing effects within humans are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabinol (CBN). However there are more than 100 different types of cannabinoids present in hemp plants, including minor ones such as CBG and CBCA – each of which may play some role in producing an entourage effect-like experience when consumed together.
How does it work?
It has been theorized that certain properties of each cannabinoid influence how they interact with each other – thus producing varying degrees of beneficial effects depending on which combination you consume or apply topically. For example, THC binds directly to your body’s endocannabinoid receptors because its molecular structure can fit inside them like a key in a lock, whereas non-intoxicating CBD seems largely incapable of binding them, meaning that it must rely on indirect pathways to produce any physiological change in us. This is why taking both THC and CBD together can often produce better results than using either alone – as THC helps to unlock our brain’s endocannabinoid system, allowing CBD to enter via alternative routes where it would otherwise be blocked from entering unassisted.
What role do terpenes play?
Terpenes can also enhance potency by essentially amplifying cannabinoid activity – researchers have suggested that some terpenes actually increase blood flow to localised areas resulting in improved absorption rates when applied externally via creams, balms etc; while others may even promote inflammation reduction when consumed orally alongside other plant constituents. There are numerous combinations here too: linalool may work well with CBN for example, as linalool is thought to help stimulate sleepiness, while CBN itself provides pain relief – together they could theoretically create an effective treatment for insomnia/pain-related conditions without having to dose large amounts of either compound individually!
Are there any disadvantages to using multiple compounds at the same time?
Although most research suggests that using multiple compounds simultaneously produces better results than just using one alone – it’s worth noting that combining two powerful substances could potentially lead to unwanted side effects if done incorrectly; especially if you’re dealing with highly potent products like full-spectrum oils that contain large amounts of both THC & CBD along with other minor cannabinoids plus terpene profiles and so on! Even though natural remedies tend to pose less risk, people should always check the label carefully before taking anything new – just make sure you understand exactly what you’re putting into your body!
Final thoughts
In conclusion, we can see that top shelf cbd flower doesn’t just contain beneficial compounds, but rather packs a multitude of synergistic elements capable of providing enhanced health benefits when used correctly! Although still relatively understudied compared to other forms of medicinal cannabis use – understanding the ‘entourage effect’ allows us to gain deeper insights into how these components interact to achieve maximum efficacy potential from the overall product selection process!
