THC, CBD and The Entourage Effect

THC, CBD and The Entourage Effect

We take a look at THC, CBD and the Entourage Effect and what that exactly means when it comes to cannabis and the science behind cannabinoids.

We hear the terms THC and CBD but what is that short for and how does it relate to cannabis?

THC and CBD are the 2 most common cannabinoids found in cannabis. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that act on cannabinoid receptors, which are part of the endocannabinoid system. Cannabis is made up of over 100 cannabinoids today we will explore THC and CBD.

To learn more and understand cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system check out our earlier article where we break it down for you. Cannabinoids and The Endocannabinoid System 

 

What Is THC?

THC short for Tetrahydrocannabinol, it is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that makes the consumer feel high. The higher the THC percentage the stronger the effect. Cannabis with a THC level of 2% – 9% is considered low. A THC level from 10% – 15% is medium. 16% + is in the high range. Cannabis over 23% is considered very high.

When we consume THC there are many effects we can feel. Some of them include:

    • euphoria
    • relaxation
    • happiness
    • pain relief
    • tiredness
    • energy
    • hunger – increases appetite
    • dry mouth

 

What Is CBD?

CBD short for Cannabidiol, is the non-psychoactive compound in cannabis. It is being recognized as being an anti-inflammatory as well as having a multitude of health benefits. CBD comes in percentages like THC.

Consuming CBD will not produce any intoxicating effects, no matter the method of consumption. CBD is being touted for having multiple medicinal benefits. Some of them include:

    • reduction of inflammation
    • alleviates anxiety
    • depression
    • pain relief
    • headaches
    • nausea
    • aids in sleep
    • epilepsy
    • improves mood
    • arthritis
    • PTSD

 

The Entourage Effect

When you are considering purchasing a cannabis product there are a few things to consider when deciding which product will work best for you and the desired effect you are looking for.

Cannabis products are available in a few forms.

    • Dried flower to smoke or vaporize in a dried flower vaporizer.
    • Prefilled oil cartridges that are for vaping.
    • For consuming orally there are oils in liquid and spray options. These are usually MCT oils which are simply coconut oil.  You can also get those oils in capsule form for easy dosing.
    • Edibles are in low dose options in candy, cookies and chocolates.
    • Topicals

For a closer look into these products, we will have an upcoming article on Consumption Methods.

What Do The Numbers Mean?

All products contain THC, CBD or a combination of both. What research has discovered that THC and CBD work best when both cannabinoids are present, often referred to as whole plant or full spectrum. When both cannabinoids are consumed together, they enhance each other’s effects.

When you are looking at cannabis products, they will show the amounts of THC and CBD that particular product contains. Depending on the desired effect will help you decide what combination to go with.

There’s no one dosage or ratio that works for everyone.

If you are new to cannabis a cannabis consumption journal is a really good idea. It will help you keep track of the products you have used, what did and did not work and will help you narrow down the cannabis best suited for you.

Published by Redawna

Garden & Food Writer/Educator/Photographer. NFT artist. Management Professional. Community Builder. Entrepreneurial spirit.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.*