DR Christian on 'Full spectrum CBD - What is the entourage effect?'
The entourage effect encompasses the synergistic interaction of various components within the cannabis plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, fatty acids, and other phytochemical groups, working in concert to enhance its overall impact.
In the context of CBD products, “Full Spectrum” indicates a product that contains a wide array of cannabinoids, potentially including compounds such as THC and CBN—both classified as Controlled Substances in the UK. The levels of these compounds can differ among products.
To ensure compliance, it’s crucial to examine the Certificate of Analysis (CoA). When correctly manufactured and tested, CoAs can verify the absence of undesirable cannabinoids.
Furthermore, in addition to cannabinoids, CBD oil products that incorporate natural hemp oil (beyond just carrier oils like MCT coconut) will encompass terpenes, flavonoids, and other constituents believed to contribute to the entourage effect.
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BRITISH CANNABIS™ Answers Your Questions
Full-spectrum CBD - What is the Entourage Effect?
Cannabinoids, natural chemical compounds found in marijuana, exert drug-like effects on various bodily systems, including the central nervous and immune systems.
The “entourage effect” theory suggests that when multiple compounds from the cannabis plant coexist alongside CBD extract, it enhances the health benefits of the CBD product.
In this article, we will explore what full-spectrum CBD entails and help you determine if it’s the right choice for you.
What does-full spectrum CBD mean?
While CBD isolate represents the purest form of CBD, completely devoid of other ingredients, full-spectrum CBD contains all the natural compounds found in the plant. These include various other cannabinoids, essential oils, and terpenes.
Minor cannabinoids
Minor cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC, exist in hemp but in smaller concentrations, ranging from 0.01mg to 5-7mg per 1,000mg of extract. Despite their minimal presence, they play a crucial role in the synergistic effects of CBD products. Notably, THC has intoxicating effects, while CBD does not.
Despite their small presence, they play an important part in the synergistic effects of CBD products. The psychotropic and therapeutic effects of cannabis products are due to CBD and THC, however, THC has an intoxicating effect while CBD does not.
Cannabigerol (CBG)
CBG, or Cannabigerol, is a cannabinoid found in cannabis. Often referred to as the “stem cell” cannabinoid (CBGA), it has been studied for its antibacterial and digestive properties.
Cannabinol (CBN)
CBN can be produced from aged THC or by converting CBD. It has been investigated for potential neuroprotective benefits and its ability to promote sleep.
Cannabichromene
CBC, another lesser-known cannabinoid, has been researched for its analgesic properties. It interacts with TRPV1 receptors in the nervous system, regulating inflammation and pain.
Terpenes
Cannabis contains over 150 terpenes that influence the plant’s aroma and offer various therapeutic benefits.
Flavonoids
Approximately 20 distinct flavonoids are found in cannabis, known as cannaflavins.
They possess therapeutic properties similar to terpenes, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and heart disease risk-reduction effects.
A 2011 study found that flavonoids possess the following properties:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Neuroprotective
- Lowers risk of heart disease
What is the entourage effect?
The entourage effect refers to the combined impact of numerous compounds working in unison. When cannabis is smoked or vaporized, hundreds of botanical compounds enter the body, each contributing unique effects and benefits.
Terpenes, aromatic molecules found in hemp, play a significant role in the entourage effect. They offer various health benefits, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiparasitic properties.
What is the best full-spectrum CBD?
For those seeking the full entourage effect experience, consider distillate CBD crumble, a concentrated form of full-spectrum CBD containing minor cannabinoids like CBN and CBG.
CBD tinctures, created by soaking cannabis in alcohol, or CBD oils, and suspending CBD in carrier oils like olive or coconut oil, are also available. These products can provide a quick and easy CBD routine with high-quality, hemp-derived CBD.
Types of CBD products that produce the entourage effect
CBD products can be formulated with various hemp extracts, from raw to isolated cannabinoids. Vaporized cannabinoids and terpenes offer optimal bioavailability for experiencing the entourage effect.
For the best entourage experience, consult experts in the field. BRITISH CANNABIS, as the largest independently owned producer, manufacturer, and distributor of legal cannabis-derived products in the UK, is dedicated to delivering top-quality CBD products.
