{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/entourage-effect/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2824-markdown","title":"How Cannabinoids & Terpenes Work Better Together","slug":"how-cannabinoids-and-terpenes-work-better-together","content":"In its natural state, the marijuana plant contains over 480 known natural chemicals. Some of those are cannabinoids, the active compounds responsible for marijuana’s medicinal and recreational effects. _Cannabis sativa_ also contains 120 known terpenes—the oils that give many kinds of plants their distinctive fragrances. \n\nBoth kinds of compounds produce a variety of beneficial effects on their own, but studies suggest—and cannabis consumers confirm—that when cannabinoids and terpenes work together, these effects are more potent. This synergy has been called the “[entourage effect](https://www.cnn.com/2014/03/11/health/gupta-marijuana-entourage/index.html)”—and it can explain why “whole plant medicine” is more effective in treating many health conditions than either terpenes or cannabinoids alone.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Cannabinoids: What Exactly Do They Do? \n\nCannabis is an intricate plant, rich in a variety of different cannabinoid compounds that bind to the body’s natural cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are found throughout the body in a network called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). And they’re triggered not only by the natural cannabinoid chemicals produced by the body, but also by ones from external sources, such as cannabis.  \n\nBecause cannabinoids from cannabis bind to endocannabinoid receptors, they can affect neurotransmitters in the brain that are responsible for mood, memory, cognition and more. That’s why psychoactive tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can produce euphoria and reduce anxiety. Meanwhile, non-psychoactive cannabidiol (CBD) can trigger immune responses and reduce inflammation throughout the body.  \n\nBut THC and CBD are only the best-known and most thoroughly studied of marijuana’s many compounds. Others include:\n\n* [Cannabigerol (CBG)](https://hellomd.com/articles/beyond-thc-and-cbd-what-you-need-to-know-about-cbc-cbn-and-cbg)\n* [Cannabinol (CBN)](https://hellomd.com/articles/having-trouble-sleeping-try-non-psychoactive-cbn)\n* [Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)](https://hellomd.com/articles/psychoactive-thcv-the-cannabinoid-that-kills-your-appetite)\n\nThere are many lesser compounds that turn up in varying amounts in different cannabis strains and whose individual effects aren’t clearly known. \n\n### Terpenes: Important Oils With Therapeutic Benefits\n\nTerpenes are produced by the resin glands of many plants, not just cannabis—and they’re even found in a few insects. These oily substances are responsible for the distinctive smells and tastes that characterize different plants and trees. \n\nTake limonene, a terpene that adds a lemony scent not only to lemons themselves but also to other fruits, some spices, and a variety of cleaning products as well as some strains of cannabis. \n\nAnd then there’s [pinene, a very common terpene that accounts for the smell of pine trees](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b84822681fea20008e62ba0/know-your-terpenes-pinene) and a variety of spices as well as industrial and cleaning products. \n\nSome marijuana strains contain limonene and pinene, too. Each cannabis strain has a long list of other terpenes that are both major (showing up frequently and in relatively large quantities in many cannabis strains) and minor (less common terpenes whose value isn’t precisely known).\n\nMany terpenes are even considered food grade, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has designated them as generally safe for consumption. But studies on the properties of terpenes reveal that some have healing benefits, too.\n\nLike cannabinoids, terpenes can bind with endocannabinoid receptors in the brain and body, and they can also act directly on tissues and cells in the immune system. \n\nFor example, pinene can damp down responses in the body’s pain receptors, so that it reduces pain and discomfort from disorders such as fibromyalgia and arthritis. As for limonene, it’s been shown to reduce anxiety, fight fungal infections and improve respiratory function. \n\nTerpenes can also work with each other. Some studies suggest that limonene and pinene can work together to combat viral infections. Meanwhile, a form of pinene called beta-pinene appears to boost the production of myrcene, another terpene that reduces resistance in the blood brain barrier. \n\n### Cannabinoids & Terpenes: A Complex Partnership\n\nBoth the cannabinoids THC and CBD are available in isolated forms, and so are terpenes. You can buy isolated terpene extracts to add to foods. You could even add them to cannabis and marijuana products. \n\nBut research over the past few decades seems to suggest that consumers feel the [maximum effect of cannabinoids and terpenes when they’re consumed together](https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x) in their natural state. This synergy among various combinations of terpenes and cannabinoids is the reason why many medicinal cannabis experts advocate for whole plant medicine, rather than taking specific compounds in isolation.\n\n### Is the Entourage Effect Real?\n\nIn the 1980s, scientists created a drug called Marinol, a synthetic form of THC designed to boost the appetite of people undergoing chemotherapy treatments. But although Marinol has been widely available by prescription since then, many people seeking its benefits have turned instead to cannabis itself. Patients say that they feel better and get better results from consuming some form of the whole plant.\n\nAfter Marinol, researchers came out with an oromucosal spray called Sativex, another synthesized cannabis product intended to ease the muscle spasms that come with multiple sclerosis. Sativex is a combination of THC and CBD, but it lacks all of the other compounds found in the whole cannabis plant. And, again, a number of patients say they prefer to consume the whole plant instead of taking these compounds in isolation.  \n\nAll of this seems to suggest that the power of the entourage effect is real. But because of restrictions on cannabis research, studies on this effect have been limited. But cannabis consumers attest to the benefits of taking cannabis in its natural form over synthetic extracts, and some of the relatively little research on the entourage effect seems able to support their claims.\n\nStill, [some research finds little evidence for the entourage effect](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/some-of-the-parts-is-marijuana-rsquo-s-ldquo-entourage-effect-rdquo-scientifically-valid/). These studies usually point to the need for more extensive studies to determine which combinations of cannabis compounds and cannabis-terpene combinations might produce specific effects. This, say some researchers, could open doors to a new era of designer cannabis products, with specific cannabis-terpene mixtures that could be fine-tuned to suit individual needs.\n\n### Whole Plant Cannabis Medicine Has It All \n\nIsolated cannabis compounds appear in a variety of products, and these have their own benefits. For example, CBD-only formulations can have a wide range of beneficial effects for a long list of health conditions and don’t produce psychoactive effects.\n\nAnd for anyone interested in consuming a specific terpene, they can buy that terpene extract and add it to cannabis products or food to get a specific effect. \n\nBut because the complex interactions among the hundreds of cannabinoids and terpenes in cannabis still aren’t thoroughly understood, cannabis advocates recommend consuming cannabis in its whole, natural state whenever possible to get the full benefit of its many healthful effects.\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b8882d88dd0720008373fcf/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-to-about-marijuana) index of articles. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/a377ee13e997bf466b26e65019d63d21/14b42/ff8f809bfeb3a5db1d2d31ee399a4581.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a377ee13e997bf466b26e65019d63d21/f836f/ff8f809bfeb3a5db1d2d31ee399a4581.jpg 200w,\n/static/a377ee13e997bf466b26e65019d63d21/2244e/ff8f809bfeb3a5db1d2d31ee399a4581.jpg 400w,\n/static/a377ee13e997bf466b26e65019d63d21/14b42/ff8f809bfeb3a5db1d2d31ee399a4581.jpg 800w,\n/static/a377ee13e997bf466b26e65019d63d21/47498/ff8f809bfeb3a5db1d2d31ee399a4581.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a377ee13e997bf466b26e65019d63d21/37d86/ff8f809bfeb3a5db1d2d31ee399a4581.jpg 1500w","srcWebp":"/static/a377ee13e997bf466b26e65019d63d21/58556/ff8f809bfeb3a5db1d2d31ee399a4581.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a377ee13e997bf466b26e65019d63d21/61e93/ff8f809bfeb3a5db1d2d31ee399a4581.webp 200w,\n/static/a377ee13e997bf466b26e65019d63d21/1f5c5/ff8f809bfeb3a5db1d2d31ee399a4581.webp 400w,\n/static/a377ee13e997bf466b26e65019d63d21/58556/ff8f809bfeb3a5db1d2d31ee399a4581.webp 800w,\n/static/a377ee13e997bf466b26e65019d63d21/99238/ff8f809bfeb3a5db1d2d31ee399a4581.webp 1200w,\n/static/a377ee13e997bf466b26e65019d63d21/90fb1/ff8f809bfeb3a5db1d2d31ee399a4581.webp 1500w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2716-markdown","title":"What Are Cannabis Flavonoids & Are They Good for You?","slug":"what-are-cannabis-flavonoids-and-are-they-good-for-you","content":"When we talk about the chemical constituents in cannabis, cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) often get all of the attention—as do terpenes like [limonene](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/know-your-cannabis-terpenes-limonene) and [humulene](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/know-your-terpenes-humulene). But the marijuana plant is made up of several classes of chemicals, and one class that deserves a closer eye is flavonoids.\n\nFlavonoids are chemical compounds found in plants; we consume them when we eat fruits, vegetables, grains, coffee, teas, wine, and yes, you guessed it: cannabis. Currently, [scientists have identified approximately 6,000 types of flavonoids](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5465813/). But why are flavonoids important in the plant world, and do they influence cannabis’s therapeutic properties? \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Why Do Plants Have Flavonoids & What Are Their Benefits? \n\nFlavonoids have many responsibilities during the lifecycle of a plant. They help determine the color and smell of flowers, fruits and leaves; this in turn affects what pollinators visit the plant. Flavonoids also play a role in how a plant protects itself from insects, the elements and UV rays.  \n\nResearch has indicated that [flavonoids have the following properties](http://www.ijpsnonline.com/Issues/1394_full.pdf), though more research is needed to fully understand their effects on humans: \n\n* Anti-inflammatory\n* Antioxidant\n* Neuroprotective\n* Anti-cancer\n* Lowers risk of heart disease\n\n### Flavonoids in Cannabis Play a Role in the Plant’s Aroma, Flavor & Color  \n\nWe tend to credit terpenes with determining the aroma and flavor of a batch of cannabis flowers. However, it’s likely that flavonoids also play a role, as is the case in other plants. \n\nFlavonoids can also influence plant color. We’ve all seen those beautiful purple flowers on dispensary shelves. Well, it turns out that a group of flavonoids called anthocyanins are often responsible for these hues. \n\nCannabis flavonoids may also help protect the plant from predators and harsh environmental conditions. Though there are no studies on how flavonoids specifically benefit the cannabis plant, we do know that flavonoids such as quercetin, which is found in both cannabis as well as other plants, [protect plants from oxidative stress](https://f1000research.com/articles/5-2430/v1). Quercetin is also known to [deter herbaceous insects from feeding on plants](http://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/19/10/16240). \n\n### Flavonoids May Even Affect Cannabis’s Entourage Effect\n\nIn fact, flavonoids may even influence the [entourage effect](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/what-is-the-entourage-effect): a phenomenon that, while unproven scientifically, still garners much interest and discussion among renowned cannabis scientists like Ethan Russo and Raphael Mechoulam. \n\nIn the entourage effect, cannabinoids like THC and CBD interact and influence each other’s effects. This concept is now being extended to other constituents of the plant including terpenes and flavonoids. Of course, the extent to which flavonoids play a role has yet to be determined. \n\n### The Cannflavins: Flavonoids That Are Unique to Cannabis\n\nScientists have identified 26 varieties of flavonoids in cannabis, three of which are unique to the plant: cannflavin A, B and C. These [cannflavins were first discovered in 1985](http://www.academia.edu/29398172/Cannflavin_A_and_B_prenylated_flavones_fromCannabis_sativa_L) by researcher Mary Barrett and her team. That same year, Mary published another paper that noted the [anti-inflammatory properties of cannflavin A](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3754224). \n\nBesides the 1985 discovery, cannflavins have been mostly overlooked, though there was one paper published in 2014 that noted some varieties of [sprouted hemp seeds contain cannflavin A and B](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213434414000176?via%3Dihub), giving them anti-inflammatory properties. More research is needed in order for us to fully understand the properties of cannflavins. \n\nWhile we know little about cannflavins, we do know a bit more about the other flavonoids in cannabis, which include: \n\n* Apigenin\n* Quercetin\n* Kaempferol\n* Luteolin\n\nCollectively, these flavonoids have many of the properties this class of compounds is known for, such as the ability to protect the brain and heart as well as fight free radicals throughout the body. Overall, more studies need to be done to see how flavonoids can be harnessed to the benefit of our overall health.\n\nPhoto credit: [Weed Porn Daily](https://www.flickr.com/photos/weedporndaily/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our Cannabis 101 post. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/3e21f433e845ea5e8d50d405cb42e416/14b42/69cf865c0f06130ee00040fa19c9d5d8.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3e21f433e845ea5e8d50d405cb42e416/f836f/69cf865c0f06130ee00040fa19c9d5d8.jpg 200w,\n/static/3e21f433e845ea5e8d50d405cb42e416/2244e/69cf865c0f06130ee00040fa19c9d5d8.jpg 400w,\n/static/3e21f433e845ea5e8d50d405cb42e416/14b42/69cf865c0f06130ee00040fa19c9d5d8.jpg 800w,\n/static/3e21f433e845ea5e8d50d405cb42e416/47498/69cf865c0f06130ee00040fa19c9d5d8.jpg 1200w,\n/static/3e21f433e845ea5e8d50d405cb42e416/aa8d6/69cf865c0f06130ee00040fa19c9d5d8.jpg 1454w","srcWebp":"/static/3e21f433e845ea5e8d50d405cb42e416/58556/69cf865c0f06130ee00040fa19c9d5d8.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3e21f433e845ea5e8d50d405cb42e416/61e93/69cf865c0f06130ee00040fa19c9d5d8.webp 200w,\n/static/3e21f433e845ea5e8d50d405cb42e416/1f5c5/69cf865c0f06130ee00040fa19c9d5d8.webp 400w,\n/static/3e21f433e845ea5e8d50d405cb42e416/58556/69cf865c0f06130ee00040fa19c9d5d8.webp 800w,\n/static/3e21f433e845ea5e8d50d405cb42e416/99238/69cf865c0f06130ee00040fa19c9d5d8.webp 1200w,\n/static/3e21f433e845ea5e8d50d405cb42e416/abd46/69cf865c0f06130ee00040fa19c9d5d8.webp 1454w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2640-markdown","title":"HelloMD’s Dr. Perry Solomon Goes Deep on Cannabis for Almost 30","slug":"hellomds-dr-perry-solomon-goes-deep-on-cannabis-for-almost-30","content":"HelloMD’s Chief Medical Officer [Dr. Perry Solomon](https://www.hellomd.com/people/54cc02df6465320003000000/Perry%20Solomon,%20MD) was recently featured on “[Almost 30](https://www.almost30podcast.com/),” an iTunes top 10 health podcast. Hosted by Krista Williams and Lindsey Simcik, the podcast’s mission is to “propel personal growth and navigate any transition.” Naturally, gaining a better understanding of cannabis’s healing properties—and how the plant fits into a person’s health and wellness goals—jibes with that mission.\n\nIn episodes 104 and 105 of “Almost 30,” Dr. Solomon touches on a lot of different cannabis-related topics including why people were tricked into believing that cannabis is harmful to their health; cannabis as a health and wellness supplement as well as a remedy for pain; and how cannabidiol (CBD) oil is used in suppository form to help relieve menstrual cramps.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nCheck out a few excerpts taken from parts 1 and 2 of the “Almost 30” podcast featuring Dr. Solomon. You can also listen to [episode 104](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/almost-30-podcast/e/53772306) and [episode 105](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/almost-30-podcast/e/53805695) in their entirety online.\n\n### Almost 30: Can you talk to us about the science behind how [cannabis] works, and how it subdues pain, and it's relaxing people, helping people sleep, reducing anxiety. I don't know the science behind it. I just know it works.\n\n** Dr Perry Solomon:** Basically … the endocannabinoid system is a system of homeostasis in our bodies that keeps everything in check. It's something that was discovered around the 1970s, early 1970s by Raphael Mechoulam in Israel. And it's something that genetically has been there for thousands and thousands of years [in terms of having a check and balance system in the body].\n\nIn other words, what happens is you have synapses in your body, and chemicals become released from one side, or from one synapse to the other, … to transfer information and sensations, and what happens is there’s a retrograde feedback mechanism. Picture two ends of a wire, and from one end the electricity or the information goes to the other end, and if something gets overstimulated because it's out of balance, the endocannabinoid system is the system that takes the second signal, goes back to the first signal and says, ‘OK, slow down that rate of firing for pain or sensation or anxiety.’\n\nAnd usually when the body's in homeostasis, the endocannabinoid system (“endo” meaning it's from your body), or the feedback mechanism, is [in a state where] everything stays nice and cool. Everything's calm, cool, collected. The pain isn't there and everything's fine.\n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA, CANNABINOIDS & HOMEOSTASIS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56b27573fe98a100080001f1/marijuana-cannabinoids-and-homeostasis-a-balancing-act)\n\nBut when things start firing abnormally, the endocannabinoid system gets kind of out of whack. And if you have a decrease in some of the endocannabinoids such as anandamide and 2AG—these are natural chemicals that are found in your body that act as that retrograde feedback blocker to slow things down or speed things up—if those are lacking or not in balance, things happen that you don't want to have to happen, whether it be an immunologic problem, whether it be from pain or anything else.\n\nPhytocannabinoids, the things that are in cannabis (“phyto” meaning plant), … match up to the two types of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, that are found in the body. These are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD. Each of these phytocannabinoids takes the place of the endocannabinoids that may be deficient, and so the chemicals that you use from the plant eventually take over for the ones that are supposed to be in good balance in your body (but aren’t or are lacking).\n\nCBD, for example, is more of an anti-inflammatory compound that helps with the CB2 receptors, which are concentrated in the inflammatory tissues in the body. And THC concentrates on the CB1 receptor that's mostly found in the brain, which is why you get those psychoactive effects from THC, and you don't get it from CBD—because there aren’t many CBD receptors, or CB2 receptors, in the brain. \n\n![Perry Solomon on \"Almost 30\"](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5ac807aaf24d1300077ccbc1-795dbfd4-1095-4db4-8655-4fb7b7b45186/original.jpg)\n\n### A30: So, THC is the psychoactive compound?\n\n**PS:** Correct. And it’s psychoactive because of the fact that the CB1 receptor is primarily in the brain. It's thought that the runner's high and the other things that occur are because anandamide goes up into the brain, causing that rush of feeling. … People call this the endorphin rush, and it's probably not that. It's probably the anandamide that’s getting into the brain, because endorphins don't cross the blood-brain barrier to get into the head. So, the rush that they're feeling is probably from the endocannabinoid system in the brain more than anything else. \n\nRELATED: [WHY DOES CANNABIS MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/582b86cce686fc000c657034/why-does-cannabis-make-you-feel-good)\n\n### A30: What are some of the symptoms that people are saying that CBD helps them with?\n\n**PS:** Well, for example, menstrual cramps in women. There are some suppositories that are coming out that are just CBD as an anti-inflammatory that appear to be working without any THC in it. … Again, it's an individualized type of thing. People use it also for migraines. This is another way that people are using CBD only to be able to treat that.\n\nAgain, the entourage effect seems to show that the cannabis may work a little bit better with both CBD and THC, but there are people who get a fantastic response with just a CBD-only product … for their migraines. Sports recovery is another one where people just use a CBD-only ointment or salve on their skin to help muscles relax a little bit. And also, again, because muscle injuries are an inflammatory type of byproduct of exercise. \n\n### A30: I love using the CBD creams and things. So, what is it actually doing? So, it's being absorbed into the skin and into the bloodstream? And it's connecting the CB1 receptor to the CBD? \n\n**PS:** For CBD, it would be the CB2 receptor. That's what’s theorized as what it does. With the skin, there are people in the medical community and the cannabis community who feel that it doesn't get absorbed at all. Some people think that it does. Again, it may get absorbed better with a plastic covering on it, like a patch. What happens with the cream is that some of it can get evaporated up in the air. Some people put it on, and it comes with a plastic cover on it that essentially eliminates any type of evaporative loss, and it all gets put into the skin.\n\nSome people also use the THC/CBD ointment, and they ask us, ‘Well, can I test THC-positive if my work is screening for THC?’ And that's a questionable thing. It may be that enough can get absorbed to test positive for THC in your urine if your job of tests for that. So, people say, ‘Well, what should I use if they do test me, and I don't want to take any chances?’ And we say, ‘Well then a CBD-only [product],’ because that's not something that’s psychoactive or that people are testing for. \n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-trying-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/14b42/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/f836f/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg 200w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/2244e/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg 400w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/14b42/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg 800w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/47498/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/0e329/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/e85c0/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg 3100w","srcWebp":"/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/58556/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/61e93/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp 200w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/1f5c5/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp 400w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/58556/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp 800w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/99238/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp 1200w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/7c22d/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp 1600w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/48e8b/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp 3100w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2562-markdown","title":"Harnessing the Power of Cannabis's Chemical Compounds","slug":"harnessing-the-power-of-cannabiss-chemical-compounds","content":"In the last installment of our series for cannabis newcomers, we went over [cannabis strains and why they’re important](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a77e254f24d1300077ccb2e/finding-the-ideal-cannabis-strain-to-suit-your-needs). Different types of cannabis can have different tastes, smells and, most importantly, different effects. Depending on the individual, some strains may bring on one effect—relaxation, for example—while others can trigger the opposite, and sometimes negative, effect. You may be wondering what's going on with these different cannabis strains, and why there’s so much variety.\r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nAs it turns out, the differences among marijuana strains can be largely understood based on the differences in those strains’ chemical components. We now turn our focus on the chemical compounds that create these unique features. In this and upcoming articles, we’ll dive into the many different compounds found in the cannabis plant, and what to expect from each. \r\n\r\n### The Basics of Cannabinoids \r\n\r\nWhile cannabis contains many active components, cannabinoids are especially important to understand as they’re the compounds that are unique to the marijuana plant. While humans have understood cannabis’s therapeutic powers for thousands of years, we only began to learn about cannabinoids when the first known cannabinoid, cannabinol (CBN), was discovered in 1896.\r\n\r\nIn the following decades, scientists also discovered cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and numerous other cannabinoids in this versatile plant. While there are currently more than 60 known cannabinoids, only a few are regularly mentioned or tested for. The most popular cannabinoids, usually those that are found in larger quantities in the plant, are cannabinoids such as:\r\n\r\n* THC\r\n* CBD\r\n* CBN\r\n* Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA)\r\n* Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) \r\n* Cannabigerol (CBG)\r\n\r\nThese cannabinoids can have very different effects, thus contributing to the large amount of diversity found in cannabis strains. That’s why it’s important to learn about each so you know what to expect when trying different strains. In the next few articles, we’ll get into the nitty gritty, explaining the uses, side effects and interactions for each of these cannabinoids. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [CANNABINOIDS: CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS WITH HUGE THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55da2ff26430380006690000/cannabinoids-chemical-compounds-with-huge-therapeutic-potential)\r\n\r\n### The Endocannabinoid System Helps Keep the Body in Balance\r\n\r\n[Scientists also discovered the endocannabinoid system (ECS)](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5751cbd970410e000b00003a/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system). This system is made up of CB1 and CB2 receptors, which can be found throughout the human body and interact directly with cannabinoids. As it turns out, our body naturally produces its own endocannabinoids, which are very similar to the phytocannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant. \r\n\r\nThis natural system of receptors and endocannabinoids plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis, which is your body’s natural mechanism for maintaining internal balance. \r\n\r\nThis affects aspects of your health like:\r\n\r\n* heart rate \r\n* blood pressure\r\n* body temperature\r\n* the immune system\r\n* sleep cycles\r\n* appetite \r\n* thirst \r\n\r\n[When your body’s homeostasis is disrupted, a number of problems can arise—from arthritis and depression to diabetes and Crohn's disease](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56b27573fe98a100080001f1/marijuana-cannabinoids-and-homeostasis-a-balancing-act). Fortunately, cannabinoids can affect our system much like our own natural endocannabinoids can. When endocannabinoids fail to do their job, patients can use phytocannabinoids to fill in these gaps, bringing the body’s various systems back into balance.  \r\n\r\n### Terpenes—Responsible for Cannabis’s Taste, Smell & More\r\n\r\nCannabinoids aren’t the only chemical compounds present in cannabis. The plant also contains a large variety of [terpenes, the chemicals responsible for the taste and smell of cannabis](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/562948683138320006d70000/terpenes-that-augment-the-healing-power-of-cannabis). Unlike cannabinoids, terpenes aren’t unique to cannabis, but are found in many other plants as well. This is why cannabis can smell so similar to many other plants.\r\n\r\nWhen you smell cannabis and think it smells like pine, for example, it’s not just a similarity in smell. Cannabis with a piney scent, contains pinene, which also gives pine needles their scent. Many different terpenes may be present in a given marijuana strain.\r\n\r\nTerpenes not only affect the smell and flavor of cannabis, they also produce their own therapeutic effects. With over 100 identified terpenes in cannabis strains, we’ve only scratched the surface on what all of them can do. At this point, only a few terpenes—those found in larger quantities—are frequently discussed or tested for. They include:\r\n\r\n* Beta-caryophyllene\r\n* Linalool\r\n* Pinene\r\n* Limonene\r\n* Myrcene \r\n* Humulene\r\n\r\nRELATED: [WHAT ARE TERPENES AND WHAT IS THEIR EFFECT?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56e359576d0ed000080000ba/what-are-terpenes-and-what-is-their-effect)\r\n\r\n### Understanding the Entourage Effect\r\n\r\nWhile many folks like to focus on individual cannabinoids or terpenes, the truth is that these chemicals interact with each other in many different ways. More than understanding what each chemical does on its own, it’s also important to understand key ways in which these chemicals interact with each other.\r\n\r\nTHC, for example, is often considered the crucial element when dosing cannabis. Some even isolate THC when preparing cannabis products or doing research on cannabis. While there are therapeutic applications for THC in isolation, research has shown that THC’s effects can be greatly altered depending on whether other cannabinoids and terpenes are present.\r\n\r\nHaving other compounds working in concert with THC may make it even more effective, or possibly less effective, depending on what you’re trying to accomplish. Many of cannabis’s most helpful effects come from the combination of these components rather than just dosing with a single compound. The [combination of chemical compounds is called the entourage effect](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56d0f3acbbf86b000b0000ae/what-is-the-entourage-effect), and its many different combinations can be hard to track. \r\n\r\nTake, for example, the terpene called myrcene. While THC is usually quite energetic in its effects, when mixed with myrcene, THC takes on a sedative effect instead. If THCV is present, however, this doesn’t happen, and even with myrcene in the mix, the THC will maintain its energetic nature. With so many chemical components available, there seems to be an almost infinite number of combinations to consider.\r\n\r\nEach strain—and sometimes each individual instantiation of a strain—has its own chemical profile or chemotype. You can have cannabis tested to find out about its chemical composition. Some dispensaries or growers have their cannabis analyzed for chemical composition already and can tell you how much of each measured chemical is in the strain. Still, this is by no means a complete analysis. It won’t always tell you everything about how the cannabis will affect you, even when you understand the research behind each chemical. \r\n\r\n### Finding the Right Cannabinoids & Terpenes for You\r\n\r\nDespite the intricacies involved in the entourage effect, learning about the chemical constituents in cannabis that correlate with your needs can get you pointed in the right direction—and help you tailor your cannabis use appropriately. If you’re looking for appetite suppressants, for example, strains high in THCV are a good place to start.  [If you have epilepsy, you might look for high CBD strains](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55c28a2c65663200065c0000/epilepsy-relief-possible-through-medical-cannabis) as research has shown them to be helpful for seizures.\r\n\r\nIn the next few installments of our Cannabis for Newbies series, we’ll delve deeper into the topic of cannabinoids, looking at each of the popular cannabinoids’ uses and side effects. We’ll start by learning about THC, arguably the most well-known cannabinoid. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Brian Shamblen](https://www.flickr.com/photos/23972840@N04/)\r\n\r\nNeed a medical marijuana recommendation? [Consult with one of HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors](https://www.hellomd.com/); it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/14b42/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.jpg","srcSet":"/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/f836f/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.jpg 200w,\n/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/2244e/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.jpg 400w,\n/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/14b42/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.jpg 800w,\n/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/47498/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.jpg 1200w,\n/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/0e329/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.jpg 1600w,\n/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/0fb1f/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.jpg 1862w","srcWebp":"/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/58556/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/61e93/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.webp 200w,\n/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/1f5c5/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.webp 400w,\n/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/58556/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.webp 800w,\n/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/99238/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.webp 1200w,\n/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/7c22d/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.webp 1600w,\n/static/31021791112c1d84bd4c57c9e1e6387a/dc633/97338dab3bc1b3037548e0874cdd95fd.webp 1862w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2526-markdown","title":"Can Certain Foods Interact With Cannabis to Affect Your High?","slug":"can-certain-foods-interact-with-cannabis-to-affect-your-high","content":"A few years ago, [Howard Stern interviewed singer Neil Young](https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/12-things-we-learned-from-howard-sterns-interview-with-neil-young-20141014) and Howard mentioned that he could no longer smoke marijuana because it made him paranoid. In response, Neil provided an interesting suggestion: Chew on a few black peppercorns to calm the paranoia.\r\n\r\nNeil’s recommendation echoes an idea that’s long been popular in the cannabis community, and a question that researchers have been curious to investigate: Can certain foods interact with marijuana to produce a different high?\r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### Terpenes, the Entourage Effect & Food-Marijuana Interactions \r\n\r\nThis idea stems from a theory called the entourage effect, which is the concept that the different compounds in cannabis—such as terpenes, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD)—could interact with each other to produce synergistic effects. In other words, each compound could be a musical instrument, and when consumed together, could work in symphony to create a unique sound.\r\n\r\nIn addition to being found in cannabis, terpenes are found in many plants, including fruits and vegetables. As fragrant compounds, they’re [responsible for the aromas in essential oils](http://www.eurekaselect.com/95572/article) and different cannabis strains.\r\n\r\nBecause terpenes are found in both food and cannabis, some have speculated that consuming certain terpenes could change the cannabis “symphony,” leading to a different high.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [5 TIPS TO REDUCE THE EFFECTS OF HAVING TOO MUCH CANNABIS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a5cfdb5c7e0180007a78273/5-tips-to-reduce-the-effects-of-having-too-much-cannabis)\r\n\r\n### What Does the Science Say About the Entourage Effect?\r\n\r\nWhile it’s a promising idea, the [entourage effect has yet to be validated by scientific research](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/some-of-the-parts-is-marijuana-rsquo-s-ldquo-entourage-effect-rdquo-scientifically-valid/). This is partly due to the difficulty involved in conducting studies on marijuana, namely because of its status in the United States as a Schedule 1 drug.\r\n\r\nThe entourage effect is a contentious subject among researchers, with two main sides to the story. Dr. Ethan Russo made a strong case for the entourage effect in _The British Journal of Pharmacology_, where he introduced a theory called “[phytocannabinoid-terpenoid synergy](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/).” This theory states that terpenes may have the potential to inhibit some of THC’s effects on the nervous system, which in turn could change the cannabis consumer’s experience, including mood, emotions and feelings.\r\n\r\nOn the other side, critics say that evidence suggests that [THC works solo to drive cannabis’s psychoactive effects](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/some-of-the-parts-is-marijuana-rsquo-s-ldquo-entourage-effect-rdquo-scientifically-valid/). \r\n\r\nWhat’s more, little research has been done on food terpenes interacting with cannabis. Much of the research done on terpenes has taken place on mice or _in vitro_ (meaning, on cell cultures or microorganisms). In the mice studies, the terpenes are often administered by giving the mice an extract, which means we don’t know if the same outcome would happen if a food source of terpenes was given.\r\n\r\nA well-designed research study, such as a double-blind clinical trial, could help answer questions about the entourage effect and whether food terpenes can interact with cannabis.\r\n\r\n### Anecdotal Reports of Cannabis-Food Interactions\r\n\r\nThat said, there are countless anecdotal reports of foods changing the cannabis experience. Four foods in particular come up frequently.\r\n\r\n**Black Pepper** \r\n\r\nMany people agree with Neil Young that eating black pepper in conjunction with marijuana helps decrease paranoia. One of the terpenes in black pepper is [beta-caryophyllene, which has been studied in mice for its pain-relieving effects](http://www.europeanneuropsychopharmacology.com/article/S0924-977X1300302-7/pdf).\r\n\r\n** Pine Nuts**\r\n\r\nSimilar to black pepper, some people say that when they eat pine nuts, they feel like it calms THC’s effects and leads to greater alertness and mental clarity. The terpene in pine nuts that could be of scientific interest is pinene, which is also what gives pine trees their scent. \r\n\r\n** Lemon**\r\n\r\nBack in the 1800s, a Scottish toxicologist named Robert Christison recommended lemon for people who ingested too much cannabis. This remedy is still around today and was recently featured in [Refinery29's list of ways to feel better if you get too high](http://www.refinery29.com/marijuana-so-high-how-to-calm-down#slide-2). Limonene is one of the terpenes in lemon.\r\n\r\n**Mangoes**\r\n\r\nOn the other hand, [mangoes have been anecdotally reported to intensify a marijuana high](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/571ff712d392e1000c00031f/what-is-it-about-mangoes-and-marijuana). Mangoes contain the terpene myrcene, which is also found in lemongrass and cardamom.\r\n\r\nThese foods and their terpenes could be a good starting point for any future research, especially because these foods have nutritional benefits, too. Pine nuts have heart-healthy fats, mangoes and lemons have vitamin C (among other nutrients), and black pepper contains phytochemicals.\r\n\r\nHave you experienced any of these food-cannabis interactions firsthand? If so, let us know in the comments.\r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Darryl Godden](https://www.flickr.com/photos/blackmango/)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwAAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIEAf/EABUBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEA/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAFkeEtJwf/EABkQAAIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAAMREv/aAAgBAQABBQJsrRGW2NUN6D1nFnRn/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEP/aAAgBAwEBPwE//8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEP/aAAgBAgEBPwE//8QAGhAAAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQEhEhIv/aAAgBAQAGPwLJVmirRzH/xAAbEAADAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhMVFBYf/aAAgBAQABPyFVp2PHCzGDgl8ZvkNeI+kvT//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQ2O//xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARH/2gAIAQMBAT8QZH//xAAXEQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREh/9oACAECAQE/EMXL/8QAGBABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITH/2gAIAQEAAT8QgpVK+GiQSamwuMqU6HDLwj6CPuWpilKplkFzf//Z","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/14b42/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.jpg","srcSet":"/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/f836f/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.jpg 200w,\n/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/2244e/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.jpg 400w,\n/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/14b42/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.jpg 800w,\n/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/47498/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.jpg 1200w,\n/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/0e329/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.jpg 1600w,\n/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/3a239/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.jpg 3571w","srcWebp":"/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/58556/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/61e93/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.webp 200w,\n/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/1f5c5/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.webp 400w,\n/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/58556/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.webp 800w,\n/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/99238/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.webp 1200w,\n/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/7c22d/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.webp 1600w,\n/static/90bf6e501d2e83335a12547b9a0ff9fc/bb957/66989f147f10a197f746168316d0c856.webp 3571w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2469-markdown","title":"CBD and THC: A Perfect Balance for Healing","slug":"cbd-and-thc-a-perfect-balance-for-healing","content":"Herbalists say that for every poisonous plant, there’s another with an antidote not far away. That kind of balance between opposites is everywhere in nature—and that may help to explain the interplay between THC and CBD, the two most plentiful compounds in the marijuana plant. Although these two substances appear to have opposing effects, in combination each [affects the action of the other](https://www.zamnesia.com/blog-cannabinoid-syngergy-how-cbd-and-thc-work-together-n719) to keep the marijuana high from spinning out of control—and create some potent healing benefits.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### THC: Marijuana’s Most Famous Compound\n\nTHC (officially known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the most prevalent of more than one hundred compounds found in the marijuana plant. It’s followed closely by cannabidiol, or CBD. Separately and together, these two compounds are the cannabis ingredients to be most closely studied for their applications in treating a wide range of health conditions ranging from cancer to PTSD.  \n\nTHC is probably the best known of marijuana’s many compounds. Its psychoactive properties are responsible for the cannabis “high” enjoyed by recreational users—and for keeping marijuana on the DEA’s list of what they consider to be highly addictive and dangerous drugs. \n\n For most users, that high delivers a feeling of relaxation and euphoria. But for others, THC can cause less pleasant reactions—nervousness, anxiety and paranoia. The likelihood of those kinds of negative effects rises when a user consumes cannabis grown from strains that are very high in THC. Some studies also suggest that long term or extensive use of THC can permanently affect brain functions such as memory or cognition.\n\nBut THC isn’t just good for a good time as it also has potent healing properties. The endocannabinoid system is a vast network of natural cannabinoid receptors that occur throughout the body. These receptors can be filled by cannabinoids manufactured by the body itself, or by introducing cannabis from outside sources like smoking or consuming it. \n\nThe body’s CB1 and CB2 receptors are abundant in the brain, organs and tissues, and THC binds with them in ways that are nearly identical to natural endocannabinoids such as anandamide and 2-AG. That means THC can be beneficial in treating a wide range of health conditions affecting both body and mind—especially when it’s [accompanied by CBD](http://pureanalytics.net/blog/2012/02/19/how-thc-and-cbd-work-together/).\n\nRELATED: [CANNABIS 101: THC vs CBD](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57a17dc121a3ad00076694fc/cannabis-101-thc-vs-cbd)\n\n### CBD Works In Many Ways\n\nCBD is the second most common compound found in cannabis, and although it lacks the psychoactive properties of THC, many studies have found that it has numerous whole body health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and boosting immune system functions. Available in forms such as oil concentrates, edibles and even skin creams and ointments, CBD can help reduce chronic pain, ease the symptoms of autoimmune disorders and migraines, and reduce the nausea associated with cancer treatment.\n\nBut while THC binds directly with the body’s own endocannabinoid receptors in the brain, central nervous system and other organs and tissues, CBD [works in more mysterious ways](https://www.projectcbd.org/science/cannabis-pharmacology/how-cbd-works). Whether it’s the raw plant form known as CBDA or the extracted version CBD, this compound doesn’t directly bind with either of the body’s cannabinoid receptors. Rather, it either enhances or inhibits the activity of a long list of other receptors and channels that affect processes ranging from the proliferation of cells (particularly cancer cells) to the uptake of the calming neurotransmitter GABA.\n\n### CBD Reins In THC’s Psychoactivity\n\nCBD also has the ability to act allosterically on some kinds of receptors. That is, it can change the receptor’s shape to affect its behavior, either positively or negatively. And in that capacity, CBD can affect the endocannabinoid receptor CB1, even though it doesn’t bind directly to it. As a negative allosteric modulator, CBD weakens the ability of CB1 receptors to bind to THC, and that limits the psychoactive effects of THC while preserving its therapeutic qualities.\n\n### The Entourage Effect: Better Together\n\nThe “entourage effect” is what happens when multiple elements work together to enhance the positive effects of them all. When THC and CBD are used in combination, they produce [much greater \nbenefits](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20053780) than when used alone. And studies reveal that those benefits in turn are amplified when the whole marijuana plant is used, rather than isolated extracts of THC and CBD. The combination of THC’s direct effects on the endocannabinoid system and CBD’s activity on other kinds of receptors accounts for the most potent healing properties of cannabis.\n\nCBD helps to prolong the effects of THC therapies for cancer and other conditions. Because CBD is able to weaken CB1’s ability to bind with THC, it slows the breakdown of THC in the liver, so that the effects of the treatment last longer. Studies also reveal that the combination of THC and CBD is more able to [enhance the effectiveness of radiation \ntherapy](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25398831) to treat high-grade glioma—an aggressive and usually inoperative cancer of the brain—than either of these compounds alone.\n\nResearch also suggests that THC may be helpful in reducing the anxiety and hyperarousal common in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), precisely because that psychoactive high produces feelings of relaxation and can also help eliminate negative memories. But THC is more effective when combined with CBD, which keeps THC’s psychoactivity under control, so that its negative psychoactive effects don’t undermine treatment.\n\nTHC and CBD alone both have their own medicinal benefits. But in combination, the whole seems to be greater than the sum of its parts. The exact proportions of THC relative to CBD in a particular treatment can vary widely, depending on the individual and the goals of the treatment, but finding a balance between these two compounds may be the key to unlocking the many healing benefits of cannabis.\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUBBP/EABUBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAB/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAHpTttrpA//xAAaEAACAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgADEwQS/9oACAEBAAEFAgyznsZhokFpErt8DWf/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ/9oACAEDAQE/AT//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ/9oACAECAQE/AT//xAAeEAABBAEFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIRMQMhQVGCof/aAAgBAQAGPwLR0dR6uyU7gvwkVE3KP//EABsQAQACAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExYUGR/9oACAEBAAE/IXuZdtAsUpiOiL8OuSsAgLx7E3p8n//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQPP8A/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAER/9oACAEDAQE/ELGP/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAER/9oACAECAQE/ELGP/8QAHhABAAICAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUWFxkcH/2gAIAQEAAT8QM+UH1CcSxYpjVuDtG/LvW0I0K9JZ9SuYsWGy9ef/2Q==","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/14b42/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/f836f/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.jpg 200w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/2244e/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.jpg 400w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/14b42/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.jpg 800w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/47498/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/54ac5/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/58556/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/61e93/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.webp 200w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/1f5c5/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.webp 400w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/58556/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.webp 800w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/99238/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.webp 1200w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/5e0b8/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2119-markdown","title":"Whole Plant Medicine & the Entourage Effect","slug":"whole-plant-medicine-and-the-entourage-effect","content":"Alicia Rose is the Founder of [HerbaBuena](http://herbabuena.com/) a California based collective that  provides a sophisticated, personalized approach as well as the finest cannabis-based medicine. HerbaBuena is well known for their social events which allow its members to gather and learn about the therapeutic benefits of cannabis and the products that suit them best. This week, Alicia discusses the philosophy behind creating products with the whole plant and why the entourage effect is important.\r\n\r\n**The Entourage Effect - Why It Matters**\r\n\r\nCannabis contains more than 400 compounds, 80 of which are currently categorized as cannabinoids, and all of which act synergistically together to create an “entourage effect” – or an effect that when used together magnifies the therapeutic benefits of the individual components. Better said, the medicinal impact of the whole plant is greater than the sum of its parts. The innate plant intelligence of cannabis as a healing herb is unparalleled, likely due to the sheer number of compounds working together to create a therapeutic effect.\r\n \r\nHerbaBuena Elixirs for example, are crafted to maintain whole plant intelligence, through solution-specific, synergistic herbal blends as functional medicine. And our cultivation projects focus on strains with balanced cannabinoid profiles – such as Cannatonic Rich CBD.\r\n\r\n**Whole Cannabis Flower vs. Hemp**\r\n\r\nStudies have shown that 100 milligrams of single-molecule CBD is not equivalent to 100 milligrams of a CBD-rich whole plant cannabis extract. As part of our own anecdotal evidence, we’ve seen that not all CBD is created equal, and that the compound derived from industrial hemp doesn’t have the same efficacy for patients as whole flower cannabis sativa extract. This is why all our CBD products are flower based.\r\n \r\n**Primary Cannabinoids**\r\n\r\nStudies show that the combined effect of these compounds working together is greater than that if they’re used alone. In light of this, our hope is to continue working with geneticists and chemists to develop cannabinoid-specific plants – to offer a more consistent and targeted effect, without compromising the benefit of the entourage effect of the whole plant spectrum. Here’s a list of the primary cannabinoids found in modern day cannabis.\r\n \r\n**THC:** One of the only psychoactive compounds, it offers a euphoric effect that can get us out of our bodies and into our mind, whereby the greatest healing can occur. It has also been shown to relieve pain, reduce vomiting and nausea, suppress muscle spasms, stimulate appetite, and is known to be the pre-cursor to the bioavailability of CBD.\r\n \r\n**THCA:** The raw, pre-heated (pre-decarboxylated) form of THC has been shown to reduce inflammation, inhibit cancer cell and tumor growth, suppress muscle spasms, and potentially to balance the ESC without the psychoactive effect. Found in things like kief and raw juice.\r\n \r\n**CBD:** Has been shown to relieve pain, reduces inflammation, slow bacterial growth, reduce blood sugar levels, reduce seizures and convulsions, reduce risk of artery blockage, inhibit growth of cancer cells and tumors, treat psoriasis, moderates psychosis, suppress muscle spasms, relieve anxiety, promote bone growth, modulate immune system function, reduce small intestine contractions, and protect against nervous system degeneration. It is also an antidote to the effects of THC.\r\n \r\n**CBN:** Has been shown to relieve pain, provide a sedative effect for sleep and suppress muscle spasms\r\n \r\n**CBG:** Has been shown to slow bacterial growth, reduce inflammation, inhibit cancer cell and tumor growth.\r\n \r\n**THCv:** Has been shown to suppress appetite, help with weight loss, reduce seizures and convulsions and promote bone growth. We’re working on cultivating stable strains of flowers from which we can extract this powerful compound.\r\n\r\nIf you are interested in attending one of [HerbaBuena's](http://herbabuena.com/) social events, take a look at their [online social calendar](http://herbabuena.com/the-social-club/).\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/edbd7c1dde1f2c388ce8558e8315c6c6/ee604/e38370a6cb3cc2c75afd541c6e6094f6.png","srcSet":"/static/edbd7c1dde1f2c388ce8558e8315c6c6/69585/e38370a6cb3cc2c75afd541c6e6094f6.png 200w,\n/static/edbd7c1dde1f2c388ce8558e8315c6c6/497c6/e38370a6cb3cc2c75afd541c6e6094f6.png 400w,\n/static/edbd7c1dde1f2c388ce8558e8315c6c6/ee604/e38370a6cb3cc2c75afd541c6e6094f6.png 800w,\n/static/edbd7c1dde1f2c388ce8558e8315c6c6/f3583/e38370a6cb3cc2c75afd541c6e6094f6.png 1200w,\n/static/edbd7c1dde1f2c388ce8558e8315c6c6/f90fa/e38370a6cb3cc2c75afd541c6e6094f6.png 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/edbd7c1dde1f2c388ce8558e8315c6c6/58556/e38370a6cb3cc2c75afd541c6e6094f6.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/edbd7c1dde1f2c388ce8558e8315c6c6/61e93/e38370a6cb3cc2c75afd541c6e6094f6.webp 200w,\n/static/edbd7c1dde1f2c388ce8558e8315c6c6/1f5c5/e38370a6cb3cc2c75afd541c6e6094f6.webp 400w,\n/static/edbd7c1dde1f2c388ce8558e8315c6c6/58556/e38370a6cb3cc2c75afd541c6e6094f6.webp 800w,\n/static/edbd7c1dde1f2c388ce8558e8315c6c6/99238/e38370a6cb3cc2c75afd541c6e6094f6.webp 1200w,\n/static/edbd7c1dde1f2c388ce8558e8315c6c6/5e0b8/e38370a6cb3cc2c75afd541c6e6094f6.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5236,"name":"Entourage Effect","slug":"entourage-effect","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}