The phrase “entourage effect” has been around for some time now. Still, with the growing popularity of CBD, THC, and cannabis in general, many are curious about the entourage effect and what it means for our bodies. It is the theory that when all of the various compounds of the cannabis plant come together, the effects are enhanced positively, and our endocannabinoid system reacts differently than if only one component of the plant is consumed. First, let’s discuss what components need to be present for the entourage effect to take place. 

Cannabinoids

There are 150 or more cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant. Some are more concentrated than others. In general, there are five primary cannabinoids that people seek due to their effects:

  • Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): Most people know about THC since it is the main psychoactive component in cannabis that creates the euphoric “high” feeling.
  • Cannabidiol (CBD): CBD is the second most well-known cannabinoid and it is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not cause a “high” feeling. 
  • Cannabigerol (CBG): CBG is actually the precursor to THC and CBD. It is often present in much smaller amounts and is also non-psychoactive. 
  • Cannabichromene (CBC): While CBC doesn’t get to be in the spotlight as often as other cannabinoids, it is the third most prominent cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. 
  • Cannabinol (CBN): As THC ages, it gets converted into CBN. This cannabinoid is mildly psychoactive for some people, while others report no psychoactive effects. 

Terpenes

Cannabis gets its unique smell from the terpenes present in it. Terpenes also contribute to the flavor. Different cannabis strains have various sets of terpenes, which is why certain strains smell and taste different. There are over 200 different terpenes that can be present in a cannabis plant. Some of the most common ones are:

  • Linalool
  • Pinene
  • Limonene
  • Terpineol
  • Humulene
  • Myrcene
  • Beta-caryophyllene
  • Bisabolol
  • Trans-nerolidol
  • Eucalyptol 

Flavonoids

Flavonoids are also a big part of what dictates the flavor and smell of the cannabis plant, and they also affect the color. The flavonoids that are unique to the cannabis plant that create the distinct taste and smell are cannflavins A, B, and C. 

The Entourage Effect Explained

The entourage effect is a phenomenon that happens when all of the above components of cannabis are consumed together. It appears that cannabinoids are influenced by terpenes and flavonoids. So by consuming the full spectrum of the cannabis plant, you may be able to experience more benefits. The way they interact together can enhance the experience and the way your body responds to the compounds. 

How to Experience the Entourage Effect

Interested in experiencing the entourage effect for yourself? Here are a few things you can try:

Consume Full-Spectrum CBD

There are different types of CBD out there, but full-spectrum CBD is going to have the highest amounts of many of these compounds in it. They maintain a full profile of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids and also contain some THC. The amount of THC could vary depending on where you buy it and what is legal in any given state, so check the labels to know what you’re getting. If you buy full-spectrum CBD online, it should contain no more than 0.3% THC. This still gives you enough THC for the entourage effect, but not enough to be illegal or to cause psychoactive effects. 

Try Broad-Spectrum CBD

Broad-spectrum CBD also has a range of cannabinoids present along with terpenes and flavonoids, but it does not contain THC. Depending on where you purchase it from, it could still contain trace amounts of THC, so if you are concerned about consuming any THC, check the label and only buy broad-spectrum CBD from a reputable CBD company.

Shop Full-Spectrum CBD from Color Up

Color Up creates full-spectrum CBD through a highly refined Co2 extraction process. We keep the various cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids intact so you can experience the full range of the cannabis plant. Our full spectrum is always primarily CBD, and always below 0.3% THC, keeping it legal in all 50 states. We are proud to have some of the highest standards of quality in the CBD industry. Every batch of CBD or Full-Spectrum that our lab receives comes with an independent 3rd party lab test to verify quality and purity standards. Take a look at the COAs of test results on our website or pick up a bottle of full-spectrum CBD capsules or tincture online today!