Everything’s better when you have an entourage – even cannabis.
It’s no secret that high-quality cannabis often has a sticky, shiny appearance, thanks to the resin coating the bud. Some weed fans consider these visual signs a surefire indicator they’re about to have an enjoyable experience.
And for cannabis consumers who enjoy getting their THC from a natural source, there’s a scientific explanation behind the power of resin. It might be the source of the “entourage effect,” a process that many believe gives cannabis flowers their unique therapeutic appeal.
What is the entourage effect?
By now, you’re probably familiar with the two heavy hitters of cannabis compounds; THC and CBD. But while each of these compounds is beneficial (and enjoyable!) on its own, something special happens when you consume them together.
Studies show that medical cannabis patients treated with both compounds simultaneously received more significant relief than those who used just one or the other, an effect called the “entourage effect.” This means that consuming THC and CBD together will generally produce a stronger and more enjoyable experience than enjoying one isolated compound.
Just like peanut butter and jelly, or bacon and eggs, the entourage effect means that THC and CBD are better together!
How does the entourage effect work?
Like any rockstar, CBD and THC work best when they have their entourages. That means for the optimal cannabis experience, both compounds should be present within your body’s endocannabinoid system, which is why cannabis affects the human brain and body.
Believers in the entourage effect say that these compounds interact within the body to elevate and support the desirable effects of cannabis by making it easier for them to bond with your endocannabinoid receptors.
But fans of flower say it doesn’t stop there. They believe the entourage effect also helps intensify the cannabis experience when you pair THC and CBD with the other organic cannabis materials, including cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes, all of which interact within your body’s endocannabinoid system to create an elevated experience.
What does the entourage effect feel like?
While there’s little formal research on the entourage effect, proponents of its power say that it feels like an intensification of everything they like about cannabis.
People who use cannabis to relieve short-term inflammation or anxiety say the entourage effect helps suppress undesirable symptoms for longer. In contrast, those who enjoy the psychoactive properties of cannabis say it’s the ultimate shortcut to a long, strange trip.
TLDR: The entourage effect is your favorite cannabis experience, only more so.
Which cannabis products help promote the entourage effect?
So the entourage effect sounds pretty awesome, right? Here are some of Lightshade’s favorite products to help you experience it.
Flower
Because it’s sourced directly from the plant, flower contains a wide variety of cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes that can help you achieve the entourage effect. Look for a flower with a good balance of THC and CBD for maximum results, like the Star Dawg, Fruity Pebbles, or Mother’s Milk strains.
For a more convenient take on the world of flowers, check out Lightshade’s selection of pre-rolls. Kaviar’s Hybrid Joint is the perfect way to carry your entourage in your pocket.
Full Spectrum Cannabis Extracts
If flower isn’t your favorite, never fear! You can still enjoy the benefits of the entourage effect with Lightshade’s library of full-spectrum cannabis extracts designed to supply user’s endocannabinoid systems with the perfect combination of cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes. Extracts like fan-favorite Banana Bread create a distilled form of cannabis flower that preserves the power of those aromatic extras.
Even if your preferred cannabis delivery method doesn’t contain terpenes, you can still benefit from the entourage effect by blending THC and CBD in a single dose. Products like Stratos’ 1:1 Energy Tincture have a perfect balance of THC and CBD, designed to encourage the entourage effect. Or try Midnight’s (1906) 50/50 blend of THC and CBD in delicious dark chocolate form.
Whatever method of consumption you chose, we hope you enjoy the relaxing benefits of the entourage effect! So tell your fans to hold off on the autographs for the time being–you’re chilling with your entourage.
Want more product recommendations? Drop into your favorite Lightshade Colorado Dispensary location and talk to our budtenders – we’re always here for you.