Taking CBD And THC Together: The Entourage Effect

Researchers have found that cannabis plants contain more than 120 different phytocannabinoids that work on our Endocannabinoid system to keep the body in homeostasis or in balance. CBD and THC can be taken separately or consumed together for the best effect which is known as the entourage effect.

Amongst all other phytocannabinoids, CBD and THC are the two most researched compounds which are used all around the world for their therapeutic benefits and recreational purposes.

Entourage Effect: Taking CBD And THC Together

Some research suggests that taking both the CBD and THC together along with a smaller amount of terpenoids (organic compounds in cannabis plants) is more effective than taking CBD or THC separately. It happens due to the interaction between the phytocannabinoids and the terpenoids which are also called the entourage effect.

According to several studies on the effect of phytocannabinoids and terpenes consumed together, it may be beneficial for:

• Relieving Pain
• Anxiety Disorder
• Inflammatory Disease
• Epilepsy and Insomnia
• Cancer
• Fungal Infections

Some people experience adverse effects like anxiety, hunger, and sedation after consuming THC and some studies on rats and humans suggest that CBD may help reduce the side-effects caused by THC.

Research from 2018 suggests that phytochemicals like terpenes and flavonoids could be beneficial for brain health by providing neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. On the other hand, these compounds have been found to increase the therapeutic potential of CBD.

Best Ratio Of THC To CBD

Although CBD and THC work better together than separately, cannabis works differently on everyone. That is why there is no one-best-ratio of THC to CBD that works similarly for everyone.

If you are about to try products that contain both the CBD and THC, you should consult with a physician who will recommend you an initial dose to kick off and advise you of the potential interactions with other drugs you are taking.

It’s common to experience side effects while using the combination of CBD and THC. Short-term memory loss, fatigue, slow reaction times, increased anxiety are some of the side effects caused by THC which is a psychoactive compound. On the other hand, CBD may cause sudden weight changes, nausea, and diarrhea to some people.

While you are trying products that contain both the CBD and THC

• You can start with a low dose and then increase it gradually until you get the best effect. For THC, you can start with 5mg or less, and for CBD, you can try 5mg to 15mg.
• Experiment with timing. Taking CBD and THC at the same time may work best for you. Or you may try taking CBD after THC or vice versa.

Important Note On Vaping THC: Vaping THC has been found to have some potential risks and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people should avoid vaping THC.[1] If you are vaping THC, make sure to monitor yourself carefully. See a physician immediately if you develop symptoms like cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, nausea, weight loss.

CBD Without THC: Is It Still Beneficial?

There is plenty of research that suggests CBD alone has a multitude of therapeutic benefits. People who don’t want to use THC can take CBD and still get the benefits from it.

Full-spectrum CBD products contain a wide range of cannabinoids and 0.3% of THC which is not strong enough to make you high but can show up on drug tests. So, if you do not want to try THC, you should look for CBD isolate products.

The interaction between the cannabinoids and terpenoids along with the brain receptors is known as the Entourage Effect. Studies suggest that taking CBD and THC together is more beneficial because of this effect.

However, until now the Entourage Effect is still an idea. Furthermore, extensive research on cannabis plants and its chemical composition is needed to be done to know the full extent of its potential therapeutic benefits.

[1] CDC.gov: Outbreak of Lung Injury Associated with the Use of E-Cigarette, or Vaping, Products