Entourage Effect

A theory that suggests the various compounds in cannabis, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, work together to produce enhanced, synergistic effects when compared to a single isolated compound.

(Frankly, it should’ve been called the Voltron effect—missed opportunity).

In other words, the entourage effect suggests that THC’s benefits may be amplified or modulated by the presence of other components found in the whole plant​​. (Just like how Voltron gets stronger with five robotic cats. It’s science.)

As an example, a full-spectrum cannabis extract that contains THC, CBD, and several terpenes may give you more therapeutic relief or a different quality of high than a product with pure THC alone.

Researchers, like Raphael Mechoulam, popularized this theory, and it’s supported by some studies. For example, CBD has been observed to minimize THC’s side effects and certain terpene combinations seem to influence mood.

Terpenes, like myrcene, limonene, and linalool are all thought to contribute to effects. For instance, myrcene may have some sedative properties that help the THC sink you into your chill. (Another way to relax? Watch Voltron. Maybe with some THC—which, in this context, could stand for Transformers-y Huge Cats. You know, like how, “Let’s go watch Voltron” could be code for getting high with your friends. Not in high school, though. That would be illegal.)

While anecdotal evidence and some research reviews support the entourage effect​​, not all scientists accept the hypothesis; this is an emerging field, and more research is needed to quantify these interactions. Nonetheless, the popularity of full-spectrum oils and strains with diverse profiles bubbled up from this idea.

Practically, the entourage effect is why some people seek out whole-plant medicines—the notion that the collective chemistry of cannabis may deliver more benefit than any single isolated compound (because together, we are stronger—just like, you guessed it: Captain Planet).

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