Here at Eclipse, we’re passionate about being Colorado’s best, first-class natural wellness cannabis dispensary. We take that title seriously. To us, that means sharing not only all the latest happenings locally, but also offering you all extensive educational knowledge around all things cannabis.
In our last blog, we delved into Colorado’s Cannabis Culture in 2023. For this blog, we’re switching gears and going to be discussing the latest in cannabis science: the fascinating world of terpenes, cannabinoids, and the entourage effect.
As more states continue to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, researchers are increasingly interested in understanding the potential therapeutic benefits of these compounds and how they interact with one another. In this post, we’ll get into the latest research on terpenes, cannabinoids, and the entourage effect.
Follow along with us to expand your education on the future of cannabis science.
Implications for Cannabis Users & the Industry
The growing understanding of terpenes, cannabinoids, and the entourage effect has already begun to shape the cannabis industry. Consumers are increasingly seeking products that preserve the full spectrum of compounds found in the plant, leading to a rise in demand for full-spectrum extracts and products that highlight specific terpene profiles.
Moreover, this knowledge empowers cannabis users to make more informed choices about the strains and products they select. By understanding the unique terpene and cannabinoid profiles of different strains, users can better tailor their cannabis experience to suit their needs and preferences, whether they are seeking specific therapeutic effects or particular aroma and flavor profiles.
The Science Behind Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in cannabis, and they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce a wide range of effects. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are the two most well-known cannabinoids, but there are over 100 different cannabinoids found in cannabis.
THC is the primary psychoactive component in cannabis that is responsible for giving us a “high”. This ingredient has made it a great tool in treating a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, nausea, and muscle spasms.
CBD, on the other hand, does not produce a psychoactive effect but has a variety of therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It has been used to treat conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, and depression.
Other cannabinoids found in cannabis include CBG (cannabigerol), CBC (cannabichromene), and CBN (cannabinol), among others. Each cannabinoid has its unique properties and potential therapeutic benefits, and we have just scratched the surface of their potential.
Understanding Terpenes
Are you familiar with terpenes? They are naturally occurring organic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. Not only are they responsible for the distinct aroma and flavors of different strains of cannabis, but they also have therapeutic benefits that can work in conjunction with cannabinoids.
There are about 400 known different terpenes found in cannabis, each with its unique profile and properties. Some of the most commonly found terpenes in cannabis include myrcene, limonene, pinene, and linalool.
- Myrcene is known for its sedative effects and has a musky, earthy aroma.
- Limonene, with its citrusy scent, is believed to have anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties.
- Pinene has a pine-like aroma and is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, as well as improve memory and alertness.
- Linalool has a floral aroma and is known for its calming and sedative effects, as well as its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
These terpenes work together with cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, to produce what’s known as the entourage effect for users. This basically means that all the benefits and healing properties are amplified in the presence of the other compounds.
The Entourage Effect
When we consume cannabis by smoking, vaporizing, etc., our bodies take in hundreds of botanical compounds. Each one arrives with unique effects and benefits, and their behavior may change in the presence of other compounds.
The Entourage Effect suggests that all the compounds in cannabis work together, and when taken together, they produce a better effect than when taken alone. This is why we suggest and you’ll probably prefer using full-spectrum cannabis products, which contain a broad range of cannabinoids and terpenes, rather than isolates, which contain only a single compound.
By using products that contain a broad range of cannabinoids and terpenes, you will experience more significant relief from their symptoms and a more holistic approach to your wellness.
The “more the merrier” really is literal here!
Continuing Cannabis Education with Eclipse – Premier Boulder Dispensary
So there you have it – thanks for following along as we explored the exciting world of the latest in cannabis science. The compounds of terpenes, cannabinoids, and the entourage effect work together to create monumental healing and therapeutic benefits.
There’s still so much more we want to share with you all on these topics, so keep your eyes peeled for more in this series. Be sure to stop by our dispensary in Boulder to take a peek at our menu. We have endless product options that have been intentionally cultivated for an ideal entourage effect. We can’t wait to show you!
Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis user or new to the scene, understanding the relationship between terpenes and cannabinoids can help you get the most out of your cannabis experience.
We’d love to stay in touch! If you enjoyed this blog post and want to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the cannabis industry, be sure to follow us on Instagram.
Be sure to consult your physician before making any changes to your health or fitness regimen. Products sold by Eclipse are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
