What is the Entourage effect?

The entourage effect: how cannabinoids and terpenes work together

The so-called entourage effect was discovered as part of medical research into the hemp plant. This finding suggests that ingesting the entire plant creates an interaction between cannabinoids, terpenes and other natural ingredients. This means that in combination, these substances could have a stronger effect than when taken individually.

Although the number of scientific studies on the exact effect of CBD and other plant components is still limited, initial studies are showing interesting approaches.

Study situationon the entourage effect

As early as 1998, a Studie der Hebrew University of Jerusalem zu dem Schluss, dass isolierte Cannabinoide – etwa reines CBD – nicht dieselben Effekte zeigen wie das Zusammenspiel aller natürlichen Hanfverbindungen.

Der amerikanische Arzt Dr. Ethan Russo (University of Massachusetts) veröffentlichte 2011 eine weitere study was published in which he investigated the synergies between terpenes and cannabinoids. According to him, terpenes in particular, which are responsible for the scent and taste of the hemp plant, could play a significant role in the so-called terpene entourage effect.

Although many of these components have not yet been fully researched, there is great interest in the topic, particularly because cannabinoids such as CBD are becoming increasingly popular in Switzerland.

How does the entourage effect work?

The best-known cannabinoids include CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Both act on the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which influences numerous processes such as sleep, mood and pain perception.

• THC has psychoactive properties.
• CBD is not intoxicating and, according to research, can even weaken some of the effects of THC.

The entourage effect assumes that several cannabinoids, terpenes and other plant substances together form a harmonious interplay that can positively influence the effect of CBD.

Over 600 components of the hemp plant are known to date - around 200 of which are terpenes and 100 cannabinoids. While cannabinoids interact directly with the ECS receptors, terpenes appear to be able to supplement or enhance this effect.

The entourage effect with ALPINOLS

To benefit from the entourage effect, we recommend using a full-spectrum CBD oil. In contrast to isolated CBD products, a full-spectrum extract contains all the important plant-based ingredients - including terpenes, flavonoids and other cannabinoids.

At ALPINOLS, we harness the full power of the hemp plant for our organic full-spectrum CBD oil. Gentle CO₂ extraction preserves all the natural components, including the sensitive terpenes. Our hemp plants are grown according to Bio Suisse guidelines in Switzerland, allowing us to guarantee the highest purity and quality.

This results in a natural CBD oil that exploits the full potential of the entourage effect - for a harmonious interplay of all plant-based active ingredients.

Conclusion

The entourage effect describes the synergy between the many components of the hemp plant. Although research is still in its infancy, studies suggest that CBD products with a full plant profile can be more effective than isolated CBD extracts.

With a high-quality full-spectrum oil such as that from ALPINOLS, the natural diversity of the hemp plant can be optimally utilized - in line with the entourage effect.