There are now dozens of countries in the world in which cannabis is legal, partially decriminalized, or where laws in relation to its possession are not enforced.
The tide of liberalization has brought a new acceptance of cannabis with it. With this, we have also seen greater curiosity about the effects of cannabis, and ways in which we can maximize its potential.
One concept that has come under greater scrutiny is the entourage effect, which is what happens when you smoke CBD and THC together in the right quantities.
Read on as we look at the entourage effect in more detail.
What’s the Difference Between CBD & THC?
As every weed enthusiast knows, CBD and THC are marijuana’s two active ingredients. Both have a diverse range of health benefits.
However, CBD does not have any psychoactive effects. When you experience a “high” from smoking weed, it’s THC that’s causing this.
Therefore, the higher the percentage of THC in your weed, the more potent your high will be. However, more and more experts are beginning to think that the story is not quite so simple as that.
While CBD and other cannabinoids do not get you high directly, they may affect the quality of the high you get from THC. This effect can be different depending on the balance between THC and CBD, as well as the presence of other cannabinoids and terpenes.
CBD and THC Together: How to Get the Mix Right
Different cannabis strains have different amounts of THC and CBD. Any experienced smoker will tell you that finding the balance here is key to achieving the perfect high.
This is called the “entourage effect.” Two strains with the same amount of THC may make you more or less happy, sleepy, energetic, or creative based on the amount of CBD they contain.
Other Cannabis Constituents
The entourage effect is mainly down to the balance between THC and CBD. However, the other cannabinoids and terpenes that we mentioned earlier also have an effect.
Limited research on these compounds means that we cannot say for sure what their effects are. However, experts believe that cannabinoids like CBG and CBN may well offer benefits for both your health and the quality of your high.
Anecdotal evidence has provided us with ample reason to believe this. Many cannabis users have reported a diversity of effects that cannot be explained by THC or CBD alone.
For this reason, experts often recommend that medical marijuana patients experiment with full plant extracts rather than isolated CBD oils.
The entourage effect is likely achieved differently by different people. A strain that gives one smoker the perfect entourage effect may be less potent for someone else.
Making the Most of Your Weed
Almost any weed you smoke will have CBD and THC together. However, to fully enjoy the entourage effect, you’ll have to get the mix just right.
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