You’ve seen the entourage effect mentioned, but what does it mean? It’s not as complicated as it sounds. The entourage effect refers to all of the naturally present cannabinoids and terpenes of a cannabis or hemp plant remaining intact working together synergistically creating homeostasis.
Balance
Homeostasis refers to balance. When the cannabinoids and terpenes work in harmony with your body, the endocannabinoid system is able to manage major functions and systems easier. The endocannabinoid system helps keep the central and peripheral nervous systems in balance and sending appropriate signals throughout the body.
Functions regulated by the endocannabinoid system:
- Mood
- Appetite
- Perception of pain
- Sleep
Cannabinoid receptors are located throughout the body; even your skin has cannabinoid receptors. CB1 receptors are located mostly in the brain and spinal cord. CB2 receptors are found mostly within the immune system and major organs.
What Types of CBD Encourage the Entourage Effect?
Not all CBD products can encourage the entourage effect. CBD products that use full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD oil are capable of achieving the entourage effect. The exception of these two types is broad spectrum that is derived from isolate. Since the THC, which is naturally occurring in both hemp and cannabis, is removed in this case – the entourage effect is not possible.
Full spectrum CBD oil leaves all of the original cannabinoids and terpenes intact. Only unwanted elements are removed from the oil.
Broad spectrum CBD oil can start as either isolate or full spectrum. Broad spectrum oil derived from full spectrum oil typically undergoes additional processes to remove more of the THC leaving only a minimal amount behind – typically less than 0.1% THC.
Broad spectrum that is derived from isolate cannot achieve the entourage effect. There is no THC present, nor are any other cannabinoids present.
CBD isolate cannot achieve the entourage effect either. The only cannabinoid that remains after several extraction and filtration processes is CBD. CBD, even with terpenes present, cannot work with other cannabinoids to create harmony and synergy to work together in the body. If the product remains a single cannabinoid formula – you will experience the effects of that single cannabinoid only.
Which Types of CBD May Test Positive on Drug Screenings
If you are required to take drug tests at work, it’s important to pay attention to the type of CBD product you’re buying. CBD isolate is likely the only CBD product that will allow you to pass a drug test. There is no THC in CBD isolate.
Drug tests look for THC and its metabolites. So, broad spectrum that contains even a minimal amount of THC and full spectrum CBD products can return a positive drug tests. Regular use, metabolism, body mass and dose size all play roles in how fast the THC is metabolized out of your body. However, THC metabolites are likely to remain.
It’s better to be safe than sorry – if your job depends on you passing drug tests, you’ll have to settle for isolate products for the time being.
Closing Thoughts
The entourage effect is important. When cannabinoids and terpenes work together, they support each other. Most cannabinoids work better when combined with other cannabinoids. While single cannabinoid formulas (isolate) do work for some people, a multitude of cannabinoids may have better results. It simply depends on what your body needs and if you have any restrictions with passing drug tests.