By now, you’re probably familiar with THC and CBD, two of the most abundant cannabinoids in cannabis. As research on the plant continues, scientists are discovering that many of the “minor” cannabinoids like CBN have some pretty significant benefits to offer as well. We’re also learning that the various cannabinoids aren’t just effective by themselves. They may be even more helpful when they’re able to work together. Here’s what you need to know about THC, CBD, CBN, and the entourage effect.
THC, CBD, and CBN: What They Are
THC, CBD, and CBN are all cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant. Of these three, THC is probably the best-known one. It’s the compound in the plant responsible for users getting high. CBD is the other well-known cannabinoid. While it doesn’t cause the same psychoactive effects, it does provide some rather significant therapeutic benefits.
CBN is one of the “minor” cannabinoids. What’s interesting about this cannabinoid is that there’s practically no CBN in freshly picked cannabis buds. The concentration begins to increase as the plant ages. The reason for this is that CBN is actually a byproduct of the degradation of THC. Like THC, it is a psychoactive compound, but it only has about 1/10 the potency of THC.
Benefits of THC, CBD, and CBN
THC, CBD, and CBN all offer some incredible benefits on their own. Some of the benefits of THC include:
- Pain relief
- Muscle relaxant
- Sedative effects
- Appetite boosting
- Anti-nausea effects
Benefits of CBD include:
- Anti-anxiety
- Anti-depressant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-seizure
- Relief from irritable bowel syndrome
Benefits of CBN include:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Pain relief
- Appetite enhancer
- Vasorelaxant
- Sleep aid
The Entourage Effect
The entourage effect states that the various compounds within the cannabis plant work better together. As such, using them in conjunction with one another, such as in the form of a full-spectrum product, provides more effective results than using individual cannabinoids alone.
At this time, the entourage effect is only a theory, but there is a lot of anecdotal evidence that supports it. For instance, high THC products that contain equal or only slightly less CBD won’t trigger as potent of a high as a product that’s high in THC alone. The high will be much more mellow and balanced. Research is also finding that CBD products provide better results when they have even a small amount of THC in them.
CBN may also be more effective with other cannabinoids. One of the benefits many users tout is that it’s a great sleep aid. Current research is limited, but the available studies show that CBN may actually be more effective for sleep when it’s combined with THC.
Studies are finding that the various cannabinoids in cannabis, including those labeled as minor, offer some rather significant benefits. While they can provide effective relief on their own, we’re also learning that they may provide the best results when they work together. If you’re looking to get the most out of the entourage effect, look for full-spectrum products during your next trip to Strain.