Plenty of terms are thrown around within the world of CBD products and research, and for those not familiar with the industry, things can become confusing in a hurry. Some of the most commonly heard as of late are the entourage effect alongside, and in comparison to CBD isolate. What is the difference between these two? Let’s take a look at some of the latest research and benefits of both.
The Entourage Effect
The entourage effect is basically the manner in which all of the terpenes and cannabinoids found within the cannabis plant act in concurrence with one another for a wide range of benefits. Instead of one compound within the plant being isolated, such as the most common cannabinoids CBD and TCH, the entire plant is used to include all of its chemicals and compounds. A term widely used in reference to this entourage effect is whole plant medicine.
Research has suggested that by creating cannabis products for consumption which include the entire plant, thereby containing more terpenes and cannabinoids, there is the potential for more interaction between the two creating a synergy to help inflammation, pain, anxiety, epilepsy and other known benefits of cannabis [1]. The exact manner in which these compounds interact with each other is still under research, but the potential combined benefits and interaction make the entourage effect an appealing approach for those attempting to maximize the effects of the cannabis plant.
Isolate
CBD isolate is just as it sounds, an isolated form of the cannabinoid that contains no other chemicals, terpenes or other substance. CBD isolate can be beneficial to those who are averse to any of the psychoactive effects of cannabis or live in a location where other cannabinoids, such as THC, are still illegal.
Some strains of cannabis are grown to be very high in CBD and CBD isolates are often derived from these. Regardless of the source, once an isolate has been created is should only contain the compound intended for isolation and be free of impurities. While the entourage effect has shown promise, CBD isolate is still a great source of consumption to use when seeking the wide array of benefits of this powerful cannabinoid. A CBD isolate is sure to be free of any other cannabinoids and is therefore legal across the USA in accordance with the 2018 Farm Bill.
References:
- Russo, Ethan, B. Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpendod entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmocology. 2011.
