How to achieve the “Entourage Effect”
Hey let’s face it, stress is a part of life. However, we should feel lucky to have a solution. As many as 72% percent of daily cannabis users turn to the plant to help them cope with stress while more than half of medical cannabis users report that they rely on the plant to help alleviate anxiety.
There’s a close relationship between anxiety and stress: Stress is the body’s internal response to an external trigger. Anxiety appears it’s ugly head when worries about an external stressor persist, even when that external source of stress is not present. Both share many of the same symptoms: sleeplessness, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, muscle tension, irritability, digestive issues, and a racing heart, and the list goes on.
Unfortunately, ongoing stress can lead to the development of anxiety disorders which can be crippling to many, causing them to avoid common, everyday situations that may trigger their symptoms.
While cannabis is a great solution for many, questions exist as to whether it eases anxiety or exacerbates it. The truth is that it can both ease and exacerbate anxiety…. Based on the way you dose yourself. Studies have found that cannabinoid concentration of THC vs. CBD, dose, and terpenes all influence whether the plant kicks off a panic attack or ushers in a state of chilled-out bliss as CBD can soothe anxiety and stress while THC is the intoxicating cannabinoid which cause anxiety, especially when taken in large doses.
Recent studies show that combining these two cannabinoids can produce different effects. For example, cannabis users appear to generally favor whole-plant cannabis for helping promote relaxation. Whole plant formulations typically have a higher ratio of THC to CBD. Other research has also shown that when CBD is administered alongside THC, CBD appears to block the anxiety-provoking effects of THC.
Terpenes also have a profound affect, as research increasingly shows that they play a major role in activating the anti-anxiety properties of the plant. The combined effect of these compounds creates a beneficial synergy known as the entourage effect, contributing to the relaxing, uplifting properties of the plant.
For example – D-limonene and linalool terpenes have been shown to exert significant anxiety-relieving activity. D-limonene has a refreshing, citrusy, sweet scent, similar to the aroma found in citrus rinds. Linalool is known for its complex, woodsy, floral fragrance which exerts its relaxing, uplifting properties via the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor the same way that antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications do. Other terpenes such as myrcene, caryophyllene, linalool, and pinene are also associated with anti-anxiety benefits.
Whether you consume weed for a good buzz while listening to your favorite jam or watching a trippy movie or to chill out when the world is spinning a bit too fast, pay careful attention to the product and dosage, both of which play an integral part.
…And that’s how we can help. Your Stinky Leaf budtender is the most knowledgeable and friendliest in the industry. They will work closely with you to help you find that perfect cannabis solution and help you achieve that Entourage Effect.
Phone consultation and delivery is now also available. Simply call in and speak with one of our experts, then have it delivered right to your door, FREE!