Entourage Effect

The entourage effect is a theory about how different compounds in cannabis — such as cannabinoids and terpenes — may work together in the body. Because it is about interaction rather than a single compound, it doesn’t have one specific or recognisable “feeling.” Some patients report differences in how products affect them, but responses can vary, and more research is needed to fully understand this effect.

Research suggests that the entourage effect occurs due to the different effects that various cannabis compounds have on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and other receptors with complementary effects. The theory suggests that the activity of the main cannabinoids is affected by the differing effects they may have on the body’s own receptors and signalling molecules. Each of these compounds may also affect the metabolism of one another leading to changes in the amount available of each compound in the blood stream.

The entourage effect remains a theory. At present, scientific evidence is largely limited to pre-clinical studies, and more research is required to confirm whether this effect can be fully validated.