By Romanian researchers published their findings in a journal. International Journal of Molecular Science We investigate and analyze the effects of various phytocannabinoids and terpenes working together.
Phytocannabinoids include naturally occurring cannabinoids found in plants, from the more commonly known THC and CBD to the lesser-known CBC, CBG, and CBN. The researchers write that more than 100 cannabinoids have been identified in this plant. “The complex interactions between phytocannabinoids and biological systems offer hope for new therapeutic approaches and lay the foundation for further developments in the field of cannabinoid-based medicine.” Explanation of research outline. “This review summarizes the current state of the field, points out information gaps, and highlights the need for further research to fully understand the therapeutic potential of phytocannabinoids.”
The researchers investigated the entourage effect, where both cannabinoids and terpenes work together to create an effect that is “greater than the sum of their respective contributions.” While there are benefits to consuming products containing a single cannabinoid, consuming multiple cannabinoids or terpenes together provides even more powerful and beneficial effects. “This synergistic effect highlights how important it is to consider the whole plant when using cannabis medicinally, rather than just focusing on individual cannabinoids.” the researcher explained.
The researchers also write briefly about the terpenes that make up the aroma and flavor of different cannabis strains. “Standardization of terpene profiles helps maintain consistency in sensory properties and can also influence the ‘entourage’ effect, the synergistic interaction between cannabinoids and terpenes.”
This study primarily reviews the known effects and properties of various cannabinoids, many of which have various effects on anti-inflammatory effects, antioxidant effects, pain management, neurological disorders, psychiatric disorders, cancer treatment support, etc. yields a high level of profit. “The search for novel phytocannabinoids is rapidly evolving and offers exciting prospects for future therapeutic applications.” written by researchers. “Beyond established compounds like THC and CBD, the exploration of novel cannabinoids expands the range of potential therapeutics. Each cannabinoid has a unique chemical structure and interacts differently with the ECS. , suggesting therapeutic effects tailored to specific conditions. This exploration aims to exploit similar benefits while avoiding associated drawbacks.”
The study cites the example of THC, which has been found to have analgesic effects and can help treat chronic pain in patients, while CBD has been studied for its anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce anxiety and stress. It is an anti-anxiety drug.
CBG interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (particularly CB1 and CB2 receptors) in a way that suggests it can “modulate the effects of other cannabinoids by influencing the activity of the CB1 receptor.” To do. It is also being studied for its anti-cancer effects. A similar breakdown is shown for CBC, CBN, and THCV.
This study combines presentations from 99 sources to demonstrate the benefits of cannabinoids, but focuses on the complex challenges surrounding the legal status of cannabis in the US and EU. However, researchers note that these laws and regulations may change as more evidence is presented.
The researchers also added that more evidence would lead to expanded FDA-approved products, at least in the United States. Currently, only two of his products from Sativex exist.® (contains both CBD and THC) and Epidiolex® (contains only CBD)—so far approved.Sativex® approved in 2010meanwhile epidiolex® Approved in 2018. “Because of their potential benefits, CBD and THC should be more accessible to patients with special prescriptions, especially those with epilepsy who do not respond to other medications.”
Not all countries in Europe have access to Sativex® and/or epidiolex®This increases reliance on obtaining cannabis products online and also increases the risk of illegal products that are not tested for impurities and other harmful contaminants. The researchers therefore recommended that cannabis products should be available as a prescription to “reduce the risk of addiction.” “Keeping prescriptions at the pharmacy after each refill or release may help monitor usage,” the researchers wrote. “Additionally, THC products must follow state-specific regulations and may require special prescriptions to curb misuse.”
In conclusion, the researchers summarized the many beneficial properties of phytocannabinoids and the need for further research. “By leveraging the synergistic effects of combination therapy and targeting multiple disease pathways, phytocannabinoids have tremendous potential to revolutionize the future of drug therapy and improve human health outcomes.” say the researchers. “However, further research, regulatory clarity, and standardized protocols are needed to fully derive the therapeutic benefits and ensure safe and effective use in clinical practice.”
Other researchers have presented similar evidence, including a study published in October 2023. A study conducted by Zentrella and PAX showed evidence that the entourage effect (in this case, the application of multiple cannabinoids and terpenes) doubled psychoactivity. effects compared to participants who only consumed products containing high levels of delta-9 THC.
Similar evidence has been found in mushrooms.Research published in February In the journal Molecular Psychiatry, we explained how full-spectrum psilocybin extracts offer superior benefits compared to synthetic psilocybin. “This study not only highlights the superiority of extracts containing diverse compounds, but also the feasibility of incorporating them into Western medicine due to the controlled nature of mushroom cultivation,” the researchers wrote in their paper. writing. press release.
