The Potential Entourage Effect of Medical Cannabis in Pain Treatment

Cannabis contains potentially active compounds that possess medicinal properties. As numerous studies explore the mysteries of cannabis, the entourage effects are gaining credibility these days. Researchers accept that the synergistic effects of cannabinoids help in treating pain conditions. It is possible due to the combination of cannabinoids with other compounds, including flavonoids and terpenes.

The science behind the entourage effect

Though THC and CBD compounds are beneficial for several health issues, they may not offer the best possible therapeutic results. Many researchers claim that these substances can generate superior results if administered in a more natural form, combining other chemical compounds. Accordingly, compounds found in cannabis plants like minor cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids are popularly known as whole-plant or full-spectrum products. Integration of these compounds tends to alter or enhance the medicinal effects. It may also affect the flavours and psychoactive capacities. Together they become capable of binding with naturally occurring endocannabinoid receptors in the brain and throughout the central nervous system. The cannabis compounds bind with the receptors efficiently, leading to the entourage effect. Though receptors' role is evident, the optimal standardised synergistic compositions needed are yet to be determined!

Overall review of entourage effect

The entourage effect is one of the main reasons why marijuana is considered an effective medicine. According to the entourage effect theory, cannabis compounds taken together produce a better impact than consumed alone. The main therapeutic benefits include relief from pain, anxiety, epilepsy, inflammation, cancer, or fungal infections. Recent research reveals that flavonoids and terpenes also provide neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. So, the researchers acknowledged that these compounds could help improve CBD's therapeutic potential. At present, not all researchers support the entourage effect. Many believe that terpenes can interface with THC differently in the brain or body. Anyhow, more researches are necessary till the concept is extensively approved.

Based on current evidence for potential synergistic and entourage effects, medical cannabis is beneficial for pain relief. Much research work on the formulation of cannabinoids is pending. However, there is clear evidence from clinical trials supporting the benefits of cannabinoids for providing pain treatment. The combination of compounds can reduce pain and reduce the dependency on opioid drugs also.