When I tell people I am a cannabis consultant, I get LOTS of stories.
The ones I hear most are from those who tried cannabis after learning it would help with (insert symptom here). More than often, they had a negative experience and never wanted to try it again. Another familiar refrain is the confusion over where to buy CBD–whether dispensary CBD is better than gas station CBD, and curiosity about the different varieties-–pure CBD, 100% CBD, full-spectrum, or whole plant.
CBD has been getting a lot of attention lately and with good reason. Utilized in fiber, food, oil, and medicine since 4000 B.C., this derivative of the amazing cannabinoid plant contains anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, antipsychotic, and anti-anxiety properties. There are over 60 different cannabinoids, each with individual medicinal properties that produce an array of feelings and sensation.
The two most popular cannabinoids are THC and CBD. THC is the cannabinoid that produces the “high” feeling. It is used therapeutically to treat pain, increase appetite, and improve mood. However, it is also the cannabinoid that causes some unpleasant side effects resulting from ingesting too much THC and not enough CBD. CBD acts to regulate the release of THC into the body. It’s like the accelerator and brakes for a car. Termed the “entourage effect”, it “talks” to the THC telling it to slow down or speed up its absorption rate. This effect can help calm the THC that produces the “high” and alleviate those unpleasant side effects. It also creates a greater effect than if used alone.
Some people prefer the THC strains that produce a high peak for a variety of reasons–especially for the pain-relieving factors. Others would rather have a smooth transition and lower intensity high. In this case, strains that are more evenly balanced or CBD dominant may be preferred.
Strains come in different strength ratios. You may have seen the numbers 1:1, 5:1, or 20:1 on the side of your jar or listed on the dispensary menu. This ratio is a measurement of THC to CBD. A strain with a 1:1 ratio will have equal parts of THC to CBD, and a 20:1 ratio will have 20 parts CBD to 1 part THC which will produce little to no high sensation.
CBD has been a game changer for many people and animals. However, studies have shown using full spectrum or whole plant cannabis is more effective at reducing pain and inflammation than CBD alone. This is another example of how the synergistic entourage effect can work in your favor.
