What is the so-called "accompanying effect"?

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Every therapeutic cannabis variety contains more than 100 organic compounds identified to date, called cannabinoids. Beyond these main molecules, a multitude of other substances contribute to the chemical richness of this fascinating plant. But how do these different elements work together? How important is their simultaneous presence in the collectible seeds we study?

The entourage effect describes the phenomenon by which all the compounds present in cannabis influence each other, complement each other, and amplify the potential properties of individual cannabinoids. For an optimal synergy to be established between cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes and other substances, cannabis-derived products must retain a full spectrum of these natural molecules.

In simple terms, when natural substances are isolated from one another, their properties weaken. Conversely, their coordinated action multiplies their potential. But what mechanism governs this process? How does the entourage effect influence the genetic expression of different varieties?

Optimizing the entourage effect in cannabis genetics

The entourage effect represents a fundamental aspect of cannabis genetics, particularly visible in the analysis of the chemical profiles of different strains. Are there methods to maximize this natural synergy?

The answer is yes! It is possible to optimize the positive impact of the entourage effect, and the method remains relatively accessible. The key lies in the diversity of genetic profiles and extraction methods, whether it involves CBD-rich flowers, extracts or tinctures, cannabinoid isolates, or topical products such as creams, gels, balms, and hemp-derived serums. The determining factor remains always the preservation of the full spectrum of organic compounds present in the original genetics.

Another crucial parameter influencing the entourage effect concerns the quality of the genetic material and the extraction techniques used. There are many extraction methods, some being more suitable than others for preserving the integrity of the natural chemical profile. Supercritical CO2 extraction techniques, for example, help maintain the richness of terpenes and minor cannabinoids.

Molecular synergy in cannabis genetics

The entourage effect is also referred to as "molecular synergy." This synergy represents the harmonious orchestration of all active components. A practical example comes from the study of St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum), a well-documented medicinal plant.

St. John's Wort is recognized for its antidepressant properties, attributed mainly to a compound called hypericin. However, when hypericin is isolated from the other substances present in St. John's Wort, it shows virtually no activity. In a particular study, a plant extract containing all the compounds of St. John's Wort except hypericin proved ineffective. This research underscores the crucial importance of plant synergy. Hypericin cannot exert its antidepressant properties without the other constituents of the plant, and vice versa.

Cannabis genetics operate on similar principles. Without molecular synergy, their therapeutic potential decreases considerably. Comparative research is currently studying the differences between CBD isolates and full-spectrum extracts. The interaction mechanisms between compounds can manifest in various ways:

• Improved bioavailability (absorption of compounds by the gastrointestinal system)
• Slowed degradation of active compounds into inactive metabolites
• Inhibition of compound binding to cellular receptors (modulation of other molecules' effects)
• Enhanced affinity of compounds for cellular receptors (amplification of properties)

Major cannabinoids and their genetic profile

As mentioned earlier, cannabinoids are the natural compounds that form the primary active principles of cannabis plants. For example, the two most studied cannabinoids, the psychoactive THC and the non-psychoactive CBD represent the main vectors of potential therapeutic properties.

Other cannabinoids such as CBG, CBC, or CBN also possess specific properties, but they mainly work in interaction with the compounds mentioned above. They can improve absorption or mitigate potential side effects (generally very mild with CBD). Here we find again the notion of molecular synergy in therapeutic cannabis, that is, the capacities these substances possess when they act together.

THC (Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol)

THC is probably the most well-known substance associated with cannabis, often accompanied by many negative prejudices. Indeed, THC produces psychoactive effects. Its influence can lead to alterations in perception and behavior. This reality has motivated strict regulation in many European countries, where only collectible seeds containing less than 0.2% THC are legally marketable.

Nevertheless, this cannabinoid presents certain properties studied in medical research. It can notably help relieve different types of bodily pain, whether chronic or acute. THC-rich genetics are the subject of in-depth studies in several European research programs, although they remain reserved for the scientific and medical field in most jurisdictions.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD has established itself as the most studied non-psychoactive cannabinoid. Unlike THC, it does not produce altered consciousness, which explains its legalization in many European countries. CBD-rich collectible seeds feature complex aromatic profiles, often combining floral, citrus, or earthy notes depending on the genetics.

Research on CBD focuses on its interactions with the endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors naturally present in the human body. CBD-dominant varieties typically develop specific terpenes such as myrcene, limonene, or pinene, contributing to the entourage effect characteristic of these genetics.

Terpenes and aromatic profiles

Terpenes are a family of volatile organic compounds responsible for the distinctive aromas of each cannabis variety. These molecules do not merely define the olfactory bouquet; they actively participate in the entourage effect by modulating the action of cannabinoids.

Myrcene, the most abundant terpene in many genetics, develops musky and earthy notes. It is also found in hops and mango. Limonene brings characteristic citrus aromas, while pinene evokes conifers and can represent up to 60% of the terpene profile of certain strains.

These aromatic compounds significantly influence the potential therapeutic properties of different genetics. Collectible seed breeders pay particular attention to these terpene profiles, seeking to optimize the synergy between cannabinoids and terpenes to develop varieties with unique characteristics.