Entourage effect

Entourage effect is a phrase that was introduced in cannabinoid science in 1998 by S. Ben-Shabat, with Raphael Mechoulam, to represent a novel endogenous cannabinoid molecular regulation route. Biological activity assayed together with inactive compounds. References whole plant and whole person caregiver synergy treatments over isolated compound pharmacological dosages. Other cannabinoids, terpenoids and flavonoids contribution to clinical cannabis effects has been espoused as an “entourage effect”.

Refers to the compounds supposedly working in concert to create “the sum of all the parts that leads to the magic or power of cannabis”, according to Chris Emerson. There is scant conventional science; although, cannabis breeders develop distinct varieties to make that process precise and efficient. That botanical cannabis creates a synergistic chemical effect is a contention to many scientists. Proponents argue cannabinoid receptors are affected in different ways. Russo's 2011 review article in the British Journal of Pharmacology gave evidence; however, most are anecdotal as is often the case with cannabis. Russo maintains the belief.

According to Wagner and Ulrich-Merzenich, for phytopharmaceuticals synergy in successful herbal drug combinations, such as cannabis within traditional medicine, there are four basic theoretical ability mechanisms:

Endogenous 2-acyl-glycerols can increase 2-Arachidonoylglycerol biological activity, which alone shows no significant activity. This entourage effect may represent a novel endogenous cannabinoid activity molecular regulation route. The synergistic effects achieved when tetrahydrocannabinolic acid is administered along with the entourage found in cannabis, especially cannabidiol and terpenes, cannabinoids combinations can in certain circumstances be more effective than alone. Apparent under conditions when the minor component activity complements the major activity, such as diminishing the adverse event profile, or otherwise contributing to a stability or efficacy. The entourage effect is considered a cannabinoid system modulator and is achieved in pain management through increasing receptors affinity to enhance endogenous anandamide activity and/or reducing enzymatic anandamide degradation.

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