Ethan Russo, MD, is a neurologist and pharmacologist who has studied the relationships between cannabis compounds and the human body. In his article “Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects,” Dr. Russo analyzes different strains of cannabis to look for potential “synergies” between compounds.  

One of the strains he analyzes is Grandaddy Purp which is high in myrcene, and caryophyllene. Myrcene is purported to be a helpful sleep aid while caryophyllene may reduce pain, making it a potentially useful strain for people looking to both reduce pain and get a good night’s sleep. 

While very few terpenes in cannabis have been studied at a clinical level, the few that have support the theory that terpenes can affect our mood. For example, one study found that terpenes calmed mice that exhibited anxiety-like behavior (Li Y.J et al., 2011). In the article, “The ‘Entourage Effect’: Terpenes Coupled with Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Mood Disorders and Anxiety Disorders” (Current Neuropharmacology V. 21), the authors note that “standardized essential oils (such as that of Lavender officinalis) have been shown to exert clinical efficacy in treating anxiety disorders.”

The “adverse event” is cannabis–induced anxiety and studies have found that CBD reduces the unwanted anxiety from THC consumption. This analysis can lead us to the conclusion that cannabinoids certainly play an important role when consuming cannabis and that terpenes may as well.

If we can study and recognize terpenes effects on mood in the form of herbal teas and essential oils, we can also begin to question whether terpenes influence our experience with cannabis.  

In order to achieve and test the theory of the Entourage Effect stop focusing solely on THC content. Try focusing your attention on terpenes and Total Active Cannabinoids (TAC %) to test the “Entourage Effect” theory for yourself.