A recent study has found that marijuana products containing a diverse array of natural cannabinoids produce a stronger and longer-lasting psychoactive experience compared to products that only contain pure THC. This study supports the concept of the “entourage effect,” which suggests that the combination of different cannabinoids in marijuana enhances its effects.
The study utilized advanced electroencephalogram (EEG) technology supported by artificial intelligence to measure the “high” experienced by individuals who vaped two different products. The first product was a full-spectrum live rosin, which contained an average of 85 percent THC along with other natural cannabinoids and terpenes. The second product was a high-purity THC oil with 82-85 percent potency.
A total of 28 adults participated in the study, using an EEG headset developed by Zentrela, a cannabis technology company, and taking two hits (8 mg) of either the full-spectrum or pure THC varieties from a vape manufactured by PAX. The EEG monitored activity in eight regions of the brain over the course of 90 minutes and converted the data into standardized “psychoactive effect levels” ranging from zero to 100 percent.
The results showed that the full-spectrum live rosin with THC and other cannabinoids had a faster onset of psychoactive effects compared to the pure THC product. The full-spectrum product also had higher potency readings at both the onset and peak points during the 90-minute monitoring period.
This study provides preliminary evidence for the entourage effect in marijuana, suggesting that a more diverse mix of natural components produces a more powerful experience. This finding has implications for both recreational users and medical patients who may benefit from specific therapeutic applications.
Brian Witlin, vice president of product development at PAX, emphasized that consumers often focus on THC percentage when selecting cannabis products, but this study demonstrates that it is not the sole indicator of expected experience. Understanding the entourage effect can help consumers make more informed choices and encourage cannabis companies to develop targeted products based on specific combinations of cannabinoids.
Furthermore, the study’s findings can contribute to the development of more comprehensive and accurate information for consumers. By deepening our understanding of consumer experiences, researchers can assist in informing product selection and consumption decisions.
This study aligns with previous research that has highlighted the benefits of diverse cannabis products. In 2018, a study found that patients with epilepsy experienced better health outcomes and fewer adverse side effects when using plant-based CBD extracts compared to purified CBD products.
In conclusion, this study supports the idea that marijuana products containing a broader range of natural cannabinoids produce a stronger and longer-lasting psychoactive experience compared to pure THC products. The entourage effect is thought to be important for both recreational users seeking a more powerful high and medical patients looking for specific therapeutic benefits. Further research in this area can help inform product development and provide valuable insights into the effects of different cannabinoid combinations.
