The "entourage effect" phenomenon refers to the synergistic action of the various natural chemical compounds of cannabis, such as cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, which enhance or modify the effects of the plant on the human body. Rather than acting individually, these compounds work together, offering a wider and more balanced range of results.

🧬 What is the Entourage Effect?

The term “entourage effect” was coined in 1998 by Israeli chemist Raphael Mechoulam and his collaborator Shimon Ben-Shabat, to describe how endogenous compounds in the body work together to enhance the activity of cannabinoids.

Later, this concept was expanded to describe the cooperation of plant compounds in cannabis, such as cannabinoids and terpenes, which together provide even more effective and balanced results than when used individually.

🌿 How does it work?

Hemp contains over 500 different compounds, the best known being cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, and terpenes such as myrcene, limonene, pinene, linalool, etc. 

The entourage effect posits that these compounds work together, enhancing the therapeutic properties of cannabis and reducing side effects.

Examples of cooperation:

• CBD and THC: CBD can reduce the psychoactive effects of THC, such as anxiety and paranoia, providing a milder experience. 

• Terpenes and cannabinoids: Terpenes, such as limonene, have been shown to reduce anxiety and boost energy when combined with THC, while combining with the terpene linalool has shown sedative properties.

Terpenes and cannabinoids

Terpenes and cannabinoids are two main classes of natural compounds found in cannabis and many other plants. Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, directly affect the human body's endocannabinoid system, regulating functions such as pain, mood, appetite and sleep. Terpenes, on the other hand, are aromatic compounds that give plants their characteristic smell, but also have their own biological properties and actions, such as anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic or stimulating action, etc. 

In cannabis the terpenes and specifically the terpene profile of each different variety are responsible for defining the final effect of the experience of using a strain. In other words, in addition to the action of cannabinoids (THC - high, CBD - muscle relaxation, CBG - focus), the different terpene profiles define and enhance the action of each variety. 

A terpene such as myrcene can enhance the relaxing effect of THC, while linalool combined with CBD can enhance calmness and sleep quality. Other compounds, such as limonene, can add a sense of energy and upliftment when combined with cannabinoids.

Here are some examples from different cannabis strains to better understand the synergistic action of cannabinoids and terpenes.

🌿 Granddaddy Purple – High in Linalool

Granddaddy Purple is a strain known for its deeply relaxing properties. Its dominant terpene, linalool, contributes to a sense of calm and helps improve sleep. Users report that it provides a pleasant euphoria and stress relief, making it ideal for evening use.

🍋 Super Lemon Haze – High in Limonene

Super Lemon Haze is a hybrid strain with a strong citrus aroma, thanks to its dominant terpene, limonene. This terpene is known for its stimulant and antidepressant properties. Users report that Super Lemon Haze provides energy, euphoria and mood enhancement, making it ideal for morning use or for activities that require creativity and energy.

🛋️ Mango Kush – High in Myrcene

Mango Kush is a hybrid strain derived from the cross between Mango and Hindu Kush. Its dominant terpene, myrcene, is known for its soothing and relaxing properties. Users report that Mango Kush provides a sense of euphoria and relaxation while enhancing creativity and sociability. It is suitable for afternoon or evening use, as it helps to reduce stress and tension and improve sleep.

🌲 Jack Herer – High on Pinene

Jack Herer is a hybrid strain known for its energizing and creative qualities. Its dominant terpene, pinene, is known to enhance concentration and memory. Users report that Jack Herer offers a clear and cerebral experience, making it ideal for activities that require mental alertness.

Amsterdam & tobacco use

In Amsterdam, the prohibition of the use of tobacco together with cannabis (even in coffeeshops) is mainly related to the protection of public health. The main reason is that tobacco contains nicotine and other harmful substances that have been proven to have serious consequences for the body, such as lung cancer, heart disease and addiction.

Although the use of cannabis is tolerated under certain conditions in the Netherlands, tobacco is subject to the country's general anti-smoking legislation. This legislation prohibits the smoking of products containing tobacco indoors — and coffeeshops are no exception. So, if someone wants to consume cannabis in such a place, it is only allowed if they use a vaporizer or combine it with some non-tobacco substitute, such as herbal mixtures.

That's why natural, nicotine-free blends — like the ones we offer at Heald — are becoming increasingly popular in such markets.

Heald herbal blends, terpenes & cannabis 🌿

Tobacco, because of the nicotine and chemicals it contains, creates an intense addiction, thus reinforcing the need for more frequent consumption. This not only increases the desire to smoke, but in many cases leads to more cannabis consumption as the body becomes accustomed to higher tolerance levels due to the combination with nicotine.

In contrast, Heald Herbal Blends are 100% natural and free from any addictive substance. They contain no nicotine or chemicals, and combine selected herbs with natural terpenes, which significantly help reduce the urge to smoke. Terpenes enhance the overall experience, improve taste and offer targeted effects – uplift for energy, focus for concentration, chill for relaxation or dream for deep relaxation and sleepiness – depending on the blend and the moment of use. 

With terpenes corresponding to the effect that one wants to experience, the effect of the experience is effectively defined and one is freed from the harmful substances of cigarettes. 

If you choose to try our blends and gradually incorporate them into your daily routine, you will notice a substantial change in your experience. Many of our clients notice a reduction in cigarette consumption within just a few days. 

Start with a blend that suits you, and once you're satisfied, you can explore the rest of the flavors and effects.

Be heald, Be you 🌿