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What is the Entourage Effect?

What is the Entourage Effect?

The entourage effect is the exciting theory that the variation of hundreds of different compounds and phytochemicals present in cannabis are responsible for the variety of effects we feel when consuming the plant in its many forms. Some research shows that unique balances between cannabinoids and terpenes can help us with a wide variety of problems—both mental and physical.

THC and CBD

The cannabinoids THC and CBD are the two most common, and most researched, compounds in cannabis. They can be consumed in many different ways, either together or separately, for a wide array of uses. However, emerging research suggests that combining the two is more beneficial than using one or the other alone. Studies have shown that combining THC and CBD helped patients mitigate cancer-related pain. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study, researchers found that patients who used both cannabinoids together reported greater relief from symptoms than those who used just one or none.

These amazing results aren’t isolated to physical health alone—in fact, there are studies that suggest similar findings within the brain and cognition. A specific study delves into how THC, CBD and other compounds have been found to help with diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, and Parkinson’s along with illnesses like schizophrenia.

These two compounds aren’t the only ones who have shown promising results—other cannabinoids have been found to produce their own benefits and effects on the body. Some research shows how CBN, CBC, CBG and many more can affect things such as sleep, energy, appetite, mood, inflammation and more.

Terpenes

As legalization of cannabis sweeps across the nation, research on terpenes—the largest phytochemicals found in the plant—is slowly taking off. For decades, growers have had a suspicion that terpenes affect more than just taste and smell. Many consumers agree. Now studies are finally catching up and it’s no longer purely anecdotal. In 2011, a review of studies published in the British Journal of Pharmacology found that combining cannabinoids and terpenes may be beneficial for pain, anxiety, inflammation, epilepsy, cancer, and more.  Some have found that a blend of terpenes and cannabinoids is especially useful in combating mood disorders such as depression and bipolar among others.

Conclusion

The entourage effect is a groundbreaking theory backed by both anecdote and studies that may help millions find the relief they need. As more states legalize, the laws on cannabis research are relaxing. Only time—and many more interested scientists—will tell us just how powerful the harmony between cannabinoids and terpenes can be.

How to Rehydrate Your Cannabis

How to Rehydrate Your Cannabis

Nevada is a naturally dry state so sometimes it’s simply impossible to keep your flower fresh. Here are a few methods you can use to rehydrate your cannabis:

The Fruit Peel Method

Throw in a chunk of a fruit peel in the container with your nugs and leave it for a few hours. Citrus fruits work best, but apples and bananas do just fine. This is a quick, easy and healthy way to bring new life into your flower. It’s important to note that the flavor and smell might transfer, so use a fruit you like! To prevent mold, be careful to not to leave it in too long—a few hours will suffice.

Notes:

  • This isn’t the most effective method. You may need to repeat the process.
  • If you like the idea of enhanced flavor and aroma you can also add herbs such as mint or rosemary.

We LOVE carbs!

More of a carb person? Much like the peel method, you can use a slice of bread or a tortilla to achieve the same results. These staple foods contain just enough moisture to rehydrate without over-saturating. Just throw a piece in with your flower and voila! You’ll know it’s working when the piece of bread or tortilla starts feeling dry. You can leave it in overnight while you sleep, but be sure to take it out in the morning. Tortillas and bread won’t cause mold nearly as fast as the fruit, but it’s always important to err on the side of caution.

Lettuce for the Devil’s Lettuce

We get it, you like greens! Another easy way to liven up your flower is to throw a little piece of lettuce in with the bunch. Classic iceberg lettuce does the trick, but you can get fancy with some butter lettuce or quirky with another leafy green like cabbage if that’s more your style. Like the carbs, it will have minimal impact on flavor and aroma. As always, remember to take it out after a couple of hours!

Getting Steamy

Okay, so let’s say you have no food and no time… You can use the power of steam to spruce up your buds in a pinch.

  1. First, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
  2. Remove the boiling water from the stove and place it on a heat-safe surface.
  3. Place a cloth over the top of the pot and secure it around the rim, creating a seal. Be your own adult supervision—careful not to burn yourself!
  4. Gently place your cannabis on top of the cloth and allow the rising water vapor to rehydrate it.
  5. For the best results, rotate the buds every couple minutes.
  6. Remove once you’ve reached the desired moisture.

Only use this method when necessary as it is the quickest way to accidentally over-hydrate. We’d say this is a last resort!

Prevention

There are a few things you can do to prevent excessive dryness. Keep your cannabis away from direct light and oxygen. Ultraviolet light and air will dry your flower out faster than you can say “puff puff pass.” Not really, but you get the gist. Leaving your bag or jar open is a sure way to not only dry your weed out but also make it less effective. Extreme temperatures are not your friend. Try to keep it 60°F to 70°F. The very best storage will be in a cool dark place inside of an air-tight opaque jar.