THC + CBD Synergy: Myth or Backed by Science?

THC and CBD are by far the two most popular cannabinoids, yet they could not be more different in terms of effects. THC is all about what you do feel with its noticeably psychoactive nature, while CBD leans into what you don't feel with its more passive properties. 

But could these opposites be the Yin and Yang of cannabis? From smoking circles to online forums, many enthusiasts swear by blending the two to unlock unique benefits in a phenomenon known as the "entourage effect." But is the entourage effect just anecdotal or even, dare we say... a marketing tactic? Or is there some scientific basis behind this potential synergy? 

We explore the truth about the benefits of combining THC and CBD below.

Before we discuss the interaction between these two cannabinoids, we'll need to understand how they work individually. 

THC, short for tetrahydrocannabinol, is a compound found in cannabis (hemp and marijuana) that consists of 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. There are various forms of THC with nuances in effects based on the location of the double bond on their molecule. For instance, Delta-9 THC has a bond on its ninth carbon chain, and Delta-8 THC on its eighth carbon chain. 

THC offers psychoactive effects because it resembles a compound our bodies naturally produce called "anandamide." Anandamide, whose name comes from the Sanskrit word for "bliss," is a chemical messenger used in our endocannabinoid system. This neurotransmitter binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain where it plays a role in functions like sleep, memory, pain perception and even appetite. 

Due to THC's striking resemblance to anandamide, it can bind to the same receptors, offering relaxation, contentment, increased aesthetic appreciation, laughter, and other effects. 

CBD is short for cannabidiol. Like THC, it consists of 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. However, CBD is an isomer of THC, meaning it's made of the same building blocks but in a different structure. 

Regarding its mechanisms and effects, CBD has a minimal binding affinity to the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system. However, CBD can enhance or inhibit the activation of other receptors in the human body. For instance, according to research published in 2020, CBD can improve the activity of serotonin (one of the brain's "happy chemicals") 1A receptors. However, CBD's interaction with the body changes when you add THC. 

So, what's the verdict on this entourage effect? Scientific studies have shown that combining THC with CBD can indeed yield desirable outcomes for consumers. 

In 2023, Jama Network published findings of a randomized clinical trial, which was conducted at the Johns Hopkins University Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit. The study consisted of eighteen participants who were given brownies containing one of the following formulations:

The results showed that participants who consumed the edibles with both Delta-9 and CBD had THC levels in their blood that were nearly twice as high as those who consumed brownies with just Delta-9. This specific ratio, where the milligrams of CBD vastly outweighed the milligrams of THC, also resulted in effects that were stronger, longer lasting, and unfortunately, overwhelming in some instances. 

But what causes this unexpected outcome? According to the study, CBD can inhibit the breakdown of THC in the body. 

Is there a way to derive the benefit of CBD and THC- a longer-lasting and more intense experience- without the drawbacks? In 2018, Neuropsychopharmacology published a review of various studies on the interactions of CBD and THC. One key finding was that a 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD can allow someone to consume higher amounts of THC without an increased risk of adverse effects.

The mitigation of unwanted effects while still delivering a more potent experience certainly sounds appealing. However, it's best to remember that cannabinoids, along with their combinations and ratios, will affect everyone a bit differently.

Nonetheless, you're probably wondering if there are products out there that combine THC and CBD, and the answer is certainly "yes." Select Spectrum is our line of CBD and THC blends, each specially formulated to deliver an optimized mind and body experience. Whether you seek balance or heightened senses, this collection is sure to offer it through a synergistic ratio of cannabinoids. Check out some of our best-selling Select Spectrum products below.

You can find a 2:1 ratio of THC to THC in our award-winning Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate edibles. We have low and high-dose options available to suit your preference.

There's no end to the products we've crafted to curate a more balanced and enjoyable experience. But these recommendations should get you started!

Due to decades of red tape and prohibitionist stances, cannabis research is still in its infancy. Nonetheless, there seems to be some research out there supporting the entourage effect of combining THC with CBD. In one study, CBD boosted the strength of THC by inhibiting its breakdown, and in another, it allowed subjects to consume more THC while suppressing some unwanted effects. We hope this article enriched your understanding of cannabis and potentially opened up new horizons for your next session. 

Until then, happy exploring and mind your mind.