A new review of the science around the components of marijuana says the “complex interaction between phytocannabinoids and biological systems offers hope for novel treatment approaches,” laying the groundwork for a new era of innovation in cannabis-based medicines.
Among other takeaways, the report, published earlier this month in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, underscores the potential of whole-plant cannabis medicine—incorporating the variety of cannabinoids, terpenes and other compounds produced by the cannabis plant—rather than simply THC or CBD on their own. “The plant Cannabis exhibits an effect called the ‘entourage effect’, in which the combined actions of terpenes and phytocannabinoids results in effects that exceed the sum of their separate contributions,” the study says. “This synergy emphasizes how important it is to consider the entire plant when utilizing cannabinoids medicinally as opposed to just concentrating on individual cannabinoids.”
Each of the chemical components has specific effects, which the study briefly describes. The broad review, which cites nearly 100 other sources, acknowledges that some effects are bolstered by robust scientific evidence, while others are still being explored. Both THC and CBD also have antioxidant effects, it adds, and both appear to be promising tools for a variety of ailments, from pain to neurological disorders and psychiatric conditions. CBD may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and PTSD, while both THC and CBD may exhibit antidepressant effects. “While some findings suggest that cannabinoids may have mood-stabilizing effects and enhance serotonin signaling, the evidence is inconclusive, and further research is needed,” the study says.
