Did you know the effects of cannabis can be enhanced when combined with certain complementary compounds found in spices, herbal plants and foods? Recently, our clinics have had the pleasure of receiving an education session from Wildwood Labs. We heard about their natural health background and how they’re a group of family-first farmers with combined extensive experience in essential oil blending, holistic nutrition, and natural health products. This inspired us to write a little bit on how natural health products can be part of the entourage effect when treating your symptoms with medical cannabis!
This blog dives into common kitchen ingredients that are often overlooked as positive enhancements to health outcomes. Some examples that pair well with cannabis are ginger, cinnamon, peppermint, wintergreen, eucalyptus, lemongrass, lavender, black pepper, and citrus. Each of these ingredients can play a role in amplifying the relief outcomes that users seek from cannabis in multiple methods of use.
Ginger has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It has found its place in traditional medicine for centuries, proving efficacy in alleviating nausea and digestive discomfort. When combined with cannabis, ginger can enhance an overall sense of calm and relaxation, particularly for those using marijuana to manage symptoms of anxiety or digestion. Its warming qualities aid in alleviating muscle pains, making it a unique addition for those using cannabis for pain management.
Cinnamon, a favorite dessert spice often associated with sweet dishes, packs a powerful punch when it comes to health benefits. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar and boost heart health. Integrating cinnamon with cannabis could enhance your anti-inflammatory effects, whether applied topically or orally. This combination can contribute to a more balanced experience, particularly for users seeking relief from inflammation, pain, or even anxiety-related symptoms. In addition, cinnamon can provide a warming sensation when applied topically.
Peppermint, widely known for it’s cooling sensations whether ingested or used topically. When paired with cannabis, peppermint can amplify the pain-relief effects while promoting mental clarity. This synergy can be particularly beneficial for users seeking relief from tension headaches or migraines, or to rapidly soothe pain relief topically. Additionally, the invigorating aroma can uplift mood, making peppermint an ideal complement for those seeking both relaxation and mental alertness. Peppermint can be leveraged to drive other medicinal ingredients deeper into the body’s tissues when applied topically.
Wintergreen is similar in scent to peppermint, and has comparable analgesic properties. Often found in topical pain relief products, wintergreen contains a compound called methyl salicylate, which can reduce pain and inflammation. When used in conjunction with cannabis, wintergreen may enhance localized relief, particularly for muscle and joint discomfort such as Arthritis.
Eucalyptus, known for its fresh fragrance and cooling sensation, it is commonly used in medicinal applications. It helps clear respiratory pathways and soothe inflammation. When added to cannabis, eucalyptus can encourage respiratory effects and provide a heightened sense of relaxation.
Lemongrass boasts a delightful citrusy aroma and is used in aromatherapy and cooking. The health benefits include anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Integrating lemongrass with cannabis can promote an uplifting experience, stress relief and reduced inflammation.
Lavender as we all know, promotes relaxation and sleep. It’s commonly known fragrance, has proven to enhance relaxation and reduce anxiety. When combined with cannabis, lavender can create an enhanced relaxation experience for both body and mind. In topicals it is known to enhance healing of minor skin abrasions and burns.
Black pepper is often overlooked for its therapeutic properties. It contains a terpene known as beta-caryophyllene, which can interact with cannabinoid receptors, producing an entourage effect. Some cannabis users say chewing a black peppercorn after over-consumption of cannabis can mitigate the intensity of a cannabis high, potentially helping users manage discomfort or anxiety associated with overconsumption. Pairing black pepper with cannabis can provide an anti-inflammatory and calming response to the body.
Lastly, and most refreshing, citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, grapefruit and limes) boast an uplifting scent which may also improve mood. Additionally, Citrus can aid in physical and mental alertness.
When combining cannabis with a combination of these compounds, it can significantly amplify overall relief outcomes for medical cannabis users. Each unique ingredient contributes to a robust experience that may enhance outcomes when treating pain, anxiety, inflammation, and more. By combining these ingredients, you can be sure to elevate your outcomes!
Looking for a cannabis topical that boasts these high quality ingredients? Visit Our Products – Wildwood Labs for a few products that might be the right fit for you.
A note from the Managing Director, Shane W. (Wildwood Labs) – “We believe that everything applied to your body with any regularity should be vetted as clean food for the skin (your largest organ, after all). Our epidermis is highly receptive to these synergistic combinations – cannabis, essential oils, etc. And our endocannabinoid systems are designed to work with the complimentary chemical compounds to reduce inflammation and pain, locally, without ever crossing the blood-brain barrier or reducing mental clarity. Now, if that doesn’t get you excited about topicals, we don’t know what would!”
Contact your local Canada House clinic to find out how to incorporate this knowledge into your cannabis treatment today!
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