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Herbs that work synergistically with the Cannabis Plant

It's planting season and if you have a few spots in your garden, you may want to plant some companion plants. Several common herbs work well for many different alignments and discomforts, but did you know that some of them work well with cannabis? The following are the top synergistic herbs I highly suggest using.

Cannabis and Lavender

Lavender is known for its calming properties. Apart from having a pleasant scent, and being effective in aromatherapy and massage, lavender and cannabis have something else in common. Both are abundant in the terpene linalool. The word terpene refers to an aromatic molecule. In combination with THC, linalool can be used as a muscle relaxant, which would enhance the effect of lavender. Linalool increases CBD's anticonvulsant properties when combined with whole-plant medicine. It has anti-inflammatory effects on its own. Together, these compounds are known to reduce sensitivity to pain.

In making cannabis topicals, adding lavender plant matter or oil may enhance the herb's relaxing and pain-relieving qualities. Lavender can also be added to edibles and cannabis tea for maximum benefits. And who doesn't love some raw cannabis lavender chocolate?

Cannabis and Rosemary

Did you know that rosemary, cannabis, and black pepper all contain the terpene betacaryophyllene? Several studies have found that this terpene binds to cannabinoid receptors. Black pepper is one of the ingredients some companies are using to help CBD to get absorbed into the body more readily. When beta-caryophyllene is added to a cell receptor called the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) it has been known to help regulate immune function and inflammation.

There is research and evidence that BCP can relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety. We all know rosemary is good for mood, stress, blood flow, and memory. Can you imagine the potency of mixing them? So, maybe try adding plenty of rosemary and black pepper into your infused goodies. It is a great way to amplify the therapeutic effects of all three of these herbs.

Cannabis and Holy Basil

Another stress-relieving plant is Tulsi. Sometimes known as Holy Basil. Cannabis with high THCA content and Holy Basil have been shown to help with anxiety and stress reduction. Both have the terpene Eugenol. Holy Basil has been proven to contain properties that lower cortisol (the stress hormone). As humans, we can all benefit from developing a stressrelieving self-care routine.

You may manufacture a simple extract of this herb by heating it in oil in the same way that cannabis oil is made. If you make a salve out of it, you can use it topically to relieve pain. Use avocado oil as the base for a delicious salve.

Cannabis and Echinacea

Echinacea, another fantastic herb, contains chemicals similar to cannabis in some ways. N- acylethanolamines (NAEs) are chemicals that interact with the enzyme that breaks down endocannabinoids in the body. As a result, a cannabis combination can help to enhance endocannabinoid tone. Echinacea contains N- alkylamines that bind to the CB2 receptor. Which in my opinion is a huge plus. These substances are cannabimimetic. These chemicals resemble cannabinoids and interact with the endocannabinoid system.

Echinacea is commonly used to stimulate the immune system during the common cold, and we now know that cannabis has the potential to do the same. Increasing your immune system's strength can help you fight infection. Echinacea is historically known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The herb may also have analgesic properties. So combining it with a nice whole-plant cannabis tincture sounds like a perfect match.

Cannabis and Black Cohosh

Black Cohosh, like cannabis, has the ability to alleviate mood swings and hot flashes associated with menopause. This plant is known to help maintain hormonal balance in the endocrine system. If you are looking for a natural hormone regulator, you should look into the research and ask your primary care.

Black cohosh includes a phytoestrogen that is thought to help women restore some of the estrogens they lose during menopause. Black Cohosh can be a great addition to your favorite cannabis medicine.

In closing, I hope I have given you some ideas of what to try right out in the garden. Many other herbs work well with cannabis, so do some fun investigating. As always choose organic and microdose anything and everything.

Go forth, Go Cannabis…

All information in this article is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources. Please check with your Cannabis Educated Primary Health Care Physician or Cannabis Therapy Consultant before beginning any new diet or lifestyle change. It would be smart to check with a herbalist or naturopathic doctor before experimenting with that herb combination.

Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, CTC, CNHP is a Naturopathic Nutritionist, Cannabis Therapy Consultant, and the Founder and Education Director of the Cannabis Holistic Institute. To find out more about her private practice, educational programs, videos, and other offerings you can find her on the massive inter-webs, social platforms, or at drpepperhernandez.com.