The top 5 herbs that work synergistically with Cannabis

There are common herbs that work really well on their own for many different alignments or discomforts but did you know that there are some that work really well with cannabis. Let us take a look at my top five I highly suggest to use in tinctures, salves and/or tea brews.

Cannabis and Lavender
It is common knowledge that Lavender is a relaxing herb, but did you know how well it works with an Indica? Besides the fact that they both have a pleasant scent and are great in aromatherapy and massage, Lavender and Cannabis have something else in common. They are both abundant in the terpene linalool. A terpene is a fancy word for an aroma molecule. Which when combined with THC, linalool has potential as a muscle relaxant. Which of course is amazing that it would magnify the potency of Lavender right!?! When combined with CBD, linalool heightens the cannabinoid’s anti-convulsant properties. On its own, linalool has anti-inflammatory properties. So that means that they both also reduces sensitivity to pain. Nice!

If you’re making a cannabis topical, adding in a little Lavender oil may assist the relaxing and pain reducing qualities of the herb. You can also add  Lavender into edibles or Cannabis tea to get the max benefits of both herbs. And who doesn't love some Raw Cannabis Lavender chocolate…

​Cannabis and Rosemary
Did you know that Rosemary, Cannabis, and Black Pepper all contain a terpene called beta-caryophyllene (BCP). Recent research has found that this terpene interacts with cannabinoid receptors. Which is why some of the heavy duty players in the CBD world are using black pepper to make CBD more readily available to the system. Anyhow, this specific binder which is called beta-caryphyllene, when it is added to a cell receptor called the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) it magically helps regulate immune function and inflammation.

There is specific evidence that BCP can relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety. We all know how good Rosemary is for mood, stress, blood flow and memory. Can you image the potency of mixing them together? 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
The plant Tulsi, commonly known as Holy Basil is another stress-reliever. You can make a simple extract of this herb by cooking it in oil similarly as you would when making Cannabis oil. This can be applied topically for pain if you choose to make a salve out of it. For a yummy salve try avocado oil as the base. The combination of Cannabis, specifically one with high amounts of THCa, and Holy Basil have been know to help with anxiety and stress-reduction. Properties in Holy Basil has been found to reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels. As a human nowadays we could all benefit from creating a self care regiment of stress relief.

Cannabis and Echinacea
Another amazing herb Echinacea, contains compounds that are similar to CBD in some functions. These compounds are called N-acylethanolamines (NAEs), they interact with the enzyme which breaks down endocannabinoids in the body. So, with a Cannabis combo it can improve the endocannabinoid tone. Certain N-alkylamides in Echinacea also engage the CB2 receptor. Which of course is a total plus. These are cannabimimetic compounds. Meaning that these compounds are like cannabinoids and engage the endocannabinoid system. Echinacea is often used for the common cold to boost the immune system and we now know that Cannabis does the same. Boosting your immune system helps to fend off infection. Echinacea is also thought to reduce inflammation and act as an antioxidant. The herb may have pain-relieving effects as well. So combining it with a nice Indica based CBD could do wonders, especially as a tincture.

While it’s best to chat with an herbalist or professional before consuming high quantities of any medicinal herb, incorporating more plants into your life is a wonderful way to promote abundant health.

Cannabis and Black Cohosh
This one is for all of the menopausal ladies out there. Thank goodness Cannabis has potential in easing mood swings and hot flashes during menopause, so does Black Cohosh. This herb is known to promote balance in the endocrine system, which regulates hormones. For those women who are looking for a natural hormone regulator you should check into the research.
Black Cohosh contains a phytoestrogen, which is thought to naturally replace some of what is lost during the menopausal period. You can find it commonly used as an extract, which you can drop under your tongue or mix into a drink. Black Cohosh would be such an nice additive to your favorite cannabis tincture too. Black Cohosh is known to enhance the endocannabinoid system, which is partly regulated by estrogen. Though, it would be smart to check with a herbalist, cannabis therapist or naturopathic doctor before experimenting with that herb combination.

So in closing I hope you have some really good ideas of what to try right out of the garden and of course there are many other herbs that work well with cannabis so do your research. Enjoy!

​Until next time…Go forth, Go Cannabis…

Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, CNHP
Nutritionist, Cannabis Therapy Consultant, Holistic Health Naturopath
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​All information in this article is for educational purposes only. Please check with your Educated Primary Health Care Physician, Raw Food Nutritionist or Holistic Care Provider before beginning any new diet or lifestyle change. ~Dr. Pepper Hernandez