Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MSc)

Department

Psychology

Program Name/Specialization

Behavioural Neuroscience

Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

First Advisor

Paul Mallet

Advisor Role

Thesis Supervisor

Abstract

Most research on cannabis and cognitive function has focused on delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, this approach overlooks the complex chemical composition of cannabis products consumed by the public, which often includes cannabidiol (CBD) and various terpenes. These additional constituents may interact with THC to modulate its effects, a phenomenon known as the entourage effect. While this theory has gained traction, experimental evidence for the cognitive impact of terpenes in combination with THC remains limited. This study aimed to assess whether terpenes can mitigate THC-induced cognitive deficits using a 2-Component Operant Memory task. Male Sprague-Dawley rats received intraperitoneal injections of either a vehicle or cannabis extract (1.0, 2.0, or 4.0 mg/kg THC-equivalent) 30 minutes prior to testing. Treatments included: (1) isolated THC, (2) a 1:1 THC:CBD extract with the same THC amount as the isolated extract, and (3) a commercial full-spectrum extract (Hycycle Orange CKS 1:1) containing THC, CBD, and naturally occurring terpenes (β-Caryophyllene, β-Myrcene, D-Linalool, and α-Pinene). At 4.0 mg/kg, both THC and THC:CBD impaired working memory and increased response latency compared to vehicle controls, and working memory deficits persisted up to 48 hours after THC:CBD administration. In contrast, the full-spectrum Hycycle extract did not impair working memory or response latency at any time point, despite containing an equivalent dose of THC. These results provide evidence that terpenes can attenuate THC’s cognitive side effects, offering support for the entourage effect and suggesting that terpene inclusion minimizes some adverse cognitive effects of cannabis.

Convocation Year

2025

Convocation Season

Fall

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