Table of Contents
Introduction
Have you ever wondered what gives cannabis its distinct aroma and flavour? It’s all thanks to cannabis terpenes – the secret sauce behind CBD. These compounds don’t just give weed its unique scent; they also play a crucial role in determining the effects of CBD. Some terpenes promote relaxation and calmness, while others can boost energy and creativity.
In this blog, we will talk about cannabis terpenes, their effects, different types of terpenes and how to maximize the many benefits they offer.
What are Cannabis Terpenes?
Terpenes are a diverse class of organic compounds. They are naturally found in various plants, including cannabis, and are responsible for the distinct aromas and flavours associated with cannabinoids.
Terpenes are under-appreciated for the ecological role they play in nature, such as attracting pollinators and repelling herbivores. No matter what your sensory preferences are, remember that the perfect scent simply does not exist. That’s part of the fun of experimenting with different Cannabis Terpenes.
Each strain has its distinctive aroma and taste. Terpenes come from the same glands as CBD and other cannabinoids. They also interact with other compounds in the plant and influence the overall effects and therapeutic properties of the cannabis plant and CBD product.
Are Terpenes Different From Cannabinoids?
Most people are familiar with cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) because of the roles they play. For instance, people who want to experience the entourage effect of cannabis can use products containing THC.
Also, if you don’t want to feel high but enjoy the effect, make use of CBD, especially for medical purposes.
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds in cannabis. THC and CBD send signals to the endocannabinoid system by triggering the neurotransmitters.
The cannabis plant also contains terpenes, among the most abundant compounds in the natural world. Meanwhile, terpenes activate the aroma of plants and interact with the endocannabinoid system.
However, terpenes are different from Cannabinoids in how the body uses and absorbs it.
Cannabinoids
-They come as diverse molecules in plants, cannabis plants, and humans.
-Most people know phytocannabinoids in cannabis plants that cause therapeutic and psychoactive effects.
-The compounds work with the body’s endocannabinoid system to elicit different responses.
-Most countries regulate Cannabinoids and often use them as a prescription option.
-THC can cause users to feel intoxicated.
Terpenes
-You can find terpenes in cannabis plants, fruits, and herbs.
-It has different properties and effects than cannabinoids like CBD and THC.
-Terpenes have aromatic scents and flavours that you cannot find in cannabinoids.
-Unlike cannabinoids, you can find terpenes in abundance in many plants.
-Many homeowners have different terpenes in their household products, like cosmetics, medicines, etc.
-The effect of terpenes on the endocannabinoid system is limited.
-While terpenes can cause psychoactive effect, it lacks the intoxicating effect.
Cannabis Terpenes and its Medicinal Uses
Studies on terpenes have demonstrated their therapeutic benefits on animals. Although research is limited to humans, it has shown numerous benefits:
1. Antimicrobial: You can find terpenes in many medications that kill microbes. The compound can stop the growth of harmful microbes in the body.
2. Pain Relief: A study showed that when you combine cannabinoids with terpenes, the product can relieve pain without a side effect.
3. Anticancer: The increase in the number of cancer-related issues has pushed researchers to consider using the compound for treatment. It can inhibit cancerous cells’ growth or activities. Terpenes don’t cause side effects and offer benefits like antitumor and anticancer properties.
4. Antiviral: Terpenes can eliminate viruses and have become a popular antiviral component in most cannabis products. In addition, it can kill carvone, camphor, caryophyllene, and others.
5. Antidepressant: Most antidepressant medications have traces of terpenes like beta-pinene and linalool.
Can Terpenes Affect You?
Yes. You may experience an effect because the compound is bioactive. However, the effect depends on individuals and the terpene’s concentration. If you have no idea how terpenes work, you can check some essential oils that offer aromatherapy.
When you inhale these oils, you feel an improvement in your mood and a reduced stress level. Meanwhile, the entourage effect can get you high when combined with cannabis.
Studies claim that the compound offers potential benefits and fewer risks. For example, in Frontiers in Neurology study, epileptic patients can use CBD-derived products with terpenes to improve their health.
Another study conducted by Chemico-Biological Interactions showed that a person can enjoy beneficial effects with terpenes.
Types of Cannabis Terpenes
Thanks to extensive research on the compound, you can find numerous terpenes on different products. We have listed a few of the terpenes that you can commonly find around:
1. Linalool: If you have lavender plants around, you will enjoy the rich aroma of linalool. The compound plays a vital role in calming people when they inhale lavender in aromatherapy. According to Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces, the compound may offer the following benefits:
-Anti-anxiety
-Anti-inflammatory
-Antidepressant
-Anticancer
-Antimicrobial
-Neuroprotective
2. Limonene: You can easily recognize limonene because it is common around us. The rinds of oranges and lemons are some of the citrusy aromas from the compound. A study stated that limonene offers:
-Antidiabetic
-Anti-inflammatory
-Antioxidant
-Anticancer
-Antiviral
Limonene triggers the immune system and protects some people from a few disorders. The case study requires more research.
3. Pinene: You can perceive pinene if you have rosemary, pine needles, and basil at home. The compound offers the bright scent we find in most plants, and they have therapeutic benefits. Some people get relief and rejuvenation after walking in the forest. Pinene makes the forest a therapeutic experience for humans.
4. Myrcene: Myrcene can be seen in thyme, lemongrass, hops, and other plants. The compound acts as a powerful antioxidant that can protect the brain from stroke attacks. In addition, it can take care of the heart.
5. Beta-caryophyllene: Black pepper and cloves are some of the herbs with this compound. It contains an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect that reduces pain.
6. Humulene: People can feel humulene when they use products like ginger and clove.
According to Frontiers in Pharmacology, the compound can prevent asthma or allergic reactions. In addition, Food and Chemical Toxicology concluded that the compound could protect some cells against cancerous growth.
Other Commonly Seen Terpenes
Phytol
Geraniol
Nerolidol
Terpinolene
Ocimene
How to Maximize Cannabis Terpenes Benefits?
We have highlighted a few points to help you take advantage of terpenes.
Read the Product Label. If you want to stay away from adverse side effects associated with some cannabis-derived products, read labels. You can find the percentage of terpenes on products, which can help you make your buying choice.
Look out for Freshness. With time, you will notice that your terpene concentration has reduced. Therefore, ensure that your product is fresh by sniffing it. A stale terpene must be discarded.
Be Careful. We advise people to exercise a level of caution when they use terpene products.
Lay off the heat. When you dab with high heat, it can degrade your product and lead to harmful byproducts. You should read the usage direction of any type of cannabis terpenes before consumption.
Be Informed. Some users keep note of the effect and dosage of the terpene profiles they use. Thus, it becomes easier to understand the best product to use for specific purposes.
How to Use Terpenes?
When you combine cannabis terpenes into your daily routine, you get the ultimate wellness routine. Here are three creative ways to incorporate Cannabis Terpenes into your daily routine:
Aromatherapy
Adding a few drops of Cannabis Terpenes to a diffuser or oil can create a relaxing and soothing atmosphere. Lavender is the best essential oil for relaxation and can help people sleep better and wake up more refreshed.
Bath time
Terpenes can deliver a busty zest of freshness during shower time. Adding a few drops of Cannabis Terpenes to your bathwater can do more than boost your relaxation. It makes for a luxurious and therapeutic soak. This can help promote relaxation and relieve muscle tension.
Cooking
Tarpenes are not just limited to spa treatments and relaxation. They are a delight in the kitchen as well. Cannabis Terpenes can soothe nausea and stimulate appetite. You can add it to your favourite recipes to infuse your meals with their unique flavours. However, it’s necessary to ensure that they are safe for ingestion.
Conclusion
Cannabis terpenes offer you relaxation when you perceive some aromatic plants or essential oils. Since this ingredient is available in cannabis, pharmaceutical companies use it to treat different ailments. However, you should exercise caution when using terpene for medical and recreational purposes.
