What are terpenes, anyway? For those curious about terpenes, you can expect to gain some knowledge about these aromatic, naturally occurring chemicals found in a variety of plants.
Of course, the best-known terpenes are present in cannabis. Some people believe they may improve the herb’s therapeutic effects.
But the fact of the matter is that terpenes are found in all types of plants. Keep reading to learn more about what terpenes are, where they’re found, and which ones are the most common in cannabis.
But Really, What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are responsible for the unique scents of various plants. For example, limonene is responsible for the citrusy smell of lemons and limes. [Myrcene has a musky aroma]. Pinene is pine-like. Terpenes can also affect how cannabinoids behave in the body. This is why different strains of cannabis have different effects.
Cannabis terpenes are present in cannabis trichomes, the translucent glands on the buds, and, to a lesser extent, the surfaces of leaves and stems. These are made in resin glands within trichomes.
The fragrance of these compounds does more than just smell nice; it protects plants from predators and attracts pollinators. They also assist the plant’s immune system and protect plants against stress and diseases.
List of Terpenes
The minor variations in effects between cannabis strains with the same cannabinoid profile can be attributed to terpenes. There are also terpenes in other plants and some animals. The following is a list of common cannabis terpenes, as well as their corresponding properties.
Myrcene
The myrcene terpene is also found in mangoes, lemongrass, cardamom, and basil. It has a herbaceous, spicy, earthy aroma with a touch of sweetness to it. The myrcene terpene contributes to cannabis’s distinctive sweet taste profile. It has anti-fungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory activities, and possibly a sedating effect.
Limonene
Limonene has a citrusy aroma and may be found in citrus fruits. Limonene might aid in the reduction of stress. Its uplifting qualities promote attention and mood improvement.
Limonene may prevent you from contracting a variety of illnesses. Limonene boosts the number of antibody-producing cells combating viruses and germs.
Linalool
The scent of linalool is musky, floral, and spice-like. It’s also found in lavender. Anti-anxiety, relaxing, and sleep-inducing properties are among its features.
Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is the only known terpene in cannabis that binds to the CB2 receptor in the endocannabinoid system. It has a strong, peppery and spicy smell. Caryophyllene is commonly used as anti-inflammatory medication in topical therapies. Additionally, it is anti-anxiety and helps to relax you.
Terpenes FAQ
What are terpenes good for?
Terpenes have a wide range of medicinal purposes, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, analgesic, anxiolytic, anticancer, antitumor, neuroprotective, anti-allergic, and antidepressant activities.
Are terpenes bad for you?
Pure, concentrated terpenes can irritate the lungs and cause additional harm when breathed in. Some terpenes are toxic, such as benzene or methacrolein.
How do terpenes affect the body?
Terpenes have a variety of effects on the body. They may enhance the high that marijuana smokers experience. Terpenes work with cannabinoids to enhance the physical effects of marijuana.
How do terpenes make you feel?
While terpenes aren’t as intoxicating as THC, they are considered psychoactive. Terpenes are classified as psychotropic because they impact the brain by influencing THC, the cannabinoid responsible for marijuana’s euphoric high effect.
Is CBD better with terpenes?
Terpenes work synergistically to produce the Entourage Effect with or without THC. This implies that a CBD product containing CBD and terpenes is far more effective than one that just contains CBD. This resulted in a more complete therapeutic effect for the user.
Concluding on What Terpenes Are
Terpenes are aromatic, naturally occurring chemicals found in plants and some animals. They’re best known for being present in cannabis. These fragrant compounds contribute to the unique scents and flavors of cannabis strains.
Terpenes also have therapeutic properties that work in synergy with cannabinoids to produce the entourage effect. Pure, concentrated terpenes can be harmful when breathed in, but when used properly they offer a variety of benefits including aiding sleep or relieving anxiety without making you feel high.
