Maybe not as fancy and well known as its fellow Cannabis terminology, Terpenes are a class of organic compounds that are responsible for the smell and taste of cannabis. Terpene profiles vary depending on the strain of cannabis. Some strains contain high amounts of myrcene, while others contain limonene. There are also other terpenes that are not found in cannabis,
Terpenes are organic compounds found in plants that give them their characteristic smell and flavour. Terpenes are also responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. Different strains of cannabis contain different amounts of terpenes, and the concentration of each type varies depending on the strain.
Let’s dive into more details based on modern science.
What are Cannabis Terpenes exactly?
Terpenes are like nature’s perfume. They are aromatic compounds that give plants their characteristic smell and taste. Not only do they make each cannabis strain smell and taste unique, but they also contribute to the plant’s colour. While there are over 20,000 different terpenes in existence, only a handful are found in cannabis. Myrcene, for example, is a musky-smelling terpene that is also found in mangoes. It’s known for its sedative effects and is often used to treat pain and anxiety. Pinene, on the other hand, has a piney aroma and is thought to improve alertness and memory. Then there’s limonene, which smells like citrus fruits and is said to be uplifting and stress-reducing. While more research is needed to confirm the therapeutic benefits of terpenes, there are recent studies that highlight the medicinal features of Cannabis-derived terpenes are elucidated for treating several neuro and non-neuro disorders.
They can be used to create all kinds of products, including cleaning solvents, insecticides, and dyes. Many of them have medicinal properties. Terpenes are found in nearly all plants, but they’re most commonly encountered in citrus fruits, herbs, spices, and essential oils.
What do Terpenes do?
Terpenoids are organic compounds found in many plants. Terpenes are the main component of essential oils, and they play an important role in plant defence against herbivores and pathogens. Cannabis contains hundreds of different terpenes, and each strain will contain a unique blend of them. Some strains are high in THC, while others are high in CBD. Terpenes also affect the smell and taste of cannabis.
The main hypothesis is this: the terpene profile of a strain works in tandem with the cannabinoid profile to produce the effects people experience when they smoke or ingest cannabis. For example, that may explain why two different strains of cannabis with the same level of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) produce such different experiences.
Can Cannabis Terpenes get you stoned?
Terpenoids are not hallucinogens, but they can affect your mind. Some terpenoids are thought to be psychoactive, but they don’t cause hallucinations like LSD does. There’s a lot of controversy surrounding whether or not terpenes have any impact on THC. While they’re not themselves intoxicating, some people believe that their unique scent could affect your high from cannabis and alter its effects in various ways. The reason for this? It may be because the human brain processes smell differently depending on what emotion you’re feeling at any given time.
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds found in cannabis that give strains their distinct flavours and aromas. Terpenes are responsible for many of the psychoactive effects of cannabis, including its ability to induce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. While THC is the primary chemical compound responsible for producing those effects, terpenes also play an important role in determining the overall experience of consuming cannabis. For example, preliminary studies suggest that certain terpenes may have potential benefits for certain types of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
How do Terpenes compare to CBD and THC?
When it comes to cannabis, there are OVER 100 different compounds that can be found in the plant. These include well-known cannabinoids like THC and CBD, as well as terpenes. While each of these compounds has its own effects, they also seem to interact with each other to create the sensations and effects of marijuana. For example, THC is known for its psychoactive properties, while CBD is known for its medicinal benefits. However, when these two compounds are combined, they seem to create a more well-rounded effect that can provide both mental and physical relief. Additionally, terpenes also play a role in how cannabis affects the body. Some terpenes are known for their ability to help improve mood, while others seem to increase relaxation. Ultimately, the interactions between these different compounds is what makes cannabis such a unique and effective medicine.
In other words a combination of different things may be better than just one thing. A 2010 study found that a combination of CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) was more effective for pain relief than THC alone. A 2018 study found that breast cancer tumours in a petri dish responded better to an extract of cannabis than pure THC on its’ own. However, those synergistic effects were thought to be mostly attributed to other cannabinoids and less to terpenes.
CBD products come in many forms, including oils, tinctures, edibles, topicals, and even pet products. Some CBD products may contain additional cannabinoids like THC, while others may not. When purchasing CBD products, it’s important to read labels carefully and know what you’re buying.
Common Terpenes and the effects
There are about 400 different types of cannabinoids found in marijuana, but experts have only identified a few of them for their medicinal properties. Here are some common cannabinoids and their potential effects:
- Beta-caryophyllene is a terpene that is found in many plants, including cloves, Rosemary, and hops. This terpene has a woody and spicy aroma and is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Beta-caryophyllene interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system and has been shown to be beneficial in reducing anxiety and depression. This terpene is also being studied for its potential to help manage pain, arthritis, and cancer. While more research is needed, beta-caryophyllene shows promise as a natural treatment for a variety of conditions.
- Beta-Pinene is an organic compound found in pine trees. It smells like turpentine, and it has both anti-depressants and anti-cancer properties. In fact, studies have shown that beta-pinene can help to kill cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. Additionally, beta-pinene has been shown to boost the immune system and improve cognitive function. Pine trees are not the only source of beta-pinene; it is also found in rosemary, basil, and dill. When used in aromatherapy, beta-pinene can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Therefore, this compound provides a wide range of benefits for both body and mind.
- Humulene is a terpene that can be found in ginseng root. Ginseng has been used in folk medicine for centuries to energize the body and improve overall health. Humulene is thought to be responsible for some of these benefits. Studies have shown that humulene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Additionally, humulene has been shown to boost energy levels and promote cognitive function. Ginseng root is generally safe to consume, but it can cause some side effects such as insomnia and anxiety. If you are considering taking ginseng root for its health benefits, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider first.
- Limonene is a terpene that is found in many citrus fruits, including lemons, limes, and oranges. It has a strong citrus scent and flavour and is used in many household cleaning products and personal care items. In addition to its pleasant scent, limonene may also have some potential therapeutic effects. Studies on mice have shown that limonene has anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties, and it is also being investigated for its anti-cancer potential. While more research is needed to understand the full range of benefits of limonene, it is clear that this versatile terpene has a lot to offer.
- Linalool is a natural compound found in a variety of plants, including lavender and cannabis. This aromatic compound has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its calming effects. Modern science has begun to unlock the potential of linalool, showing that it may indeed have stress-relieving properties. In one study, participants who inhaled linalool-containing lavender oil showed reduced levels of stress and anxiety. These findings suggest that linalool could be a valuable tool in the fight against stress. For those looking to reduce stress with the help of cannabis, seek out strains that are high in linalool. This essential oil can provide a sense of calm and peace, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relief from stress and anxiety.
- Myrcene is a common terpene found in many plants, including mangoes. The unique fragrance of myrcene has made it a popular ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics. In addition to its pleasant smell, myrcene has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Studies have also shown that myrcene could have sedating effects. This makes it a popular choice for use in aromatherapy. When used in massage oils or diffused into the air, myrcene can help to promote relaxation and ease stress and anxiety. For these reasons, myrcene is an incredibly versatile compound with a wide range of potential applications.
Terpenes are found in many plants, including citrus fruits, herbs, spices, and essential oils. Terpenes are organic compounds that give plants their smell and flavour. Some terpenes are also found in animal products like milk, eggs, and meat. There is evidence that terpenes may help prevent cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and other diseases. However, there is not enough scientific evidence to recommend taking terpenes for these conditions.
How to get the best out of Terpenes
There are a few things you should consider:
- Read the labels. Some lab-tested cannabis products will tell you what terpenes are present in the product. These numbers usually sit around 2% of the total cannabinoid profile.
- Look for freshness. Terpenes can degrade over time, so look at the packaging date. If you‘re buying flowers, give them a sniff if you can – you want something that smells nice, not stale.
- Keep a diary. As you experiment with different terpenes, keep track of what works and what doesn’t. You may also notice changes in your mood and energy levels. These insights will help you identify the best terpene profiles for your needs.
In Summary
Terpenoids are a class of organic chemicals found in plants. Terpenes are the main components of essential oils and are responsible for the smell and taste of many fruits, vegetables, flowers, herbs, spices, and resins. Terpenes also contribute to the medicinal properties of cannabis. There are more than 40 different terpenes in cannabis, each with its own unique set of properties. However, research into the potential health benefits of these terpenes is still in its infancy. As a result, it’s difficult to make any definitive claims about their efficacy. It’s also important to note that besides cannabinoids and terpenes, there are other factors that can influence how you feel when using cannabis. Your physiology, your past experiences with cannabis, and the setting in which you use cannabis can all affect how you feel.