Terpenes are organic chemicals found in the plant kingdom and some insect species, with 200 of them found in the cannabis plant. These chemicals are responsible for strong fragrances, have been utilised in medicine since ancient China, and are crucial in the creation of cannabis’s distinctive therapeutic benefits. Linalool, Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Limonene, Humulene, Alpha-Pinene, and Beta-Pinene are some of the more significant terpenes present in cannabis.
Benefits & Effects of Terpenes
Terpenes are highly bioactive compounds with a wide range of therapeutic actions, including relaxation, excitement, and pain relief. When it comes to pain management, terpenes can help in a variety of ways, including interacting with the endogenous opioid system, affecting neurotransmitters, and modifying inflammatory chemicals. Terpenes have also been shown to have nootropic properties, which can help with memory and focus. The terpenes in lemon oil have been proven to boost dopamine and serotonin, resulting in antidepressant and anti-anxiety benefits when inhaled. Antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties are found in several terpenes. Fortunately, most terpenes are considered safe because they are found naturally in foods and do not cause skin sensitization.
Myrcene
Myrcene, another terpenoid discovered in cannabis with notable effects, has anti-inflammatory and opioid-like analgesic properties. The terpene, in contrast to Pinene’s stimulating qualities, has a calming effect. Myrcene has a tranquil and relaxing effect. Myrcene is found in cannabis, as well as hops, eucalyptus, lemongrass, basil, thyme, and mango, and has a musky, fruity, clove-like fragrance. Myrcene has been proven to increase the maximum saturation level of CB1 receptors and increase the permeability of the blood-brain barrier. This feature aids in the synergistic enhancement of cannabinoids and other chemicals taken in conjunction with myrcene. Anecdotal data suggests that eating mango before smoking cannabis can speed up the start and intensify the effects, probably due to the synergistic effects of myrcene. Myrcene is anti-inflammatory and analgesic, which means it can aid with pain and tension.
Benefits: Antiseptic, Antibacterial, Anti-Inflammatory
Effects: Relaxing, Sedating
Limonene
Limonene is one of the most important terpenes produced by Pinene, and it has a unique citrus aroma. Limonene is also found in peppermint, orange, rosemary, and juniper, in addition to cannabis. Limonene is an anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory with potential as a pain reliever. Limonene is highly accessible, with up to 70% inhalation absorption, and it assists in the uptake of other substances applied topically or absorbed through mucous membranes or the digestive tract. Limonene is an antidepressant and anxiolytic, which means it can aid with stress and anxiety as well as gastrointestinal problems like reflux or heartburn. Limonene is antibacterial and antifungal, like many other terpenes.
Benefits: Antidepressant, Anti-Anxiety, Antifungal
Effects: Elevated Mood, Stress Relief
Linalool
Linalool is a terpene with a flowery aroma that can be found in lavender, lemon, coriander, black pepper, birch, and rosewood, among other things. It aids in the reduction of stress and anxiety as well as the improvement of sleep. It has been demonstrated in studies to help relieve pain and inflammation, as well as act as a local anaesthetic. Linalool is utilised as an anticonvulsant, anti-epileptic, and antidepressant in some cases.
Benefits: Improved Sleep, Antidepressant, Anti-Anxiety, Pain Relief,
Effects: Calming, Stress Relief
Humulene
With the same chemical formula but a slightly different structure, Humulene is quite similar to Caryophyllene. Humulene can be present in a variety of plants, including hops and cannabis, as well as basil, coriander, and clove. It has a spicy, woodsy, or earthy aroma that is similar to beer’s “hoppy” aroma. In contrary to the popular belief that cannabis increases appetite, Humulene appears to reduce hunger on its own. Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of humulene.
Benefits: Anti-Inflammatory, Antibacterial, Pain Relief
Effects: Suppresses Appetite
Terpineol
It has been demonstrated in animal experiments that terpineol can produce relaxation and pain reduction. According to research, it can also help to lessen morphine tolerance and the withdrawal symptoms of morphine dependence. Terpineol may have synergistic therapeutic effects with CBD and Caryophyllene in the treatment of substance abuse disorders.
Benefits:Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory,
Effects: Sedating, Calming
