Terpenes in cannabis: what are their importance and uses?
(Un)known terpenes
Different terpenes have different health benefits and effects. Each cannabis plant contains a unique blend of terpenes and each person will react differently to them. Terpenes are volatile compounds found in plants and are responsible for their smell. We encounter terpenes every time we smell a flower or taste fresh fruit. They are all around us.
The purpose of terpenes is to protect the plant of which they are a part, while giving it a specific aromatic character. Terpenes are one of the reasons why there is such a wide variety of cannabis plants with different flavours and aromas. Some terpenes are very potent and may even have therapeutic functions.
There are several hundred different terpenes in the world. More than 200 have been identified in cannabis plants alone. Only a handful of terpenes are found in technical cannabis at concentrations that can be considered significant.
Terpenes in CBD oil
To understand the usefulness of the terpenes present in CBD oil, we must first distinguish between terpenes and terpenoids. Terpenes are natural compounds in the flower or bud of the cannabis plant. Terpenoids, on the other hand, are terpenes that have been chemically modified. The process of drying and hardening of the cannabis flower, for example, leads to the formation of terpenoids.
Together they have the power
For example, full-spectrum CBD oil will contain terpenes because the whole hemp plant is used to produce it. Conversely, CBD isolate will not have any because it is pure CBD. Many of the natural components of the plant are lost in the production process, including other cannabinoids and terpenes. To remedy this, some manufacturers add terpenoids, which supposedly enhance the effects of CBD.
Scientists have been studying the properties of terpenes for some time and have come to an important conclusion. Hemp cannabinoids (such as CBD) work more effectively in the presence of terpenes than when isolated alone. Also, each terpene has its own set of benefits. For example, oils high in linalool and myrcene, two terpenes known for their mild relaxing properties, are effective for sleep. CBD oils with terpenes such as limonene and caryophyllene can provide energy and aid in better concentration.
Bisabolol
Bisabolol is found in several herbs besides cannabis, most notably in chamomile. Apart from the anti-inflammatory effects typical of terpenes, it is also used for healing open wounds.
Borneol
Terpene with its strong, earthy scent is known for its analgesic effects and its ability to dilate the bronchial tubes, relax the breath and fight insomnia.
Eucalyptol
Eucalyptol (cineole) makes up about 1% of the peppermint fragrance profile. The terpene has antibacterial, analgesic and antifungal effects, making it a common ingredient in topical preparations.
Phytol
The phytol content of cannabis is quite high, as is that of green tea. It has a 'grassy' aroma and the smell is faint and uninteresting overall. However, it is used as a precursor of vitamins E and K1 and as an anticancer and anticonvulsant (antiepileptic drugs).
Geraniol
Geraniol is not present in large quantities in cannabis, with higher levels in, for example, lemon or tobacco. However, it has similar properties to other terpenes, acting as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic. The smell of fruit and flowers is a nice bonus.
Humulen
Humulen has an earthy aroma strikingly reminiscent of Pu erh tea. Besides the effects that are typical of terpenes, but do not appear in such strength in humulene, it suppresses the feeling of hunger. It is similar in structure to beta-caryophyllene but lacks the function to activate the CB2 receptor. Research suggests that humulene could even stop the growth of cancer cells.
Camphene
Camphene, apart from cannabis, is found in dill or sage. Particularly interesting are recent studies that point to a possible link with lowering triglyceride and cholesterol levels, thereby preventing the onset and development of cardiovascular disease.
Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene, one of the most abundant terpenes ever, is found in cloves, cinnamon and black pepper, as well as in cannabis. It offers a woody, spicy aroma. The most interesting property of this terpene is its ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system in the same way as cannabinoids. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory effects and can act as an analgesic.
Limonen
Limonene is commonly found in the peels of citrus fruits. It is known for its antifungal activity. It can also improve mood, relieve inflammation and anxiety. Adding limonene to CBD oil can increase the absorption rate of other terpenes.
Linalool
Another very common terpene found in cannabis is linalool. This is a compound with a floral and delicate scent that is common to many plant species (including lavender). It has uses in aromatherapy and is effective for sleep and anxiety.
Myrcene
Myrcene terpenes are among the most common terpenes associated with cannabis. They have a rich, earthy, herbal scent. Although it is the smallest terpene in cannabis, it can have strong relaxing effects on the body, leading to feelings of drowsiness. As for its health benefits, myrcene has antibacterial and analgesic properties.
Pinen
Pinenic terpenes are found in pine needles. They are also found in several strains of cannabis. It has a distinct pine aroma and its presence makes it easily recognizable. It has also found use in traditional Chinese medicine for its therapeutic properties. It can be used as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and bronchodilator (bronchodilation).
Terpinolene
In addition to cannabis, this terpene is also found in lilacs and cayenne, for example. It has a strong analgesic effect, acts as a strong sedative and can partially replace antiphlogistics (drugs with anti-inflammatory effects).
Nerolidol
In addition to cannabis, the terpene found in tea tree or jasmine has strong anti-inflammatory, sedative, antimicrobial and pain-relieving effects. It may even find use as an insect repellent.
Valenciennes
This almost unknown terpene, like limonene, is found in citrus fruits and has a pleasant and fresh smell. Its high content can induce euphoria, improve mood and boost cognitive function. At the same time, terpene is added to vaccines to increase the production of antibodies.
Terpenes offer immeasurable therapeutic potential: they may have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour, analgesic, antimicrobial and many other benefits. Their scents are as diverse as their effects. Just take your pick.
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