Terpenes are a large and diverse class of organic compounds secreted in plants’ essential oils. They are responsible for the characteristic aroma of many flowers, herbs, and trees.
Terpenes have been studied for well over a century due to their unique properties and potential medical applications. Cannabis is one of the most popular plants used to extract terpene-rich essential oils. The distinctive aroma of cannabis comes from its high concentration of terpene molecules.
Cannabis contains over 200 known terpenes, each with its own distinct chemical composition and therapeutic effects on the body.
These compounds are believed to interact with other cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, to produce synergistic effects within the body’s endocannabinoid system. This is known as the “Entourage Effect” and has been studied extensively in recent years.
Cannabis terpenes have become increasingly popular due to their potential therapeutic benefits. Recent research suggests that some terpenes may possess anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, and anxiolytic properties.
These compounds are also believed to play an essential role in modulating the psychoactive effects of THC and other cannabinoids. Additionally, cannabis terpenes may possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer properties.
By understanding the unique properties of cannabis terpenes, we can gain a better insight into how these compounds interact with our bodies to produce therapeutic effects. This knowledge could be used to develop new and effective treatments for various medical conditions.
Additionally, further research into cannabis terpenes may provide valuable insight into the full therapeutic potential of cannabis-based products.
History and Discovery of Terpene Chemistry
In the 1880s Otto Wallach surveyed such substances and developed methods for extracting different terpenes from mixtures. He showed that many substances were mixtures of a small number of terpenes and that terpenes can easily be altered and change into each other. Wallach’s work became significant within the chemical industry, where essential oils are used in perfume and food. Subsequently, many other scientists studied terpenes, and their chemical structures were elucidated over time.
Since then, numerous studies have been conducted on cannabis terpenes and their effects. Today, these compounds are being used in medical treatments worldwide and are products that consumers use to improve their health and well-being. As research continues into cannabis terpenes, we can expect even more exciting discoveries and applications of these powerful natural substances.
Nature’s Relationship with Terpenes
Terpenes occur naturally in a wide variety of plants, including conifers, herbs, shrubs, and flowers. They can also be found in certain fruits and vegetables, such as oranges and tomatoes. In addition to giving plants their characteristic smell, terpenes play an essential role in protecting them from pests and predators by deterring or repelling harmful insects and animals.
Terpenes also interact with plants and animals in other ways. For example, they can be energy sources for certain insects, such as bees and butterflies. They can also act as attractants to beneficial pollinators or predators that may help improve the health of nearby plants.
Additionally, terpenes have been shown to serve an important role in protecting plants from environmental stressors such as ultraviolet radiation and drought.
The biological role of terpenes remains unknown mainly due to the complexity of their interactions with organisms in nature. However, some theories have been proposed to explain their function in the natural world.
One hypothesis is that terpenes play a role in communicating between different species and allowing them to cooperate more effectively. Another theory is that terpenes act as signal molecules, conveying important information to other organisms about the state of their environment.
What are the Benefits of Terpenes for Humans?
Cannabis terpenes possess a wide range of therapeutic benefits that may be beneficial for humans in both the short term and long-term.
For example, some studies suggest that certain terpenes may have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation associated with chronic diseases such as arthritis and asthma. Other studies suggest that some terpenes may improve mood and reduce anxiety, while still, others have the potential to act as natural painkillers.
When humans consume cannabis terpenes, they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system in a variety of ways.
Studies suggest that terpenes can modulate the effects of other cannabinoids like THC and CBD, resulting in increased therapeutic benefits. For example, linalool has been shown to reduce anxiety levels when consumed along with THC, while pinene may help improve short-term memory when taken with CBD.
In addition to these therapeutic benefits, cannabis terpenes may also be used in medical treatments due to their ability to interact with other cannabinoids.
This process is known as the “entourage effect,” it occurs when two or more compounds work together synergistically within the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce a desired effect that wouldn’t be possible on its own. This type of interaction has been studied extensively in recent years and has led to many breakthroughs in medical treatments.
Furthermore, further research into cannabis terpenes could lead to new and effective treatments for various medical conditions.
Popular Terpenes
Myrcene is a monoterpene found in hops, lemongrass, mangoes and cannabis. It has an earthy smell and can be used as a synthetic additive to foods. Studies have shown it has anti-inflammatory properties with the potential to reduce inflammation in human cartilage-producing cells. It may also help with pain relief and act as an antioxidant. Myrcene is one of the two most prominent terpenes in cannabis, the other being caryophyllene, meaning most cultivars on the market are dominant in one or both.
Pinene is another commonly expressed terpenes found in pine trees, and other conifers. There are two main types of pinene, alpha and beta, but alpha pinene is more abundant in cannabis. It boasts anti-inflammatory benefits and may offer ulcer prevention as well as improved airflow to the lungs. Pinene is one of the most commonly expressed terpenes in all of nature.
Caryophyllene, also known as beta-caryophyllene or β-caryophyllene, is a sesquiterpene found in cinnamon, basil, breakfast mint, coriander, chestnut, sage, cubeb pepper and more. If you catch any of these scents when you smell a certain cannabis cultivar, it’s likely because caryophyllene is present. It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and acts on the cannabinoid receptors to provide pain relief.
Limonene is a monoterpene found in almost all citrus fruits. Studies suggest it may be effective for treating skin issues or as a pesticide for fleas and ticks. Limonene is frequently used in a wide variety of natural products, such as fragrances and cleaning supplies, leading some cultivars to be named after and described as smelling like cleaners.
Terpinolene is another monoterpene with a pleasant piney herbal-citrus aroma. It can be found in cumin, cardamom, tea tree, oregano and apples while boasting potential benefits such as sedation and antioxidant activity. Terpinolene is currently found in cannabis plants in small, trace amounts. It’s also worth noting that Terpinolene-rich plants tend to have a high THC content and are often classified as “sativas.”
By understanding the unique properties of these compounds and their interactions with other cannabinoids, we may gain insight into how they can be used to treat a wide range of ailments. Additionally, further research could lead to more precise ways to control doses and delivery mechanisms for cannabis-based treatments.
In conclusion, understanding cannabis terpenes is essential for unlocking the full potential of these fantastic natural compounds. With further research into the biological role of these substances and how they interact with our bodies, we may soon discover more effective ways to use them as a source of relief for various ailments. By doing so, we can help improve the lives of countless people worldwide.
Enjoyed that first hit? Come chill with us every week at the Friday Sesh for a freshly packed bowl of the week’s best cannabis new
