Cannabis terpenes are the fragrant oils that give cannabis plants their distinct scents. Terpenes help our bodies better absorb and use the beneficial effects of cannabinoids. They also moderate or alter some of the effects of cannabinoids, like THC.
Terpenes are as important like cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids and cannabis terpenes collaborate to give you the best benefit from all varieties of cannabis. Terpenes typically are extracted from plant matter such as citrus rinds and pine needles. Essential oils that can be used for aromatherapy could be used, but they aren’t common. Terpenes can also be derived from insects, animals, or even animals.
Most of the time, they’re distilled from plant matter. There are over 200 terpenes found in cannabis plants that give rise to distinct aromas and tastes. The scents of lavender and lemon are due to terpenes. Terpenes help plants to function as their natural defense mechanism and have been used as food additives for many years to enhance the flavor of many different foods.
Terpenes from cannabis not only provide the scent and flavor of cannabis, they also possess beneficial effects. Researchers believe that terpenes may be responsible for a variety of distinctive characteristics of the cannabis strain. They’ve been proven to have positive effects on migraines, stress, inflammation, mood swings and other illnesses.
Much like cannabinoids and terpenes, they bind to receptors within our brains and bodies that control mood memories, sleep patterns appetite, and other. Terpenes when combined with cannabinoids may enhance the healing effects of cannabis and lessen the adverse effects.
These chemical compounds work together to enhance your medical marijuana experience. They also provide stronger, more lasting relief. Different combinations of cannabinoids may affect patients differently. A plant that is rich in CBD may not produce any psychoactive effects, however it’s difficult to know the effects of specific terpenes on patients.
Most common cannabis terpenes and their benefits
1. Alpha-pinene is the primary terpene that is found in pine needles, sage and has a distinct evergreen scent. It is also present in rosemary, basil and dill as well as parsley. In the majority of cannabis strains alpha-pinene occurs in low concentrations, but it’s been noted that strains that contain higher levels of alpha-pinene are associated with better memory and concentration.
2. Beta-myrcene, a terpene, can be found in hops and thyme’s aromas. It can also be anti-inflammatory. Myrcene is also present in lemongrass, mangoes, and Thyme. The sedative properties of Myrcene could be helpful in restless leg syndrome and insomnia.
3. Limonene Lemongrass Peppermint, lemongrass, and cannabis all contain high levels of the chemical limonene. It has a distinct lemony scent, and also has antidepressant and anticancer properties.
4. Linalool: Linalool is found in lavender, mint, coriander, birch trees and rosewood. It could be helpful in treating depression and anxiety and has a relaxing effects. Some people report feeling sluggish when they use cannabis strains with large amounts of Linalool.
5. Caryophyllene is the only terpene known to bind to cannabinoid receptors. It’s the ingredient that gives clove its distinctive aroma. Caryophyllene in addition to adding a spicy flavor to the cannabis plant is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. It is also believed to help with anxiety.
To learn more, click tips for cooking with cannabis terpenes