Terpenes: What Are They?
Our budtender Kiki is starting a new audio series where she’ll talk about cannabis and explain the science, culture, and history behind it. This is the second segment of the series, where she explains terpenes!
Terpenes: An Overview
Science always needs deeper explaining so for terpenes we’ll
need to break it down into two parts.
For this episode the topic, is about the definition of
terpenes and synergies.
Terpenes are oily compounds secreted in the cannabis plant’s
glandular trichomes. They can also be found in different plants, herbs, and
fruits! Those smells and flavors that you are experiencing when you’re
medicating are also known as terpenes, essential oils, or terpenoids! All of
this knowledge is kin to the holistic healing modality where aromatherapy is
used.
Cannabis experts are probably finding more terpenes as we
speak, but there are over 500 terpenes known to scientists, and only a few
hundred of those are known to exist in cannabis. During our research we’ve
found that people who extract fragrances and perfumes know more about terpenes
than cannabis scientists.
Having the right profile is what makes each strains’
entourage effect beneficially unique.
Cannabinoids and terpenes are what differentiate every
cannabis strain.
Terpenes play an instrumental role to the physiological and
psychoactive effects of cannabis.
This is because many terpenes act synergistically with other
varieties of terpenes. Some terpenes either catalyze or inhibit formation of
different compounds within a cannabis plant.
Terpenes and CBD moderate THC’s well known heavy psychoactivity.
It’s the cannabinoid-terpenoid interactions that amplify the
beneficial effects of cannabis while mitigating THC-induced anxiety.
Just imagine knowing and having your favorite cannabis terpene
profile handy to make sure you experience the best entourage effects. It would
save a lot of time and effort.
Next time you purchase some cannabis that you really like,
save the label that reads the terpene profile. We could try and match that in
an any concentrate or vape cartridge. It’s all about a good experience when
medicating so try this tip and become a real cannabis connoisseur!
Listen to part two where we’ll dive into the most common
terpenes and their potential medical benefits.
Terpenes: The Specifics
Remember that terpenes and cannabinoids work together to
boost and regulate the effects of one another in the body’s endocannabinoid system.
These are 14 of the most common terpenes in cannabis:
Bisabolol- the primary component of chamomile and has
recently been shown to induce apoptosis in models of leukemia.
Caryophyllene-β – the only terpene known to interact with the
body’s endocannabinoid system (CB2) . Also found in black pepper
Eucalyptol- Derived from eucalyptus oil, eucalyptol has a
minty, earthy aroma
Geraniol- sometimes known as lemonol, this terpene has a
fruity odor that blends the scent of passionfruit with plums, peaches and
citronella. It is an effective mosquito repellent and shows a potential
protective effect against neuropathy.
Humulene- contributes to the “hoppy” aroma of cannabis. Also
known as alpha-caryophyllene, humulene is a mish-mash of spices and herbs.
Limonene- a dominant terpene in strains with a pronounced sativa
effect. It is also found in the rinds of citrus fruits. Limonene aids in the
absorption of other terpenes through the skin and mucous membranes, and has
been used to treat anxiety and depression.
Linalool- has a floral scent reminiscent of spring flowers,
but with spicy overtones. Has relaxing effects.
Myrcene- Myrcene is also present in thyme, hops, lemongrass,
and citrus, and is used in aromatherapy. Myrcene concentration dictates whether
a strain will have an indica or sativa effect. Strains containing over 0.5% of
myrcene produce a more sedative high, while strains containing less than 0.5%
myrcene have an energizing effect.
Ocimene- gives off levels of herbal/woody/citrus aromas
Pinene- α Pinene accounts for cannabis’ familiar odor, often
associated with pine trees and turpentine. Recent research has shown terpenes
like pinene and other compounds make THC an even more effective cancer killer.
Trans-nerolidol- is found in oranges, lemongrass and tea tree
Terpineol- is known for its pleasant smell of lilacs and is
often used in soaps and perfumes.
Terpinolene- terpinolene is responsible for many of the
flowers, herbs, citrus and pine smells
Valencene- is present in Valencia oranges and contributes to
cannabis’ citrus aroma.
Look out for more segments about cannabis brought to you by
Kiki at Silver State Relief. Let us know what you’d like her to talk about
next. Happy medicating!
Keep out of reach of children. For use of 21 years and older.