Cannabis terpenes are the fragrant oils that give cannabis strains their distinct scents. Terpenes aid our bodies to absorb and use cannabinoids beneficial effects. Terpenes are also able to affect or mitigate the effects of cannabinoids like THC.
Why terpenes matter as much than cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids and cannabis terpenes combine to provide the maximum effect of cannabis strains. Terpenes are mainly extracted from plant materials like pine needles and citrus rinds. Essential oils for aromatherapy can be used, however, they aren’t very common. Terpenes are also sourced from animals , or even from insects.
They are typically extracted from the plant substance. There are over 200 terpenes within cannabis plants that produce distinct tastes and odors. Terpenes are the main reason behind the scents of lavender and lemon. Terpenes are plants’ natural defense mechanism and have been utilized for centuries as food additives to enhance the flavor of many food items.
The taste and smell of cannabis terpenes aren’t just important, they also have medicinal properties. Researchers believe that terpenes may be responsible for many of the distinctive traits of a particular strain. They’ve been proven to benefit migraines, stress, inflammation, mood swings, and other ailments.
Terpenes are akin to cannabinoids and bind to receptors within our brains and the body. They control mood as well as memory patterns, hunger and sleep patterns, among other functions. Terpenes, when combined with cannabinoids may enhance the healing effects of cannabis and can reduce side effects.
These chemical compounds function in synergy to enhance your medicinal marijuana experience and produce stronger long-lasting relief. Different combinations of cannabis can have different effects on patients. A product high in CBD could not possess any psychoactive effects, however it’s hard to determine how specific terpenes will affect the patient.
Most common cannabis terpenes and their benefits
1. Alpha-pinene is a terpene that is that is found in pine needles, sage and has a distinct evergreen smell. It is also present in rosemary, basil as well as dill, parsley and dill. In all cannabis strains alpha-pinene is found in very low concentrations, but it’s been found that strains with elevated levels of alpha-pinene were associated with improved memory and focus.
2. Beta-myrcene is a terpene that can be found in hops and thyme’s aromas. It can also be an anti-inflammatory. Myrcene is also present in mangoes and lemongrass and thyme. It is believed that the myrcene’s sedative qualities could assist with sleeplessness or restless leg syndrome.
3. Limonene is found in high amounts in lemongrass, peppermint and rosemary, in addition to cannabis. It gives off a distinctive lemon aroma that is antidepressant and anticancer properties.
4. Linalool: This terpene can be found in mint, lavender, coriander, birch trees and rosewood. Linalool is a good ingredient for treatment of depression and anxiety, and can have tranquilizing effects. Many people report sedation when using cannabis strains with high levels of linalool.
5. Caryophyllene is the only terpene that binds to cannabinoid receptors and is also the reason that gives clove its distinctive scent. In addition to bringing a spicy element to a strain, caryophyllene is thought to be anti-inflammatory, and effective in combating anxiety.
To learn more, click can terpenes be used for cooking