What Are Cannabis Terpenes, And Why Should You Care?

Cannabis Terpenes are the smell , flavor and healing properties

Cannabis has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for centuries, but have you ever stopped to consider the components that make up this powerful plant? While cannabinoids like THC and CBD get a lot of attention, cannabis terpenes are actually just as important. Read on to learn about the vital role these compounds play in delivering the full therapeutic potential of cannabis.

In particular, we'll look at:

Introduction to Cannabis Terpenes

Cannabis terpenes are essential oils that give the plant its unique smell and flavor. These compounds are also responsible for the therapeutic effects of cannabis. There are over 100 different terpenes in cannabis, each with its own unique aroma and benefits.

The most common terpenes in cannabis are myrcene, limonene, linalool, and pinene. Myrcene is responsible for the earthy, musky aroma of cannabis and is also a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Limonene is a citrusy-smelling compound that has been shown to boost mood and energy levels. Linalool is a floral-smelling compound that has sedative effects and is often used to treat anxiety and insomnia. Pinene is a pine-scented compound that acts as a bronchodilator and can improve airflow to the lungs.

Cannabis terpenes work synergistically with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to produce different effects. For example, myrcene has been shown to increase the potency of THC, while pinene can counteract some of the psychoactive effects of THC. Terpenes also play an important role in the entourage effect, which is the term used to describe how cannabinoids and terpenes work together to produce different effects than either compound would on its own.

What Are Cannabis Terpenes?

Cannabis terpenes are a group of volatile organic compounds that are produced by the cannabis plant. These terpenes are responsible for the plant's distinct aroma and flavor, and they also play a role in the plant's therapeutic effects.

There are over 100 different terpenes that have been identified in the cannabis plant, and each one has its own unique aroma and flavor profile. Myrcene, for example, is a musky-smelling terpene that is found in high concentrations in indica strains of cannabis. Limonene, on the other hand, is a citrusy-smelling terpene that is commonly found in sativa strains.

In addition to contributing to the aroma and flavor of cannabis, research suggests that certain terpenes may also enhance the plant's therapeutic effects. For example, myrcene has been shown to increase the permeability of cell membranes, which allows for more efficient absorption of cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Limonene, meanwhile, has been shown to possess mood-elevating properties.

So why should you care about cannabis terpenes? Because they play a big role in determining the aroma, flavor, and therapeutic effects of your favorite cannabis strains! Next time you're at your local dispensary, be sure to ask your budtender about the different types of terpenes that are present in their selection of cannabis products.

The Benefits of Cannabis Terpenes

The benefits of cannabis terpenes are numerous and wide-ranging. They can provide relief from anxiety and depression, help to improve focus and concentration, and even promote better sleep. Additionally, terpenes can assist in pain management and have anti-inflammatory properties. And last but not least, cannabis terpenes can make the experience of using cannabis more pleasant by providing a variety of pleasing aromas.

Different Types of Cannabis Terpenes

There are dozens of different types of cannabis terpenes, each with their own unique aroma and flavor. While some terpenes are more common than others, all of them contribute to the overall taste and smell of cannabis. Here are a few of the most common cannabis terpenes:

Myrcene

• Myrcene: Myrcene is the most common terpene in cannabis and is responsible for its earthy, musky aroma. It's also found in other plants such as lemongrass, hops, and thyme.
  • Medical properties ¹Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344–1364. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/: It's believed to have sedative effects and is often associated with relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties. It may also be beneficial in pain relief.
    • Analgesic: Some research indicates that myrcene may have pain-relieving or analgesic properties.
    • Anti-inflammatory: Like many terpenes, myrcene has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in some studies.
    • Sedative: Myrcene is often associated with the “couch-lock” effect of some cannabis strains, which leads to heavy sedation and relaxation. Some studies suggest it might have sedative and muscle-relaxing effects, which could help with conditions like insomnia or chronic muscle tension.
    • Antioxidant: Myrcene has been found to have antioxidant properties in some research, which means it might help combat oxidative stress in the body.
    • Antimicrobial and Antifungal: Preliminary research indicates that myrcene might have antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which could be beneficial in fighting off certain infections.
    • Anticancer: Some research suggests that myrcene might have anticancer properties, although this is an area that needs further investigation.

Limonene

• Limonene: Limonene is a citrusy terpene that's also found in fruits like lemons and oranges. It's one of the most popular terpenes in cannabis due to its refreshing smell.
  • Medical properties: ²Study on Anticancer Activity of Limonene”https://www.longdom.org/open-access/anticancer-activity-of-limonene-against-human-and-rodent-cells-oxygenated-monoterpenes-are-promising-anticancer-drugs-40934.html: It's reputed for potential therapeutic benefits like stress relief, mood elevation, and anti-inflammatory effects. Some studies suggest limonene may have anti-cancer properties.
    • Anti-inflammatory: Some studies suggest limonene may have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially helping with conditions like arthritis and asthma.
    • Antioxidant: Limonene might function as an antioxidant, which can help protect the body's cells from damage.
    • Anticancer: Preliminary research suggests that limonene may have anti-cancer properties and could inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells.
    • Anti-anxiety: Limonene may also have anti-anxiety and stress-relieving properties.
    • Antimicrobial: Limonene might help fight bacterial and fungal infections.
    • Gastroprotective: Some studies suggest limonene might have a protective effect on the gastrointestinal system and could potentially help with conditions like heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
    • Immune system modulation: Some research suggests limonene may have immunomodulatory properties, helping to regulate the immune system.

Pinene

• Pinene: Pinene is a pine-scented terpene that's also found in rosemary, basil, and parsley. It's often used in aromatherapy due to its calming effects.
  • Medical Properties ³Study on Alpha-Pinene's Effects on Human Enzyme Activity https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S075333221937607X:
    • Anti-inflammatory: Some research suggests that pinene has anti-inflammatory properties which could help in conditions such as arthritis, Crohn's disease, and multiple sclerosis.
    • Bronchodilator: Pinene might help improve airflow to the lungs, potentially beneficial to individuals with asthma and other respiratory disorders.
    • Antimicrobial: Like many terpenes, pinene has been found to have antimicrobial effects which could help fight infections.
    • Analgesic: Some studies suggest that pinene could provide pain relief, acting as an analgesic.
    • Neuroprotective and memory-enhancing: Early research shows that pinene might have neuroprotective effects and could counteract memory deficits associated with THC, a key psychoactive ingredient in cannabis.
    • Anti-anxiety: Pinene, along with other terpenes, might contribute to the stress and anxiety-relieving effects of certain cannabis strains.
    • Anticancer: Some preliminary studies indicate that pinene might have anticancer properties, although this area of research is still quite new and more studies are needed.

Linalool

• Linalool: Linalool is a floral terpene with a lavender-like aroma. It's also found in other herbs like coriander and cardamom.
  • Medical properties ⁴Study on Linalool's Effects on Alzheimer's Disease” https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0028390815302136: It is studied for potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It may also provide benefits for individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
    • Anti-anxiety and Sedative: Linalool has been studied for its potential calming effects on the nervous system. It may have sedative properties and could potentially help with anxiety and stress-related disorders.
    • Anticonvulsant: Some research suggests linalool may have anticonvulsant properties, potentially making it useful in conditions like epilepsy.
    • Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory: Linalool might have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects, which could be helpful in conditions like arthritis.
    • Antidepressant: Some studies suggest linalool could have antidepressant-like effects, potentially by modulating neurotransmitter systems.
    • Antimicrobial: Linalool has demonstrated antimicrobial activity against various bacteria and fungi.
    • Neuroprotective: Preliminary research indicates linalool might have neuroprotective properties, potentially beneficial in neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

How to Find the Right Terpene Profile for You

There are dozens of different terpenes found in cannabis, and each one has its own set of benefits and effects. To narrow down your options, start by thinking about what you want to use cannabis for.

Always start with the end in mind – what do you want to use cannabis for?

i.e. relaxation – pain – focus

Are you looking for something that will help you relax? Ease pain or inflammation? Help you focus or increase your energy? Once you have an idea of what you're looking for, look for strains with terpenes that match your desired effect.

Once you know your desired effect, look for strains that can help.

For example, if you're looking for something to help with anxiety, look for strains high in linalool or myrcene. If pain relief is your goal, try a strain with high levels of Caryophyllene or Limonene. And if you're just looking to have some fun and increase your energy levels, search for strains high in Pinene or Humulene.

Cannabis terpenes: The bottom line

Cannabis terpenes are aromatic compounds that give each strain of cannabis its unique flavor and aroma. They also play an important role in the effects you experience when consuming cannabis, as they interact with cannabinoids to produce a more nuanced and refined high. Terpenes can be used to customize your cannabis experience and tailor it to meet your desired outcome, so understanding what they are and why they matter is essential if you want to make the most out of every puff. By familiarizing yourself with terpenes, you can take control of your cannabis experience.

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Sources and References

• 1
  Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344–1364. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/:
• 2
  Study on Anticancer Activity of Limonene”https://www.longdom.org/open-access/anticancer-activity-of-limonene-against-human-and-rodent-cells-oxygenated-monoterpenes-are-promising-anticancer-drugs-40934.html:
• 3
  Study on Alpha-Pinene's Effects on Human Enzyme Activity https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S075333221937607X
• 4
  Study on Linalool's Effects on Alzheimer's Disease” https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0028390815302136