Cannabis terpenes are the fragrant oils that give cannabis plants their distinct aromas. Terpenes help our bodies better absorb and use the healing effects of cannabinoids. Terpenes also affect or mitigate the effects of cannabinoids including THC.
Terpenes play a significant role in the same way as cannabinoids
Cannabis terpenes and cannabinoids are a pair that work together to bring us the full effect of cannabis strains. The majority of terpenes come from plant matter, such as the rinds of citrus or pine needles. Although essential oils can be employed for aromatherapy, they aren’t common. Terpenes can also come from insects or animals.
They are typically made from the plant substance. There are over 200 terpenes in cannabis plants which give rise to distinctive flavors and smells. Terpenes are the main reason behind the scents of lavender and lemon. Terpenes serve as a plant’s primary defense mechanism, and they are used as food additives for a long time to improve the taste of various foods.
Cannabis terpenes do more than provide the aroma and flavor of cannabis, they also possess therapeutic effects. Experts believe that terpenes are responsible for many of the unique features of cannabis. They’ve been proven to have beneficial effects on migraines, stress, inflammation, mood swings, as well as other illnesses.
Terpenes are akin to cannabinoids and bind to receptors in our brains and the body. They regulate mood eating patterns, memory sleep patterns, and other functions. Terpenes when combined with cannabinoids, can boost the healing effects of cannabis and lessen the adverse effects.
The chemical compounds in these are working together to improve your medical marijuana experience. They also produce longer-lasting, stronger relief. Different combinations of cannabis can affect patients differently. While a CBD-rich cannabis strain may not trigger psychoactive effects but it’s hard to assess the impact of terpenes on patients.
The most popular cannabis terpenes as well as their benefits
1. Alpha-pinene: This is a primary terpene in pine needles and sage . It offers a distinct fresh evergreen flavor. It’s also found in dill, rosemary, parsley and basil. In most cannabis strains, alpha-pinene occurs in low concentrations, but it’s been observed that strains that have higher levels of alpha-pinene are associated with better memory and concentration.
2. Beta-myrcene is a terpene that helps to create the aromas of hops and thyme. It could also be an anti-inflammatory. Myrcene can also be found in lemongrass, mangoes and Thyme. It’s thought that the myrcene’s sedative qualities could assist with sleeplessness or restless leg syndrome.
3. Limonene Lemongrass, peppermint, rosemary, and cannabis all have significant amounts of Limonene. It produces a distinct lemon aroma that also contains anticancer and antidepressant properties.
4. Linalool: This terpene can be present in lavender, mint, coriander, birch trees and rosewood. It is effective in treating anxiety and depression and has a relaxing effects. People report feeling sedated when using cannabis strains that contain the highest levels of Linalool.
5. Caryophyllene is the sole terpene able to bind to cannabinoid receptors. It’s the ingredient that gives clove its distinctive aroma. Caryophyllene, in addition giving a spicy taste to a strain of cannabis is also believed to be an anti-inflammatory. It can also help in the treatment of anxiety.
To learn more, click cooking with terpenes