The terpenes in cannabis are the aromatic oils that give cannabis plants their distinct scents. Terpenes aid our bodies to take in and use cannabinoids’ therapeutic effects. Terpenes are also able to alter or reduce the effects of cannabinoids including THC.
Why terpenes matter as much than cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids and cannabis terpenes function together to give you the best effects from every strain of cannabis. Terpenes are mainly extracted from plant material such as the rinds of citrus or pine needles. While essential oils are employed for aromatherapy, they are rare. Terpenes can also come from animals, or insects.
Most of the time, they’re distilled from plant matter. The cannabis plant contains over 200 terpenes which give rise to distinct odors and flavors of a particular strain. The aromas of lavender and lemon smells are derived from terpenes. Terpenes serve as a plant’s primary defense mechanism and are used in food preparation for centuries to improve the taste of many different foods.
Cannabis terpenes not only provide the taste and smell of cannabis but also offer medicinal effects. Researchers believe that terpenes may be responsible for many of the distinctive characteristics of a strain. They’ve been demonstrated to be beneficial in treating migraines, stress, inflammation, mood swings, and many other illnesses.
Terpenes, like cannabinoids bind to receptors within our brains and the body. They regulate mood eating patterns, memory, sleep patterns, and other functions. Terpenes, when paired with cannabinoids may enhance the effects of cannabis for healing and can reduce side effects.
These chemical compounds work together to enhance your medicinal marijuana experience, and to provide more powerful lasting relief. This is why various combinations of cannabinoids may affect patients’ conditions differently. Although a CBD-rich strain might not have psychoactive effects but it’s hard to predict the impact of terpenes on a patient.
The most popular cannabis terpenes, along with their advantages
1. Alpha-pinene is a terpene that is that can be found in pine needles sage and has an intense evergreen aroma. It is also present in rosemary, dill, parsley and basil. Although alpha-pinene can be found in very low amounts in many cannabis strains It has been proven to increase memory and focus when a strain contains higher amounts.
2. Beta-myrcene: This terpene is a contributor to the smell of hops and thyme. It can also act as an anti-inflammatory. Myrcene is also found in lemongrass, mangoes and Thyme. It’s thought that the sedative properties of myrcene may assist with sleeplessness or restless leg syndrome.
3. Limonene is present in significant quantities in peppermint, lemongrass and rosemary, and also in cannabis. It gives off a distinctive lemon aroma that also contains anticancer and antidepressant properties.
4. Linalool: This terpene may be present in lavender, mint coriander, birch trees , and rosewood. It may be effective in treating anxiety and depression and has a relaxing effects. Some people report feeling sluggish when they take cannabis strains that contain large amounts of Linalool.
5. Caryophyllene is the sole terpene that binds to cannabinoid receptors. This is the reason clove has its distinct scent. Caryophyllene, in addition to adding a spicy flavor to a cannabis strain, is also thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. It can also help with anxiety.
To learn more, click can terpenes be used for cooking