How the Different Type of Cannabis Terpenes Work?
People are well aware of cannabinoids CBD and THC present in the cannabis plant. These days, terpenes are the new catchphrase grabbing attention. What are terpenes?
Terpenes are secreted in trichomes, which produces fragrance but there are terpenoids with complex chemical structures and are believed to be a precursor to terpenes. Terpenes and terpenoids are interchangeable words used. During curing and drying, the terpenoids transform.
In simple words, the terpene is a compound that gives orange its citrus flavor, pine trees its unique aroma. In lavender, they are responsible for triggering the relaxing effect. You can say, terpenes determine how natural stuff smells.
Until now it was believed that cannabinoids caused the healing. Nonetheless, the researchers discovered that cannabis terpenes also play a huge role. Both terpenes and cannabinoids work synergistically to provide the entourage effect.
This means the whole plant works together to produce the entourage effect and not a couple of compounds. Terpenes are capable to downplay or intensify the effect of the cannabinoid.
There is a maximum of 20,000 different types of terpenes and the cannabis plant has 100+ of them. The majority of terpenes produced in the cannabis plant are also found somewhere else in nature. In a cannabis plant, there are two to three terpenes, which are in high concentrations.
List of popular terpenes found in the cannabis plant
Mycerene
It is the primary terpene present in the cannabis plant. You can also find it in mangoes. Some plants have 65% of mycerene listed on their terpene profile. Mycerene’s presence determines if the specific strain is an Indica or Sativa. Cannabis plants having more than 0.5% mycerene are considered as Indica. It gives weeds its distinctive smell. It even has anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties.
Limonene
Its citrusy scent cannot be missed. You cannot miss the fragrance of oranges, lemons, and other citrus varieties in cannabis strains having an abundance of limonene terpene. It has anti-anxiety, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties. Due to its citrusy aroma, limonene is applied in many deodorants and industrial cleaning products.
Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is found in cloves, cinnamon, pepper, and oregano. So, marijuana with high caryophyllene terpene releases a spicy and peppery aroma. It has many therapeutic effects like reducing anxiety and depression symptoms.
Linalool
The floral and spicy aromas together are because of Linalool terpene. You can experience linalool in lavender and coriander. Linalool has great anti-anxiety, immune-boosting, and anti-inflammatory effects. It even helps to reduce pain.
Therefore, the next time you select a strain to ensure to consider terpenes besides THC and CBD to enjoy an entourage effect!
Pinene
Pinene is commonly found in rosemary, basil, dill, and pine needles. It curbs the THC-induced temporary memory loss, enhances focus, and opens lung airways. It is used as an anti-inflammatory and anti-septic agent in herbal medicines.
Comments are closed.