Cannabis Terpenes: What They Are and How They Work

While many people refer and look to the CBD and THC content of Cannabis, Terpenes and their effects are often overlooked. So, let’s dive in and get better acquainted with these essential Cannabis compounds.

What Are Terpenes?

Generally speaking, Terpenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons found in plants’ essential oils, giving them their unique scents and fragrances. Cannabis Terpenes, therefore, produce the different aromas and flavors of the various strains and are found in the resin glands of the cannabis plant. In addition, Terpenes play a vital role in how your body interacts with and reacts to the other compounds in cannabis, like THC and CBD.

How Do Terpenes Work?

Studies show that Cannabis Terpenes aid in how THC, CBD, and other Cannabinoids interact with the Endocannabinoid System of the human body. For example, research indicates that Terpenes help bind THC more effectively to CB1 receptors, showing that Terpenes give Cannabinoids a little extra help.

However, cannabis produces over 100 different Terpenes, and each works differently when combined with the other cannabinoids in the individual strains. As a result, each strain produces a different effect for users. For instance, some Cannabis Terpenes have more physiological effects, while others may affect a user cerebrally. In this case, it becomes essential for cannabis users to understand the different types of Terpenes and the impact they have when visiting our cannabis dispensary in Portland and making a purchase.

 

How Do Terpenes Interact with the Human Body?

Different Marijuana Terpenes help produce different results in the body. The theory here is that the Terpene profile or dominant Terpenes in a strain work with the cannabinoid content (CBD, THC, and others) to give rise to specific effects associated with that strain. Further, individual combinations of cannabinoids and Terpenes provide different results. For example, some cannabis strains have more therapeutic effects, while others work better to help chronic pain.

How Do They Compare to THC and CBD?

The cannabis plant produces over 113 cannabinoids. However, CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the most abundant of these. The primary differences between THC and CBD are that one (THC) is psychoactive and will get you high, while the other (CBD) will not.

The cannabis plant also creates over 100 Terpenes. However, it is essential to note that Terpenes and Cannabinoids are two different compounds.

However, these two compounds interact to produce the effects and sensations of cannabis. But, the body uses and absorbs these two compounds differently. For example, cannabis extract has proven to be more effective in treating pain than pure THC on its own.

As a result, when choosing the types of CBD you want, if a standalone CBD product doesn’t offer the desired effects, we suggest using a full-spectrum Terpenes CBD.

What are the Different Types Of Terpenes And Their Effects

While there are over 100 Cannabis Terpenes and various other Terpenes found in natural vegetation, scientists have only studied a few in close detail. So, let’s look at these Terpenes and their effects:

Myrcene

Myrcene, a monoterpene, has musky, earthy aromatic compounds similar to cloves and is frequently found in Marijuana, lemongrass, eucalyptus, thyme, and citrus fruits. One of the more notable effects of Myrcene is that it speeds up the action of THC and offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Pinene

Another Marijuana Terpenes that offers anti-inflammatory properties is Pinene. This compound carries a fresh, bright scent associated with pine trees, rosemary, and basil. In addition to acting as an anti-inflammatory agent, Pinene works well as a bronchodilator.

 

Limonene

As the name suggests, this Cannabis Terpene takes on a citrusy fragrance and gives orange and lemon rinds their scent. Scientists regard Limonene for its ability to modulate the behavior of specific immune cells, protecting the body from various disorders. Additionally, Limonene offers several therapeutic properties, including antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antidiabetic.

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is found in cannabis, lavender, black pepper, and cloves. This Cannabis Terpene boosts the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD and is known to assist in long-term pain management.

Linalool

Linalool is most commonly found in lavender, and this Terpene gives the plant its strong “lavender” scent. Known for its calming properties, Linalool is often used in aromatherapy products. However, Terpene offers various other properties, including neuroprotective, anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, antimicrobial, and anticancer.

Humulene

Although found in ginger and cloves, Humulene is a key Terpene in Hops. Studies on Terpenes show that some, including Humulene, may assist in preventing asthma and allergic reactions.

Terpinolene

This Cannabis Terpene is noted for its fruity notes and is also found in nutmeg, tea tree, lilacs, and cumin. It is often used to fragrance soap bars and shower gels, and it is associated with alleviating anxiety and uplifting spirits.

The Entourage Effect: How Do Terpenes Work?

Your body absorbs several compounds when you use cannabis. The Entourage Effect is when all the compounds in cannabis, like THC, CBD, and Terpenes, work together to create the desired effect in the person using the product. These compounds also interact to produce the overall effect experienced by a person when using a particular stain. For instance, cannabis high in THC and pain-relief Terpenes like Linalool may be a good choice for someone with chronic pain.

How To Find Terpenes That Are Right For Me

The best way to find the Cannabis Terpenes that suit your needs is to contact our dispensary. Our highly trained team can guide you in finding the right strain and product.