Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic oils from the glands of plants, including cannabis plants. Terpenes are produced along with THC, CBD and other cannabinoids. Each cannabis strain has a unique terpene composition that can produce a variety of aromas and flavors. Referred to as the entourage effect, terpenes amplify the benefits of cannabinoids. The combination of terpenes and cannabinoids creates the strain specific effects and influences. Terpenes are thought to have their own medicinal properties, which is why other plants high in certain terpenes are used for pain relief, insomnia, and mood elevation.
A sweet, floral scent that is best known for the pleasant aroma it gives to lavender plants. Known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, linalool is found in flowering plants, herbs and spices such as mint, cinnamon and clove.
Potential effects: mood enhancement, sedation.
Potential Remedial Benefits: treatment of insomnia, pain, inflammation, anxiety, depression
One of the most common terpenes found in cannabis, Myrcene smells herbal, earthy, and musky, similar to cloves, hops, and mangos. This terpene also enhances the bioavailability of cannabinoids. Higher concentrations of myrcene are often found in indica or indica-dominant hybrid strains. It occurs naturally in lemongrass, mangos, and thyme.
Potential effects: sedating, relaxing
Potential Remedial Benefits: antioxidant, pain, inflammation, insomnia
Smells like oranges and is found in many citrus plants. It is helpful in the absorption of cannabinoids through the skin, mucous membranes, and digestive tract. Limonene is also found in lemons and rosemary. Research into using this terpene to treat diabetes and cancer has begun and has shown positive results.
Potential effects: stress relief, elevated mood
Potential Remedial Benefits: depression, pain, anxiety, inflammation
This terpene has a sharp, sweet odor of pine trees and is the most common terpene in the natural world. Pinene is also found in pine needles, rosemary, and basil. It has been shown to be a bronchodilator, increasing airflow to the lungs.
Potential effects: alertness, memory
Potential Remedial Benefits: pain, anxiety, inflammation, ulcers
There are over 100 terpenes found in the cannabis plant. Terpenes like Caryophyllene, Ocimene, Eucalyptol, Humulene, Nerolidol, Terpinolene, and so many others.