What are Terpenes in Cannabis?

Cannabis contains natural chemical compounds such as Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol ((THC)). Terpenes are also one of those compounds present in the trichomes of female cannabis plants. Terpenes are mainly responsible for giving the plant a unique aroma, taste, and flavor. Nearly all plants contain terpenes but aromatic herbs, citrus fruits, pine, lavender, and cannabis plants have a good concentration of terpenes.

What Does Cannabis Do in Cannabis?

With the evolution of the legal cannabis industry and the realization of its potential medical gains, cannabis terpenes also generated a great deal of interest. The distinctive compositions of terpenes in cannabis give this plant a variation in smell, appearance, and effect. However, cannabinoids such as CBD, THC, terpenes, and other compounds in cannabis work synergically to produce the unique cannabis effect commonly referred to as an entourage effect.

How Do Terpenes Affect the body?

Terpenes alone don't get you high but may impact the high feeling created due to THC. Some researchers believe that they slightly change the feeling you get from smoking cannabis. Some terpenes can have a more energetic effect while others give you a relaxing feel.

Health Benefits of Cannabis Terpenes

Cannabis terpenes potentially benefit a few mental health problems such as bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression. Certain types of terpenes also have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Researchers also say that terpenes also improve CBD's therapeutic potential.

Terpenes in Cannabis

There are nearly 400 terpenes discovered in cannabis and some commonly known are as follows;

Myrcene

This terpene is abundantly found in cannabis and has some sedating properties. Other sources of myrcene are lemongrass, parsley, cardamom, and basil. Myrcene is known to be a powerful antioxidant.

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is a terpene type with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Humulene

In some cannabis strains, humulene gives the plant a unique spicy and herbaceous aroma.

Pinene

Pinene is the most abundant terpenes in nature and is found in cannabis, pine trees, and Spanish sage. It has anxiety-reducing and anti-cancerous properties.

Linalool

Also found in lavender, Linalool gives the plant a fragrance. Studies Suggest that linalool has mood-stabilizing properties.

Limonene

Limonene is found in lemon rind, citrus fruits, and cannabis. There is research evidence that it has anti-inflammatory, anti-cancerous, antibacterial, and wound-healing properties.