When shopping for CBD, you may have come across products that contain an ingredient called “terpenes”. If you’re unfamiliar with what terpenes are or how they can benefit you, this guide will provide a clear understanding of cannabis terpenes and explain why they are added into CBD products.
What Are Cannabis Terpenes?
In simplest terms, terpenes are aromatic molecules found in most fruits, plants, and herbs, including cannabis.
In cannabis, terpenes are produced in its sticky resin glands and are responsible for the variety unique aromas secreted by the plant. If you love the dank smell of Sour Diesel or that sweet aroma of Jack Herer, you have cannabis terpenes to thank.
The Entourage Effect: The Power of Combining CBD with Cannabis Terpenes
Aside from providing cannabis strains with their distinct natural aromas, terpenes also provide a wide range of therapeutic benefits. When cannabinoids like CBD and terpenes interact with the body, they work synergistically to deliver what is known as the “Entourage Effect.”
This phenomenon occurs when multiple cannabis compounds work together to deliver a stronger influence on the body than any individual compound could alone.
Because of the Entourage Effect, CBD products that contain terpenes have the potential to deliver enhanced therapeutic benefits.
Now that you understand the value of terpenes, here are the properties of the 11 primary cannabis terpenes.
11_cannabis_terpenes_and_their_benefits11 Cannabis Terpenes You Should Know
1. Pinene
Pinene is one of the more common terpenes and can be identified with the traditional pine smell. While its pleasant pine aroma can stimulate a better mood, research has also found Pinene to be anti-inflammatory and a bronchodilator.
2. Linalool
Linalool is a floral-scented with a hint of spice that many know and love. Because of its unique aroma, Linalool acts as a sedative and can be used to relief stress and anxiety.
3. Myrcene
Myrcene is another very common terpene and can be found in most strains of cannabis. While most strains do contain Myrcene, each varies in concentrations levels. In higher concentrations, Myrcene’s musky earth aroma can provide sedative effects, lower concentrations can provide an almost energizing effect.
4. Limonene
Limonene is a commonly found in Sativa strains of Cannabis as well as in the skin of many citrus fruits. Limonene is easily distinguished by its wonderful citrus aroma that can provide an elevated mood, heightened senses, and can help relieve stress and anxiety.
5. Ocimene
Ocimene is a sweet and earthy citrus-scented terpene that is found in various cannabis strains, as well as lavender, bergamot, and hops. Its unique compound structure allows Ocimene to contain anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Terpinolene
Terpinolene is a sweet, floral-scented terpene that has been commonly associated with the sweet aroma found in the Jack Herer strain. Research has shown that when inhaled, Terpinolene is able to provide anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, and sedative benefits.
7. Terpineol
Terpineol is a pleasant floral and earth-scented terpene, that is well known to provide mood enhancement and relieve stress.
8. Valencene
Valencene is a strong citrus-scented terpene, which can also be found in the Valencia orange. Its energetic fragrance provides an elevated mood, energy, and can help relieve stress and anxiety.
9. Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene has a very unique sweet, earthy and spicy aroma, and is the only terpene that interacts with the body’s Endocannabinoid System. When introduced into our bodies, it provides anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits.
10. Geraniol
Geraniol secretes a pleasant rose floral aroma, and, as you may infer from its name, can also be found in geraniums. Aside from a wonderful fragrance, it has shown to be a positive mood enhancer and is a great insect repellant.
11. Humulene
Humulene has a very earthy and woody fragrance that can be most commonly associated with the aroma of hops. Humulene has exhibited anti-bacterial properties and can be used as an appetite suppressant.
