Long-time cannabis enthusiasts may be aware of terpenes and what they do. These chemical compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant can modify the effects of cannabis. However, they are present in various types of plants and are responsible for the diverse scents and aromas of each species.
However, their applications extend far beyond just cannabis. Terpenes are utilized to create fragrances found in perfumes, essential oils, and other cosmetic products. While they occur organically in nature, these aromatic compounds have only recently gained attention from researchers who have identified their beneficial effects, not only for cannabis users but also for greater applications. Their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are advantageous for human health, and can also be used in agriculture, medicine, and food production.
Continue reading to explore the latest innovations in terpene research, including novel extraction methods and wide applications of terpenes, along with the future of terpene research.
Innovations in Extraction Methods
Innovations in terpene research have led to progressive extraction techniques in modern times. This has revolutionized the way terpenes are obtained from natural sources. Methods like steam distillation and solvent extraction were previously used for terpene extraction. These are now being supplemented or replaced by more efficient techniques such as supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and cold pressing.
Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (SCF) is particularly innovative because it enables the extraction of terpenes without leaving behind harmful residues. This method not only increases the amount of terpenes that can be extracted, but also preserves their beneficial properties. This leads to higher quality extracts and follows an eco-friendly extraction method. The long-term operating costs of SFC are also relatively lower.
Advancements in Terpene Applications
Terpenes in Agriculture
The agricultural sector has begun to recognize the potential of terpenes in improving the diet of livestock, as well as showing efficacy in pest management. A research study suggested that terpenes could improve digestibility of sheeps and increase their tolerance toward certain diets, which can optimize ruminant nutrition. Terpenes have been found to influence what animals can and cannot eat, giving farmers valuable information on how to create better diets for grazing animals. This knowledge could help make farming more sustainable by decreasing the use of synthetic feed additives to sheep diets.
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have also surfaced as a powerful tool in terpene research. The conversion of plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana to increase terpene production has opened new avenues for pest resistance and crop protection. Research conducted in 2005 showed that increasing the activity of terpene synthase genes in genetically modified plants could improve their resistance to pests. This change can help reduce the need for chemical pesticides.
Terpenes in Biomedicine
Terpenes also hold incredible medicinal value for those seeking to optimize their health and well-being. Recent research has largely begun focusing on the medicinal properties of various terpenes, especially the development of antimicrobial and antiparasitic drugs. Terpenes have the ability to limit bacterial growth and offer antibacterial benefits for treatment. Compounds like cinnamon oil can act against bacterial pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and eliminate its harmful effects.
Terpenes have also gained attention as a potential treatment for malaria. Triterpenes is a promising new cure for fighting Plasmodium falciparum, an agent that causes malaria. Antibiotic resistance is becoming a global issue, with nearly 1.27 million deaths worldwide in 2019 directly resulting from this problem. However, these chemical compounds can provide an alternative medical solution for this issue. Terpenes are being considered in drug research, which may lead to the development of new treatment options that can combat resistant strains.
Terpenes in Environmental and Cosmetic Applications
Innovations in terpene research also extend to environmental applications, particularly in bioremediation. The use of cumene, a type of terpene compound, in the bioremediation of trichloroethylene (TCE) has shown positive results. The bacteria is a way to clean up a harmful chemical called TCE by increasing its uptake. This finding reveals the potential use of terpenes in environmental cleanup through a sustainable approach. This can help eliminate pollution and restore ecosystems.
Terpenes can also be integrated into everyday products, such as antibacterial soaps and cosmetic products. Several studies have explored how well these chemical compounds can absorb into the skin, along with their effects on skin health. Some terpenes can offer skin hydration benefits by improving the skin barrier function and increasing skin permeability. Limonene, found in citrus oils, can retain moisture in the skin and improve elasticity. Terpenes can also act as carriers and increase absorption of other beneficial ingredients present in skin care products. Terpene strain profiles in Washington are used in both the cannabis and cosmetic industries, and are also used as additives in pharmaceuticals.
Terpenes in Hemp-Based Functional Foods
Cannabis Sativa plant, also known as hemp, is becoming a strong competitor in the functional foods market because of its high nutritional profile. Hemp seeds are a great source of protein, and contain all the essential amino acids that the human body needs. Hemp oil also has a favorable ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve heart health. CBD, found in cannabis plants, is popular for its potential benefits, such as relieving pain and reducing anxiety. It synergistically works with terpenes, which gives hemp its scent, to expand its benefits. The entourage effect combines the anti-inflammatory properties of terpenes and pain-relieving benefits of CBD to improve the overall health of consumers without any psychoactive effects.
However, CBD and terpenes in food products face strict regulations due to the negative perception of cannabis-based compounds. This makes them appear to be unsafe products. Extensive research is still required before the synergy of CBD and terpenes can be integrated into food products. While some terpenes are generally seen as safe and can be added to foods, it is currently difficult to preserve their benefits during processing. Further research is still needed to develop hemp products that maintain the benefits of terpenes while remaining suitable for daily consumption. Readers can buy terpenes in Washington, which preserve their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The Future of Terpene Research
The ongoing development of biotechnological methods, along with developments in terpene biosynthesis can pave the way for greater terpene application. Genetic modifications in plants like Arabidopsis thaliana has led to an increased terpene production. This can open doors for pest resistance and improve the flavor profiles of crops.
Research may also explore the safety and health benefits of terpenes, especially in food and pharmaceutical applications. The global market for industrial hemp was at $5.3 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow to about $13.8 billion by 2027. By optimizing the extraction and purification of CBD and terpenes, it can accelerate their application as functional food ingredients. It is important to place focus on the product’s solubility and stability to increase consumer awareness and ensure market acceptance.
Biotechnological advancements and increased demand for sustainable products have made terpenes an innovative chemical compound that can change the world for the better.
Check Out Our Selection of Terpenes For Sale
Innovations in terpene research offer a wide range of useful applications in fields including medicine, agriculture, and cosmetics. Their benefits make them an interesting compound for researchers for environmental sustainability and optimizing human health.
At Golden Coast Terpenes, we deliver terpenes in Washington for people who want to enjoy the health benefits of this promising compound. xplore our various terpene strain profiles near Washington to experience a range of benefits, from anti-inflammatory effects to relaxation. Contact us today to learn more about our terpene strain profiles.