Terpenes are organic hydrocarbons that produce the aroma of cannabis. Cannabis contains between 20-100 terpenes that vary depending on the strain and growing conditions. The most common terpene in cannabis is myrcene which provides an earthy smell and taste to the strains. Terpenes can also be found in other plants, like citrus fruit or lavender.
In addition to their aromatic properties, terpenes have been found to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidepressant, antiseptic, and analgesic effects and help with stress relief, sleep, or relaxation.
Cannabis Terpenes
Terpenes are one of the most important elements responsible for causing the experiences associated with cannabis consumption. In other ways, terpenes have provided the answer to why each cannabis plant has its own unique flavor and smell profile.
Terpene molecules are airborne and are a large part of nature’s way of pollinating many plant species worldwide.
Uses of Cannabis Terpenes
Myrcene is the most important terpene for patients. Myrcene is the terpene that provides a sedative or couch-lock effect, which can help with sleep or pain management. Myrcene can also have benefits for stress relief and relaxation.
Cannabis terpenes are most commonly used for anxiety, insomnia, and stress release. They offer many health benefits. When terpenes are ingested, they can interact with receptors in your brain to release helpful neurotransmitters. Terpenes in cannabis can also help enhance the effects of cannabinoids.
Most Commonly Used Cannabis Terpenes
As previously stated, cannabis contains around 100 terpenes. Here’s a rundown of some of the most well-known ones.
Myrcene: Myrcene is the most prevalent terpene found in cannabis. It’s responsible for the fragrant scent of some fruits and flowers, like mangoes. Myrcene is recognized for its sedative, analgesic (pain relieving), anti-inflammatory, and muscle relaxing properties.
Limonene: Limonene terpene is one of the most common terpenes in nature, found in many different types of plants, including cannabis, mint, citrus fruits, and even hops.
Linalool: Linalool terpene is widely used in perfumery and aromatherapy. Linalool is naturally occurring in cannabis and many flowers (including lavender, lilies, and lemons).
Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene terpene is typically found in rosemary, hops, and cannabis. It is what gives these plants their spicy, peppery taste. More recently, however, it has been making headlines in the news for its pain-relieving properties.
Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene: Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene terpenes are extremely common in perfumes and naturally occurring aromas, but new research shows that they also protect against oxidative stress and cell damage.
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