The Science of Cannabis Terpenes
What are terpenes?
Terpenes are a class of organic aromatic compounds that are produced by a wide variety of plants. They are the main building blocks of essential oils, and they give plants their characteristic aromas. Also known as terpenoids, they are the most diverse and plentiful naturally occurring chemical compounds. Terpenes play a part in countless health benefits and have a wide range of therapeutic qualities.
Terpenes are responsible for the distinct flavors and aromas of different cannabis strains. Some common flavors include citrus, pine, floral, and earthy. Each strain has its own unique profile of terpenes that contributes to its overall flavor and aroma.
Cannabis cultivars contain more than 100 different isolated terpenes, which are responsible for the plant's distinct smell and flavor. Cannabis strains have unique terpene profiles which contribute to its therapeutic properties.
Plants create terpenes for a variety of reasons. Some terpenes act as attractants for pollinators, while others repel herbivores or predators. Some terpenes also have antibacterial properties, which can protect plants from diseases.
The Cannabis Chemovars
Cannabis chemovars are classified according to their chemical composition. The two main types of cannabis chemovars are indica and sativa. Indica plants are typically higher in monoterpenes, while sativa plants are typically higher in sesquiterpenes.
Classification and localization of cannabis terpenes
The female cannabis plant produces glistening trichomes on the flowers. These trichomes are where the cannabinoids and terpenes are found.
Cannabis terpenes can be divided into two groups: monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. Monoterpenes are the most abundant type of terpene in cannabis, and they are found mostly in the stalked trichomes of the plant. Sesquiterpenes are less abundant, and they are found in higher concentrations in the sessile, or lower, trichomes of the plant.
Cannabis terpenes can be divided into two groups: monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. Monoterpenes are the most abundant type of terpene in cannabis, and they are found mostly in the stalked trichomes of the plant. Sesquiterpenes are less abundant, and they are found in higher concentrations in the sessile, or lower, trichomes of the plant.
Terpene Biosynthesis in Cannabis
Terpene biosynthesis is the process by which terpenes are produced in plants. There are two main types of terpene biosynthesis: monoterpene biosynthesis and sesquiterpene biosynthesis.
1. Cannabis Monoterpenes
Cannabis monoterpenes are produced via monoterpene biosynthesis. This type of terpene biosynthesis involves the formation of terpenes from a single molecule of isoprene. The most common monoterpenes found in cannabis plants include myrcene, limonene, and pinene.
2. Cannabis Sesquiterpenes
Cannabis sesquiterpenes are produced via sesquiterpene biosynthesis. This type of terpene biosynthesis involves the formation of terpenes from two molecules of isoprene. The most common sesquiterpenes found in cannabis plants include caryophyllene, humulene, and bisabolol.
Prominent terpenes
There are a number of different terpenes and other compounds that are found in high concentrations in cannabis sativa plants. Some of the most prominent terpenes include:
Myrcene:Myrcene is the most common terpene in cannabis. It has a musky, earthy aroma and it is thought to be responsible for the couch-lock effect that some cannabis strains are known for.
Cannabis strains high in myrcene:
Mango Kush
Granddaddy Purple
OG Kush
Bubba Kush
Limonene:Limonene is a citrus-scented terpene commonly found in lemons, limes, and oranges. In cannabis, it is thought to be responsible for the strain's uplifting and mood-enhancing effects.
Cannabis strains high in limonene:
Sour Diesel
Super Lemon Haze
Tangie
Pinene:Pinene is a woody-scented terpene that is found in pine trees. In cannabis, it is thought to counteract some of the psychoactive effects of THC.
Cannabis strains high in pinene:
Blue Dream
Jack Herrer
Sage
Caryophyllene:Caryophyllene is a spicy-scented terpene commonly found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. In cannabis, it is thought to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects.
Cannabis strains high in caryophyllene:
Gorilla Glue #4
Girl Scout Cookies
Chocolate Diesel
Linalool:Linalool is a floral-scented terpene that is found in lavender. In cannabis, it is thought to have sedative and anti-anxiety effects.
Cannabis strains high in linalool:
Amnesia Haze
Lavender
How terpenes affect the body
Cannabis terpenes interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a system of receptors that are found throughout the body. These receptors are involved in a variety of physiological processes, including pain perception, appetite, mood, and memory.
The two main types of receptors in the ECS are CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are mostly found in the brain, while CB2 receptors are found in the immune system.
Cannabis terpenes enhance the effects of cannabinoids. That means that they can change how cannabinoids interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors. This interaction is thought to produce an entourage effect where the sum of the compounds is greater than the parts.
For example, myrcene is thought to increase the permeability of cell membranes, which allows cannabinoids to bind to CB1 receptors more easily. This interaction is thought to produce the couch-lock effect that some cannabis products are known for.
Limonene, on the other hand, is thought to increase the activity of CB1 receptors. This interaction is thought to produce the uplifting and mood-enhancing effects cannabis consumers look for.
The science behind cannabis terpenes is still in its early stages. More research is needed to understand how these aromatic compounds interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. However, the potential health benefits of these compounds are very promising.
The two main types of receptors in the ECS are CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are mostly found in the brain, while CB2 receptors are found in the immune system.
Cannabis terpenes enhance the effects of cannabinoids. That means that they can change how cannabinoids interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors. This interaction is thought to produce an entourage effect where the sum of the compounds is greater than the parts.
For example, myrcene is thought to increase the permeability of cell membranes, which allows cannabinoids to bind to CB1 receptors more easily. This interaction is thought to produce the couch-lock effect that some cannabis products are known for.
Limonene, on the other hand, is thought to increase the activity of CB1 receptors. This interaction is thought to produce the uplifting and mood-enhancing effects cannabis consumers look for.
The science behind cannabis terpenes is still in its early stages. More research is needed to understand how these aromatic compounds interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. However, the potential health benefits of these compounds are very promising.
The medicinal benefits of terpenes
Cannabis terpenes are thought to have a wide range of therapeutic benefits. Some terpenes are known to have an anti-inflammatory, stress relief or analgesic effect. Others are known to improve cognitive function and memory.
The science of terpenes is still in its infancy, but researchers have already discovered that these compounds can have profound effects on our health. Here are some of the ways in which cannabis terpenes can improve our health:
The science of terpenes is still in its infancy, but researchers have already discovered that these compounds can have profound effects on our health. Here are some of the ways in which cannabis terpenes can improve our health:
1
They Can Enhance The Effects of THC
THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain, which leads to the plant's signature high. However, THC's effects can be enhanced by the presence of certain terpenes.
For example, the terpene myrcene is known to increase the permeability of cell membranes, which makes it easier for THC to cross the blood-brain barrier and bind to CB1 receptors. Myrcene is also known to increase the intensity of the high caused by THC.
For example, the terpene myrcene is known to increase the permeability of cell membranes, which makes it easier for THC to cross the blood-brain barrier and bind to CB1 receptors. Myrcene is also known to increase the intensity of the high caused by THC.
2
They Can Reduce The Effects of CBD
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis that has powerful medicinal properties. It does not bind to CB1 receptors, but it does interact with other receptors in the brain, such as the serotonin receptor 5-HT1A. This interaction leads to many of CBD's therapeutic effects, such as its ability to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
However, CBD's effects can be reduced by the presence of certain terpenes. For example, the terpene limonene is known to increase the activity of the enzyme that breaks down CBD. This means that less CBD will be available for the body to use, and its effects will be weaker.
However, CBD's effects can be reduced by the presence of certain terpenes. For example, the terpene limonene is known to increase the activity of the enzyme that breaks down CBD. This means that less CBD will be available for the body to use, and its effects will be weaker.
3
They Can Boost The Immune System
Several studies have shown that terpenes can help to boost the immune system. For example, the terpene beta-caryophyllene is known to increase the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infection
4
They Can Reduce Inflammation
Many terpenes are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. For example, the terpene alpha-pinene is known to inhibit the release of inflammatory compounds such as histamine and leukotrienes. This makes it an effective treatment for conditions like allergies and asthma.
5
They Can Kill Cancer Cells
Several studies have shown that certain terpenes can kill cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. For example, the terpene perillyl alcohol has been shown to kill pancreatic cancer cells, and the terpene limonene has been shown to kill breast cancer cells.
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can help to treat cancer. For example, the terpene beta-caryophyllene is known to reduce inflammation, and the terpene myrcene is known to have anticancer effects.
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can help to treat cancer. For example, the terpene beta-caryophyllene is known to reduce inflammation, and the terpene myrcene is known to have anticancer effects.
6
They Can Protect The Brain
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can protect the brain. For example, the terpene linalool is known to reduce inflammation, and the terpene myrcene is known to have neuroprotective effects.
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can improve brain function. For example, the terpene linalool is known to increase the production of acetylcholine, and the terpene myrcene is known to increase dopamine levels.
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can improve brain function. For example, the terpene linalool is known to increase the production of acetylcholine, and the terpene myrcene is known to increase dopamine levels.
7
They Can Reduce Anxiety and Depression
Many people use cannabis to reduce stress, anxiety or depression. The plant's ability to reduce these unwanted feelings is largely due to the presence of certain terpenes. For example, the terpene linalool is known to have anti-anxiety effects, and the terpene myrcene is known to have antidepressant effects.
8
They Can Improve Sleep
Cannabis strains high in the terpene myrcene are often used to treat insomnia. This is because myrcene is known to increase the amount of time spent in deep sleep. Deep sleep is essential for restoring the mind and body, and it is during this phase of sleep that the body produces most of its growth hormone.
Many people use cannabis to promote sleep. The plant's ability to promote sleep is largely due to the presence of certain terpenes. For example, the terpene linalool is known to have sedative effects, and the terpene myrcene is known to have hypnotic effects.
Many people use cannabis to promote sleep. The plant's ability to promote sleep is largely due to the presence of certain terpenes. For example, the terpene linalool is known to have sedative effects, and the terpene myrcene is known to have hypnotic effects.
9
They Can Reduce Pain
Many people use cannabis to relieve pain. The plant's ability to reduce pain is largely due to the presence of certain terpenes. For example, the terpene beta-caryophyllene is known to reduce inflammation, and the terpene linalool is known to have pain-relieving effects.
10
They Can Stimulate Appetite
Cannabis strains high in the terpene myrcene are often used to stimulate appetite. This is because myrcene is known to increase the production of ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite.
11
They Can Reduce Nausea
Many people use cannabis to relieve nausea. The plant's ability to reduce nausea is largely due to the presence of certain terpenes. For example, the terpene linalool is known to have anti-nausea effects.
12
They Can Protect The Skin
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can protect the skin from damage. For example, the terpene beta-caryophyllene is known to reduce inflammation, and the terpene linalool is known to have protective effects against UV radiation.
13
They Can Reduce Seizures
Many people use cannabis to treat seizures. The plant's ability to reduce seizures is largely due to the presence of certain terpenes. For example, the terpene beta-caryophyllene is known to reduce inflammation, and the terpene myrcene is known to have anti-convulsive effects.
14
They Can Improve Memory
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can improve memory. For example, the terpene linalool is known to increase the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is essential for learning and memory.
15
They Can Enhance Exercise Performance
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can enhance exercise performance. For example, the terpene limonene is known to increase stamina, and the terpene beta-caryophyllene is known to reduce fatigue.
16
They Can Kill Harmful Bacteria
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can kill harmful bacteria. For example, the terpene thymol is known to have antibacterial effects, and the terpene geraniol is known to have antifungal effects.
17
They Can Be Used As Pesticides
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can be used as pesticides. For example, the terpene thymol is known to have insecticidal effects, and the terpene geraniol is known to have fungicidal effects.
18
They Can Be Used In Aromatherapy
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can be used in aromatherapy. For example, the terpene linalool is used in lavender oil, and the terpene myrcene is used in citrus oils.
Terpene Chart
The following chart shows some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis plants and the benefits they provide:
Other uses of terpenes
1
They Can Be Used As A Fuel
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can be used as a fuel. For example, the terpene limonene is known to be an efficient biofuel, and the terpene myrcene is known to have combustion-enhancing properties.
2
They Can Be Used In Manufacturing
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can be used in manufacturing. For example, the terpene beta-caryophyllene is used as a food additive, and the terpene myrcene is used in the production of plastics.
3
They Can Help To Reduce Pollution
Some studies have shown that certain terpenes can help to reduce pollution. For example, the terpene limonene is known to degrade smog, and the terpene myrcene is known to reduce emissions from vehicles.
Conclusions
Cannabis terpenes are a class of organic compounds that are produced by the cannabis plant. They are the main building blocks of essential oils, and they give plants their characteristic aromas. Cannabis is a rich source of terpenes, and there are over 100 different terpenes that have been identified in cannabis plants. The unique terpene profiles of different strains are being used for medicinal purposes.
Cannabis terpenes can interact with the human body in a number of ways. Some terpenes are known to bind to cannabinoid receptors, while others can modulate the activity of enzymes. These effects can result in a wide range of physiological and psychological effects. Cannabis terpenes are thought to have a wide range of medicinal benefits. Some terpenes are known to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic effects. Others are known to improve cognitive function and memory.
The cannabis plant is a complex organism with many compounds that have yet to be studied in detail. However, what we do know about terpenes and their medicinal benefits is exciting and warrants further exploration. By understanding the chemovars of cannabis and the biosynthesis of terpenes, we can begin to unlock the potential of this amazing plant. Myrcene, limonene, pinene, caryophyllene, linalool are just a few of the more prominent terpenes found in cannabis; each has its own unique set of medicinal benefits. If you’re looking to learn more about terpenes or find out which ones work best for your needs, check out our terpene chart. It provides information on some of the most common terpenes along with their other uses. Keep an eye out for future research on cannabis terpenes; it’s sure to yield some exciting results!
Cannabis terpenes can interact with the human body in a number of ways. Some terpenes are known to bind to cannabinoid receptors, while others can modulate the activity of enzymes. These effects can result in a wide range of physiological and psychological effects. Cannabis terpenes are thought to have a wide range of medicinal benefits. Some terpenes are known to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic effects. Others are known to improve cognitive function and memory.
The cannabis plant is a complex organism with many compounds that have yet to be studied in detail. However, what we do know about terpenes and their medicinal benefits is exciting and warrants further exploration. By understanding the chemovars of cannabis and the biosynthesis of terpenes, we can begin to unlock the potential of this amazing plant. Myrcene, limonene, pinene, caryophyllene, linalool are just a few of the more prominent terpenes found in cannabis; each has its own unique set of medicinal benefits. If you’re looking to learn more about terpenes or find out which ones work best for your needs, check out our terpene chart. It provides information on some of the most common terpenes along with their other uses. Keep an eye out for future research on cannabis terpenes; it’s sure to yield some exciting results!
Until next time, stay medicated my friends!
If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us! We would be more than happy to help you out.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us! We would be more than happy to help you out.
