Cannabis terpenes are the fragrant oils that give cannabis strains their distinctive aromas. Terpenes aid the body to absorb and utilize cannabinoids’ therapeutic effects. They also regulate or modify some of the effects of cannabinoids like THC.
Terpenes are just as important as cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids and cannabis terpenes function together to give you the best impact from all varieties of cannabis. Terpenes are typically extracted from plant materials that includes the rinds of citrus or pine needles. Essential oils that can be used for aromatherapy could be used, but these aren’t very common. Terpenes can also be derived from animals, or from insects.
They are typically taken from plant material. There are more than 200 terpenes in cannabis plants that create distinct flavors and smells. Terpenes are the reason for the lavender and lemon scents. Terpenes are a plant’s natural defense mechanism and have been used for ages as food additives that enhance the flavor of many food items.
Cannabis terpenes not only contribute to the taste and smell of cannabis, but also provide therapeutic effects. According to some experts, terpenes, the constituents that contribute to various of the distinctive traits of a specific strain, are known to have beneficial effects on all sorts of things from stress and migraines to inflammation and mood swings.
Like cannabinoids, terpenes bind to receptors in our brains and bodies that control mood and memory, sleep patterns appetite, and other. When combined with cannabinoids Terpenes may enhance the benefits of cannabis while also reducing the negative effects of cannabis.
The chemical compounds work together to improve your marijuana experience and deliver stronger, longer-lasting relief. Different combinations of cannabinoids can have different effects on patients. A cannabis strain that is rich in CBD may not have any psychoactive effects, however it’s difficult to know the impact of specific terpenes a patient.
The most commonly used cannabis terpenes, and their advantages
1. Alpha-pinene is a terpene that is that is found in pine needles, sage, and has a strong evergreen smell. It is also present in dill, rosemary parsley, basil and dill. In all cannabis strains alpha-pinene can be found in extremely low concentrations, but it has been reported that strains that contain higher levels of alpha-pinene are linked to improved concentration and memory.
2. Beta-myrcene: The terpene that is found in this to the aromas of hops and thyme. It may also act as an anti-inflammatory. Myrcene is also found in mangoes, lemongrass and thyme. It is believed that the myrcene’s properties to sooth the mind could aid in sleeplessness or restless leg syndrome.
3. Limonene: Lemongrass Peppermint, lemongrass, and cannabis all contain large amounts of the chemical limonene. It emits a distinct lemon scent that is antidepressant and anticancer properties.
4. Linalool: Linalool is a Terpene that is found in rosewood, coriander, mint and the birch trees. It may be effective in treating depression and anxiety and may produce a relaxing effect. There are many reports of sedation using cannabis strains with high levels of the chemical linalool.
5. Caryophyllene is the only terpene able to bind to receptors for cannabinoid. This is the reason clove has its distinctive scent. Alongside adding an element of spice to the strain, caryophyllene is thought to be anti-inflammatory as well as effective in combating anxiety.
To learn more, click tips for cooking with cannabis terpenes
