An Introduction To Terpenes
Terpenes, the aromatic compounds found in many plants, play a vital role in defining the unique characteristics of hemp. Beyond their distinct smells, these natural molecules are gaining recognition for their potential therapeutic benefits. In hemp, terpenes work in synergy with cannabinoids, influencing both the plant's effects and its appeal. This blog delves into the fascinating world of terpenes, exploring their correlation with hemp and uncovering how they contribute to the plant's overall impact on wellness and industry trends.
The Traits Of Terpenes
Terpenes are a diverse and complex class of organic compounds responsible for the distinct aromas and flavors found in a wide variety of plants, including hemp. Each terpene has a unique chemical structure, which results in different sensory profiles ranging from citrusy and fruity to earthy and piney. For instance, limonene is known for its citrusy scent, and is often associated with uplifting effects, while myrcene, with its more herbal aroma, is thought to contribute to more calming and sedative experiences. These aromatic traits not only differentiate one strain from another but also play a crucial role in the plant's interaction with the environment, acting as a defense mechanism against herbivores and pests.
Beyond their sensory characteristics, terpenes also possess a range of potential therapeutic properties. Research suggests that terpenes can influence mood, stress levels, and even physical discomfort. For example, linalool, a terpene commonly found in lavender and some hemp strains, is noted for its potential anti-anxiety and stress-relief effects. Meanwhile, pinene is believed to support respiratory function and mental clarity. When combined with cannabinoids like CBD and THC, terpenes contribute to the entourage effect, where the compounds work together to enhance the overall therapeutic benefits of hemp. This synergy between terpenes and cannabinoids makes understanding their traits crucial for anyone interested in the holistic potential of hemp based products.
The term terpene was coined in 1866 by one of the most prominent chemists in Europe at the time, August Keklue. The knowledge of terpenes. Can be traced back to Eastern European times by the Arabs in the 11th century. They used terpenes as a medicinal treatment for pain. During the black plague time of the mid 1300’s, rosewater was mixed with terpenes to be sprayed on the dead during preparation of burial. Early Native Americans used the muskrat root to smoke alongside cannabis in order to increase the psychoactive effects of cannabis.
Terpenes remain an important part of everyday life to this day. Ever use black pepper? Black pepper is inherently a terpene. Even hops used to make beer are classified as a terpene due to its chemical makeup and role in the taste and smell of the beer. Most perfumes and colognes on the market today contain a wide array of different terpenes to help the scent profile of the product.
Terpenes Role In Hemp
Terpenes contribute to much of the cannabis sativa plants profile. Cannabis is grown in specific ways to include more of a certain terpene than others. Terpenes are also an important characteristic for the entourage effect. The entourage effect is the synergistic relationship between all the components of the hemp plant in order to get the maximum benefit possible of all the cannabinoids together.
Even terpenes by themselves are capable of producing their own effects, especially when utilized together. Since terpenes interact with the endocannabinoid system like CBD does, it’s no wonder that they would produce the same, if not similar, results from their synergistic relationship. Just like CBD binds to C1B2 receptors in the body, terpenes share the same relationship to the endocannabinoid system as CBD does. Research done by the University of Arizona shows that terpenes inherently themselves produce potential health benefits and pain relief to a lesser degree than straight CBD or THC.
Myrcene had neuroprotective properties just as much as CBG does based on a placebo study. When given the entourage of different terpenes, they work in conjunction with each other to just work in entourage and give specific properties of all the other terpenes, sometimes mutually exclusively, to produce their own potential benefits. Pinene also shares familiar characteristics with pine needles, rosemary, and dill. Pinene has also been used in antiseptic medication and as a strong anti-inflammatory in many cultures throughout history.
The Importance Of Terpenes In Everyday Life
In the realm of personal care and wellness, terpenes are increasingly recognized for their potential to enhance the effectiveness of essential oils and other natural remedies. Many skincare products, aromatherapy oils, and even dietary supplements utilize terpenes to improve their performance. By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, terpenes can influence mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. This is particularly evident in the growing popularity of CBD and cannabis-related products, where terpenes are harnessed to enhance the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids.
Terpenes also contribute to sustainability and eco-friendly practices in everyday life. As natural compounds, they are often used as alternatives to synthetic chemicals in cleaning products, perfumes, and insect repellents. Their biodegradable nature makes them environmentally friendly, while their effectiveness in providing pleasant aromas or pest-deterrent qualities offers a green solution to household needs. By using products with natural terpenes, individuals can reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. In this way, terpenes not only enrich our sensory experiences but also promote health and environmental consciousness.
Many insecticides are made using a majority of terpene. For example, peppermint oil is used as a natural pesticide to kill off ticks and mosquitos. Some insects produce terpenes themselves. Butterflies and beetles are known to produce phytol, a lesser known terpene, which attracts pollinators and is a known aphrodisiac and antioxidant. Phytol itself is also found in cannabis and green tea in low doses. It’s even used to help manufacture vitamin E.
CBD And Terpenes
Terpenes are usually added to CBD products to influence the potential therapeutic effects of the CBD and other cannabinoids. For example, when limonene and caryophyllene are added to a CBD tincture, the tincture could produce a more focused and energy. Another example is say linalool and myrcene are added to a product, the effects tend to lean more towards relaxing qualities and sleep inducing qualities. Some terpenes, like myrcene, can make it easier for cannabinoids to cross the blood-brain barrier, boosting their effectiveness when used in conjunction with CBD.
Full Spectrum
If you are someone looking for a great way to get the full potential benefits of cannabinoids and terpenes, full spectrum products might be the best option for you! Full Spectrum CBD contains all the naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, including CBD, minor cannabinoids, terpenes, and trace amounts of THC, offering the "entourage effect" where these compounds work synergistically to enhance the therapeutic effects. Some examples of full spectrum products we carry include full spectrum tinctures, topicals, and even ingestible like capsules.
Broad Spectrum
If you were looking to still get the potential benefits of having more cannabinoids and terpenes in your CBD product but were wanting to avoid THC content, broad spectrum CBD products might be more up your alley. Like full spectrum products, we also carry tinctures, topicals, and capsules in broad spectrum. We even lab test each batch of product to ensure no THC content is present in the product!
Wrapping Up
After discussing the benefits of terpenes, it’s no wonder there is much more to learn about them. Hopefully after reading this blog you have a better understanding of how terpenes encompass so many mundane things in life. Next time you enjoy a nice citrusy fruit or a local craft beer, just think about the combination of terpenes used to achieve its specific flavor and scent profile. If you have any more questions or want to learn more about terpenes, we here at Discover CBD pride ourselves in our knowledge and yearn to learn more about them. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us or visit one of our physical locations in Colorado!
