The cannabis industry is currently undergoing significant changes, and various studies are focusing on the many therapeutic benefits of cannabidiol. Since thepurchasing CBD has been legal in UK, cannabidiol-based products have been steadily multiplying on the market. Whether it's CBD oil, CBD flowers or CBD capsules, the flavors of these products are one of the key criteria for consumers when making their choice.
That's why the terpenes found in hemp are also of particular interest. Not only do they enhance the action of cannabinoids, but they also optimize the aromas contained in CBD. What is a terpene and what is its purpose? What are the main terpenes in CBD? How can they be used? Find all the answers in this guide.
What is terpene?
Terpenes are hydrocarbons found in many plants. In other words, they are organic compounds consisting of carbon and hydrogen. They contribute to the scent of plants, their specific aromas and colors. These organic compounds are extracted in the form of essential oils for use in aromatherapy or perfumery. They are also used as food additives.
Terpenes play a vital role in the life of many plants. On the one hand, they offer optimal protection to plants against environmental stressors and repel fungi, bacteria, and pests. On the other hand, they promote pollination by attracting beneficial insects such as bees.
In hemp, these hydrocarbons (terpenes) are synthesized in the glandular trichomes, just like CBD and THC. To date, nearly 20,000 terpenes are known to exist in all plants, and nearly 200 different terpenes are found in hemp. The scents and flavors vary depending on the combination and quantity of terpenes present in the plant.
It should be noted that the same variety of hemp does not necessarily have the same organic compounds from one plant to another. Indeed, the type and number of terpenes depend on several factors such as temperature, climate, soil, etc.
The usefulness of terpenes in CBD
Terpenes enhance the effectiveness of premium CBD products. Their fusion and interaction with cannabidiol has many beneficial health effects. They enhance the action of the active ingredients in hemp to make them more effective.
As mentioned above, terpenes are primarily responsible for the smell and taste of aromatic plants and hemp. In other words, they allow you to quickly identify the variety and quality of cannabis, knowing that the plant's aromas can influence its effects. For example, while a resinous flavor acts on the mind, a musky flavor aids relaxation, and a citrus flavor focuses on mood.
Thus, the specific properties of each terpene modify the action or effects of CBD on the body. While some promote sleep, others are anti-inflammatory. This is why it is advisable to define your needs before purchasing a cannabidiol product from a CBD shop.
The main terpenes in cannabis and their benefits
Due to the many terpenes contained in different proportions and varieties of cannabis, the scents and effects of aromatic plants are very diverse. This is why the aromas of high-quality CBD products differ. Here are the main terpenes found in hemp and their effects on the body.
Myrcene
Myrcene myrcene is a monoterpene and the most common terpene produced by cannabis. However, it is also found in citrus fruits, wild yeast, bay leaves, verbena, eucalyptus, and lemongrass. Its aroma, which is particularly generous and highly appreciated, is described as earthy, musky, grassy, and almost clove-like.
This terpene is known for its properties:
In aromatherapy, it is one of the most commonly used terpenes for pain relief. Another unique feature of myrcene in hemp is that it aids in the assimilation of cannabinoids by our body's endocannabinoid system. As such, it significantly increases the effects of CBD.
Limonene
After myrcene, limonene is the second most common terpene in cannabis. It has a strong and wonderful scent of citrus fruits, specifically lemon. It is found in citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruit, limes, mandarins, and clementines. It is also found in many plants and essential oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and celery.
Its pleasant citrus scent is present in several varieties of CBD, delighting both the nose and the taste buds. This terpene is well known for its properties:
- Antifungals;
- Antibacterial agents;
- Antidepressants;
- Relaxants;
- And psychostimulants.
With CBD flowers, for example, you can enjoy the benefits of limonene for your everyday well-being.
Pinene
The Pinene is by far the most common terpene in nature. It is found in high quality in pine needles. It is also present in several varieties of cannabis and other plants, particularly conifers.
The scent of pinene is reminiscent of summer walks in the pine forests of the Landes region. Easily recognizable thanks to its pleasant holiday scent, it is frequently used in cleaning products, home fragrances, and the pharmaceutical industry. This is due to its effects:
Most cannabis strains with a woody and spicy taste are particularly rich in pinene. And that is precisely what makes these varieties very popular among consumers who appreciate the taste of this hydrocarbon.
Terpinolene
This is one of the rarest terpenes in Cannabis sativa, but also one of the most powerful in terms of aroma. terpinolene is appreciated for its sensory pleasure. It not only gives off pleasant scents of forests, pine, and flowers, but also citrus zest and freshly cut grass.
This terpene is naturally produced by many plant varieties in low concentrations, such as tea tree, nutmeg, ginger, verbena, and sweet marjoram. However, the effects of terpinolene on human health are unknown. Clinical studies should be conducted in the future to determine the actual properties of this terpene.
Linalool
Like the previous terpenes, linalool is also present in hemp. It is very common, as it is found in many plants such as coriander, lavender, lemon, and mint. Its floral scent is easily recognizable, as it is particularly reminiscent of a Provençal bouquet with a hint of spice and a touch of citrus. Due to its pleasant fragrance, this terpene is widely used in perfumery, aromatherapy, and even household products.
The linalool contained in cannabidiol is being studied by researchers for its calming, sedative, and relaxing properties. These effects can:
Thanks to these virtues, it can help you stay calm, relieve stress, and rediscover the joy of socializing.
Eucalyptol
Eucalyptol has a strong spicy smell reminiscent of camphor. In addition to being present in hemp, this terpene is also found in eucalyptus, bay leaves, tea tree, and basil. Due to its repellent and insecticidal properties, it is frequently used to treat bees against parasites.
This terpene is the main ingredient in mouthwashes, winter balms and creams, and inhalants used to relieve nasal congestion. It is also used in food products. Eucalyptol has therapeutic properties that help treat asthma, sinusitis, colds, and bronchitis. It has the following properties:
It should be noted that eucalyptol is a terpene that is more common in sativa hemp varieties than in cannabis indica.
Camphene
Also present in cannabis, camphene is a monoterpene that emits the scent of pine needles and damp forest. This terpene could play a key role in the treatment of cardiovascular disease. Indeed, this terpene can reduce plasma cholesterol and triglycerides in overweight individuals. It can therefore be used as a lipid-lowering agent.
In addition to being present in hemp, camphene can also be found in camphor oil, ginger oil, and lemongrass oil.
Phellandrene
Phellandrene phellandrene is known for its peppermint scent with a slight hint of lemon. It is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat digestive disorders. This terpene is the main ingredient in turmeric leaf oil, which is commonly used to prevent and treat systemic fungal infections.
It was first discovered in eucalyptus oil. However, it is also found in cannabis and in many herbs and spices such as parsley, cinnamon, and ginger. The recognizable scents of certain essential oils depend mainly on the presence of phellandrene.
Humulene
Also known as caryophyllene,humulene is one of the main terpenes condensed in cannabidiol (CBD), just like the previous terpenes. Its taste brings woody, spicy, and earthy flavors to CBD.
It is not uncommon to find this compound in other plant varieties such as cardamom, caraway, myrtle, and balsam fir. It is commonly used in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. However, that is not all. Humulene also provides optimal relaxation and calmness to those who consume it.
Pulegone
The pulegone is a minor component of hemp. This monoterpenoid is very present in rosemary. Rosemary breaks down acetylcholine in the brain to allow nerve cells to communicate more easily with each other.
It has sedative and fever-reducing properties. And although it is found in small quantities in cannabis, it can mitigate certain side effects of THC (a cannabinoid found in small quantities in legal cannabis). In addition, pulegone has a peppermint aroma and is considered to be a better insecticide.
How to use terpenes?
While some CBD products already contain terpenes, you can always add more depending on the desired effects. In this case, you can use 0.2 mg of terpene per gram ofCBD oil. For accurate dosing, a dropper may be useful. If you prefer e-liquids, use one drop per milliliter and let the mixture rest for two days.
Aside from the positive effects of terpenes mixed with CBD, they can also become your powerful allies in the kitchen. They are actually very interesting ingredients for cooking all types of food. These organic compounds can help you delicately enhance the flavors and aromas of your dishes.
Once consumed, terpenes can relieve and calm pain. But above all, they add aroma to your CBD products for a pleasant consumption experience. To get the most out of them according to your needs and desired effects, take the time to choose the properties of each one.
Tips and tricks for choosing the right terpene-based product
All consumers should be very careful and avoid purchasing products containing synthetic terpenes as much as possible. In most cases, these terpenes are genetically modified to behave like natural terpenes. But the irony is that synthetic terpenes remain artificial and do not provide any real benefits to the body.
It should be noted that there is still too little research to show that these types of terpenes are dangerous. However, it is preferable to choose 100% natural products. Always take care to check the ingredients in your CBD products. In a CBD store committed to providing safe, high-quality products, you can even get some advice.
