Cannabinoids, CBD, and other cannabinoids present in different cannabis strains are frequently mentioned when discussing the effects and qualities of medical marijuana. Terpenes, on the other hand, are a lesser-known chemical that plays a significant part in the fragrances, flavors, and effects produced by the cannabis plant.
What exactly are terpenes?
Terpenes are natural chemical compounds found in plants and some animals. They are most recognized for providing the fragrances, tastes, and even colors of various plants—for example, the diverse aromas and flavors associated with different cannabis strains—but they also defend plants by repelling predators such as animals, fungi, and insects.
Terpenes are made in the cannabis plant’s trichomes or crystals on the buds and leaves. In cannabis, there are more than 100 terpenes have been found. This compound is also available in herbs and fruits.
What Are The Effects of Terpenes On The Human Body?
The truth is that a lot of how terpenes work in the human body is still unclear. It’s hypothesized that a cannabis strain’s main terpenes, or terpene profile, combine with cannabinoids like CBD and THC to produce distinct effects.
You must know how each cannabis strain makes you feel differently—for example, one can make you feel more relaxed, while another makes you feel more energized. While we commonly attribute these benefits to a strain’s cannabinoid content (i.e., the percentages of CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids), some cannabis experts argue that we should instead focus on the terpene profile.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is thought to interact with terpenes, which function synergistically with cannabinoids to produce what is known as “the entourage effect”: a belief that the effects of diverse chemicals are increased when they are ingested together.
The Effects of Five Popular Terpenes
The cannabis plant has about 100 terpenes that we are aware of. The five most common, as well as their qualities and possible benefits, are listed below.
Myrcene
Earthy scent
Potential advantages include improved sleep, reduced inflammation, and chronic pain, and use as a supplement during cancer therapy.
Limonene
Citrusy (like lemons) scent
Benefits that could be gained: mood enhancement; antibacterial and antifungal qualities; antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Linalool
The spicy, flowery scent
Sleep and relaxation, seizures, arthritis, depression, insomnia, and cancer treatment are all potential benefits.
Caryophyllene
Spicy, peppery scent
Potential advantages include anti-inflammatory effects, pain and anxiety relief, and the reduction of alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Pinene
The woody, piney scent
Potential advantages include curing ulcers, anxiety, asthma, and chronic pain; in particular pinene-dominant strains, it may negate the effects of THC.
You can also schedule an appointment to get a medicinal marijuana card. We’ll answer any of your questions and make the procedure as simple as possible! See us at Frontier Medicine in OKC. We are open for 24 hours.
**Disclaimer: This content is not the advice of a doctor; no product promoted herein is approved by the FDA to treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
