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Understand The Magic of a Terp
Most terpenes are created by plants as a way to repel herbivores. Whatever the odor and taste these protective terpenes give off, they’re usually a distinct turn-off for plant-eating animals. Human adults are the rare exception—as omnivores, we’re open to experimentation, and so have learned to enjoy things with citrus, earthy, herbal, mint and piney tastes and scents. Cannabis includes many different terpenes, and the quantity of each is what gives different strains of cannabis their distinct flavor profiles.
Terpenes, like THC and CBD, chemically bond with receptors in our bodies, and so can trigger positive responses to physical condition and mood. Preliminary research indicates that terpenes found in cannabis can act as analgesic, anti-cancer, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antioxidant, anti-parasitic, and antiviral agents. They can also reduce our anxiety and help us sleep. A more conclusive study, published recently by scientists at the University of Arizona, has found that when terpenes are combined with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, the pain relieving effects of these cannabinoids were noticeably increased, without increasing negative side effects.
Of the 200+ terpenes found in cannabis, the five most common are Myrcene, Limonene, Linalool, Beta-caryophyllene and Pinene.
Myrcene is the most common terpene found in cannabis. Its scent profile is both earthy and citrusy.
Myrcene makes cell walls more permeable, which helps chemicals such as THC and CBD to cross the blood-brain barrier. This promotes both a faster, more intense high, and more powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory action.
Some studies suggest that Myrcene may help with insomnia.
Limonene is the second most prevalent terpene found in cannabis. Cannabis strains with higher levels of limonene have a distinct citrus scent.
A study in Chemico-Biological Interactions has shown that limonene can have anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and may help counteract diabetes and cancer. There is some evidence that Limonene can affect the way that our body’s immune cells behave, helping to protect us from a number of disorders.
Linalool, which is also present in lavender, give cannabis a floral scent.
There is some indication that linalool has a calming effect and may help to counter anxiety. A study in Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces may have positive effects on health, helping to counter anxiety, cancer, depression and inflammation.
This terpene gives some cannabis strains a spicy, earthy aroma, and is found in herbs and spices such as cloves, oregano and pepper.
Beta-caryophyllene has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to relieve chronic pain caused by inflammation. It may also work as an antibacterial and antioxidant, helping to prevent disease.
Pinene has a distinct bright, piney scent, and is found in pine needles, as well as herbs such basil, dill, rosemary and sage.
Pinene acts as a bronchodilator, allowing more air into our lungs. It also has anti-inflammatory effect and may help prevent air-born infections from entering our lungs.
When combined with Myrcene, it can have act as a mild sedative.
Other terpenes found in lower quantities in cannabis that have positive therapeutic benefits are Humulene (anti-bacterial and anti-fungal), Terpinolene (sedative; anti-oxidant and anti-cancer), and Ocimene (anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant).
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At Hudson Botanical Processing, we respect what comes naturally from plants, and so use only organic cannabis oil and botanical terpenes in our Nimbus Vapor products. All-natural, great taste, an amazing high, and potentially therapeutic benefits—what more could you ask of a vape?
To learn more about the terpenes in cannabis and their potential therapeutic benefits, check out these resources:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-are-terpenes#terpenes-vs-cannabinoids
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7120914/