What are Terpenes and How do they interact with other Hemp Cannabinoids.
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the distinct smells and flavors 1 of these plants. Terpenes are also believed to play a role in the therapeutic effects of cannabis especially once combined with other cannabinoids.
The Importance of Terpenes in Medicinal Cannabis
Terpenes can work synergistically with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to produce what is known as the "entourage effect." This effect suggests that the combined effects of cannabinoids and terpenes are greater than the sum of their individual effects.
They all appear to interact with each otIher in what experts are calling the “entourage effect.”
This hypothesis suggests that the “full spectrum” of cannabis—encompassing all its cannabinoids, terpenes, and other natural compounds—works together synergistically to create its effects and sensations.
In other words, it’s a hypothesis that a little bit of everything might have more benefit than a lot of one thing, in how the compounds interact with each other.
A 2010 studyTrusted Source, for example, demonstrated that combining CBD and THC was more effective for pain relief than using THC alone.
In a 2018 studyTrusted Source, breast cancer tumors in a Petri dish responded more effectively to a cannabis extract than to pure THC alone. However, the synergistic effects were thought to be primarily due to other cannabinoids rather than terpenes.
This is crucial to keep in mind when using CBD for therapeutic purposes. If a CBD isolate (containing only CBD) doesn’t deliver the desired effect, you might consider trying full-spectrum CBD instead.
Overview of Cannabis Terpenes
Cannabis plants contain a wide variety of terpenes, each with its own unique properties. Some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis include:
Types of Cannabis Terpenes and Their Benefits
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Myrcene: A common terpene found in many cannabis strains. It has a musky, earthy aroma.
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Benefits: Potential sedative and pain-relieving properties.
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Benefits: Potential sedative and pain-relieving properties.
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Pinene: A terpene with a pine-like scent.
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Benefits: Potential anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects.
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Benefits: Potential anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects.
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Limonene: A citrusy terpene.
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Benefits: Potential mood-boosting and anti-anxiety effects.
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Benefits: Potential mood-boosting and anti-anxiety effects.
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Caryophyllene: A spicy terpene with a peppery aroma.
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Benefits: Potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
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Benefits: Potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
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Linalool: A floral terpene with a lavender-like scent.
- Benefits: Potential anti-anxiety and sedative effects.
The Future of Terpenes in Medicinal Cannabis
As research into the therapeutic potential of cannabis continues, the role of terpenes is becoming increasingly important. Scientists are exploring how specific terpene profiles can be used to tailor treatments for different medical conditions.
By understanding the complex interplay between cannabinoids and terpenes, researchers and clinicians can develop more effective and personalized cannabis-based therapies.