If you’ve dipped your toes into the CBD world, then we’re sure you’ve heard the term 'terpenes.' Discuss plants in general, and these aromatic powerhouses will surely come up. So, what exactly are terpenes, and how do they enhance your favorite CBD oil or daily CBD capsule?
Here's all you need to know about terpenes and their connection to CBD...
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are the natural compounds responsible for the scents of plants like lavender, fir trees, and oranges. They're often added to foods, beauty products, and perfumes for their enjoyable aromas. However, in CBD, they play a much larger role than just providing a pleasant fragrance.
What Are CBD Terpenes?
We mentioned that terpenes are present in a variety of plants, so it's not surprising that over 100 different terpenes have been identified in cannabis plants. While these plants are the source of CBD, not every CBD product you try will contain a variety of terpenes.
When it comes to the benefits of terpenes in CBD, they are believed to enhance CBD through a phenomenon known as 'the entourage effect'.
What Do They Do?
Terpenes are believed to help plants withstand bad weather and fend off predators. Their effects on us humans remain somewhat mysterious.
The theory that most stick to is that the terpene profile — the dominant terpenes in a strain — works together with the cannabinoid content — the levels of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids — to produce the distinct effects associated with different strains.
What Is The Entourage Effect?
The entourage effect occurs when CBD interacts with other compounds in the hemp plant, resulting in a more comprehensive product than CBD alone. Terpenes are among these compounds and bring their own unique properties, creating a synergistic relationship with CBD. Imagine it as the ‘ultimate dream team' in plant form.
What Terpenes Are Found In CBD?
There are way too many different types of terpenes for us to list, and they all vary between different plants & CBD brands. While some may be high in one terpene, another may be abundant in another.
Let’s discuss the most common terpenes that are found in CBD…
1. Linalool
Lavender is known for its calming effects, thanks to a terpene called linalool, which is found in the flower. Linalool not only contributes to lavender’s soothing scent but also enhances the relaxing properties of some of our products.
2. Limonene
Limonene, a terpene found in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges, is known for its uplifting and invigorating scent. This powerful compound is known for its possible mood-boosting and refreshing effects.
3. Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene, prominent in spices like black pepper and cloves, offers a spicy, earthy aroma. It’s known for its potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
4. Humulene
Humulene, found in hops, coriander, and cloves, offers an earthy, woody aroma. It’s known for its potential anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressant properties.
5. Pinene
Pinene, abundant in pine trees and herbs like rosemary and basil, emits a refreshing, pine-like aroma. It’s recognized for its potential anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects.
6. Myrcene
Myrcene, prevalent in mangoes, hops, and thyme, imparts a musky, herbal aroma. With its potential sedative and muscle-relaxing properties, it promotes relaxation and may aid in sleep.
7. Bisabolol, Also Known As Levomenol
Bisabolol, found in chamomile, emanates a sweet, floral scent. It’s renowned for its potential anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
8. Carene
Carene, abundant in hemp, cedar, and rosemary, emits a sharp, sweet aroma reminiscent of woodlands. It’s responsible for potential anti-inflammatory and bone-strengthening effects.
9. Terpinene
Terpinene, present in tea tree oil and citrus fruits, has a refreshing, herbal aroma. It’s known for its potential antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
10. Ocimene
Ocimene, found in sweet basil and allspice, has a sweet, floral aroma. This terpene is associated with delivering the "Goldilocks effect," offering a balance that is neither too stimulating nor too sedating. Ocimene is also released by plants in response to spider mite attacks, attracting predatory mites that eat the pests.
11. Terpinolene
Terpinolene, a citrusy terpene, is found in stimulating cannabis varieties like Jack Herer, Trainwreck, Big Sur Holy Weed, S.A.G.E, and Zeta. Despite claims of its sedative effects, terpinolene is strongly linked to cognitive clarity and is prevalent in sativas. This stimulating terpene is also associated with early Thai landraces and is found in allspice, tea tree, black currant buds, and juniper. Preclinical evidence suggests terpinolene has antibacterial activity and potential antitumor effects.
The Bottom Line On Terpenes
In wrapping up, terpenes are the spice of life in the world of CBD! These aromatic marvels found in plants like cannabis don't just make them smell great – they're like the secret sauce behind CBD's magic. From the calming vibes of linalool to the zesty kick of limonene and the earthy hug of caryophyllene, each terpene brings its own flair to the CBD party.
So, next time you're shopping for CBD, keep an eye out for these funky little compounds – they might just be the key to unlocking your ultimate wellness journey. And for more insights into CBD, don't forget to check out our CBD FAQs. Cheers to terpenes, the unsung heroes of the CBD world!
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.