What are terpenes?

*This text is provided for informational purposes only. The information given by the author is his own development using information from publicly available sources. The company is not responsible for the author's material presented.

Content:

• Where are terpenes found?
• The action of terpenes
• Major primary terpenes
• Main secondary terpenes

Terpenes are all around us. The sour smell of lemon, the fresh aroma of pine needles, the chemical tints of diesel fuel, and many others depend on these compounds.

Terpenes give plants their original flavor, and hemp is no exception. The unique flavors and aromas of your favorite strains come from a specific combination of terpenes.

These are natural hydrocarbons found in the essential oils of plants. The smells they create repel pests and also attract beneficial insects to carry pollen. In addition, terpenes protect plants from herbivores, microbial diseases and ultraviolet light.

Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, affect the processes in the human body by interacting with the endocannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors located in the peripheral and central nervous system. Interaction with these receptors affects homeostasis with small changes to maintain a stable internal environment of the body. Terpenes also bind to CB1 and CB2, changing how cannabinoids act on them. It causes many unique effects and sensations.

Where are terpenes found?

In cannabis, terpenes are produced by the same glands that produce CBD and THC. Terpenes have been found to play an important role in how the effect of each individual variety will be. Even if two strains have the same level of THC and CBD, their effect on the human body can be significantly different.

Although almost all plants contain terpenes, some of the more common sources include:

• hemp
• aromatic herbs such as sage and thyme
• citrus

They have also been found in animals, mainly found in egg yolk, fish scales and feathers.

The action of terpenes

We value terpenes for their therapeutic and aromatic properties. They are found in spices, teas and essential oils that we use every day. Two of these spices are curcumin and thyme. Curcumin is a very popular spice in Indian dishes. It boasts a wide range of therapeutic properties but is best known as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. Thyme is another spice commonly used in our cuisine. Therapeutically, it has both antibacterial and antifungal properties.

The herbal drinks we drink for their energizing or relaxing effects include green tea, rooibos, and turmeric. The terpenes in these teas are known for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic and soothing properties.

Cannabis plants produce around 200 different terpenes, and each variety contains a different amount of each. Like the main chemicals in cannabis, terpenes have various therapeutic effects, including analgesic, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Terpenes do not cause psychoactive effects like THC. However, they work in a more subtle way, changing mood through interaction with the serotonin and dopamine systems. These molecules also influence the high created by cannabinoids, "tweaking" it noticeably. For example, limonene creates a refreshing and stimulating feeling. On the contrary, myrcene provides a more relaxing and sedative effect.

Studies show that limonene can also enhance the antioxidant effects of THC, while linalool enhances the muscle relaxant properties of cannabinoids. Linalool also enhances the ability of CBD to reduce feelings of nervousness.

Main primary terpenes

Myrcene - be prepared if you use a marijuana strain with a high content of this substance. It is known for its pronounced sedative and relaxing properties, and can synergize with all Indian varieties, enhancing their stone effect.

Another fundamental property of myrcene is the ability to increase absorption through the skin, as well as increase the amount of cannabinoid substances in the brain. More cannabinoids in the brain gives the user a feeling of euphoria. However, there are no reliable data on its effect on the permeability of cell membranes, especially the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The smell is earthy, clove. Marijuana strains with that patience are OG Kush, Girl Scout Cookies and Grape Ape. Myrcene is also found in hops, the main component of beer.

Limonene is the second most common terpene after myrcene, which we find in marijuana. As the name suggests, it has a strong citrus scent. Can easily cross the blood-brain barrier. It is believed to help increase mental focus and focus, as well as improve our overall well-being. Its tonic properties help reduce anxiety and depression. This compound is found in strains such as Wedding Cake and Lemon Skunk.

Pinene. This compound is usually obtained from resins pines, which has a bright coniferous aroma. Like trees and other plants, it also has an earthy hue. It can be used therapeutically as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and bronchodilator. Haze Berry, OG Kush and Blue Dream tend to have higher amounts of these carbs.

Humulene adds woody, earthy and spicy notes. It is found in large quantities in hops, which is used to make wonderful firs. In addition to the incredible taste, humulene has a calming effect, and is also used as an anti-inflammatory agent. It can be found in varieties such as Gelato and Sour Diesel.

Caryophyllene is responsible for the spicy flavor often found in herbs and spices such as black pepper. It is known as a strong local anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antifungal agent.

Ocimene and guayol give cannabis varieties a sweet, woody and coniferous scent. Despite the similar nature of these terpenes, research on their unique effects is still lacking.

Linalool resembles fresh flowers. Forms a floral-lavender scent with a hint of spices. It has a sedative and calming effect, used to treat nervousness and anxiety. It is believed to have analgesic and anti-epileptic properties.

Main secondary terpenes

Borneol - This terpene has a minty aroma and taste with an unusual metallic tinge. It is used as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic. You can find borneol in cannabis varieties such as Golden Haze and Amnesia Haze.

Terpineol has the smell of linden flowers, as well as a pleasant aroma of lilac. It is often used to make perfumes and cosmetics. One of the terpenes with a calming and relaxing effect.

Phytol creates fresh grassy shades and evokes a feeling of relaxation. Often used for its sedative, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. This terpene can be found in the base tones of Sour Diesel, Blue Dream and Cheese.

Eucalyptol. The aroma of this terpene is menthol, mint, cooling. It has both antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is a secondary component of marijuana strains such as Girl Scout Cookies and Headband.

Sabinene - although not one of the most common cannabis terpenes, it has a unique peppery or spicy smell. Many users say that it smells like pumpkin pie. Has antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Can be found in Super Silver Haze.

Author: Sergey Esipov

Related articles:

• What is THC
• The main thing about CBD: properties of medical marijuana seeds and their healing effect
• Marijuana in medicine