What are Terpenes?

Terpenes are a class of organic compounds that are responsible for the unique aroma and flavour of plants, including cannabis. They are found in the resin glands of the plant and contribute to the overall sensory experience of consuming cannabis.

There are over 100 different terpenes found in cannabis and each one has a unique aroma and flavour profile, including pine, lemon, and earthy notes. In addition to their sensory properties, cannabis terpenes also have therapeutic effects and interact with the cannabinoids in the plant to create the entourage effect.

This means that the combination of terpenes and cannabinoids can produce a range of effects, from relaxation to stimulation, and can even help to enhance or modulate the effects of THC and CBD. Understanding terpenes and their role in the effects of cannabis can help to personalize the cannabis experience and tailor it to the individual needs of the consumer.

Why do plants produce aromatic compounds such as terpenes?

Plants produce aromatic compounds such as terpenes for several reasons:

1. Protection: Terpenes serve as a defense mechanism for the plant, deterring herbivores and insects from feeding on it.
2. Attraction: Some terpenes are used to attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, to the plant for reproduction purposes.
3. Climate adaptation: Terpenes can help the plant adapt to its environment by protecting it from extreme temperatures and UV radiation.
4. Competition: Terpenes can play a role in competition with other plants for resources such as sunlight, water, and nutrients.

How are they different from cannabinoids?

Terpenes and cannabinoids are both found in the resin glands of the cannabis plant and contribute to the overall effects of the plant. However, they are different in several ways:

1. Chemical structure: Terpenes are a class of organic compounds that are composed of isoprene units and are characterized by their strong aroma and flavor. Cannabinoids, on the other hand, are a class of compounds that are unique to the cannabis plant and have a more complex chemical structure.
2. Effects: Terpenes have a range of effects on the body, including anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, are primarily responsible for the psychoactive and therapeutic property of cannabis.
3. Interaction with the body: Terpenes interact with the body through the olfactory system and can have an impact on mood, appetite, and memory. Cannabinoids, on the other hand, interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body and can have a more profound impact on the body and mind.

In summary, terpenes and cannabinoids are both important components of the cannabis plant, but they differ in their chemical compounds, effects, and interaction with the body.

Where do terpenes come from?

Terpenes are produced by plants as a part of their metabolic processes. They are synthesized in specialized cells called glandular trichomes, which are found on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. The exact mechanisms of terpene synthesis in plants are still not fully understood, but it is known that the production of terpenes is regulated by genetic, environmental, and developmental factors.

Once produced, terpenes can serve a variety of functions for the plant, such as attracting pollinators, deterring herbivores, and helping the plant adapt to its environment. The production of terpenes can also be influenced by external factors, such as temperature, light, and stress, which can impact the aroma and flavor of the plant.

How Do Terpenes Work? 

Terpenes work by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system and the olfactory system. When inhaled or ingested, terpenes enter the bloodstream and interact with the receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating various physiological functions such as pain, mood, appetite, and sleep. The interaction between terpenes and the endocannabinoid system can produce a range of effects, including anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties.

Additionally, terpenes interact with the olfactory system, which is responsible for the sense of smell. The strong aroma of terpenes can have an impact on mood, appetite, and memory, and can even help to enhance or modulate the effects of THC and CBD. This is why the combination of terpenes and cannabinoids is often referred to as the entourage effect, where the combination of compounds can produce a greater range of effects than either compound alone.

Do Terpenes Get You High?

No, terpenes do not get you high by themselves. Terpenes are not psychoactive compounds, meaning they do not have a direct effect on the brain that results in a high. However, terpenes can enhance or modulate the effects of other compounds in cannabis plant, such as THC and CBD.

The combination of terpenes and cannabinoids can produce a greater range of effects than either compound alone, known as the entourage effect. For example, some terpenes have been shown to increase the potency of THC, while others can reduce anxiety and increase focus. By working together with cannabinoids, terpenes can play a role in creating a personalized and tailored cannabis experience.

How do terpenes affect the body?

Terpenes affect the human body by interacting with the endocannabinoid system and the olfactory system. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating various physiological functions such as pain, mood, appetite, and sleep. When terpenes enter the bloodstream, they interact with the receptors in the endocannabinoid system and can produce a range of effects, including anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties.

Additionally, terpenes interact with the olfactory system, which is responsible for the sense of smell. The strong floral aroma of terpenes can have an impact on mood, appetite, and memory, and can even help to enhance or modulate the effects of THC and CBD.

How Are Terpenes Ingested?

Terpenes can be ingested through several methods:

1. Inhalation: Terpenes can be inhaled through vaporization or smoking of the cannabis plant. This is the most common terpenes method of ingestion and allows the terpenes to interact with the olfactory system, producing an aroma and flavor experience.
   
   
2. Edibles: Terpenes can be ingested through edibles, such as tinctures, gummies, and baked goods, which are infused with cannabis oil or extract. This method allows for a slower and more sustained release of terpenes into the bloodstream.
   
   
3. Topicals: Terpenes can also be absorbed through the skin through the use of topicals, such as creams and salves, which are infused with cannabis oil or extract. This method allows for localized effects on the skin and can be used for specific conditions such as inflammation and pain.
   
   
4. Sublingual: Terpenes can be ingested sublingually, by placing a tincture or oil under the tongue, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. This method allows for a faster onset of effects compared to edibles.
   
   

The medicinal benefits of terpenes

Terpenes have been shown to have a variety of medicinal purposes, including:

Antiviral

Terpenes have also been shown to have antiviral properties and can play a role in treating viral infections. For example, terpenes such as geraniol and linalool have been shown to have antiviral effects against various cannabis seeds of the herpes simplex virus.

Additionally, some terpenes have been shown to have antiviral effects against the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The antiviral properties of terpenes are thought to be due to their ability to interact with the lipid membranes of viruses, disrupting their structure and preventing them from infecting host cells.

Anticancer

Terpenes have also been shown to have potential anticancer properties and can play a role in treating cancer. For example, terpenes such as limonene and perillyl alcohol have been shown to have anticancer effects against various types of cancer cells, including breast, lung, and liver cancer.

Antidepressant

Terpenes have also been shown to have potential antidepressant properties and can play a role in treating depression. For example, terpenes such as linalool and limonene have been shown to have anxiolytic and mood-enhancing effects, and can help to alleviate symptoms of depression. Additionally, some terpenes have been shown to have neuroprotective effects and can help to improve cognitive function and memory, which can be impaired in depression.

The antidepressant properties of terpenes are thought to be due to their ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system and the olfactory system, which are both involved in regulating mood and behavior.

Antimicrobial

Terpenes have also been shown to have antimicrobial properties and can play a role in treating bacterial infections and fungal infections. For example, terpenes such as eucalyptol, linalool, and limonene have been shown to have antibacterial and antifungal effects against various strains of bacteria and fungi.

The antimicrobial properties of terpenes are thought to be due to their ability to interact with the cell membranes of microorganisms, disrupting their structure and preventing them from infecting host cells.

Pain relief

Terpenes have also been shown to have potential pain-relieving properties and can play a role in treating chronic pain and inflammation. For example, terpenes such as myrcene and caryophyllene have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effect and pain-relieving effects, and can help to alleviate symptoms of conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia.

The pain-relieving properties of terpenes are thought to be due to their ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system, which is involved in regulating pain and inflammation.

The top three terpenes found in cannabis

The top three types of terpenes found in cannabis are myrcene, caryophyllene and limonene. These terpenes are found in high concentrations in many strains of cannabis and are known for their distinctive aromas and flavors. They also have a range of medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, as well as the ability to enhance or modulate the effects of THC and CBD.

Myrcene

Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes found in the cannabis compounds and is known for its musky, earthy aroma. It is found in high concentrations in strains such as Skunk #1, White Widow, and Blue Dream. Myrcene has a range of medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties.

Additionally, it has been shown to enhance the effects of THC, making it easier for the compound to cross the blood-brain barrier and produce a more potent and long-lasting high. Myrcene has also been shown to have sedative effects and pain-relieving properties, making it a useful common ingredient in the treatment of chronic pain, insomnia, and anxiety.

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is a terpene found in high concentrations in strains such as OG Kush, Bubba Kush, and Girl Scout Cookies. It has a spicy, peppery aroma and is also found in other plants, such as black pepper and cloves. Caryophyllene has a range of medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It is also the only terpene content that has been shown to interact with the endocannabinoid system, specifically with CB2 receptors, which are involved in regulating pain and inflammation.

Caryophyllene has also been shown to have anxiolytic effects and can help to reduce anxiety and stress relief. Additionally, it has been shown to have neuroprotective effects and can help to improve cognitive function and memory.

Limonene

Limonene is a terpene found in high concentrations in strains such as Super Lemon Haze, Jack Herer, and Sour Diesel. It has a fresh, citrusy aroma and is also found in citrus fruits, such as lemons and limes. Limonene has a range of medical properties, including anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antioxidant properties.

Additionally, it has been shown to have anxiolytic effects and can help to reduce anxiety and stress. Limonene has also been shown to have anti-tumor effects and can play a role in treating cancer.

What Is a Terpene Profile?

A terpene profile is a detailed analysis of the specific terpenes present in a sample of cannabis or hemp plant. It is a useful tool for understanding the unique aroma of cannabis, flavor, and potential medical benefits of a particular strain of cannabis or hemp.

Terpene chemical profiles are typically performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), which are laboratory techniques that allow for the separation and identification of individual compounds in a sample. By analyzing the terpene profile of a cannabis or hemp plant, growers, processors, and consumers can better understand the potential effects and therapeutic benefits, as well as the aromatic molecules and the flavor profile.