What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes have been getting a lot of attention lately, and for good reason. One of the things that many patients ask about is THC, or THC percentage. Now, THC percentage is important. In fact, last week we talked about THC percentage, so you can check out that content if you want to learn more about THC. 

But, Terpenes are one of the most important parts of the cannabis plant. They provide the unique aromas and taste, but they also play an important role in the therapeutic properties of cannabis. In fact, different terpenes can be beneficial for different kinds of symptoms. Thats why its important to know about Terpenes. So lets dive in.

1. WHAT ARE TERPENES?

Terpenes are organic compounds within the cannabis plant that enhance the effects of cannabis, affect taste, and hold numerous medical benefits. There are over 100 terpenes that have been identified in the cannabis plant. Broadly, terpenes can be broken down into sweet, sour, spicy, or bitter — with each category further breaking down into more specific smells. These specific smells consist with certain strains, which in turn correlate to the effects of that plant.

 If you are familiar with “essential oils” you already have some experience with terpenes. Terpenes are found in high quantities in various essential oils. For example, limonene is in the essential oil of lemons and limes, alpha and beta-pinene are found in the essential oil of pine needles. The terpenes in these essential oils contribute to the uplifting effects you experience if you smell the rind of a lemon or walk through a pine forest. All of these terpenes, and hundreds more, are found in high concentrations in the flower of cannabis.

2. TERPENES PROVIDE THERAPEUTIC BENEFITS

The diverse palate of cannabis flavors is impressive enough, but arguably the most fascinating characteristic of terpenes is their ability to interact synergistically with other compounds in the plant, like cannabinoids. In the past few decades, most cannabis varieties have been bred to contain high levels of THC, and as a result, other cannabinoids like CBD have fallen to just trace amounts. This has led many to believe that terpenes play a key role in differentiating the effects of various cannabis strains.

Each individual terpene is associated with unique effects. Some promote relaxation and stress-relief, while others promote focus and acuity. Linalool, for example, is believed to be relaxing whereas limonene elevates mood.

The effect profile of any given terpene may change in the presence of other compounds in a phenomenon known as the entourage effect. More research is needed to understand each terpene’s effect when used in harmony with others.

Their differences can be subtle, but terpenes can add great depth to the horticultural art and quality of cannabis. Most importantly, terpenes may offer additional medical value as they mediate our body’s interaction with therapeutic cannabinoids.

3. EIGHT COMMON TERPENES

Alpha-Pinene

Potential Effects: Alertness, memory retention, counteracts some THC effects

Potential Medical Value: Treatment of asthma, pain, inflammation, ulcers, anxiety, cancer

 Myrcene

Aroma: Cardamom, cloves, musky, earthy, herbal

Potential Effects: Sedating “couchlock” effect, relaxing

Potential Medical Value: Antioxidant; treatment of insomnia, pain, and inflammation

 Limonene

Aroma: Citrus

Potential Effects: Elevated mood, stress relief

Potential Medical Value: Treatment of anxiety, depression, inflammation, pain, and cancer

 Beta-Caryophyllene

Aroma: Pepper, spicy, woody, cloves

Potential Effects: Stress relief

Potential Medical Value: Treatment of pain, anxiety/depression, ulcers

Linalool

Aroma: Floral

Potential Effects: Mood enhancement, sedation

Potential Medical Value: Treatment of anxiety, depression, insomnia, pain, inflammation, and neurodegenerative disease

 Humulene

Aroma: Hops, woody, earthy

Potential Medical Value: Anti-inflammatory

 Ocimene

Aroma: Sweet, herbal, and woody

Potential Medical Value: Antiviral, anti-fungal, antiseptic, decongestant, antibacterial

Terpinolene

Aroma:  Piney, floral, and herbal

Potential Effects: Relaxing

Potential Medical Value: Antioxidant, sedative, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-cancer

OK! So we covered some of the more common kinds of terpenes. Now, you can use this information to begin looking for strains that have test results showing the specific terpenes that your looking for. If you have any more questions about terpenes or cannabis in general, give Dr Z Leaf a visit. We are a Tulsa dispensary founded on quality products and a knowledgeable staff that can help answer your questions and make sure you find what your looking for!