The terpenes in cannabis are the aromatic oils that give cannabis plants their distinct aromas. Terpenes can help the body better absorb and utilize the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids. Terpenes also affect or mitigate the effects of cannabinoids including THC.
Terpenes are as essential as cannabinoids?
Cannabis terpenes and cannabinoids work together to create the greatest impact from all varieties of cannabis. Terpenes typically are extracted from plant matter like citrus rinds and pine needles. While essential oils are used to treat aromatherapy, they aren’t common. Terpenes may also come from animals , or even from insects.
They are typically taken from plant substance. There are over 200 terpenes present in cannabis that give rise to distinct scents and tastes. The aromas of lavender and lemon scents come from terpenes. Terpenes are a plant’s natural defense mechanism and have been used for ages as food additives to enhance the flavor of many foods.
The flavor and aroma of cannabis terpenes may not be only essential, but they also have therapeutic properties. It is believed that terpenes can be responsible for many of the unique features of cannabis. They’ve been found to benefit migraines, stress, inflammation, mood swings, as well as other conditions.
Terpenes and cannabinoids are linked to receptors that are found in our brains as well as our the body. They control mood eating patterns, memory, sleep patterns, and other functions. Terpenes, when paired with cannabinoids can enhance the effects of cannabis for healing and lessen the adverse effects.
These chemical compounds work together to enhance your medicinal marijuana experience and provide stronger, longer-lasting relief. Different combinations of cannabinoids may have different effects on patients. While a CBD-rich strain may not have psychoactive effects however it’s difficult to determine the effects of terpenes in a patient.
The most commonly used cannabis terpenes, and their advantages
1. Alpha-pinene is the primary terpene found in pine needles sage, and has a strong evergreen aroma. It can also be found in basil, rosemary as well as dill, parsley and dill. While alpha-pinene is present at low levels in the majority of cannabis strains of cannabis however, it has been demonstrated to boost memory and improve focus in strains that contain more of it.
2. Beta-myrcene is a terpene which helps to create hops and thyme’s aromas. It could also be an anti-inflammatory. Myrcene is also found in mangoes, lemongrass and thyme. The sedative properties of Myrcene could be helpful in restless leg syndrome and insomnia.
3. Limonene: Lemongrass Peppermint, lemongrass,, and cannabis all have the highest levels of the chemical limonene. It gives off a distinctive lemon aroma that also has antidepressant and anticancer properties.
4. Linalool: This terpene can be found in mint, lavender coriander, birch trees and rosewood. Linalool is a good ingredient for treating depression and anxiety and can provide the ability to calm. Many report feeling sedated when using cannabis strains with high levels of Linalool.
5. Caryophyllene is the sole terpene that interacts with cannabinoid receptors, and also makes clove distinctively fragrant. Caryophyllene is not only imparting a spicy aroma to a cannabis strain is also believed to be anti-inflammatory. It is also believed to help in the treatment of anxiety.
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