Cannabis Terpenes: How They Work and Their Effects
These days, there is a whole slew of cannabis-related “buzzwords” thrown around, but how well do you really know them? From cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) to trichomes (the teeny outgrowths on the plant that contain the majority of the THC), it’s easy to get lost, especially if you’re new to this exciting world. But that’s what our team over at Kaya Life is here for, to simplify things and help navigate you on your path towards a better life with medical marijuana.
Next stop: Cannabis Terpenes.
We’ve talked about terpenes in the past, including popular ones (and for good reason!) like calming Linalool and antioxidant (and seemingly anti-just-about-everything-else) Limonene. Now, what do you say we take a look at them all?
According to Medical New Today, terpenes are the “aromatic compounds found in many plants,” with especially high concentrations of them in cannabis. Among the most abundant compounds in the natural world, terpenes “create the characteristic scent of many plants, such as cannabis, pine, and lavender, as well as fresh orange peel. The fragrance of most plants is due to a combination of terpenes.”
In nature, they protect the plants from animal grazing or infectious germs, but as more research progress is being made, scientists are seeing that they may also act on our endocannabinoid system in a similar way to that of cannabinoids. The difference lies in how each terpene gets absorbed and utilized in the human body. Increasing evidence shows they may actually play a role in the strain’s effects, paving the way for everything from relaxation to focus and clarity.
Let’s take a look at some of the better known ones:
Linalool
Most abundant in lavender, this terpene is what gives the flower its rich scent resulting in its signature calming effect. Studies have also shown strong evidence in the following properties:
- anti-inflammatory
- antimicrobial
- neuroprotective
- antidepressant
- anticancer
- anti-anxiety
Pinene
Pinene is the most common terpene in the world and provides the fresh scent of many plants, including pine needles, rosemary, and basil. Pinene is said to help with:
- pain
- inflammation
- anxiety
Limonene
Limonene, as the name suggests, can be found in the rinds of citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges. They are said to have these effects:
- anti-inflammatory
- antioxidant
- antiviral
- antidiabetic
- anticancer
Myrcene
Myrcene is the most common terpene when it comes to modern commercial cannabis, but also found in hops, lemongrass, and thyme. It is best known for being:
- antioxidant
- calming
- anti-inflammatory
Looking to dive in further? Request an appointment with Kaya Life today! Offices in Pensacola, Santa Rosa Beach and Panama City.