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It is all About Terpenes and Cannabinoids - A Detailed Study

You must be familiar with the smell of cannabis such as mint, berry or pine but the truth is cannabis has more distinctive fragrances. Cannabis is known for its unique smell. For some, it is enjoyable and calm while for the others it is overwhelming and unpleasant. Akin to other plants that are available, the pots contain components which are accountable for the unique flavor and aroma. And these components are none other than terpenes that are aromatic molecules that are secreted inside the cannabis flowers' small resin glands. Terpenes will help to create an aroma that is sweet and fruity in some and citrusy in another.

On the other hand, some may taste and smell like lavender while others may be pungent and earthy. Terpenes have also created a niche for its wonderful medical benefits. The complete success and credit of medical cannabis go to the perfect harmony of cannabinoids and terpenes.

Terpenes Basics and Uses

Simply put, terpenes are chemicals that are organic in nature and produced mostly by plants though some animals like termites and swallowtail butterflies are also used. These aromatic molecules are volatile which means they evaporate easily. Terpenes play a pivotal role in the life of a plant that is it is the foremost component resin as well as protects the flowers against predators. It is used largely for producing essential oils both in beauty products and natural health. Besides it is also used in the aromatherapy and fragrance industry, alternative and conventional medicine and also created synthetically for food additives and flavoring. Wait the list is not over. Natural rubber contains terpenes, steroids contain terpenes and not to forget the maple syrup that has more than 300 types of terpenes that gives it that extra yummy tastes.

The Connection Between Cannabis and Terpenes

It is terpenes that provide every strain the unique taste and smell. To add to it, terpenes are also known to boost up cannabis' health effects via influencing how cannabinoids are processed. Now the most vital question is how cannabinoids and terpenes work? Generally, what is consumed from cannabis is none other than flowers, and they have their unique, recognizable scent. Cannabis has about 120 terpenes. It coexists with cannabinoids such as CBD and THC, but terpenes like THC are not psychoactive. Take a look at the therapeutic properties of terpenes. Terpenes can interact with the endocannabinoid system thereby helping cannabinoids to enter the bloodstream with the help of the entourage effect. For instance, Myrcene will help to increase cell permeability thereby allowing cannabinoids in getting absorbed faster. Limonene will help to increase the serotonin levels, which is a neurotransmitter that takes charge of the mood. No wonder different strains have different effects when it comes to one’s mood. Click on https://www.globalcannabinoids.io to know more.

Terpenes and its Medical Properties

 

Some terpenes are effective to reduce stress, boost focus and offer relaxation. Choices here are endless. Myrcene helps to induce sleep and limonene will make one feel uplifted. Every green vegetable which has terpene will be extremely advantageous for human health. The interaction between cannabinoid and terpene can help to treat the following health conditions namely,

  • Bacterial Infection
  • Fungal Infection
  • Cancer
  • Epilepsy
  • Addiction
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Inflammation
  • Pain
  • Kill respiratory pathogens such as MRSA virus
  • Others

Types of Terpenes in Cannabis

Take a look at the most widely used terpenes used in medical cannabis products.

  • Linalool- Linalool is commonly found in coriander, cinnamon, mint, and lavender and like these aromatic herbs this terpene also helps to produce relaxation and sedation. Those who have cancer, insomnia, seizures, depression, and arthritis can enjoy relief from this wonderful terpene. The best linalool strains include OG Shark, LA Confidential, Lavender, Special Kush, and Amnesia Haze.
  • Myrcene- It has a smell of musky, earthy notes akin to cloves and also has a red-grape kind of fruity aroma. Myrcene will help to reduce chronic pain and inflammation no wonder it is used as a supplement to treat cancer. Strains which are rich in this terpene include Special Kush, White Widow, and Skunk XL.
  • Limonene- It will offer a citrusy smell akin to lemons. Limonene is widely used in cleaning products and cosmetics. With regards to its therapeutic use, this terpene is both a stress-crusher and mood-booster. It also has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties and can also reduce the size of tumors. This terpene is easily available. Simply put, strains that contain sour or lemon in its name is rich in limonene. Jack the Ripper, Jack Herer, Durban Poison, Super Lemon Haze, Sour Diesel and O.G. Kush are excellent examples of Limonene.
  • Eucalyptol- Also called cineole, it offers a minty tone yet most strains have this in traces. The eucalyptus tree's primary terpene it is used extensively in medicines and cosmetics. With regards to its medicinal properties, eucalyptol will help to relieve pain and also reduce the growth of fungus and bacteria. It has also shown little promising effects, but this is currently at a nascent stage. Headband and Super Silver Haze are the best sources of Eucalyptol.
  • Camphene- Damp woodlands, musky earth, and fir needles are best words to describe the aroma of camphene. Often its smell is mistaken with myrcene. This terpene has excellent potential in medicine. Together with vitamin c, camphene acts as a strong antioxidant and used largely in conventional medicines in the form of a topical to treat skin problems such as psoriasis and eczema. Camphene can work wonders to reduce the levels of triglycerides and cholesterol that are commonly associated with most cardiovascular diseases. Some good sources of this terpene include Mendocino Purps, Strawberry Banana and Ghost OG.
  • Delta-3-Carene- It is present in different plants such as pine, cedar, bell peppers, basil, and rosemary. Delta-3-Carene has a sweet aroma similar to that of cypress. Considering its medical properties, it can heal broken bones in patients with arthritis, osteoporosis, and fibromyalgia. This terpene will stimulate the memory and also aid with retention of memory. It is the perfect choice for Alzheimer's.

Hope by now you are aware of the connection between terpenes and cannabis and why it is so popular.


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