Terpenes - Hack your mood!

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, herbs, and even fruits. They’re responsible for the distinct scent of pine or lavender or the citrus-like smell of orange peel. They occurs in the plant kingdom to attract pollinators and deter predators such as insects and help reduce damage caused by environmental stressors such as temperature changes and air pollution. For example, linalool offers anti-inflammatory benefits, which can strengthen the plant’s immune system against infectious germs.

Although Terpenes have long been understood as a component of many essential oils, they have recently become popular among consumers due to their purported health benefits in CBD and Cannabis products. In cannabis, terpenes are secreted from trichomes, resin glands that grow on the plant’s flowers, leaves, and stems, and are responsible for the distinct smells and flavors associated with different strains of cannabis. While CBD itself does not have a strong aroma, the presence of additional terpenes in CBD oil can enhance its overall effects. 

However, despite their growing popularity, terpenes remain largely unregulated as scientists continue to research them and learn more about their properties. So far, evidence of the medical benefits of Terpenes within CBD has been mainly theoretical due limited clinical trials available on human subjects. But with increasing interest in the therapeutic potential of cannabis beyond just THC effects, given the recent legalization of hemp in many American states, it’s expected that more research will be conducted into this area over time.

There are also risks of experiencing the potential side effects associated with certain types of terpenes, plus the risk of interactions with medications and health conditions; the effects of terpenes can vary depending on the individual and their unique biochemistry. With all this in mind, it’s important to conduct research before sourcing products and to note that the combination of different terpenes with CBD and other cannabinoids in full-spectrum CBD oil is believed to create an "entourage effect," where the compounds work together synergistically to enhance the overall therapeutic potential.

 

 

Potential Benefits Of Terpenes

 

Main Terpenes In Cannabis

Alpha-pinene is thought to have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties; beta-myrcene has been studied for its potential antidepressant qualities; linalool has been suggested to act on the endocannabinoid system through CB1 receptors for pain relief; humulene is being explored for its anti-inflammatory effects; menthol is believed to be an antispasmodic; eucalyptol may alleviate anxiety; terpinolene may combat insomnia;while geraniol could protect against bacteria.

Hundreds of terpenes can be found in the cannabis plant, though some are more prominent than others. Here’s a look at some of the most common terpenes and their associated benefits:

Myrecene - Known for its sedative and relaxing properties. It may help with pain relief and muscle relaxation. 

This is one of the most abundant terpenes, often found in mango and hops. It has an herbal aroma like thyme or lemongrass and is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.

Added to products because: Myrecene is great for those who need some extra help relaxing. While myrcene does not have the same uplifting effects as limonene or caryophyllene, it can still make you laugh if used in higher concentrations.

Caryophyllene – Has a spicy and peppery aroma. It may have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Found in clove, black pepper, rosemary, hops, basil, oregano, and cinnamon, this terpene has a spicy aroma with hints of woodsy notes. It’s associated with anti-inflammatory properties as well as being an antioxidant.

Added to products because: Caryophyllene can bring emotions into balance and is found in high concentrations in some cannabis varieties such as ACDC. Caryophyllene may have a calming effect, making it perfect for helping to manage hypomanic symptoms. It can also make you laugh!

 

Pinene – Often associated with a pine-like scent, pinene is believed to have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects. It may also aid in memory retention and focus.

Pinene is found in pine trees, rosemary, citrus fruits, and other fragrances. It has a characteristic pine aroma and is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and promote airflow within human cells. It may also have anti-cancer properties and help protect against cardiovascular disease.

Added to products because: They uplift and help the respiratory system. Pinenes are secondary terpenes found in many cannabis strains and are known for having an uplifting effect particularly when high in limonene. Pinenes also have the ability to make you laugh when used correctly! They are often used medicinally to help with asthma, allergies and other respiratory issues but they’re also great for making us smile and laugh!

Limonene –  Has a citrusy aroma and is believed to have mood-enhancing and uplifting effects. It may also have anti-anxiety and anti-depressant properties.

Limonene is found in lemons, limes, oranges, and other citrus fruits. Its fruity scent can be detected in many cleaning products as well. It has been studied for its potential to reduce ulcers in animal models and help protect against liver damage caused by toxins. It may also have gastroprotective qualities that can benefit those with gastrointestinal disorders.

Added to Products because: Limonene it is known as the terpene that is the most likely to make you laugh – It is found in higher concentrations in varieties such as Tangerine Dream, Gelato and OG, but can also be found in Bubba Kush. It is associated with euphoric effects.

Terpinolene – Often found in strains with fruity or floral aromas. It may have relaxing and sedative properties.

Terpinolene has an herbal scent reminiscent of apples or cumin spice with floral undertones similar to rosewood or lilac blossoms. Studies suggest it may have cardioprotective effects by protecting against oxidative stress on blood vessels which could benefit cardiovascular health.

Added to products because: Terpinolene is a lesser-known terpene that can be found in nutmeg, cumin, apples, tea tree and conifers. It has medical potential as an antifungal agent, anti-tumor agent, gastrointestinal aid and even insect repellent! But most importantly for this discussion – it can create a great giggly feeling when consumed So if you’re looking for something to make you laugh – look for products that contain this wonderful terpene!

Humulene – This terpene is found in hops (among other plants) which give beer its bitter taste profile along with various aromas such as cloves or herbs like coriander or basil leaves. Humulene is known for its anti-inflammatory effects on skin inflammation when applied topically or ingested orally. Its antimicrobial properties make it effective against Candida albicans overgrowth (a type of yeast). Additionally, research suggests it could potentially reduce lung cancer cell proliferation through apoptosis (cell death), which shows promise as a possible cancer therapy option too!

Added to products because : it uplifts when you are I’ll! Although best known as useful in inflammation, pain relief, appetite loss and other disease, it can uplift too.

Linalool – Known for its calming and soothing properties. It may help with stress, anxiety, and sleep.

Linalool has a sweet floral scent similar to roses or jasmine flowers accompanied by woody undertones like lavender or mint leaves; it’s even been used for fragrances in many cosmetics due to its pleasant aroma! Research suggests it could be useful for relieving anxiety disor through sedative effects while simultaneously promoting alertness—it might even act as an anticonvulsant! Lastly, studies point towards linalool being helpful for treating skin inflammation due to antimicrobial properties present within this terpene molecule, so topical applications may offer relief from related conditions like eczema!

Added to products because: Good for those looking to reduce their stress levels while also finding something to laugh about! This is a secondary terpene that not only has a calming effect, but it can also make you laugh when used correctly.

Ocimene – Ocimene smells like parsley or tarragon herb with hints of minty undertones, naturally occurring in some plants like oregano leaves (among others). This compound may offer potential benefits such as combating air pollution when exposed directly since ocimenes are volatile molecules capable of binding with pollutants without causing harm themselves – this could lead to better indoor air quality if implemented correctly! Additionally, research suggests ocimenes might even act as anti-cancer agents due to their cytotoxic effects on certain types of cell lines, so there’s potential here too!

Nerolidol – Nerolidol has an earthy aroma somewhat resembling mushrooms but also has notes reminiscent of green tea leaves; it can be extracted from essential oils extracted from flowers such as lavender buds, among other sources, including lemongrass.

Studies suggest nerolidol may possess antimalarial activity, thus making it useful for treating malaria patients who don’t respond well enough to traditional treatments. Another possibility includes targeting bacterial infections where antibiotics don’t work enough either! Lastly, research points towards nerolidol having antibacterial activity against certain types of streptococcal bacteria; this means topical applications infused with nerolidol could potentially help treat skin infections where antibiotic creams fail alone!

Bisabolol– Bisabolol smells quite sweet yet slightly spicy similar to chamomile flowers mixed with ginger root – these compounds have been used medicinally around the world since ancient times! Studies indicate bisabolol might have antioxidant effects that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Another possibility involves using bisabolol’s role in wound healing by speeding up the process close wounds faster than normal due to physical/chemical interactions between molecules themselves when certain concentrations are reached within tissue/cells, making them heal quicker than usual!

Finally, research points towards bisabolol’s anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically, helping reduce redness/swelling associated conditions such as psoriasis; this makes bisabolol’s useful ingredient in skincare products aimed at reducing inflammation-related problems people face in everyday life, significantly increasing comfort levels affected areas almost immediately upon application regardless what part body affected from irritation/inflammation itself initially!.

 

When Terpenes Are In Large Quantities

When these terpenes are present in large quantities in a cannabis strain, they can induce more giggling effects than if consumed individually or in small amounts. A great example is the Blueberry Widow strain which is heavy with humulene, caryophyllene 

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