We experience nature to its fullest due to its beautiful aroma. Do you know what is responsible for many of the scents that the natural world delivers? The Terpenes. They are present in many plants and responsible for their distinctive smells. Cannabis has been a part of human culture for years. Its unique aromas and flavors made it an interesting plant to study for scientists and a must-try herb for people. In the cannabis world, Terpenes shine brightly as it’s a non-separable part of it. For the distinctive smell of cannabis, terpenes hold full credit. 

Terpenes are mainly aromatic essential oils and naturally occurring compounds in the broader range of plants. It can even determine the effectiveness and taste of the plants and offers numerous health advantages. 

Some researchers even believed this herbal compound helps elevate CBD's 'entourage effect.' As a result, it dramatically enhances the therapeutic effects of Cannabis plants. However, this article will analyze this magical compound “Terpenes”, its types, effects, and advantages. If interested, keep on reading!

What Are Exactly Terpenes?

The Terpenes are the primary herbal compounds found in different plants that determine how they will smell and taste. Several plants even use this natural compound to attract insects. So, it unknowingly works like the pollinators of the plants, which are crucial for their reproduction. Additionally, it also protects all the herbs and plants from predators.

In all Cannabis plants, the Terpenes work like a defense mechanism and function as repellents. They emit a strong fragrance from the Cannabis flower, making it unappealing for animals and other harmful insects. This unique compound safeguards the Cannabis flowers and plants from other external factors, UV rays, fungi, bacteria, etc.

Generally, the profile of terpene is different in every Cannabis plant. When cultivators want to create strains with valuable effects, they can mimic the strains that occur naturally and strengthen the terpene profile. As a result, today, there are innumerable Cannabis strains with unique names.

Another factor influencing the profile is whether the plant grew outdoors or indoors. Factors include nutrients, temperature, and sunlight affect. These herbal compounds derived from their plants are now available separately. Experts sing highly of their health benefits. One should remember that these compounds are non-intoxicating and easily accessible similar to CBD.

Explaining the Common Types of Terpenes

You can find over 20,000 varieties of these unsaturated hydrocarbons, generally produced by plants. Modifying these substances using oxidation to form terpenoids is also possible, which combine to form above 50,000 types. Over 400 different Terpenes are known today. But we will be listing only a few of the common ones here.

●       Linalool

Linalool is present in Cannabis' purple variety along with medicinal plants possessing the high-grade properties of anxiolytic. Lavender's calming effects for folk medicine and aromatherapy infer from the monoterpene linalool.

●       Caryophyllene

Alpha and beta-caryophyllene are highly present among the significant Cannabis plant sesquiterpenes. They are present in black pepper, hops, and rosemary. They are natural bi-cyclic sesquiterpenes available in several plants besides Cannabis and influence the human endocannabinoid system. The beta-caryophyllene specifically offers analgesic and anti-cancer actions.

●       Myrcene

Myrcene is commonly found in Cannabis. It is a monoterpene which is well-known for its effects of relieving pain, relaxing, and sedating. Found in hops, bay leaves, and thyme, it also offers neuroprotective properties.

●       Pinene

Boasting effects like cytoprotective, cytogenetic, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, neuroprotective, and gastroprotective, pinene is another monoterpene. Famous for its memory-enhancing properties, its usage helps reduce the effects of THC intoxication, like short-term memory loss. It is commonly present in parsley, coniferous pine trees, and basil.

How do Terpenes Affect the Human Body? Do They Make People High?

Terpenes can't make people high. However, experts say they can make minor changes to the therapeutic benefits and sensations you experience while smoking Cannabis. The therapeutic properties of Cannabis come from THC and CBD cannabinoids. However, the terpene is not as powerful and indirectly affects your total experience of Cannabis.

These hydrocarbon classes are responsible for the minor differences they cause among the strains of Cannabis, as compared to the cannabinoid composition. Different types affect the human body differently. While some make the consumer feel thrilled and energetic, others have a more calming and sedating effect. They also have enhanced healing effects individually.

Regular research is currently in the process of having in-depth knowledge about their possible benefits and usage for diseases and symptoms. Additionally, there is evidence that terpene does not alter THC and CBD effects on your brain.

Please note that you will generally experience these terpene effects if you vape and smoke Cannabis, as they are more sensitive and get destroyed in the digestive system.

The Unavoidable Advantage of Terpenes that Are Unknown to Many Users

One cannot say how much concentration and which delivery method is ideal for creating a desired effect in humans. Nevertheless, Terpenes offer innumerable positive effects. Offering antibacterial properties, limonene and beta-pinene aid in preventing herpes and other infections.

For seizures, a-pinene offers anticonvulsant activity. It may also prevent strokes. Terpene, like falcarinol, delivers similar effects as CBD and is a covalent cannabinoid receptor type 1. They offer the ability to cure acne. For nervous system dysfunctions like multiple sclerosis, cannabinoids in combination with beta-elements show great results. It also helps with retinal eye problems and helps with atherosclerosis.

Elemene and limonene are also known to help with treating cancer and are clinically proven. Other Terpenes are also present that aid in preventing tumor growth. Though research are still ongoing on Terpenes effects, its users have stated promising statements.

Are Consuming Terpenes Safe?

Terpene is found easily in nature. As a result, consuming them should be safer. One does not generally expect an adverse reaction when in contact with terpene, like the terpene limonene in orange. However, limonene can be very strong in high concentration and pure form. It can also be a solvent for extracting CBD.

On the other hand, Terpenes can be far more aggressive. They can melt epoxy and other materials if they ever come in contact with the floor. Hence, it can be far worse when the undiluted terpene in its purest form comes in touch with the skin. Some essential oils can also be dangerous, and best to use them in diluted forms.

The cannabis flower naturally contains terpene in its 1-5% concentration of overall weight. As a result, the products of Cannabis must comprise a similar concentration and not go above 10%. It is especially the case with vaping products. One can experience frightening irritations in the individual's lungs and airway with over 10% concentration.

Final Thoughts

The cannabis plant components’ cannabinoids and terpene are very different from each other. The latter gives plants a distinctive smell and has varying effects on the human body. Terpene may alter the effects of Cannabis on the human brain. Nevertheless, the research is still ongoing. Pinene, linalool, myrcene, and caryophyllene are some commonly found Terpenes. I hope now you are aware of what terpenes are and what are its types.