When understanding cannabis it is important to also understand what makes up the plant, Cannabis Sativa L. There are thousands of known components that make up cannabis including terpenes, terpenoids, and cannabinoids. So what are terpenes and terpenoids?
Terpenes and terpenoids are the compounds responsible for the all too familiar taste and aroma of cannabis. Terpenes are hydrocarbons found in the plant alongside their oxygen-bearing terpenes called terpenoids. Terpenes and terpenoids have been scientifically studied and denoted to have great medical benefits.
Terpenes and Terpenoids Explained
Cannabis and other hemp plant materials are studied using techniques like gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to detect and isolate terpenes and terpenoids. In this way, terpenes and terpenoids can be extracted and evaluated as a compound grouping on its own.
Each plant has a unique chemical makeup that is obtained by the process of cultivation, harvesting, and preparation. Cannabis Sativa L. is the most commonly used plant to create marijuana strains from. In cannabis plants terpenes and terpenoids act as transports for nutrients and lock in key components that make cannabis unique.
Groupings of Terpenes and Terpenoids
Terpenes and terpenoids found in cannabis can be divided into four groups and subgroups.
- Monoterpenes and monoterpenoids
- Sesquiterpenes and sesquiterpenoids
- Diterpenes and diterpenoids
- Triterpenes and Triterpenoids
Cannabinoids are made up of diterpenes and act together with other groupings of terpenes and terpenoids to produce the many beneficial and sought after effects of cannabis.
Synergy and Entourage
Synergy and entourage are terms explaining how chemistry works when compounds are considered in a scientific setting.
- Synergy: Compounds work alone, but through synergy, compounds are found to work better together.
- Entourage: One inactive compound is activated by an active compound when entourage occurs.
Both of these types of chemistry reactions are vital to the success of a good cannabis product. Terpenes and terpenoids vary in consistency from plant to plant. Farmers of hemp or cannabis products take the time to test their products for terpenes and terpenoids to provide this information to potential buyers, users, or dispensaries.
Medical Miracle
Scientific studies have found terpenes and terpenoids to have great medical benefits. These benefits are praised throughout the pharmacological community that is open-minded to using cannabis for medical issues. Some of the benefits include but are not limited to:
- Anticancer
- Antiviral
- Antifungal
- Antioxidant
- Antimicrobial
Terpenes and terpenoids are responsible for endowing these medical benefits as well as the other well-known effects of cannabis use.
Top Terpenes and Terpenoids
There are hundreds of different kinds of terpenes and terpenoids present in any given cannabis plant, and most plants are named or categorized after the terpene that is most concentrated in the plant. Here are a few of some of the most common and beneficial terpenes and terpenoids available.
Myrcene
Myrcene is considered to be one of the most common and abundant terpenes found in cannabis plants. It is well-known for its particularly grape-like and fruity flavour. This terpene is responsible for being a mild sedative and is enjoyed by those about to go to sleep or enjoy a lazy day. Myrcene synergizes well with all of the other compounds found in the cannabis plant and is considered one of the best terpenes available.
Terpinoline
Terpinoline is a terpene that is very similar to the smell of fresh lilacs. This is a soothing terpene that relaxes the mind and body. Terpinoline can cause drowsiness and it is advised to not operate heavy machinery or have anything important to do if imbibing in a terpinoline-rich strain.
Limonene
This terpene, limonene, smells highly of citrus and has a distinct lemony taste. Limonene is praised as one of the best cancer fighting terpenes. This is a medical breakthrough in a world where cancer is prevalent and scary and the cure has not yet been found. Limonene is also great for reducing stress and relieving sufferers of high anxiety. This terpene also provides an overall energetic and uplifting effect that is sought after by all cannabis enthusiasts.
Linalool
Linalool is a terpene that can also be found in lavender. This terpene is responsible for the most commonly recognized smell of marijuana. This might be a smelly terpene, but it is wonderful for fighting anxiety and depression. Linalool, much like lavender, can be a relaxing sedative. It is best enjoyed on a lazy day or before a nap. One of the most surprising aspects about linalool is that it can help to reverse mental degradation caused by disastrous diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Humulene
This is a terpene found most commonly in hops products. Humulene is what gives cannabis a sometimes earthy and spicy flavour and smell. This terpene is an antibacterial and can help with several types of infections. One of its most beneficial effects is that it can stop tumor growth. This is great for cancerous tumors that may be invading a person’s body. Humulene can also suppress an unhealthy appetite. This is a great effect for those who have unhealthy eating habits and need to lose weight.
Caryophelene
Caryophelene is a terpene that tastes similar to the spiciness of black pepper and cinnamon with a smell of cloves and oregano. This terpene is beneficial to those who experience anxiety. It’s also a great analgesic which makes it a key component to creams and topical lotions that soothe surface aches and pains. Topical use of terpenes is a great way to not have to get high to enjoy the relief that comes with cannabis.
Pinene Alpha and Beta
Pinene comes in two types, i.e. Alpha pinene and Beta pinene. Both of these are important compounds to the cannabis plant. Pinene has a piney taste and an aroma of pine resin. Pinene rich strains are found to have anti-inflammatory qualities and can be used to soothe lung problems such as asthma.
Conclusion
Terpenes and terpenoids are an important part of the cannabis plant. They are responsible for both the taste and smell of most marijuana plants and strains. Terpenes and terpenoids are both found present in cannabis plants and can be of benefit to one’s health. Terpenes have been known to offer reprieve from mental distress, and can also inhibit malfunctions like growth tumours and other types of cancer.
