Our Wholesale Terpenes work synergistically with cannabinoids in The Entourage Effect.
Separate from cannabinoid compounds, but equally important in the Cannabis plant are wholesale Terpenes and Terpenoids. These terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a distinct chemical difference in them in that terpenes are hydrocarbons (containing only hydrogen and carbon), whereas terpenoids have been denatured by oxidation in the drying and curing process, and chemically adapted to include oxygen in their chemical constitution. Much in the same way that acidic forms of cannabinoids evolve into the major and minor cannabinoids during decarboxylization in the magical evolution of Nature's best medicine.
Beyond the more than 120 cannabinoid class compounds in the plant, terpenoids constitute at least another 140 distinct compounds that contribute to the effects and medicinal properties of Cannabis. However, terpenes are not exclusive to Cannabis, and in fact exist in virtually every plant known to man, and are responsible for the aroma and flavor of plant-based foods. We would not know the scent or flavor of pepper, oranges, or lavender without their terpenes working in infinite combinations to produce the universe of unique offerings in Mother Nature's plants.
It is the unique combination of terpenes and terpenoids in Cannabis and hemp that define the distinct strains, and are largely reponsible for their effects. Not surprisingly, Nature is extremely efficient and these exact chemical profiles throughout the plant kingdom and is why certain strains of cannabis can seem more citrus-leaning in aroma and flavor, or one might remind you more of grapes, blueberries or moss.
The science of terpenes and terpenoids is an enormous topic, however, we will focus here on the primary terpenes that are dominant in Cannabis and make their contibution in The Entourage Effect of hemp and cannabis.
Cannabinoids Knowledgebase
The Major Cannabis Terpenes
Beta-Caryophyllene
Beta-caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene found in many plants such as Thai basils, cloves, cinnamon leaves, black pepper, hops, cloves, oregano, and in minor quantities in lavender. It’s aroma has been described as peppery, woody and/or spicy. Caryophyllene is the only terpene known to interact with the endocannabinoid system (CB2). Studies show β–caryophyllene holds promise in cancer treatment plans. Research shows shows that β–caryophyllene selectively binds to the CB2 receptor and that it is a functional CB2 agonist. Further, β–caryophyllene was identified as a functional non-psychoactive CB2 receptor ligand in foodstuff and as a macrocyclic anti-inflammatory cannabinoid in cannabis. A 2014 clinical study showed potential for beta-caryophyllene as a treatment for chronic pain, and it has also been shown to have anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects.
Camphene
Camphene is monoterpene which emits pungent odors of damp woodlands and fir needles. Camphene may play a critical role in cardiovascular disease. Clinical studies have found camphene reduces plasma cholesterol and triglycerides in hyperlipidemic rats. Given the importance that the control of hyperlipidemia plays in heart disease, the results of this study provide insight into how camphene might be used as an alternative to pharmaceutical lipid lowering agents which are proven to cause intestinal problems, liver damage and muscle inflammation. This finding alone warrants further investigation.
Carene
Delta-3-carene is a bicyclic monoterpene with a sweet, pungent odor. It is found naturally in many healthy, beneficial essential oils, including cypress oil, juniper berry oil and fir needle essential oils. In higher concentrations, delta-3-carene can be a central nervous system depressant. It is often used to dry out excess body fluids, such as tears, mucus, and sweat.
Geraniol
Geraniol produces a sweet, delightful smell similar to roses. This makes geraniol a popular choice for many bath and body products. It is also known to be an effective mosquito repellant. Medically, geraniol shows promise in the treatment of neuropathy.
Humulene
Humulene is a sesquiterpene also known as α-humulene and α–caryophyllene; an isomer of β–caryophyllene. Humulene is found in hops, cannabis sativa strains, and Vietnamese coriander, among other naturally occurring substances. Humulene is what gives beer its distinct ‘hoppy’ aroma. Humulene is considered to be anti-tumor, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anorectic (suppresses appetite). It has commonly been blended with β–caryophyllene and used as a major remedy for inflammation. Humulene has been used for generations in Chinese medicine. It aids in weight loss by acting as an appetite suppressant.
Linalool
Linalool is a monoterpenoid and has been described as having floral and lavender undertones. Varieties high in linalool promote calming, relaxing effects. Linalool has been used for centuries as a sleep aid. Linalool lessens the anxious emotions provoked by pure THC, thus making it helpful in the treatment of both psychosis and anxiety. Studies also suggest that linalool boosts the immune system; can significantly reduce lung inflammation; and can restore cognitive and emotional function (making it useful in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease).
Limonene
Limonene is a monoterpenoid and one of two major compounds formed from pinene. As the name suggests, varieties high in limonene have strong citrusy smells like oranges, lemons and limes. Strains high in limonene promote a general uplift in mood and attitude. This citrusy terpene is the major constituent in citrus fruit rinds, rosemary, juniper and peppermint, as well as in several pine needle oils. Limonene is highly absorbed by inhalation and quickly appears in the bloodstream. Clinical studies have shown that it assists in the absorption of other terpenes through the skin and other body tissue.
Myrcene
Myrcene, specifically β-myrcene, is a monoterpene and the most common terpene produced by cannabis (some varieties contain up to 60% of the essential oil). Its aroma has been described as musky, earthy, herbal – akin to cloves. A high myrcene level in cannabis (usually above 0.5%) results in the well-known “couch-lock” effect of classic Indica medicinal cannais strains. Myrcene is found in oil of hops, citrus fruits, bay leaves, eucalyptus, wild thyme, lemon grass and many other plants. Myrcene has some very special medicinal properties, including lowering the resistance across the blood to brain barrier, allowing itself and many other chemicals to cross the barrier easier and more quickly.
Phellandrene
Phellandrene is described as pepperminty, with a slight scent of citrus. Phellandrene is believed to have special medicinal values. It has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat digestive disorders. It is one of the main compounds in turmeric leaf oil, which is used to prevent and treat systemic fungal infections.
Pinene
Akin to its name, pinene has distinctive aromas of pine and fir. Pinene is one of the principal monoterpenes that is important physiologically in both plants and animals. It tends to react with other chemicals, forming a variety of other terpenes (like limonene) and other compounds. Pinene is used in medicine as an anti-inflammatory, expectorant, bronchodilator and local antiseptic. Clinical studies indicate that the effects of THC may be lessened if mixed with pinene.
Pulegone
Pulegone, a monocyclic monoterpenoid, is a minor component of cannabis. Higher concentrations of pulegone are found in rosemary. Rosemary breaks down acetylcholine in the brain, allowing nerve cells to communicate more effectively with one another. An ethnopharmacology study indicates pulegone may have significant sedative and fever-reducing properties. It may also alleviate the side effects of short-term memory loss sometimes associated with long term use of THC.
Terpineol
α-Terpineol, terpinen-4-ol, and 4-terpineol are three closely related monoterpenoids. The aroma of terpineol has been compared to lilacs and flower blossoms. Terpineol is often found in cannabis varieties that have high pinene levels, which unfortunately mask the fragrant aromas of terpineol. Terpineol, specifically α-terpineol, is known to have calming, relaxing effects. It also exhibits antibiotic, AChe inhibitor and antioxidant antimalarial properties.
Terpinolene
Besides showing up in many cannabis varieties, terpinolene is also found in turnips and turpentine. For a long while, research scientists believed terpinolene to act as a sedative. This was due to experiments that determined mice inoculated with terpinolene showed a great reduction in muscle motility contributing to sedation. However, these findings contradicted anecdotal evidence of cannabis consumers who reported that varieties high in terpinolene caused stimulation. Upon further investigation, it was found that terpinolene’s ability to sedate may in fact be reversed when combined with THC. Therefore, research scientists believe that while terpinolene may act as a sedative in isolated form, it most likely acts as a stimulant when in the presence of THC.