THE BENEFITS OF TERPENES

WHAT ARE TERPENES?

Terpenes are organic compounds common to the plant kingdom ~200 of which have been identified in the cannabis plant. In cannabis plants, terpenes are concentrated in the sticky glandular trichomes where THC and other cannabinoids are also produced.

These molecules are responsible for strong aromas and play a critical role in creating the unique therapeutic effects attributed to cannabis. Products that are devoid of terpenes may not be as effective as those with terpenes.

anti-septic, antiinflammatory, sedating, relaxing

Myrcene exhibits opioidtype analgesic effects.1 It has been shown to enhance permeability of the bloodbrain barrier, and to increase the maximum saturation level of CB1 receptors.2 anti-depressant, antifungal, anti-reflux, elevates mood anti-depressant, antireflux, elevates mood, anti-fungal

Limonene shows promise as a pain-reliever,3 and may help alleviate gastrointestinal complaints such as reflux or heatburn.

Linalool can reduce stress and anxiety, and improve sleep. Research has shown it may also reduce pain and inflammation, and can act as a local anesthetic.1 Linalool is sometimes used as an anticonvulsant or anti-epileptic.3 anti-oxident, antispasmodic, pain relief, improved sleep anti-inflammatory, pain relief, suppresses appetite

B-caryophyllene interacts with CB2 receptors. When combined with CBD it helps relieve inflammation and neuropathic pain.5 It may also be helpful for gastrointestinal complaints such as ulcers.

Humulene is similar to BCaryophyllene, but with a few differences. In contrast to the reputation cannabis has for increasing appetite, humulene on its own suppresses appetite.2

anti-asthmatic, memory retention, alertness

Pinene is the most common occurring terpene in nature. It can enhance memory and alertness by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, potentially conteracting unwanted effects of THC.6 It acts as the bronchodilator, improving respritory function.4

SOURCES:

1 RUSSO, 2013

2 STEEP HILL LABS, 2017

3 GUAIMARAES, 2013

4 RUSSO, 2017

5 FINE, 2014

6 RUSSO, 2011 pain & stress relief, anti-proliferative, alertness

Eucalyptol is licensed in Germany for treating rheumatism. When applied topically, it helps relieve pain. In animal studies, low doses of eucalyptol provided pain relief that was nearly equivilent to morphine.3 sedating, anti-oxident, anti-proliferative, calming

Terpineol has been shown to induce relaxation and pain relief in animal studies. It has also been shown to attenuate withdrawl effects of morphine dependency, and may offer therapeutic effects in treating addiction.4