This is part two of the "entourage effect" 3 part blog. If you missed the first one, go back and check it out! Last blog we went over cannabinoids. In this blog we'll look at terpenes. Terpenes are “ ..a large and diverse class of organic compounds, produced by a variety of plants, particularly conifers, and by some insects. They often have a strong odor and may protect the plants that produce them by deterring herbivores and by attracting predators and parasites of herbivores.”- Wikipedia Don’t think too much about that definition. You already know what terpenes are. They give the orange the citrus smell, the flowers the pleasant smell, they draw in the hummingbirds and bees and keep away the herbivores. What you may not know is terpenes have some really neat therapeutic benefits.
In the CBD industry, people very rarely interact with what cannabis connoisseurs call flower. Especially here at Arcanum, we focus on the therapeutic benefits of hemp (which is in the cannabis sativa L. family). However, cannabis has been around for thousands of years. So what can we learn from our forefathers in then cannabis world? This is not a question that an athlete looking for the #Arcanumedge might ask themselves, but here at Arcanum we ask a lot of questions! What’s the difference between these flower strains, and are we missing some benefits we could pass along to our amazing consumers? THC aficionados carefully pick amongst popular strains like: Afgoo, Grape Ape, Berry White, and Alaskan Thunder F*&%. Why? If THC is the active ingredient, why does it matter? Some of these strains give you anxiety, while others make you sleep. Some make you want to solve the problems of the world while others make you comatose barely able to change the channel on the T.V. These strains have different benefits and or feelings. Not necessarily because of their compositions of certain cannabinoids, but because of their terpene profile. What are the most popular terpenes in the cannabis sativa L plant and what are their benefits? Here are some of the most prevalent terpenes found in the cannabis sativa L. plant family (this includes hemp). The following is a brief list of a few common terpenes, but remember there are 200 different terpenes found in different strains of the cannabis plant.
Please note we are not making any medical claims but this is a list of some of the therapeutic benefits certain terpenes are being studied for. Bisabolol – Also found in German Chamomile; sweet floral aroma. Has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. The therapeutic benefits of the terpene makes Bisabolol popular in cosmetics. A 2010 study shows that Bisabolol helped induce apoptosis of leukemia cells. Caryophyllene – Also found in black pepper, cloves and cinnamon. This is the only terpene that is known to interact with the endocannabinoid system. Binding directly to CB2 receptors thus proving to be an anti-inflammatory. Caryophyllene is known for its antibacterial, antidepressant, anti inflammatory, neuroprotective, and analgesic properties. Studies have been done on this terpene for its pain reducing properties as well its properties to lessen addictive cravings (this study was done with alcohol). Linalool – Also found in lavender, basil, and hops. Linalool is known to have analgesic, antidepressant, anti-epileptic, anti-inflammatory, antipsychotic, and sedative effects. Studies have been done on this terpene for stress related immune support, anxiety, and sedative properties. Myrcene – Also found in lemon-grass, mango, and hops. This terpene is known for its sedative effects. It is said that strains of cannabis known as indica have high levels of myrcene and cause that lazy feeling; however, more research is needed here. A study was done that showed myrcene to be sedative, muscle relaxant, and analgesic. Pinene – Also found in pine needles, rosemary, and sage. This terpene is shown to have properties as a bronchodilator, analgesic, memory enhancer, and anxiety suppressant. Ocimene - Also found in mint, parsley, and orchids. Has been studies for inflammatory issues arising with autoimmune issues. Also, for inhibiting enzyme production associate with diabetes. Terpinolene - Also found in lilac, nutmeg and cumin. This terpene is shown to have a sedative effect. It has been used in a study along with other nutrients to prevent heart disease. Limonene – Also found in, surprise, citrus fruits. Limonene has been shown to elevate mood, decrease stress, relieve heartburn and gastric reflux, and has been used as an antifungal, and antibacterial. In the next blog we'll go over flavonoids and their therapeutic benefits. Until next time, Stay healthy my friends!