Cannabis, like many other plants, produces a huge number of chemical molecules known as terpenes. They are the primary factor in how each type of cannabis smells and tastes uniquely.
In addition to discouraging herbivores and attracting pollinators, these chemicals play other vital roles in plant physiology. However, they are receiving greater attention as a result of the possibility that they may affect the physiological effects of cannabis.
Chemical Classification of Terpenes
Terpenes are classified chemically based on the number of repeating isoprene units they contain. For instance, monoterpenes consist of a single isoprene unit, but sesquiterpenes consist of two.
Their reactivity, smell, and possible biological consequences all stem from their unique chemical compositions. Over 200 unique terpenes have been isolated from cannabis.
Key Terpenes in Cannabis
Myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene, pinene, and linalool are some of the most frequent terpenes in cannabis. There is a unique scent associated with each of these terpenes. Myrcene, on the other hand, has a woodsy aroma, and limonene, a citrusy one.
The aroma and taste of cannabis is heavily influenced by terpenes like these, which can vary in concentration across strains.
The Interaction of Terpenes and Cannabinoids
Terpenes are crucial to cannabis because of their synergistic effects with cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), the plant’s primary psychoactive and non-psychoactive components.
The entourage effect describes how the various components in cannabis, such as THC and terpenes, work together to produce the plant’s overall impact. Some terpenes, for instance, may augment the medicinal effects of cannabis or modify their euphoric effects.
The Therapeutic Potential of Terpenes
In addition, terpenes have demonstrated potential for therapeutic use. For instance, linalool contains sedative qualities and could explain why some cannabis strains are so relaxing. On the other side, caryophyllene can reduce inflammation.
These advantages are not just investigated in the context of cannabis use, but are also of interest to researchers in other domains, such as aromatherapy and herbal medicine.
Research Constraints and Future Directions
These preliminary results show promise, but more study is needed to properly grasp the intricate relationship between cannabinoids and terpenes and their effects on the human body.
Most of the research done so far is considered “pre-clinical,” or not done on actual humans. Due of legal constraints in many countries, cannabis research has unique difficulties.
However, as cannabis regulations relax in more areas, scientists will have a greater opportunity to explore these chemicals.
Terpenes and Consumer Choices
While this is being worked out, consumers and patients can still use terpene content to make educated decisions regarding cannabis.
Terpene profiles, in addition to cannabinoid content, are now commonly provided by both dispensaries and manufacturers.
People will be able to make more informed decisions about which items are most likely to provide the desired benefits, whether that be calmness, alertness, pain alleviation, or something else entirely
