If you’re interested in cannabis, you’ve probably heard about terpenes. But what are they, and what do they do? Terpenes are aromatic molecules that are found in cannabis and other plants. They give cannabis its unique smell, and they also have a variety of medicinal benefits. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about cannabis terpenes!
What are Cannabis Terpenes?
Cannabis terpenes are aromatic molecules that give cannabis its flavor and smell. They also have a variety of medicinal benefits, such as relieving stress or anxiety levels. These compounds can be found in the plant’s resin glands alongside cannabinoids like CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (delta-nine tetrahydrocannabinol). The ratio between these two substances determines what effects will be felt by users who consume them.
The structure of terpenes isn’t that complicated, but it’s still important to understand how they work together with other substances like cannabinoids to maximize the medicinal benefits you’re looking for!
What do Cannabis Terpenes Do?
The effects of cannabis terpenes vary depending on the individual. However, they are generally known to provide relief from stress, anxiety, pain, and nausea. Some terpenes can also increase creativity or focus, while others promote relaxation and a sense of well-being.
Cannabis terpenes are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling in the body. They have been shown to improve sleep quality by reducing pain and anxiety levels at night time! This is why many people use cannabis strains before bedtime instead of sleeping pills like Ambien (Zolpidem).
It’s important to note that not all strains of cannabis have the same terpene profile. This is why it’s so important for consumers to do their research before buying!
How Do You Use Cannabis Terpenes?
Cannabis terpenes are most commonly used as an additive to other products such as edibles or topicals. Some people enjoy the smell and taste of them on their own for cooking purposes, too!
There are many ways to add terpenes into your life:
Aromatherapy: Add a few drops of your favorite terpene blend into an essential oil diffuser, and enjoy the smell.
Topical products: Apply some cannabis-infused salves or ointments onto your skin for relief from pain and inflammation.
Flavored vape pens: You can buy flavored vape pens that contain various concentrations of different terpenes!
Cooking: Cannabis terpenes can also be consumed orally by adding them to food or drinks. Some people enjoy the smell and taste of cannabis terpenes on their own, while others prefer using them as an ingredient for cooking purposes! The best way to find out which method works best for you is experimenting with different recipes until something clicks (no pun intended).
What Is The “Entourage Effect”
The entourage effect is a term used to describe the synergy between cannabinoids and terpenes. This is when the combined effects of both substances are greater than the sum of their individual parts. For example, THC and CBD work together to provide relief from anxiety, pain, and inflammation. The same can be said for other terpenes and cannabinoids!
Many cannabis users believe that strains with a high terpene content provide more benefits than those without them. This is because the entourage effect creates a synergistic relationship between all of the plant’s compounds which work together to produce an amplified effect.
What Conditions Can Cannabis Terpenes Treat?
Many conditions can be treated with cannabis terpenes. Some of these include anxiety, depression, pain management, and insomnia.
Anxiety: Studies have shown that terpenes may help reduce anxiety levels in some people by increasing their focus and mood. The best strains for treating anxiety are likely those which contain high amounts of linalool (like Lavender), limonene (such as Lemon) or myrcene (including Mango). These three compounds work together synergistically to provide relief from nervousness while also improving energy levels throughout the day!
Depression: There is evidence suggesting cannabis can be used to treat depression symptoms such as sadness, lack of motivation, and a loss interest in activities once enjoyed before becoming depressed. The most common terpene found within these types of products would likely be pinene which has been known for its anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation throughout your body including brain cells!
Pain Management: Cannabis terpenes can be used as a natural pain reliever by acting on receptors within the central nervous system. The three most common types of compounds found in this category include linalool (lavender), limonene (lemon), and myrcene which have anti-inflammatory properties and may provide relief from aches associated with arthritis or fibromyalgia symptoms like muscle spasms and joint stiffness caused by inflammation.
Insomnia: Some individuals report difficulty falling asleep at night due to their racing thoughts while others experience insomnia because they are unable to stay asleep long enough until morning comes around again without waking up multiple times during cycles due to stress or anxiety. Cannabis terpenes can be used to treat insomnia by reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation before bedtime. Terpenes such as linalool (lavender), limonene (lemon) or myrcene (mango) are great for this purpose!
How Can I Benefit from Cannabis Terpenes?
If you’re looking for relief from any of the conditions mentioned above, then cannabis terpenes may be able to help. By finding strains with specific profiles that match your needs, you can enjoy the benefits of both cannabinoids and terpenes working together!
Do your research, talk to your local budtender, and find out which strains are best for you. Start with something low potency if you’re new to cannabis or looking for a gentle effect. work your way up to higher-potency strains as you become more comfortable using them!
Cannabis terpenes provide a variety of benefits that can help improve your quality of life. By incorporating them into your routine in some way, you can experience the entourage effect yourself and feel the positive effects it has on your body!
Common Types of Terpenes
The first thing you need to know is that not all terpenes are created equal. Each one has its own unique benefits and effects. Here are some of the most common types of terpenes found in cannabis:
Myrcene: Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis, and it’s also responsible for giving the plant its earthy smell. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, as well as its ability to help you sleep.
Pinene: Pinene is responsible for the piney smell of cannabis and is known for its anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects. It can also improve focus and memory retention.
Limonene: Limonene is a citrusy terpene that’s known for its anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and antifungal properties. It’s also been shown to increase the absorption of other cannabinoids.
Linalool: Linalool is a floral terpene that has sedative and anxiety-relieving effects. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipsychotic properties.
Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene is a peppery terpene that’s known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It’s also been shown to help reduce anxiety and depression.
How Do You Get Cannabis Terpenes?
There are a few ways that you could go about getting your hands on some cannabis terpene products. If you don’t have access to marijuana plants at home, then other methods might work better for you like buying pre-made concentrates from dispensaries or making them yourself using extraction methods.
You can also purchase cannabis terpenes from various companies that make them available in a variety of forms like vape oils, tinctures, and capsules. Be sure to do your research before purchasing any products to ensure you’re getting quality ingredients!
Final Thoughts
If you’re still hungry for more information about cannabis terpenes and how marijuana can be used medically, read through our articles and consult with a Certified Cannabis Educator to expand your knowledge of this magical plant.