It is said that the speed at which technology evolves increases with time, and hundreds of discoveries go unnoticed by millions of people. This happens constantly. One example are terpenes.
However, the medical field is being revolutionized by them and their benefits, so it is important that you get to know your terpenes to take advantage of them.
And now, you have found the right article to do just that, complete with a list of terpenes.
What Are Terpenes Exactly?
“Terpene” comes from the word “turpentine”, which is a fluid resulting from distilled resin from living trees. Terpene itself is the name of a group of compounds that cover plants as a defense mechanism against herbivores—that is due to their strong odor—and to attract pollinators.
They make up most of the essential oils in several medicinal plants and flowers, and they are used in the cosmetic industry for their fragrance, for developing medicines, and aromatherapy and similar practices.
Cannabis is among the plants that possess the highest levels of these compounds, which results in its particular smell.
Characteristics Of Terpenes.
First, we have that the list of terpenes works with cannabinoids to modulate the effect they have in our systems, usually boosting it. The study of terpenes has revealed that THC is not the only chemical related to the psychoactive properties of cannabis.
In particular, terpenes are responsible for the effect of each “high”. For example, myrcene creates a sedative effect in the user, and it provides the analgesic effect of cannabis. On the other hand, limonene is energizing.
As mentioned, other than modulating the psychoactive effects of cannabis, terpenes are also responsible for the medical benefits of the plant. When it comes to aromatherapy, terpenes are the sole responsible for its effectiveness.
Terpenes are also responsible for flavor and smell of plants, which makes them fundamental for the culinary properties of spices. Your attraction to certain terpenes indicate your preference for a specific plant or cannabis species, so that’s why you should know your terpenes.
List of Terpenes
Alpha-and-Beta-pinene
Found in pines, they improve the respiratory functions in our bodies and reduce the effects of THC in our memory. They also resemble to scent of pine leaves.
Alpha-bisabolol
Also found in chamomile, it is a pleasant-smelling terpene. While it started in the cosmetics industry, it has proved to be effective against infections and wounds.
Borneol
Great natural insect repellent, it is found in rosemary and mint. Besides killing breast cancer cells, it famous in Chinese medicine, specifically in acupuncture.
Camphene
This terpene is often mistaken with another in the list of terpenes, myrcene, for the popular smell of marijuana. However, if you know your terpenes, you should know that is not the case. When used with vitamin C, it acts as a powerful antioxidant, and it is used against psoriasis and eczema.
However, its most sought benefit is lowering the cholesterol and triglycerides levels in the blood.
Caryophyllene
A popular terpene found in black pepper, cinnamon, and oregano, responsible for their spicy notes. It helps against anxiety and pain, it reduces the desire for alcohol intake.
Delta 3 Carene
This is an interesting one in the list of terpenes thanks to how it helps in healing broken bones, helpful against osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, and arthritis. It also stimulates memory and its retention.
Geraniol
This terpene is mostly used in body lotions and aromatic baths, but it has started to be considered as an antioxidant and neuroprotectant. It is also found in tobacco and lemons and has fragrance notes of peaches and plums.
Humulene
To know your terpenes, it may help to learn that this is the first one found in hop. Its aroma is partly earthy, woody
and spicy. It is helpful for preventing cancer cells from proliferating. It also suppresses appetite.
Limonene
Second most abundant on the list of terpenes, it has a citrusy smell, and it is present in all citrus fruits. It reduces stress and offers antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Linalool
It is the responsible for the smell of marijuana, but it is also found in mint and lavender. It is strongly sedative and has aided patients suffering from arthritis to seizures and cancer.
Myrcene
Myrcene has sedative effects, and it has also proved to be effective for reducing inflammation and pain, giving cannabis its popularity as a cancer treatment companion. Myrcene smell often resembles of earthy + musky.
Terpineol
With a floral smell, terpineol is mostly used for perfumes and flavors, and it possesses antioxidant and antibiotic properties. It is another relaxer on the list of terpenes.
Trans-nerolido
A secondary terpene with a citric and floral aroma, it helps fight parasites, fungus, cancer, and microbes. It is also a good antioxidant.
Valencene
Its name comes from the Valencia oranges, where it is mostly present. It is mostly used as an insect repellent.