Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including hemp, and are responsible for the characteristic scent and taste of various plants. In the hemp plant, terpenes play an important role in how CBD products work, and they can have a number of health benefits. They are important in CBD products because they contribute not only to flavor and aroma, but also to the therapeutic effect of the entourage effect , where CBD, terpenes and other cannabinoids work together to enhance each other's effects.
What are terpenes?
Terpenes are natural compounds produced in the trichomes (the sticky, resinous structures) of hemp and cannabis plants. They are also found in many other plants, such as citrus fruits, pines and lavender, and are widely used in the production of essential oils.
Some common terpenes found in the hemp plant include:
- Myrcene : Has an earthy and spicy aroma. Known for its calming and pain-relieving properties.
- Limonene : Has a citrus scent. Often associated with improved mood and stress reduction.
- Pinene : Has a pine scent and is believed to improve cognitive functions and energy levels.
- Linalool : Has a floral aroma and is also found in lavender. It is known for its relaxing and calming effects.
- Caryophyllene : Has a spicy, peppery aroma. It is the only terpene that also acts as a cannabinoid and can interact directly with CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system.
Why are terpenes important in CBD products?
1. The Entourage Effect
Terpenes contribute to the so-called entourage effect , which is the theory that the various compounds in the hemp plant – cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids – work together synergistically to improve their overall effect. When terpenes are present together with CBD and other cannabinoids, they can enhance the therapeutic effect and target specific areas, such as pain, anxiety or inflammation.
For example:
- Myrcene is known to promote relaxation and pain relief, and in combination with CBD, it can enhance the relaxing effects of CBD.
- Limonene can have a mood-enhancing effect, and when used with CBD, it can help reduce stress and anxiety.
2. Therapeutic properties
Terpenes themselves have several benefits and can act as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and pain relievers. Each terpene has its own set of properties that can support CBD's effects:
- Linalool : Helps with relaxation and can reduce anxiety and stress.
- Pinene : Can improve memory and help with breathing.
- Caryophyllene : Has the potential to reduce inflammation and pain by interacting with CB2 receptors in the body.
3. Improved absorption and effect
Some terpenes can improve the absorption of cannabinoids in the body by making the cell membranes more permeable. This means that CBD and other active substances can more easily reach the bloodstream and work faster and more effectively.
4. Aroma and taste
Terpenes are responsible for the taste and smell of CBD oil and other products. This makes CBD products more appealing, especially in full-spectrum CBD , where the natural terpenes from the hemp plant are preserved. This can improve the user experience and differentiate products depending on the terpene profile they contain.
Types of CBD products and terpenes
- Full- and broad-spectrum CBD : Contains natural terpenes from the hemp plant, which contribute to the entourage effect.
- CBD Isolate : Has no terpenes unless they are added afterwards, as CBD isolate contains only pure CBD.
Summary
Terpenes play a central role in the effect of CBD products, as they both contribute to taste, aroma and the therapeutic effect . Their interaction with CBD and other cannabinoids via the entourage effect can enhance the healing properties and make CBD more effective. Terpenes also add unique health benefits that make them an important part of the overall effect of the hemp plant.