Understanding Terpenes
Terpenes are the naturally occurring compounds found in the flower or bud of the cannabis plant. Terpenes are natural aromatic oil compounds that are found not only in cannabis but everywhere around us including the different foods that we eat on a regular basis. Terpenes are responsible and are what make cannabis smell and taste the way it does. They are chemicals found in the essential oil of plants and give each strain, whether CBD or THC, its unique aroma and flavor. Terpenes are what give cannabis its distinctive smell but also changes from strain to strain. Cannabis alone has over 100 terpenes compounds along with other compounds like CBD, THC, and many many more...
All the compounds found in cannabis work together in synergy in what is called the entourage effect as well as to get the most out of the health benefits. However, the terpenes are what steer the experience with cannabis. From a focus uplifted experience to a calming sedative experience, it all depends on the strain used and the terpenes that the individual plant contains. Some people can tell the strains apart just by smelling them. However, the individual compounds CBD and THC don't have a specific smell or a taste; so, depending on what type of experience you are looking to get, the terpenes will help you determine the best options.
As a guide, here are some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis and some of their health benefits they have to offer.
1- Myrcene
Myrcene is the number one terpene found in cannabis. Some strains have more than 50 percent myrcene in their terpene profile. This earthy chemical compound is also naturally found in cloves, citrus, lemongrass, ylang-ylang, which is in Diosa Kitchen’s CBD Massage Oil, and especially mango. It is known for its antibiotic, anti- inflammatory, and sedative effects. And it adds a relaxing and calming effect to the way the body interacts with a strain. Myrcene is ideal if you are looking for a good night's sleep as it is known to have a sedative effect. Some of the cannabis strains known to having myrcene compounds are Sour Diesel, Blue Dream, White Widow.
2- Limonene
As the name suggests, limonene is generally found in citrus, juniper, and peppermint. Limonene is typically known for its energizing and bright citrusy aroma., hence why it is often added to cleaning solutions. Limonene has also been known to be used as an effective pesticide and solvent. This terpene has an elevating effect and is present predominately in sativa strains of cannabis. Limonene has the ability to counteract depression, anxiety, and mood. Uplifting and great for daytime use. Some of the cannabis strains known to having limonene compounds are Super Lemon Haze, Durban Poison and LA Confidential.
3- Caryophyllene
This spicy terpene is found in cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper. It gives a spicy and musky aroma to cannabis. Caryophyllene is known for having anti-inflammatory properties and can also provide some pain relief benefits in the entourage effect. Caryophyllene has recently been studied and shown to react with the CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which means that it may also assist with inflammation and pain. Some of the cannabis strains known to having caryophyllene compounds are Girl Scout Cookies, Master Kush and Sunset Sherbet.
4- Pinene
It is the most common terpene found in nature. As the name suggests, it can be found in Pine needles, Rosemary, Basil, orange peel, and a lot of other herbs. Pinene smells like nature, forest, and trees. A refreshing scent to have in a strain. Pinene is recognized for the anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to a more alert feeling. It has been studied and researched to have the ability to help fight short-term memory loss. Some of the cannabis strains known to having pinene compounds are Jack Herer, Super Silver Haze and Mango Haze.
Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene and Pinene are only four out of hundreds of terpenes that cannabis and hemp plants possess. With all of the medicinal benefits of the different terpenes associated with the cannabis plant, we at Diosa Kitchen embrace terpenes from both the hemp plant as well as naturally from foods.