What are terpenes and why are they important?

Pinene is often utilized for its anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antioxidant properties. Preclinical studies suggest that pinene may help with neurological support by enhancing your serotonin levels and allowing it to be a mood stabilizer, therefore, providing happy and euphoric effects. Some of these studies report that pinene affects the body's neurochemical balance by positively impacting the pathways through which the brain functions allowing for better memory retention among many other benefits. Its aromas consist of pine, woody, and earthy tones.

Limonene is the second most common terpene found in cannabis and can also be found in the rinds of citrus fruits such as lemons or oranges. Certain studies have shown that limonene may help mildly reduce stress and anxiety. There are supporting preclinical studies suggesting that limonene may have potent anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxing properties for those looking for alternatives to Western medicine. Limonene shows promising potential to help lower blood sugar and certain fats associated with metabolic syndromes like diabetes demonstrated in a study done on mice. As its name suggests, its flavor and aroma are more citrus and lemon.

Myrcene smells of delicious mangoes and other sweet fruits like apricots, and has many therapeutic benefits. Like other terpenes, myrcene may have the potential to be an anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and sleep supportive, among many other health benefits described in preclinical studies. Most commonly found in hops and lemongrass, both of which have been used in traditional folk medicine for centuries, Myrcene is considered to have one of the most powerful natural antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. Myrcene is said to be more powerful working in synergy with THC and CBD to enhance the effects of the cannabinoids.

Caryophyllene is the only terpene that has been shown to act as a cannabinoid, potentially activating our endocannabinoid system by binding to the CB2 receptor which may allow for anti-inflammatory effects to take over. The CB1 receptor is responsible for the psychoactive effects associated with cannabinoids. CB2 receptors, particularly in peripheral tissues in the body, show promise for offering therapeutic effects when treating inflammation, pain, osteoporosis, anxiety, and depression in preclinical studies. Caryophyllene mainly has the aromas of clove, black pepper, cinnamon, and basil.

Even though linalool is considered to be a minor terpene, it may contain powerful therapeutic properties. Linalool may have the potential to help reduce anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Some preclinical studies suggest that this terpene may be a good option for treating several types of cancer which can potentially help improve cognitive function, and possibly reduce oxidative stress and inflammation typically associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Its aroma is most commonly compared to lavender, rose, and sweet lilac.

Terpinolene is popular for its purported antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-proliferative, and antimicrobial properties. In preclinical studies, this terpene offers promise for fighting cancer, treating anxiety, and improving cholesterol levels. Terpinolene has supporting evidence that suggests it may have sedative effects that may help with occasional restlessness when combined with other terpenes. Its aromas consist of pine, floral, and gassy undertones.