Eeny Meeny Miny Moe

By Grammy Green

Terpenes - what are they, and why would we care?  Cannabis flowers are covered in trichomes, which are basically tiny growths containing a sticky cannabinoid filled resin inside of the heads and stalks. One of the main functions of this resin is to produce certain aromas and essential oils to repel insects and other natural predators. Many herbivores find these aromas unpalatable, but to human beings they can share the same smells as pine needles, mangos, apples, pepper, mints, cloves, etc.

Terpenes can also invoke therapeutic effects, which can be amplified when paired with cannabinoids. Terpenes assist cannabinoids with entering the bloodstream and help them interact with the endocannabinoid system. This process is called the Entourage Effect. The different terpene-cannabinoid relationships are also what allows each strain of cannabis to have its own specific psychoactive and medicinal effects. For example, one strain may contain high amounts of limonene, which typically helps to elevate one’s mood and relieve stress by increasing your brain’s serotonin levels, and can also help to treat depression, cancer, inflammation, and pain.

Here are some terpenes and their related functions:

α Pinene

α Pinene accounts for cannabis’ familiar odor, often associated with pine trees and turpentine. α Pinene is the most common naturally occurring terpenoid and acts as both an anti-inflammatory and a bronchodilator.

Linalool

Linalool has a floral scent reminiscent of spring flowers, but with spicy overtones. It possesses sedative properties and is an effective anxiety and stress reliever. It has also been used an analgesic and anti-epileptic.

Myrcene

Myrcene is the most prevalent terpene and is found in most varieties of cannabis. Myrcene concentration dictates whether a strain will have an Indica or Sativa effect. Strains containing over 0.5% of myrcene produce a more sedative high, while strains containing less than 0.5% myrcene have an energizing effect. Myrcene is also present in thyme, hops, lemongrass, and citrus, and is used in aromatherapy.

Limonene

Limonene is a dominant terpene in strains with a pronounced Sativa effect. It is also found in the rinds of citrus fruits. Limonene aids in the absorption of other terpenes through the skin and mucous membranes, and has been used to treat anxiety and depression.

Ocimene

Ocimene is frequently used in perfumes for its pleasant odor. In nature, this terpene contributes to a plant’s defenses and possess antifungal properties.

Terpinolene

Terpinolene has been shown to exhibit antioxidant and anticancer effects in rat brain cells. Studies with mice show that terpinolene has a sedative effect when inhaled. In addition, terpinolene is responsible for many of the floral notes found in Jack Herer varieties.

Terpineol

Terpineol is known for its pleasant smell and is often used in soaps and perfumes. It is known to have relaxing effects.

Valencene

Valencene is present in Valencia oranges and contributes to cannabis’ citrus aroma.

β Caryophyllene

β Caryophyllene is the only terpene known to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (CB2). It produces anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Geraniol

Also present in geraniums, geraniol emits a rosey scent that makes it a popular perfume additive. It is an effective mosquito repellent and shows a potential protective effect against neuropathy.

Humulene

α Humulene contributes to the “hoppy” aroma of cannabis. This terpene acts as an appetite suppressant and exhibits potent anti-inflammatory activity.

For more information about secondary terpenes found in cannabis, look here: https://www.agreenalternative.org/2019/05/terpenes-the-basics

And muchos gracias to Zach Lazarus at A Green Alternative for all of the above information.