Getting Started with Terpenes
WHAT ARE TERPENES?
What’s that smell?
As hemp and CBD become more and more mainstream, the conversations around cannabinoids are multiplying. You have probably read plenty about CBD and THC, maybe even CBG and other “minor cannabinoids”, but have you heard about terpenes yet? These compounds are the key element behind the scent and smell of plants, but that’s not all there is to them. So let’s have a closer look at these wonderful compounds.
WHAT IS A TERPENE?
Terpenes are a big class of natural products. They are the aromatic compounds found in plants and the reason for their characteristic tastes and smells! For example, the classic lavender scent is caused mainly by the terpene linalool. Limonene is responsible for that lovely delicious smell when peeling a citrus fruit. Menthol creates mint leaves' refreshing taste, and myrcene is an essential part of a mango's tropical smell and flavour.
A plant’s essential oil contains a large number of its volatile terpenes (“volatile” means that something evaporates quickly at room temperature). Lemon essential oil, for example, is 94% limonene. Since ancient times, humans have used essential oils as aromas, fragrances, and folk medicine (link).
WHAT DO TERPENES DO?
Terpenes don’t only smell nice; they also play other vital roles for a plant. For example, they help attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies and repel predators like lice and slugs. Some also help protect or heal the plant from damage or act as a part of the plant’s immune system fighting diseases or mould.
Most terpenes show no to very low toxicity for humans. For that reason, we often use them as additives in food and cosmetic products, where they are safe and well-tolerated. Some terpenes also display a range of beneficial biological and pharmacological activities. People have been using them in traditional medicine for centuries, and today scientists are still investigating terpenes. Clinical trials have proven many effects of terpenes, like anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidepressant, antibiotic and analgesic attributes, among others [ 1 ].
TERPENES IN CANNABIS
While terpenes are not exclusive to cannabis, they play a standout role here. Every cannabis strain produces different terpenes at varying levels. The unique combination, or “terpene profile”, gives a breed its distinct taste and smell, making it easier to navigate between them and discover and unlock their full potential. Plus, cannabis flowers are particularly rich in terpenes, which form up to 3-5% of the dry mass [ 1 ]!
Two important terpenes that most varieties share are myrcene and β-caryophyllene. Myrcene gives strains a mildly sweet flavour profile and a spicy, musky scent. It is said to have sedative qualities, contributing to the “couch-lock effect”. Researchers have also investigated it for analgesic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, among others [ 2 ]. β-Caryophyllene gives strains a bit of a “bite” with its unique, spicy and/or funky scent. What makes β-caryophyllene very special is that it can interact with the endocannabinoid system. Therefore, scientists are investigating caryophyllene for several pharmacological effects, such as cardio- and neuroprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties [ 3 ]. Other very common terpenes in cannabis are α-humulene, pinene, limonene, linalool, as well as bisabolol and farnesene [ 4 ]
THE ENTOURAGE EFFECT
Isolated cannabinoids like THC and CBD have been the main focus of research over the last decade. However, cannabis users often report that different strains have different physiological effects. This observation can be traced back to what we call the “entourage effect”, a theory suggesting a beneficial synergy between cannabinoids and terpenes.
Although previous attempts to prove this effect were unsuccessful, a recent study showed that terpenes and cannabinoids could produce an additive effect when combined. The reason seems to be a complex activation or inhibition of multiple receptor systems, including some in the endocannabinoid system. Though more research is needed, it is clear that this may provide a unique and exciting opportunity to use terpenes to enhance cannabinoid effects. And it makes sense - after all, it’s something that has been claimed by users for a long time already [ 5 ].
THE TAKEAWAY
Terpenes are small compounds with a big impact! They are responsible for the distinct smell and taste of many plants. They even have many beneficial properties, especially when combined with cannabinoids like CBD.
At Harmony, we add terpenes and essential oils to our products wherever we can. One of our favourites is our Skin Meditation muscle balm with its cooling combination of menthol and eucalyptol for ultimate relaxation. Or there’s our OG Kush e-liquid, with a nearly equal mix of limonene, myrcene, and β-Caryophyllene that creates a balanced, clean, and smooth flavour.
If you have more questions about the wonderful world of terpenes or any of our products, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We love to talk about terpenes.
