Understanding the Role of Terpenes in Medicinal Cannabis

When it comes to medicinal cannabis, most people immediately think of THC and CBD. However, there is another important group of compounds found in the plant that are often overlooked, known as terpenes.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that are responsible for the unique smells and flavours of different medical strains. They are found not only in medical cannabis flower and oils but also in many other plants, including fruits, vegetables, and herbs. In fact, terpenes are what give many of these plants their characteristic smells and tastes.

Terpenes are produced in the same glandular trichomes as THC and other cannabinoids, and they work together to produce the overall effects of each strain. While THC and CBD are the primary drivers of the effects, terpenes are thought to play a vital role in shaping the overall experience.

Terpenes can have a wide range of effects on the body and mind, depending on the specific compound and the dose. Some terpenes, like limonene and pinene, are known for their uplifting and energizing effects, while others, like myrcene and linalool, are more calming and sedative.

Here are some of the most common terpenes found in medicinal flower and their effects:

Myrcene: This terpene is found in high concentrations in many strains and is known for its sedative and relaxing effects. Myrcene is also commonly found in hops.

Limonene: This terpene is found in citrus fruits and is known for its uplifting and energizing effects. Limonene is also believed to have anti-anxiety and anti-depressant properties.

Pinene: This terpene is found in pine trees and is known for its anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects. Pinene is also believed to have memory-enhancing properties.

Linalool: This terpene is found in lavender and is known for its calming and sedative effects. Linalool is also believed to have anti-anxiety and anti-depressant properties.

Caryophyllene: This terpene is found in black pepper and is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Caryophyllene is also believed to have gastroprotective properties.

Humulene: This terpene is found in hops and is known for its anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressing effects. Humulene is also believed to have antibacterial properties.

Terpenes are not just important for their effects on the body and mind, but also for their potential medical benefits. Some terpenes have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-cancer properties, among other potential health benefits.

The Entourage Effect

In addition to their medical benefits, terpenes are also important for their role in the entourage effect. The entourage effect refers to the phenomenon where the combination of different cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in the plant produces a synergistic effect that enhances their individual therapeutic benefits. In other words, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

For example, studies have shown that CBD may have anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety effects, while THC may help with pain relief and appetite stimulation. However, when these two cannabinoids are combined, the entourage effect may enhance their therapeutic effects, resulting in even greater pain relief and reduced anxiety. Additionally, certain terpenes like beta-caryophyllene and myrcene may enhance the absorption of cannabinoids by the body, further increasing their therapeutic benefits.

It's important to note that the entourage effect is not limited to just cannabinoids and terpenes. Other compounds, such as flavonoids and phenols, may also contribute to the synergistic effect of the plant. However, more research is needed to fully understand the entourage effect and how it can be leveraged to create effective plant-based therapies.

In conclusion, terpenes are an essential component of the plant that contribute to its unique aroma, flavour, and effects. While much is still unknown about their individual effects, it is clear that terpenes play a significant role in the entourage effect and can enhance the therapeutic potential of medicines. When considering medicinal cannabis flower or cannabinoids for medicinal purposes, understanding terpenes can help you make more informed choices about the strains and products you use. At RestoreMe, we believe in a holistic approach to wellness that considers the whole plant and all its components. Contact us to learn more about how terpenes and other plant compounds can help you achieve optimal health and wellness.

References

• https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnut.2021.699666/full

• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33548867/

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8426550/

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8426550/

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7692661/

• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0223523418306408?via%3Dihub

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7324885/

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/

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