What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are a class of strongly aromatic organic compounds produced by plants. Although terpenes scent our world by imbuing our favorite fruits and vegetables with wondrous smells and flavors, they also serve many other vital functions in nature.
For one, the strong smells of terpenes are used to repel herbivores from plants, essentially acting as natural defense mechanisms. However, terpenes also allow us to quite literally “sniff out” the individual characteristics of many plants – including hemp.
Most people are probably familiar with essential oils, such as eucalyptus, rose, lavender, and others. These plant-based oils all carry unique fragrances that distinguish them from one another – aromas that are only made possible by terpenes.
Similarly, hemp plants also produce aromatic oils of their own, called resin. This thick, oily substance is secreted by small glands on female cannabis flowers called trichomes. You might think of resin as hemp’s own essential oil, and like many other plant oils, hemp resin is packed with unique blends of aromatic terpenes. However, unlike other plants, hemp resin also contains many naturally-occurring cannabinoids and flavonoids – namely, cannabidiol, or CBD.
Together, the CBD and terpene content in hemp resin combine to ensure that no two hemp strains are exactly alike.
What are Terpenes Used For?
Contrary to some belief, terpenes aren’t just aromatic. Instead, terpenes actively alter the effects of CBD by binding to endocannabinoid receptors and interacting with other receptors in the brain. Terpenes can even increase the efficacy of CBD by assisting its transport into the blood-brain barrier.
In essence, terpenes add a deeper layer of variety and variability to CBD products. That said, not every terpene blend is ideal for everyone, and depending on your preferences, you might want to avoid specific terpenes entirely.
If you’re wondering what the best terpenes are for you, here’s a breakdown of eight of the most common terpenes as well as what you can generally expect from each.
What is the Alpha-Pinene Terpene Used For?
True to its name, pinene is a pine-smelling terpene that’s found abundantly within many of the world’s plants, including pine trees, basil, parsley, and orange peels. When consumed, pinene is thought to promote alertness and even improve memory function.
As such, pinene seems to be ideal for promoting wakefulness and alertness while working, studying, or during other cognitively-demanding activities that demand intense focus.
What is the Beta-Caryophyllene Terpene Used For?
This spicy terpene has a distinctly sharp aroma and is naturally present in Thai basil, cinnamon leaves, cloves, oregano, and black pepper.
Beta-caryophyllene is often considered to possess mood-elevating, anti-inflammatory, and stress-relieving properties, making it well-suited for reducing localized pain and discomfort. In fact, beta-caryophyllene is commonly found in topical CBD products.
What is the Humulene Terpene Used For?
Humulene is responsible for the earthy, woody smell of plants such as hops, cloves, basil, and coriander. However, this terpene also purportedly boasts anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressing effects.
These benefits might make humulene ideal for users who are dieting or fasting and don’t want to rely on mere willpower alone.
What is the Limonene Terpene Used For?
Limonene carries the unmistakable fragrance of citrus fruits like lemons and limes. As you might expect, this terpene is frequently found in fruit rinds, but also appears in peppermint, juniper, and rosemary plants.
Supposedly, limonene has many beneficial properties, including pain reduction, mood elevation, and anti-inflammation. It also seems to improve the absorption of topical CBD such as creams, lotions, and salves, making it one of the best terpenes for managing localized pain.
What is the Linalool Terpene Used For?
Linalool has a strange name, but the peculiar spicy and simultaneously floral smell of this terpene might be even stranger. Nevertheless, linalool is found in many spices and flowers, including lavender and coriander. When ingested, linalool is thought to promote sleep, improve mood, and may even act as a neuroprotectant.
Given its seemingly sedative nature, linalool is perhaps best served for reducing anxiety, stress, and maintaining brain function in later age.
What is the Myrcene Terpene Used For?
Myrcene lends its rich, musky and earthy scent to various plants, including hops, lemongrass, basil, mangoes, and thyme. As one of the most abundant terpenes in hemp, myrcene seems to excel at reducing stress and inflammation.
As an ostensibly sedating terpene, myrcene is perhaps best for combating insomnia and promoting relaxation following intense periods of physical and mental stress.
What is the Ocimene Terpene Used For?
This terpene has a sweet, earthy, herbal fragrance and is often found in mint, basil, kumquats, orchids, and parsley. It seems to possess immune-boosting properties and is therefore best-suited to users who want to strengthen their immune systems.
What is the Terpinolene Terpene Used For?
Possessing a grassy, herbal, and sharp aroma, terpinolene is common in sage, nutmeg, conifers, apples, cumin, and rosemary. Like many other terpenes, terpinolene supposedly excels at promoting feelings of sedation and relaxation. However, in hemp, terpinolene is usually only found in trace amounts.
Regardless of its rarity, terpinolene appears to be one of the best terpenes for reducing anxiety and nervousness.
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Additionally, we take great pride in offering our customers:
- Dedicated support from 9 AM-5 PM PST Monday-Friday
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