Terpenes
December 2021
In the following blog post, we will discuss what terpenes are, how they can work, and what their functions are.
1. What are terpenes?
2. The functions of terpenes in the cannabis plant
3. How terpenes can work
4. Conclusion
1. What are terpenes?
The term "terpene" originally comes from botany and describes the essential oils found in almost all plants and even some insects. Strictly speaking, these are aromatic hydrocarbons that are primarily responsible for the distinct smells and flavors of plants. To date, approximately 8,000 terpenes are known, making them the largest category in plant chemistry. About 200 of these terpenes can be found in cannabis plants.
2. The functions of terpenes in the cannabis plant
Like all other plants, the cannabis plant is susceptible to pests, parasites, bacteria, and fungi. Like cannabinoids, terpenes are found in the resin secreted by the plant, the trichomes. These trichomes are found on the flowers and near-flower leaves of the cannabis plant and perform the natural mechanism of pest control. The main function of terpenes is to protect the plant through various scents.
3. How terpenes can work
The exact mechanism of action of terpenes has not yet been extensively researched. However, there are studies examining their therapeutic properties. Cannabis scientists have identified an interplay between terpenes and cannabinoids: Molecules from these two families appear to work together to produce enhanced benefits—a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
Here are some terpenes and their properties:
Limonene:
Smells: Citrus fruits (lemon, orange)
Flavor: Lemon and Mint
Occurrence: Orange, juniper, peppermint, cannabis
suspected effect: mood-enhancing
Myrzene:
Smells: clove-like with notes of citrus fruits
Taste: sweet citrus fruits
Occurrence: Balsamic, fruits, geraniums, herbs, cannabis
suspected effect: anti-inflammatory, calming
Eucalyptol:
Smells: Eucalyptus and mint
Taste: spicy with cooling properties
Occurrence: Bay leaves, eucalyptus, tea tree, cannabis
suspected effect: anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial
Geraniol:
Scents: Rose and lemongrass
Flavor: Passion fruit, lemon peel, peach
Occurrence: Geranium, lemon, cannabis
suspected effect: sleep-promoting, anti-oxidative
Terpineol:
Smells: floral
Taste: sweet lime, floral
Occurrence: Linden blossoms, pines, lilacs, cannabis
suspected effect: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
4. Conclusion
According to current knowledge, terpenes have enormous therapeutic potential and have been used for thousands of years. However, the key lies not in their properties alone, but rather in the interaction between terpenes and other substances, such as cannabinoids. Cannabinoids and terpenes can complement and enhance each other's effects. Through specific breeding, positive effects can be enhanced and tailored to specific medical conditions.
