The Seven Most Important Terpenes in Cannabis and Their Impact on Enjoyment and Health

06. 11. 2023

In addition to the well-known cannabis terms such as cannabinoids, CBD and THC, you may have recently come across a lesser used term, terpene. Cannabis contains more than 150 types of terpenes. But what exactly are terpenes? What are the most important ones and what are their effects? Find out everything you need to know about these compounds below.

What are terpenes?

Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds found in the trichomes of female cannabis plants. They are responsible for the smells, tastes and even colours associated with different varieties of cannabis plants. Cannabis terpenes are similar to more familiar substances such as THC and CBD. THC and CBD are among the main cannabinoids that have a variety of different therapeutic effects. Like these aforementioned chemicals, terpenes have various therapeutic effects, such as pain relief, anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory.

How do terpenes affect the human body?

The terpenes in cannabis have a similar effect on the human body as cannabinoids. They enter the bloodstream and interact with individual hormones and receptors in the brain, glands, organs, immune cells and connective tissues. All terpenes have unique therapeutic effects. It is therefore not surprising that some of the effects of individual terpenes on the human body resemble their function in cannabis and other plants, helping, for example, to fight unwanted microbes and pathogens.

Terpenes, unlike some cannabinoids, will not make you stupid. Even so, some are considered psychoactive because they affect brain function. Cannabis experts believe that terpenes, combined with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, contribute to making some strains more stimulating and others more relaxing.

Terpenes mainly affect the serotonin and dopamine systems in the brain, so you may feel happier, calmer and sleep better. The terpenes in cannabis are the reason why some strong cannabis strains make you feel extremely energetic and creative, while others make you want to sleep.

The healing effects of cannabis terpenes

Preliminary research suggests that some terpenes could have a positive effect on certain mental conditions. However, it is important to note that research on terpenes is still in its infancy and has not yet been conducted on humans. Below are some of the therapeutic effects that have been associated with terpenes:

Antiviral effects,
reducing inflammation,
pain relief,
anxiety relief, nerve calming and stress relief,
antidepressant effects,
anti-cancer effects,
relief of allergy symptoms,
promoting regular sleep.

The most important terpenes in cannabis and their effects

As already mentioned, the number of terpenes in cannabis is huge, with more than 150 different species. The most common terpenes are listed below, along with their potential effects:

Myrcene

Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes associated with cannabis. It is also found in lemongrass, thyme and mango. This terpene provides calming effects as it acts as a sedative. It helps treat bloating, pain, insomnia and acts as a powerful antioxidant. According to some users, this terpene has an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effect.

Limonene

Limonene is usually associated with lemons. It is found in the peels of citrus fruits, especially lemons. Its stimulating effects help to alleviate anxiety and depression.

Another therapeutic property is to aid digestion. A comprehensive review of previous studies published in the Journal of Food Biochemistry in 20 21 showed that limonene has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer effects and protects cardiovascular, liver and digestive tissues in the human body.

Pinen

Pinene is one of the most abundant terpenes found in nature. It is found in pine needles, also in resin and citrus fruits. It is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and dilates the bronchi. Pinene terpenes are also thought to induce a feeling of euphoria and increase alertness.

Linalool

Another very common terpene found in cannabis is linalool. Linalool is found in rosewood, bergamot, coriander, roses, jasmine and lavender, to name a few. It has traditionally been used by herbalists to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia, pain, inflammation and nervous disorders. It has relaxing effects and helps to sleep better.

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene, which is also known as beta-caryophyllene, is the dominant terpene found in many cannabis varieties. Caryophyllene is also found in other plants such as cloves, rosemary, oregano and black pepper. Caryophyllene is an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. Research into the therapeutic effects of caryophyllene has shown that it can alleviate the symptoms of various diseases such as colitis, diabetes, anxiety and depression, liver fibrosis and Alzheimer's disease.

Humulene

The name humulene is derived from the plant Humulus lupulus, better known as the common hop. It is also found in sage, cloves, basil, black pepper and ginseng. It has a number of health benefits as it can be used as an antibacterial, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory agent and also reduces appetite.

Terpinolene

This compound is found in a number of plants including conifers, nutmeg, apples, lilacs and cumin. It has been studied for its potential antibiotic and antioxidant effects, as well as its ability to reduce inflammation.

Functions of terpenes in cannabis

Terpenes have an important function in cannabis. They are involved in the proper functioning of our sensory receptors and help to strengthen our immune system. However, research into all the terpenes in cannabis is still in its infancy and it is therefore difficult to say anything definitive about these substances. Each variety of cannabis has its own terpene profile. However, the terpene content is also influenced by the growing conditions and drying method.