6 min read
Cecily Grace Morgan
Cannabis is an incredibly complex plant that contains more than 500 active compounds. While the most well-known compounds may be cannabinoids, the best-known of which are CBD and THC, another class of compounds contribute to the potential benefits of the plant: Terpenes.
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Terpenes are a natural group of unsaturated hydrocarbons found in the essential oils of plants. There are more than 20,000 of these compounds in the plant world, and they contribute to the aroma and flavour of herbs, spices, flowers, trees, and virtually all other plant types.
For example, some terpenes, such as limonene, may contribute to the citrusy scent of fruits such as lemons, limes and oranges. Another terpene, pinene, has a woody smell that we associate with coniferous trees, in which it is found in abundance. Likewise, in the cannabis world, the presence of different terpenes plays a key role in the distinctive aroma of different cultivars.
But terpenes contribute more than just their scents. Many have also been found to possess potential therapeutic properties. This means the terpene profile of your medical cannabis cultivar could be more important than you think.
There are around 150-400 terpenes present in different Cannabis sativa L. cultivars. Not all terpenes are present at the same time, only a handful may be present in meaningful quantities. The traceable terpene content in a given cannabis cultivar is known as the plant’s “terpene profile”.
Some research suggests that terpenes can work synergistically with cannabinoids and other cannabis compounds to enhance certain therapeutic effects of the plant, a theory known as the “entourage effect”.
So, let’s take a closer look at some of the most common cannabis terpenes and their potential health properties.
Myrcene is the most common terpene found in cannabis. It is a monoterpene that is also found in a huge number of other plants, including hops, mangos, cardamom, and thyme. Its musky aroma has seen it added to a wide range of products, including perfumes and cosmetics.
Its presence in certain plants may partly explain their use in traditional herbal medicine practices from all over the world. More recently, scientific evidence indicates that myrcene may have anti-inflammatory properties as well as being beneficial in pain relief. It has also been reported to possess antifungal, antibacterial, sedative, and antioxidant properties.
As well as being commonly found in a large number of cannabis cultivars, linalool is abundant in plants such as lavender, mint, sweet basil, and cinnamon. But you may have come across this common terpene closer to home. Like many other terpenes, linalool is commonly added to scented products, such as perfumes and candles, as well as household cleaning products.
As for its reported therapeutic potential, current evidence indicates that linalool may have some anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties, thanks to its possible activity in the central nervous system. Some evidence also indicates linalool may possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anticonvulsant potentials.
Another common feature in cleaning products, perfumes, and cosmetics, as mentioned earlier, limonene is abundant in citrus fruits. However, it can also be found in cumin, neroli, and bergamot, to name a few.
Limonene has been studied extensively for its therapeutic effects, which include analgesic (pain-relieving), anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antinociceptive, antiviral, and anti-anxiety potential. In particular, some research suggests that limonene might possess therapeutic benefits for metabolic and cardiovascular disorders.
Humulene (α-humulene) is probably best known for its presence in hops (Humulus lupulus), contributing to the distinctive aroma of beer, which, incidentally, can often be reminiscent of some cannabis cultivars. As cannabis and hops belong to the same biological family (Cannabaceae), it makes sense that they should both commonly contain high concentrations of humulene.
Unlike other terpenes, humulene demonstrates potential appetite-suppressing properties, which may make it beneficial in the treatment of conditions related to overeating. However, it is its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that are of particular interest to many researchers as a promising natural alternative to some pharmaceuticals.
Alpha-pinene (α-pinene) is one of the most abundant terpenes found in nature, including in cannabis plants. It can also be found in rosemary, eucalyptus, citrus fruits and more. Its pleasant aroma and potential benefits make it a common sight in aromatherapy and herbal remedies.
Studies have shown that alpha-pinene may possess antimicrobial effects, as well as anti-inflammatory potential. Moreover, some evidence suggests that pinene may have bronchodilator effects which could make it beneficial to patients with asthma.
Interestingly, caryophyllene is the terpene that’s best known for activating cannabinoid receptors in the body. Also known as beta-caryophyllene (BCP), caryophyllene is common in many plants, including black pepper, cinnamon, hops and basil. It possesses a spicy aroma which may be evident in some cannabis cultivars.
Its interaction with the endocannabinoid system may explain some of the reported health benefits of caryophyllene, which may include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-anxiety, antidepressant, and analgesic properties.
Yes, terpenes on their own are legal in the UK. They’re not considered to be a controlled substance and you’ll often find them in cosmetics, cleaning products and food. Products made from cannabis are a different matter, so see our guide to CBD legality in the UK.
Yes, different terpenes can sometimes have different side effects. For example, myrcene may cause drowsiness and limonene and linalool may cause skin irritation in some people, once they’ve been exposed to air. There are also some terpenes that should be avoided by those with anxiety, including guaiol.
Each individual terpene has a unique effect on the body, depending on its chemical makeup.
Terpenes are also thought to modulate the effects of cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD. For example, they may play a part in the effects of CBD oil. This theory is known as the “entourage effect” where different components of the cannabis plant work together to produce a greater overall effect.
Although more research is needed, linalool, myrcene, limonene, and beta-caryophyllene have been shown to offer potential benefits that might support treatment of anxiety with medical cannabis.
Terpenes are a natural part of the cannabis flower and some medical cannabis patients vape them. Only vape medical cannabis when advised by a prescribing specialist, and always stick to the dosage they recommend.
As we mentioned earlier, terpenes may be able to work with each other and with other compounds (including cannabinoids) to enhance certain effects of cannabis. At Releaf, medical cannabis is prescribed by specialists who understand the potential role of terpenes and create tailored treatment plans based on patients’ conditions and symptoms.
If you’re curious about medical cannabis and whether it may be a viable option for you, our online eligibility checker is fast and free.
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