For decades, Cannabis strains have been slotted into 3 categories; Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid. It was said that Sativa’s gave you a more energetic high, Indica’s provided a relaxing and restful high, and Hybrids are a mix that strayed one way or the other (Depending on Dominance). Recently, studies have been looking further into the flower itself, and they have found striking evidence showing the powerful health benefits Terpenes provide.
Terpenes are the essential oils that produce the fragrances and beneficial effects associated with different cannabis strains. Each cannabis strain has its own unique terpenes blend referred to as terpene profile. The profiling of terpene has been described as one of the most effective ways of discerning cannabis strains. In addition to cannabinoid profile – the amounts of CBD, TCH, and other such cannabinoids – the subspecies (sativas and indicas), the processing of the product, and the ingestion method, terpenes also contribute to the entourage effects that consumers of cannabis feel.
The terpene caryophyllene oxide is the strong eucalyptus smell in some strains.
In addition to being responsible for the unique smells of different strains of cannabis, each of the identified terpenes also has its own medical benefits. Different medical cannabis companies in the industry and other such operators have conducted studies to profile and study these benefits.
Terpenes have been identified to make up most of the materials present in essential oils that occur in plants naturally. They are attributed to the distinctive flavors, smells, and effects of cannabis on users and consumers. A typical example is the terpene limonene, which is present in citrus fruits. Limonene is anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and has anti-cancer features. If you have noticed some cannabis strains having a citrus-like odor, that is the limonene effect.
A terpene can also be found in cloves and black pepper that have anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Terpenes help predict the effects and medical applications of cannabis and have also become essential ingredients of a majority of the products used, due to their environmental sustainability. Some operators in the industry, especially manufacturers, have started creating prototypes of cannabis terpene-based products that are environmentally friendly versions of everyday products such as laundry detergents, dish soaps, beauty products, and teas.
The use and benefits of terpenes have gone a notch higher as they are using burned away terpenes in the process of smoking to make “legal cannabis enhancers” or aromatherapy sticks designed to mellow out cannabis users after smoking.
Terpenes have been with humans for centuries. From well-known fruits to the cannabis we smoke, they have been with us to help us heal and protect us from harm. With more studies and the increasing acceptance of marijuana as a legal substance, the importance and benefits of terpenes will continue to grow.
