A Deeper Look into Terpenes, Beyond their Aromas and Scents
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are a large and diverse group of organic compounds that are responsible for nature's pungent and subtle aromas. Terpenes are essential for plants. They both repel insects and lure in pollinators. Unlike cannabinoids, terpenes are responsible for the aromas and the primary components of essential oils. As you take a deeper look, you will notice that terpenes are more than just aromas and scents. They play a key role in maintaining plant’s wellness and can have powerful benefits for humans too!
All plants and even some insects have terpenes. Over 100 different types of terpenes have been found in the Cannabis plant making it unique to other plant species. Each strain has an extensive and unique palate of terpenes. Terpenes work together to produce even more therapeutic benefits. They also coexist and work with cannabinoids. Terpenes are located in the same glands that contain the cannabinoids CBD and THC. Cannabinoids such as CBD work synergistically with terpenes to provide the body a broad range of healing effects. Because of their ability to interact synergistically with cannabinoids and other terpenes. This also explains our instant delight after smelling herbs, flowers and Cannabis.
Terpenes, Cannabinoids and 'The Entourage Effect'
When terpenes work in coordination with other terpenes and cannabinoids they may change their profiles. Research thus far has examined potential effects of terpenes in relation to cannabinoids and their therapeutic effects but have not come to any conclusive evidence. Even without scientific evidence many users have expressed, extracts that are full spectrum (include minor cannabinoids, trace THC and terpenes) are more potent and impactful than isolated cannabinoids.
We hear both terms terpenoids and terpenes, but what do they actually mean. Terpenoids are terpenes that have been oxidized. Straight Hemp products, including our best-selling Hemp CBD Oil, are comprised of numerous terpenoids that have their own unique scent and can provide therapeutic results for the body and mind. Each terpene is associated with its own individual effect. For instance, Limonene can uplift and enhance a person's mood, while Linalool can calm and relax. Physical effects can also come from terpenes, such as reduced inflammation and widened bronchi for alleviating asthma. Through terpene dense products people can experience alleviating effects to pain and inflammation. All of Straight Hemp's products are rich in native hemp terpenes that have been saved during our extraction process and reintroduced.
Stop! Smell The Roses
Though it's not scientifically proven, due to lack of studies, there is a reason why 'stop and smell the flowers' is a phrase. The smell of roses or lilacs will uplift and stimulate your mood. This is because of the terpene Geraniol. Along with its mesmerizing smell, Geraniol invites us into a more uplifted and happy mood. Emotional changes are not the only benefit, Geraniol can also inhibit cell growth of cancerous tumors. Terpenes can create emotional and physical changes in our bodies, there's a whole lot more going on chemically than we think.
Next time you smell flowers, spices or cannabis consider terpenes and how they affect your body, mind and mood.
