Terpenes

What the heck are Terpenes?

When you hear certain CBD oils contain Terpenes (pronounced tur-peens), you probably wonder what in the world is that? Terpenes are aromatic metabolites found in the oils of all plants. Terpenes don’t exclusively give cannabis strains their unique smells; they contain therapeutic qualities as well. There are many more terpenes, but you can’t catch them all if you go with CBD Isolate because they’ve been removed.

Several studies (some from as early as the 1980s) have shown that terpenes work together to help cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) pass through the bloodstream easier. Basically, you feel more or less of the effects of a strain based on the terpenes found in it.

EXAMPLES OF TERPENES FOUND IN CBD:

Linalool

As a naturally occurring terpene, linalool is known for its lovely floral scent and is one of the main ingredients in essential oils such as lavender.

Pinene (pine)

Pinene is the most common terpene in the world. It’s also found in orange peels, pine needles, basil, and parsley.

Myrcene (earthy, musky, fruity)

Myrcene can be found in mangoes, hops, thyme, lemongrass, and basil, and is the most commonly found terpene in cannabis. It can compose up to 50 percent of a cannabis plant’s terpenes.

Limonene (Citrus)

Like its name suggests, limonene smells like lemons, oranges, mandarins, limes, and grapefruits. It’s also — interestingly enough — probably found in your favorite cleaning products or perfumes because of its’ citrusy scent.

Humulene (Hoppy, Earthy)

Humulene is found in hops, coriander, cloves, and basil.

Terpinolene (Smoky + Woodsy)

Terpinolene can be found in sage and rosemary, and has slightly sedative properties.

Caryophyllene

For example, it is a sesquiterpene found in the essential oil of black pepper, oregano, and other edible herbs, as well as in various cannabis strains and in many green, leafy vegetables.  And it’s one of the reasons why green, leafy vegetables are so healthy to eat.