Terpenes From Cannabis Are Finally Ready To Take The Spotlight, Given Equal Importance

Terpenes, also referred to as terpenoids, are a plant’s flavor compound. What many do not know is that they carry therapeutic properties that are sufficient to better one’s health. Discussion in relation to the aromatic compounds normally stem from conversations revolving around cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, the latter two typically take the stand, while terpenes take a seat. The aim here is to show that terpenes also carry value equivalent to that of CBD and THC, but with their own twists.

How Are Terpenes Formed

As previously mentioned, terpenes come from plants and are typically an aromatic component. When it comes to those found within the cannabis sativa plant, they are believed to be created in the plant’s glands, i.e. trichomes, which are deemed responsible for the presence of distinctive cannabinoids (Felt, 2019). Just like there exists over 110 types of cannabinoids, terpenes come in anywhere between 80 and 200 types, some of which may include Myrcene, Limonen, Linalool, Caryophyllene, Alpha and Beta-pinene and Eucalyptol.

So, when consumers are introduced to full spectrum solutions, this implies the presence of terpenes and their role in bringing an entourage effect is huge. How so? This is primarily true because each respective type has the ability to induce relaxation, increase one’s energy levels, or ensure consumers achieve restful sleep. To better understand, the role terpenes have in bettering one’s health, let’s take a closer look at a few studies that have been conducted.

Studies Revolving Around Terpenes

A 2016 study conducted by Chen. J et al. explored the possible effects terpenes have as “penetration enhancers for transdermal drug delivery.” According to the claims made, one of the biggest problems with transdermal drug delivery is the added barrier on one’s skin, making it hard for a medicine’s contents to be felt. The study found that terpenes were effective in interacting with the stratum corneum (i.e. outer layer of the skin), making it possibly preferred over chemical compounds to relieve consumers.

Additionally, a 2017 study by Cho.S. K et al., explored the different ways terpenes can benefit one’s health. The study found that terpenes exhibit anti-inflammatory in the ear, bronchitis, and skin to name the least. Interestingly, it also has the ability to rid tumor effects, and prevent neurodegeneration.

The study noted that said benefits were possible due to its numerous properties including the likes of anti-inflammatory, anti-tumorigenic and neuroprotective properties. The team also concluded that despite the lack of human studies conducted in relation to terpenes, its uses as a chemotherapeutic compound to “increase effectiveness and decrease doses is expected to increase as data on their safety and efficacy […] are accumulated.”

Final Thoughts

Evidently, terpenes are just as important as the various cannabinoids that have been extracted from the cannabis sativa plant. While studies are quite limited in relation to cannabis sativa’s terpenes, those that do exist have since shown the different ways they can positively influence one’s health.

Interestingly, it can be noted that terpenes also house several similar properties to that of CBD, THC and others, therefore, combining them with other components appears to be ideal. Finally, the aforementioned studies show that terpenes not only have the ability to better inner functions, but also help in ensuring that contents found in medicine are fully transferred to one’s body.