Terpenes and its health benefits!

We have mentioned terpenes in our blog post about the difference between broad and full-spectrum CBD oils. But what are really the terpenes, and what are their benefits to our health? We are going to cover that today!

If you have smelled a plant of lavender, sage or cannabis, you have encountered terpenes! Terpenes are aromatic properties of a plant that create their distinct differences.

Although, the smell of the plant is not the only purpose of these incredible chemicals! Terpenes serve as a protector for a plant’s benefits and may also offer benefits to our human body!

Why do plants produce Terpenes?

Terpenes act as a way to attract pollinators and repel predators. They also help the plant recover from any damages while serving as a sort of immune system to keep harmful germs away!

What are the health benefits of Terpenes?

Inhaling the scent of certain terpenes work as aromatherapy, and certain smells have been associated with improving emotional and psychological well-being.

The linalool, a terpene found in the lavender plant, has a calming, sedative effect, while the citric smell of limonene, a terpene found in citrus fruits and peppermint, has a mood boost effect!

The fragrance is oils that release a therapeutic scent! New studies have proved that terpenes have a physical health benefit, as well as mental.

Terpenes have shown to work with the endocannabinoid system and the nervous, immune, and gastrointestinal systems. They also support other cannabis chemicals to produce the desired effects – the entourage effect! 

Here are some types of hemp terpenes and its benefits: 

• Caryophyllene: It carries a herbal aroma synonymous with these plants – caryophyllene is also found in hops, cloves, and rosemary.
• Linalool: This terpene found in rosewood, bergamot, coriander, rose, jasmine, and lavender. It produces a delightful floral aroma.May have anticonvulsant and sedative properties. It also has been found to inhibit the growth of fungus in lab studies.
• Myrcene: The “earthy” aroma found in most hemp plants. It is the most prevalent terpene in the cannabis plant and known to have a strong sedative effect, and anti-inflammatory. A 2015 study have found that myrcene can help slow cartilage degradation, hence preventing osteoarthritis. 
• Ocimene: Produces a strong, sweet, herbal scent. Found in mint, mangoes, basil, and orchids.
• Pinene: Commonly found in pine trees and other conifers, pinene is also responsible for certain hemp plants’ “piney” aroma. It interacts with GABA receptors, which could support a sense of calm.
• Terpinolene: Known for its pleasant fragrances, such as rosemary, conifers, lilacs, and apples. It creates a fresh herbal-citrus aroma.
• Alpha Bisabolol: This terpene was first isolated from Asteraceae (chamomile).