Ancient medicine, modernised
What is a terpene?
A terpene is a molecule found in fungi, botanicals and cannabis that is responsible for the scent and medicinal profile of various plants plant. Working independently or in synergy with cannabinoids, terpenes trigger physiological responses that can relieve pain, and help us sleep, soothe, focus and socialise.
Where are terpenes found?
Everywhere! Terpenes are all around you. A drop of lavender on your pillow, a sunny florist on a warm afternoon or the quiet, contented peacefulness of a pine forest and a deep breath.
Has a scent ever triggered a sudden and peaceful nostalgia, of a memory not thought of in years?
This is the result of little terpenes, doing little terpene things.
Terpenes interact with our neurotransmitter receptors, triggering a variety of physical responses. Working in synergy with other botanical compounds, terpenes contribute to what scientists refer to as 'the entourage effect'.
This is when a group of molecules go on an adventure and realise that **they're that much stronger together.
Here's an insight into our favourite terpenes.
Linalool
• Lavender • Citrus • Laurel • Birch • Rosewood • Cannabis
Linalool is known for it's sedative and calming effects, used for combatting insomnia, stress, anxiety, pain and convulsions. Early research indicates it may be useful in easing symptoms of depression.
If you've ever fallen asleep with lavender drops on your pillow, you're experiencing linalool.
Humulene
• Hops • Coriander • Cannabis
Humulene is an effective anti-inflammatory pain reliever. Topically, it is a useful antibacterial agent. Humulene may act as an appetite suppressant, and assists with managing bloating.
Myrcene
• Mango • Thyme • Citrus • Lemongrass • Bayleaves • Cannabis
Myrcene is an incredibly diverse terpene, with it's properties including antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and strong anti-inflammatory qualities. In small doses, myrcene acts as a stimulant. In larger doses, myrcene has powerful sedative and relaxant effects, acting as an anxiolytic. It can enhance THC's psychoactive effects.
D-Limonene
• Citrus • Lemon • Orange • Cannabis
Limonene may function as an anti-depressant, anti-anxiolytic, and anti-fungal. Limonene fights bacterial infections, stimulates the immune system, relieves depression and anxiety, and treats gastric reflux (GORD) and ulcers. Limonene is a proven mood elevator and stress reliever. Limonene has been found to combat memory loss issues associated with cannabis. Cannabis strains such as 'Lemon-Diesel' and 'White Fire' are rich in limonene, which are known for their unique euphoric and creative effects.
Camphene
• Ginger • Rosemary • Hyssop • Valerian • Nutmeg • Conifer • Cannabis
Camphene lowers cholesterol levels and triglycerides in the blood (hyperlipidaemia/high cholesterol). Camphene has strong pain relieving qualities, as well as anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. When applied topically, this is an effective natural remedy for eczema, psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.
B-Caryophyllene
• Pepper • Cloves • Hops • Basil • Oregano • Cannabis
One of the most interesting terpenes in cannabis is B-Caryophyllene. A potent anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic (muscle spasms), pain reliever, antioxidant and sleep aid all rolled in to one.
Caryophyllene is one of the only cannabinoids found outside of cannabis. It activates CB2 receptors in our endocannabinoid system to trigger physiological responses.
When paired with other terpenes, it may enhance and strengthen their effects.
B-Pinene
• Pine needles • Conifers • Sage • Cannabis
B-Pinene is a gastrointestinal protectant, that inhibits painful gastric lesions, reduces volume and acidity of gastric juice and increases gastric wall mucus. This is essential when managing symptoms of inflammatory stomach and bowel conditions.
Pinene also increases alertness, aids memory retention, and has anti-depressant, antiseptic and anxiolytic effects. Pinene is a natural bronchodilator, and is effective in managing asthmatic symptoms. Should be used with Alpha-Pinene to provide synergistic effects.
Terpenes from the pinene family have neuroprotective properties that aid memory retention and alertness.
A-Pinene
• Pine needles • Conifers • Sage • Cannabis
Potent anti-inflammatory, eases asthma, wheezing and difficulties breathing (bronchodilator). Pinene is a neuroprotective agent that aids in memory retention and increased alertness, enhances neurogenesis (the formation of new brain cells), and has anti-cytotoxic, anti-coagulative, cytogenic, gastroprotective and anxiolytic effects . Pinene is referred to scientists as "the miracle gift of nature".
