What the Terp ?

Happy Weedsday Everyone!

So in previous articles we have touched on what is called the Entourage Effect and why its useful for people who use Cannabis. We have discussed some of the Cannabinoids present in Cannabis. But, do you know what terpenes are?

terpenes are found in a variety of plants, insects and even some animals around the globe! In Cannabis, there are hundreds of terpenes. Each terpene contributes to the plant’s aroma, texture and flavour, albeit some more than others. Each strain contains its own specific range of terpenes, which add their own unique properties. Certain Terps are more dominate in some strains than others which contribute to what strain is most appropriate for certain medical relief.

Some of the most commonly found terps in Cannabis are Pinene, Myrcene, Linalool, Caryophyllene, Humulene and Limonene. This list of Terpines are by no means exhaustive. There are hundreds of them. They all do different things and they are found throughout nature.

Myrcene is the smallest of all terpenes but it is the most abundant in cannabis, Myrcene can also be found in mangoes, hops and thyme. It produces a spicy, balsamic flavour and aroma .
Myrcene’s Effects and Benefits
Anti-inflammatory
Analgesic (pain relief)
Antibiotic
Sedative - promotes relaxation
Anti-mutagenic

Pinene is a terp found primarily in cannabis and conifers. It puts off a strong scent of pine. Conifers are a tree that bears cones and evergreen needle-like or scale like leaves.
Some of pinene’s known effects and benefits include:

Anti-inflammatory
Bronchodilator (helps improve airflow to lungs)
Helps counter short-term memory loss associated with THC
Promotes alertness

Linalool is a lovely terpene that is found in many flowers and spice plants, such as lavender, coriander, and basil. People have used smells for therapeutic value, including many containing linalool, since ancient times to help lower stress levels, fight inflammation, and combat depression.
Linalool’s Effects and Benefits
Anti-anxiety – relieves anxiety
Antidepressant – Relieves symptoms of depression.
Sedative – promotes relaxation
Anti-inflammatory – Reduces inflammation systemically
Anti-epileptic – prevents and or stops seizures
Analgesic – Relieves pain.

Caryophyllene is a terp that is common in two main forms, beta caryophyllene, also commonly seen as β-Caryophyllene or abbreviated to BCP, and trans-caryophyllene or TC. Aside from cannabis, this terpene can be found in clove, black pepper and cotton.
Caryophyllene Effects and Benefits
Analgesic – Relieves pain.
Antibacterial – Slows bacterial growth.
Antidepressant – Relieves symptoms of depression.
Anti-inflammatory – Reduces inflammation systemically.
Anti-Proliferation – Inhibits cancer cell growth.
Antioxidant – Prevents oxidation damage to other molecules in the body.
Anxiolitic – Helps relieve anxiety.
Neuroprotective – Slows damage to the nervous system and brain.

Humulene is found naturally in ginger, hops and sage. This terpene is known for its earthy, woody aroma and flavour. Humulene acts as an antibacterial agent and has anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. In small quantities, it has been shown to kill the S.aureus bacteria. A 2003 study showed that humulene, especially when acting in concert with other terpenes and cannabinoids, killed cancer cells. {Example of the Entourage Effect}
Limonene is a terp that is known for its citrus aroma and flavour. It is found in high concentrations in citrus fruit rinds, juniper, and rosemary.
Limonene is used to promote:
prevent cancer
treat cancer
treat bronchitis
weight loss

The biggest collection of terpenes in nature, are found in various strains of Cannabis, which gives the plant powerful medicinal value.

Nature Is Wonderous !!!

Written By Rena “GanjaGrrl” McCain

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