Terpenes
Secreted in the same glands that produce Cannabinoids like THC and CBD, terpenes are aromatic oils that color cannabis varieties with distinctive flavors like citrus, berry, mint, and pine.
Terpenes may play a key role in differentiating the effects of various cannabis strains. Some terpenes might promote relaxation and stress-relief, while others potentially promote focus and acuity. The effect profile of any given terpene may change in the presence of other compounds in a phenomenon known as The Entourage Effect. The combination of these oils with cannabinoids creates an entourage effect, which enhances the healing properties provided by CBD.
Here at Snake River CBD, we have infused 10 Terpenes into our Rapid Relief Lotion to add extra pain and inflammation relief
Three of the most popular terpenes
Myrcene – (MUR-seen) The most modern terpene found in modern cannabis. Myrcene is also found in Thyme, Mango, and Lemongrass. It has potential therapeutic value as an antioxidant, treatment for insomnia, inflammation, and pain. A limited number of rodent studies have suggested that Myrcene, given at high doses, may have muscle relaxant effects. The same study also showed that Myrcene can increase the amount of time mice spent asleep. However, animal studies often do not translate to humans, so more research is needed before we will have a clear indication of whether Myrcene can produce sedative effects. Myrcene can block the cancer-causing effects of aflatoxins that are produced by fungi but find their way to our food. These anti-mutagen properties stem from Myrcene’s inhibition of the liver enzyme, CYP2B1, which induces aflatoxin’s ability to damage our DNA. Myrcene also protects against DNA damage from toxins such as t-butyl-hydroperoxide. These anti-mutagen effects are consistent with those of other terpenes, along with their antioxidant and antimicrobial effects.
Humelene – (HYOO-myu-leen) This terpene has a very herbal aroma. The medical and therapeutic potential of humulene is expansive and well-researched. A 2016 study shows that it may help terminate cancer cells when combined with Phyto-cannabinoids and other terpenes. Humulene is present in many therapeutic-grade essential oils and the use of such oils for healing purposes dates back centuries. The terpene is present in Balsam fir essential oil, and is believed to be an active mechanism in fighting tumors, evidenced by its ability to produce Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS).
The oil was also shown to exhibit antibacterial properties in another study, proving to be active against the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus (a.k.a. golden staph) when administered in small quantities. S. aureus is a bacterium present in our bodies at all times, but it can play a role in a host of nasty infections and diseases when exposed. Humulene can also be found in Hops, coriander, cloves and basil.
Beta Caryophyllene – (CARRY-off-uh-leen) The only terpene known to also act as a Cannabinoid: it can activate our Endocannabinoid System to provide anti-inflammatory effects. It has the potential effect of relieving stress and the potential therapeutic value for treatment of pain, anxiety/depression and ulcers. What makes Caryophyllene an intriguing terpene is its relationship with our Endocannabinoid System, particularly, its ability to bind to CB2 receptors. Because of this, it comes with a host of potential medical benefits. Caryophyllene’s molecular structure also contains a Cyclobutene ring, something rare in nature and not found in any other known cannabis terpene. The human body’s Endocannabinoid System contains a vast network of receptors located throughout the body. Two major types exist: CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are found mainly in our peripheral organs. When a cannabinoid such as THC is ingested, it primarily binds to CB1 receptors located in the brain and central nervous system, producing a euphoric effect. The unique molecular structure of Caryophyllene allows CBD or THC to easily bind to CB2 receptors primarily located within our peripheral Endocannabinoid System. This means that it doesn’t cause any of the euphoric feelings of cannabis while providing many of the benefits associated with activating those receptors, like reducing inflammation. A 2014 study shows pain-relieving properties of the terpene in mice, and another rodent study shows Caryophyllene’s potential to reduce alcohol intake, making this terpene a possible treatment for addiction. Caryophyllene has also been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and to be a possible therapy for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBS). Research has even found that Caryophyllene may be able to treat anxiety and depression. Current studies are hoping to unveil even more of the therapeutic potential behind Caryophyllene, including research indicating that it may help with lifespan longevity by reducing gene stress.
Keep in mind this is only 3 of a wide variety of Terpenes! We at Snake River CBD wanted to educate our customers about the terpenes we use in our NANO CBD, Terpene Infused, Oral tinctures.
The importance of terpenes in CBD’s effects are just beginning to become widely appreciated. Research has lagged as scientists have spent the bulk of their effort on the cannabinoids, mostly in isolation. However, that appears to be changing. The National Institute of Health, which is the largest science funding agency in the country, recently issued a call for proposals to study the analgesic effects of terpenes and “minor cannabinoids” from cannabis.
