Terpenes in Cannabis

Terpenes are the molecules that give aromatic plants their smell. There are over 20,000 terpenes. According to Chem Wiki, terpenes are made up of smaller units called isoprenes. Isoprene (C5H8) in its natural form is a gas that is released from plants as a byproduct of metabolism. Isoprenes are the second most common volatile family of compounds in the atmosphere, second only to methane. According to Leafly.com there are over one hundred terpenes found in the marijuana family. New research is demonstrating that these terpenes are central to the specific effects of each strain, rather than by their historically popular identification as Sativa or Indica. The most common terpenes in cannabis are...

Alpha-Pinene

This terpene is what gives pine trees and other conifers their smell. In the past, pinene in the form of turpentine was used to treat breathing ailments, parasitic infections and skin conditions. Pinene is present in many strains. These terpenes act as an analgesic and an anti-inflammatory medication. It also is known to be a bronco dialator.

Myrcene

Myrcene is found in fresh mango fruit, hops, bay leaves, eucalyptus, lemongrass and many other plants. Myrcene is the smallest terpene. The tiny terpene is used as an anti mucus agent, as well as, has anti-bacterial and anti viral properties. 

Linalool

This terpene is found in lavender, coriander and is the base ingredient of Vitamin E. Linalool, like lavender, has sedative effects. According to the Leaf Online, Linalool is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties, anti-psychotic effects, anti-seizure effects and may be helpful in treating depression. Researchers at the American University of Beirut showed that small concentrations of linalool stopped the growth of liver cancer cells

Limonene

Limonene gives strains of cannabis their citrus lemony smell. Limonene is known to be anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, as well as anecdotally being supportive of stress and anxiety relief. According to Web MD, limonene may have anti-cancer properties, and can be used to treat bronchitis

Caryophyllene

 

This terpene is a molecule that works behind the scenes when cannabis is ingested or smoked. The terpene activates the protein known as C2, the cannabanoid receptor that does not produce a high. However, researchers have shown beta Caryophyllene to be effective in treating inflammation, osteoporosis, and other conditions.

     These terpenes and their medicinal use are known in the herbal community. Perhaps, medical cannabis dispensaries can better serve patients’ needs by understanding these molecules and how they can be used in conjunction with THC to treat debilitating conditions. Yet, their uses are not completely understood. More research is needed to better understand the potential uses of terpenes in cannabis.