Terpenes and terpenoids are the lesser-known compounds present in the cannabis plant, which are responsible for flavor and smell. Terpenes are simple aromatic hydrocarbons that can be found in plants, trees, animals and insects.
Most plant terpenes act to both protect and repel, protecting against predators and attracting pollinators. Terpenoids are derived from terpenes, and are complex compounds with different functional groups and oxidized methyl groups.
Currently, there are over 20,000 known terpenes, and the cannabis plant is known to produce about 400 of them. Terpenes are categorized into 4 different groups: hemiterpenes, monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes, which contain 1,2,3, and 4 isoprene molecules, respectively. Isoprene molecules occur naturally in nature, and link together in chains.
Terpenes are what give essential oils their unique odors and are present in many of the health and beauty products we use daily. They are grouped into four categories depending on their aroma and flavor. The most common terpenes are listed below in their respective categories, with their known uses and/or health benefits:
Alpha-Pinene– found in pine and conifer trees, rosemary, and orange peels. Known for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
Beta-Pinene– found in cedar, pine, and conifer trees, dill, eucalyptus, oranges, parsley, rosemary, and basil. Believed to be anti-depressant and have cancer-fighting properties.
Carine– found in Turpentine, rosemary, basil, pepper, and cedar. Combats systemic inflammation, repairs diseased and damaged bones and is said to promote mental focus and concentration.
Limonene– found in citrus fruits, rosemary, mint, fennel, juniper, and cannabis plants. Believed to have anti-anxiety and anti-cancer properties.
Myrcene– found in Sweet basil, hops, and mangos. Anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.
Para-Cymene– found in Ajowan, allspice, anise, bergamot, blackberry, cinnamon, clove oil, dill leaf, cumin, thyme, angelica root, bay leaves, basil, carrot seed, cloves, sage, grapefruit, oregano, eucalyptus, and coriander. Medicinally, para-cymene is used to prevent coughs and eliminate phlegm. It is also used as a flavoring agent, and in the production of fungicides and pesticides.
Beta-Caryophyllene– found in black pepper, basil, copaiba, black caraway, oregano, lavender, allspice, fig, roman chamomile, cloves, hops, cinnamon, rosemary, and cannabis. Believed to be beneficial for anxiety and stress.
Humulene– found in hops, basil, clove, black pepper, sage, ginseng, and cannabis. Believed to energize. Appetite supressent.
Terpinolene– found in lilac, tea tree, nutmeg, pine trees, apples, cumin and cannabis. Used in soaps and perfumes. May have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Known to repel some pests.
Citronellol– found in Lemongrass, rose, geranium, chamomile, sandalwood, catnip, and cannabis. Used in perfumes and insect repellents. Found to have antibacterial, antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Geraniol– found in rose, palmarosa, citronella, geranium, and lemon. Reduce anxiety, stress, and depression.
Linalool– found in lavender, laurel, cinnamon, rosewood, mint, birch trees, citrus fruits, and cannabis. May provide stress relief. Anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties. Known to repel some pests.
Terpenes and Cannabinoids
In the cannabis plant, terpenes work in concert with cannabinoids to produce what’s know as the ‘entourage effect’. That’s why different strains containing different combinations of terpenes and cannabinoids produce varying effects and have varying therapeutic properties.