CBD Terpenes. What are they? Are They Important?

CBD Terpenes are strange compounds. If you purchase CBD products, then you are likely seen the term written on the label, it means you may already have consumed terpenes. 

Terpenes can be found in a huge range of plants, including hemp. It is why they form in CBD oil. Yet, the terpenes are not always present immediately in CBD products. 

Manufacturers will add in extra terpenes to increase the terpene count. 

So although you are maybe using a highly refined, almost pure-CBD product, like CBD distillate, you could still be consuming terpenes.

What is the benefit or advantage of adding the terpenes? 

There must be some benefit! However, let us look firstly at Terpenes 

What Are They?

The terpene compounds are aromatic and volatile found in plants. Every time you smell flowers or fresh fruit, you are smelling terpenes. 

There are millions of terpenes that exist, and over 200 are found in the cannabis plant. Manufacturers add in extra terpenes to supplement naturally occurring ones in the plant.

The reason is that terpenes have beneficial elements. By studying terpenes, scientists believe that specific terpenes produce definite therapeutic effects. For example, terpenes are common in aromatherapy practice for offering natural therapeutic healing.

Terpenes in CBD?

Terpenes in CBD can be extremely beneficial because of their targeted effects on the body. There are several terpenes that can be found in CBD oils, so let’s see in more detail what to look for.

·        Pinene: The pinene terpene is, not surprisingly, come from pine needles. It also occurs in some conifers and citrus fruits. Pinene popular among traditional Chinese herbalists, as it used for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and bronchodilator properties. 

·        Linalool: The linalool terpene is familiar to people because it has a floral, yet delicate aroma. Lavender is a good example. Brands infuse linalool for its scent. In aromatherapy, it is useful as a sleep aid and an anti-anxiety ingredient.

·        Myrcene: It is most commonly associated with cannabis. It has an earthy, herbal scent – similar cannabis. Myrcene affects the body in ways that are known to induce sleep. Myrcene also has an antibacterial compound that helps pain relief.

·        Limonene: The limonene terpene is in the rinds of citrus fruits. Its scent is one predominantly of lemons. It is an antifungal agent, and can also enhance mood and reduce inflammation. 

It’s crucial in CBD because it increases the absorption rate of other terpenes.

·        Caryophyllene: It is found in cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper. The terpenes have a spicy, woody smell. The caryophyllene terpene is unique as it can connect with the endocannabinoid system, similar to cannabinoids.

In addition, it has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

·        Humulene: The humulene terpene, described as ‘hoppy.’ It has an appetite suppressant and an anti-inflammatory element.

Are Terpenes Important in CBD Oil?

Terpenes have many potential benefits that would make a welcome addition to CBD oil.

Many users see CBD with terpenes is more beneficial, as it means that users can create their experience and elicit more predictable effects.

For example, using linalool and myrcene in CBD oil in the evening might be extremely beneficial to assist in sleeping patterns. The relaxation and sleep-inducing terpenes would be advantageous for those who find it hard to sleep at night. 

Alternatively, a CBD oil with limonene and caryophyllene terpenes would energize you and get you going. 

When searching for particular effects, then look for a terpene CBD oil that lists its terpene content.

There’s another reason for CBD oil to incorporate terpenes: 

CBD Terpenes and The Entourage Effect

The entourage effect is a term created by Ethan Russo, a prominent cannabis scientist. In 2011, Dr. Russo published a detailed report in the British Journal of Pharmacology on the entourage effect. 

The phenomenon refers to the synergistic mode of cannabinoids. It means, cannabinoids work in synergy to create a heightened, more therapeutic effect.

All terpenes in CBD play a part in the entourage effect. For instance, beta-caryophyllene target cannabinoid receptors directly, and the terpene limonene helps the body to absorb other terpenes.

Full-spectrum CBD products are used specifically for this reason. With a full-spectrum CBD product, you get all the benefits from CBD, other cannabinoids, and combined terpenes. The effect is much stronger than CBD isolates.

Final Thoughts 

CBD Terpenes, as you can see, have an essential therapeutic benefit. Providing the extra boost to cannabidiol and helping the body make better use of the daily supplement. Every terpene has helpful benefits.

The advantage of using a CBD terpenes product is a more predictable outcome. By using specific terpenes, you will know what effects you can expect.  

Another advantage for vape users is they can find a sweet, natural flavor without having to consume artificial flavorings.

Terpenes are not something you should ignore. Next time you’re purchasing a CBD product, keep your eyes open for ones with a high terpene content.