What are Terpenes? [And Four to Look For]
CBD has become one of the more popular supplements available
on the market today, and with good reason.
There is mounting evidence that shows its potential to help people
recovery from a variety of illnesses. More research is needed, but the
available data has been positive. Countless individuals have said that CBD has
helped them.
But what is CBD? How does it work?
CBD has several important components from the hemp plant
which come together to create its beneficial effects.
This article will examine one of its most critical pieces:
Terpenes.
What are They?
Terpenes are specific compounds that are found in plants.
They are often referred to as "aromatic compounds" because of the impact they have on
the smell of a plant.
Terpenes in cannabis and hemp can have a major impact on aroma.
They are found in many particularly fragrant flowers, and the higher the concentration
of terpenes, the stronger the smell.
To be clear, Terpenes are not exclusive to CBD. Instead,
they can be found in all types of plant life. However, they are often
associated with cannabis products. This is because cannabis products typically
have high levels of terpenes.
The role of terpenes tends to vary depending on the specific
plant and the type and strength of the terpenes. Terpenes do more than just
impact the smell of the plant. They also:
- Impact pollinators, like bees, who help the plant reproduce
- Protect the plant from its natural predators by repelling certain types of animals
- Enhance a plant's immune system
How Do Terpenes Improve CBD?
Terpenes have a specific impact on the scent and
effectiveness of these compounds. Terpene content can also impact the flavor of
your CBD products.
There are many different types of terpenes. An experienced
grower can mix and match various strains of CBD with different terpenes. This results
in different impacts.
There is some evidence to indicate that terpenes can actually enhance
the overall health benefits of CBD, with different terpenes having different
health impacts.
Terpenes are extremely common and are found in many plants and
fruits.
Best Terpenes
Terpenes are not a one-size-fits all model, and there are
many different types of terpenes that work for people. These include the
following:
Alpha-pinene
& Beta-pinene: Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene are clear, colorless
terpenes. According to research, they have a variety
of health benefits, including acting as antimicrobial, anticoagulant, and
anti-inflammatory compounds.
There is also evidence that they have anti-tumor effects.
Both of these terpenes can be found in CBD, and a variety of other oils and
plants.
In addition to the above benefits, both terpenes have a wide
array of positive health impacts, potentially even helping people who are
suffering from heavy allergies.
Eucalyptol:
Eucalyptol is a particularly interesting terpene found in many cough
suppressant drugs or mouthwashes. It has properties that can help you feel
better and keep your airways open.
It is also naturally found in many forms of cannabis. It is
safe to ingest in small amounts but can be dangerous if too much of it is ingested. Trace
amounts of it can be found in many spices, including bay leaf and sage.
Ocimene: Ocimene is another popular terpene that is found in
many plants. Research shows a variety
of health benefits, including the ability to kill bacteria, fungus, and
viruses.
It can also act as a decongestant and has antiseptic
properties. In addition to being found in marijuana, ocimene is found in spices
like pepper, parsley, mint, and basil.
Ocimene also provides a mood boost to users.
It tends to create a woodsy aroma and smell sweet, thus
explaining why this terpene is found in many types of perfumes.
Borneol: Borneol, like many other terpenes, has a woody-like smell
and taste. It has a variety of medicinal potentials, including acting as an
anti-inflammatory, lowering stress, and reducing anxiety.
All of these make it an ideal terpene to put in a cream or lotion. It
is found in spices like nutmeg, ginger and sage. Interestingly, Borneol tends
to help drive away insects and other bugs, which makes it ideal to be put into
some sort of insect repellent.
Final Thoughts
Many parts of CBD are not fully understood, and more
research is needed to give scientists and users a better understanding of how
they work and benefit others. However, available evidence thus far does
make it clear that different types of terpenes can have beneficial impacts on
someone's CBD experience.
By checking the Certificate of Analysis
found in a product, users of any CBD product can get an idea of what types of
terpenes may be in the product they are interested in purchasing. A bit of time
on the internet will likely reveal the potential health benefit of the terpenes
in question, thus giving users a good idea of what sort of benefit they can
expect from the terpene in question.
If you'd like to learn more about CBD and terpenes, contact Eden's Herbals at [email protected]
today!
*These statements have not been evaluated or approved by the
Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure
any illness. Medical advice should be taken from a medical professional.
All of the articles on this site are written by 3rd party
content providers, expert bloggers or doctors not directly affiliated with
Eden’s Herbals.
Individuals should learn the risks and side effects prior to
taking CBD. Make sure to always check with a medical professional before
starting any new CBD treatment or medication that is not FDA approved.