New study proves the therapeutic benefits of terpenes for the human body

New study proves therapeutic benefits of terpenes

Most people still think that the levels of either the psychoactive compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) or the anxiolytic, relaxing CBD (cannabidiol) in cannabis products are the most important factors to look out for.

However, there is a growing number of educated cannabis users who know that THC and CBD don’t need to be in the spotlight. If you’re looking for specific effects from cannabis, it’s worth checking the terpene content in any product or strain before you spend any money on it. These terpenes, found naturally not only in marijuana but also in other plants, are responsible for the unique flavor profile and aroma of certain strains.

More importantly, terpenes also have medicinal value and can contribute to the entourage effect, enhancing the therapeutic benefits of other cannabinoids present in the plant. Many terpenes have been found to possess valuable anti-inflammatory properties, treat pain, relieve anxiety, and even treat fungi and bacteria.

Certain cannabis products, such as isolates, are processed to the point where they no longer contain terpenes or other compounds. But for medical cannabis patients in particular, there are significant benefits to consuming cannabis products with a rich terpene profile.

There are other studies that support these therapeutic benefits of terpenes.

The latest study was conducted by researchers at the University of New Mexico. They analyzed participants consuming 633 different types of cannabis flower and were asked to rate the effectiveness of each. The participants who used cannabis at home were then asked to report changes in their symptoms via a mobile software application. The researchers then analyzed these trends.

“Symptoms relief was greatest after consuming plant variants with slightly above average levels of the terpenes myrcene and terpinolene and undetectable levels of CBD. In contrast, chemovars with detectable levels of CBD provided the least relief, the fewest positive side effects, and the most negative and context-specific side effects. These results are consistent with previous research showing that naturally abundant CBD in cannabis flowers may act as an inhibitor of optimal treatment for certain health conditions,” the researchers wrote.

“The indexing system described here allows healthcare providers, patients, scientists, and cannabis distributors to categorize cannabis products based on measurable plant traits beyond THC and CBD in a way that is systemically related to varying degrees of symptom relief and adverse reaction reporting,” they closed .

other studies

Another 2021 study shows that certain terpenes help modulate the effects of cannabinoids on mice. Researchers from the University of Arizona College of Medicine analyzed the modulatory and functional activity of various terpenes both in vitro and in vivo, alone and with a cannabinoid agonist called WIN 55.212.

According to the study authors, administering the terpenes together with the agonist to mice resulted in a significant analgesic effect compared to administering each compound alone. They also added that endogenous cannabinoid receptors are sensitive to the terpenes.

The authors reported, “Our results suggest that these cannabis terpenes are multifunctional cannabimimetic ligands that provide conceptual support for the entourage effect hypothesis and could be used to enhance the therapeutic properties of cannabinoids,” they wrote.

What Terpenes Should You Watch Out For?

Scientists know about 20,000 different types of terpenes in the plant world. However, only about 150 have been found in cannabis plants. However, there are a few key terpenes that can definitely make you feel better:

myrcene

Myrcene is the most common terpene in cannabis plants. It is responsible for a clove-like smell that can also be musky and earthy. Myrcene has a calming effect, although this compound is extremely beneficial for treating chronic pain and inflammation.

Individuals struggling with insomnia will also benefit from strains rich in myrcene. It can also help with muscle relaxation, anxiety and stress.

linalool

Linalool is a terpene that exudes a floral aroma with spicy or woody notes. Like myrcene, it also possesses powerful sedative properties and has long been used for its sleep-inducing properties.

Linalool is beneficial in treating anxiety, depression, seizures, stress, and muscle pain. Studies also show that linalool was effective in boosting the immune system, particularly in damage caused by stress.

limes

Limonene is another abundant terpene found in most cannabis strains. It gets its name from the lemony, lemony aroma and flavor it imparts to cannabis. All citrus fruits are also very high in limonene, hence their refreshing aroma.

Limonene is an excellent terpene to improve your overall mood and reduce stress. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties. There are also some studies that suggest it may have antioxidant and stress-relieving benefits.

pinen

Pinene is a famous terpene known for its refreshing smell of pine. It is naturally abundant in pine trees, although it is also found in numerous cannabis strains. Consuming cannabis strains high in pinene is said to increase alertness and can leave you feeling energized and more motivated.

Medicinal benefits include increasing bronchodilation and airflow, reducing inflammation and improving your memory. Pinene can also help you fight brain fog and help you work better.

caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is mainly found in black pepper and cloves as well as in cannabis. It has a pungent aroma that is peppery and spicy.

Caryophyllene is known for its calming effects, but it can also help fight anxiety. More importantly, it is the only terpene known to activate the CB2 receptor, which is why it may offer superior therapeutic benefits. Studies show that caryophyllene can fight inflammation, depression and bacteria while improving gut health.

Diploma

THC and CBD aren’t the only cannabinoids to look out for when purchasing cannabis products. Why not experiment with cannabis strains that have varying amounts of these important terpenes to see how they can improve your health?

ARE TERPS THE NEXT BIG THING, READ MORE…

ARE TERPENES THE NEXT BIG THING IN WEED? READ THIS!