All throughout the plant world, Marijuana too!
Terpenes, or essential oils, are found throughout the plant world and marijuana is no exception. While clinical studies are still few and far between, it is known that specific strains of cannabis contain varying levels of several different terpenes, and have an effect on the cannabis user. Most labels found on cannabis products will contain a breakdown of these terpene levels. It’s becoming much more common to shop for strains based upon their terpene content, favoring these characteristics over whether a strain is an indica or sativa, or THC and CBD content. The state-certified medical cannabis consultants at The Novel Tree Medical have assisted thousands of people with varying and unique needs, and through this have come to an understanding of the effects that different cannabinoids and terpenes possess. We’ve outlined the 5 most common terpenes found in marijuana and provided a brief explanation of their characteristics.
Terpene Effects and Studies
Limonene
Citrus-like Limonene is thought to have anti-anxiety, anti-acne, anti-cancer and digestive-protecting properties. In a 2018 study published by The National Institute of Health, Limonene was found to possess an ability to inhibit lung cancer cell growth in mice.
Pinene
Pinene is thought to have anti-inflammatory, broncho-dilating, antibiotic and memory-boosting properties. A far-reaching 2019 study outlines these characteristics and several more. “To date, most of the investigations have not studied the bioavailability of α-pinene and β-pinene in the human body, though it is clear that these terpenes have antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antiallergic properties.”
Linalool
With it’s Lavender-like aroma, Linalool is thought to have anti-anxiety, pain-relieving, sedative, anti-spasm, and anti-convulsive properties. A 2018 study indicated Linalool produced anxiolytic effects in mice. Linalool is often found in marijuana strains associated with sleepy or sedative effects, making it an option for those who need to wind down at the end of a stressful day.
Caryophyllene
Pepper and spice-tinged Caryophyllene regulates inflammation, nerve pain, fibrosis and has digestive-protecting properties. This terpene is also found in cinnamon and hops, among many other plants. An article in Leafly written by Josh Kaplan, PHD cites Caryophyllene as being beneficial to protect against cognitive decline due to Alzheimer’s and other neurological conditions. Kaplan asserts that more human-based studies are needed to corroborate assertions made about this potentially life-changing terpene.
Myrcene
Exhibiting earthy and fruity undertones, Myrcene is most associated with sedating, muscle-relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties. A 2002 study demonstrated that Myrcene possesses sedative as well as motor relaxant effects. Myrcene is also the predominant terpene found in Chamomile tea, well-known for it’s tranquility-inducing characteristics.