CBD and cannabinoids in general are well known by now, but have you heard about terpenes? What are terpenes and what role do they play in differentiating the effects of hemp-derived CBD?
Terpenes are aromatic plant oils that also provide flavor and color.
Terpenes are from a diverse class of organic compounds produced by a variety of plants, particularly pines, herbs, fruits and spices. They add aroma, flavor and color. These compounds are the basis for essential oils, for instance, and are often added to food, perfumes and aromatherapy. Most are known for their healing properties and can help fight germs and environmental stress.
There are over 200 different terpenes in cannabis.
Hundreds of different terpenes interact together with cannabinoids to augment the overall health and wellness benefits of CBD. Different cannabis strains contain different terpenes, accounting for the vast range of flavors and aromas. Plants with a strong aroma indicate a high terpene content and include herbs such as rosemary, mint, lavender and sage. The flavor and aroma of hemp products depends on their terpene profile because cannabinoids have no smell.
The terpene profile of hemp is lower than that of marijuana. While marijuana is considered an aromatic plant, hemp does not have a strong aroma. However, hemp still contains these compounds, none of which are psychoactive. Terpenes in hemp have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, the most abundant of which are caryophyllene and myrcene.
Carophyllene
· Beta-caryophyllene is a spicy and peppery terpene found in cannabis that activates the CB2 receptor in the endocannabinoid system. This compound has anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety and cytoprotective effects. It’s the first dietary cannabinoid being used as a food additive that is FDA approved.
Myrcene
· Myrcene is a terpene that is found in menthol, lemon grass and most varieties of cannabis. It has a musky quality which is why it’s often used in perfumes. It has anti-microbial, antiseptic and antioxidant properties. It also acts as a natural anti-depressant, anti-carcinogen and anti-inflammatory agent.
Pinene
· Alpha-pinene has a pine scent and is one of the most well-known terpenes in cannabis, and is also found in sage and rosemary. It’s an anti-inflammatory and acts as a natural bronchodilator and expectorant. It aids in mental energy, concentration and focus. It can even act as a topical antiseptic.
Limonene
· Limonene is a citrusy terpene found in cannabis strains, and is also found in citrus fruits, juniper and peppermint. It has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-depressant properties. Additionally, this compound may have anti-carcinogenic properties, and is known to increase blood pressure.
Linalool
· Linalool has a spicy and floral aroma, and is said to relieve inflammation and depression.
Combining terpenes with CBD enhances the cannabinoid effect.
When terpenes are combined with other cannabinoids, this creates a greater effect than CBD alone. Terpenes have a unique interaction with the endocannabinoid system by producing diverse effects. As noted, some terpenes may be relaxing while others are stimulating. Indeed, because cannabinoids are also terpenoid compounds, the myriad combined effects between cannabinoids, terpenes and our cell receptors are truly amazing.
Where Can You Find The Best CBD?
At Bee’s Knee’s CBD’s, we have a wide range of the highest quality non-psychoactive hemp-derived CBD products. All our CBD products are made of pesticide-free, non-GMO organic hemp oil extracted from Colorado grown hemp.
· Sourced From 100% Colorado Industrial Hemp
·     Family Operated, Non-GMO & Vegan-Friendly
· Legal in All 50 States and Contains 0.3% or Less THC
· Lab-Certified to be Free from Solvents, Herbicides & Metal
· Each Batch Lab Tested for Safety, Purity and Potency
