The science behind terpenes has influenced the medical marijuana industry in a way that allows providers to better administer medicine that targets specific ailments and activities, as terpenes have opened up a whole new slew of ways to identify certain attributes based on aroma. Researchers are discovering that the smell of medical marijuana directly correlates with its medical properties. Through their findings we are able to more accurately match the properties desired from a cannabis plant with the person who needs it.
What is a Terpene?
Secreted from the same glands that produce THC and cannabinoids, terpenes are fragrant oils that gives off distinct aromas—anything from those delicious berry, fruity, floral smells, to the more pungent piney fragrances. These aromas can be used to better explain the properties of the plant and how it will effect the user.
Scientists believe these smells can statistically predict distinguishing properties of cannabis far more accurately than reading the levels of THC and CBD. With this in mind we have developed a list of some of the ailments and activities that different terpenes can produce for its users. Using the infographic of terpenes that Leafly.com has created (https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/infographic-what-are-cannabis-terpenes-and-how-do-they-affect-you) we can get a better gauge of the Top 5 Recognized Terpenes. With over 100 different terpenes discovered by researchers you can imagine the list and possibilities are endless.
Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terpene
Here are a few examples of how terpenes can be used to target a specific range of symptoms:
Depression and Low Energy
People who suffer from depression and have a hard time getting motivating should try the terpene Limonene. This pungent, cannabis, citrus smell is indicative of its ability reduce stress, inspire alertness, as well as act as a mood elevator.
Tough Time Sleeping?
Whether it is from insomnia or some other condition, people who have a hard time sleeping should try the terpene Linalool. This flowery oil (also found in lavender, citrus, and birch trees) is known for its calming, stress relieving and sedative properties.
Trouble with Memory?
For those who desire a terpene with medical attributes that help with memory retention, check out the Pinene terpene. Smelling just like a Pine Tree, this terpene has been known to help with retaining memory as well as creating a higher alertness to surroundings.
Overeating
Many people have heard that cannabis can help enhance the appetite. Scientists have also discovered that certain terpenes can actually assist in appetite suppression. The Humulene terpene has a woody, earthy smell along the same lines of hops and coriander. This terpene is known for its ability to assist with pain mitigation as well as weight loss similar to an anorectic.
These are just a few examples of how terpenes can help provide a better classification of cannabis and how it will affect users. It is still important to realize that everybody is unique, and each terpene will have slightly varied effects depending on its user. However, the terpene list does give medical providers the ability to help distinguish between the plants that work well for each individual they treat. If a patient has had the most success with the Lemonene terpene, a medical provider can then branch off and give them different strains that have the concentrate of Lemonene and continue to target their specific ailments.
More information on Terpenes can be found through Leafly https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/infographic-what-are-cannabis-terpenes-and-how-do-they-affect-you
Is there a specific terpene that you have found beneficial, let the community know by posting a comment below!
Previous Post