CBD oil is all the rage at the moment. With the legalization of hemp in the US, CBD oil has made its appearance in a huge variety of potions, from sleeping aids to face creams and even pet products. However, there is a new contender taking over the cannabis health industry. Terpenes are responsible for the unique scent of the hemp plant, as well as other plants. According to an expert from hemppedia, there are over 120 identified terpenes in the cannabis sativa plant alone, each with its own composition.
Even though research into terpenes continues, they are believed to have a host of medical and therapeutic uses. According to a number of studies, terpenes magnify the benefits of cannabis products. One of the greatest benefits of terpenes is that they accelerate the absorption of CBD into the bloodstream. With this in mind, here are just some of the benefits of cannabis terpenes.
Myrcene
The most abundant terpene in cannabis, myrcene has been credited with reducing pain and inflammation. It can also increase the effects of cannabinoids and other terpenes, and has sedative and antibiotic properties. Myrcene can also be found in mangoes, lemongrass, thyme and hops.
Linalool
Often used in aromatherapy, linalool is what gives lavender its unique scent. Also present in cannabis, linalool is believed to alleviate stress and anxiety. A recent study found that rats exposed to stressful conditions returned to a normal state faster after inhaling linalool. The terpene is also an analgesic, an antibacterial, and an anticonvulsant.
Borneol
Found in wormwood, cinnamon and cannabis, borneol has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries to alleviate pain and stress. Recent studies have found that borneol may also reduce the risk of heart disease. One study revealed that the terpene has anti-coagulative properties while another found that when combined with edaravone (a medicine used to aid recovery after a stroke), borneol prevented strokes in rats.
Pinene
Believed to be the most common terpene in the world, pinene kills bacteria and improves cognitive function. Pinene comes in two different types: alpha and beta. Alpha pinene is found in pine trees and is responsible for their pleasant scent. It is also found in the cannabis plant. According to a study at the Northeast Forestry University in China, pinene is very effective at treating viral and bacterial infections, and can even be used to treat bronchitis. On the cognitive front, pinene has also been shown to prevent the breakdown of acetylcholinesterase, which is responsible for memory and focus.
Limonene
As its name suggests, limonene is characterized by a citrus aroma. It is frequently used in perfumes, cleaning products and even insect repellents. It is also said to aid in the healing of mucous cells in the digestive tract, treating gastrointestinal problems like ulcers and gastric reflux.
Humulene
Present in hops, as well as cannabis, humulene has been credited with alleviating pain and inflammation. It is also known as an appetite suppressant. Some studies have suggested that humulene has anti-cancer properties. One study found that the terpene can oxidize cancer cells, slowing their growth. Another study revealed that when humulene is combined with beta-caryophyllene (a terpene found in cannabis and black pepper), its anti-cancer properties increased substantially.
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