Ultimate Terpenes Buyer Guide for 2020 – The Different Terpene Uses and Effects

September, 2023

These days, there seems to be no end to terpene uses, as the cannabis and aromatherapy communities have learned about the many benefits of terpene isolates and profiles and how they can impact the effectiveness of aromatherapy treatment and cannabis use. Not only can these hydrocarbons boost aromatherapy treatment, if you smoke, vape, or use THC distillates, they can control the type of high you experience, the length of your high, and the strength. But before you scramble to order terpenes, read my terpene buyer’s guide to learn exactly why they’re such a big deal in the cannabis community, how to properly use terpenes based on type, effects, and ideal results, and get an in-depth look at the top five leading terpene products on the market.

Picking the Freshest Terpenes

Finding the top five terpene products was anything but easy, considering the terpene industry seems to have blown up literally overnight. I’ve chosen the leading terpenes based on potency, purity, type, and overall quality. I’ve included terpenes designed to naturally boost energy and improve mental clarity, terpenes that are used to promote sleep, and even best-selling profiles that can induce relaxation while leaving you alert and focused.

Below you’ll find my comparison chart which explains the differences between the leading terpenes, the terpene content, and the type of effects each product creates.

Terpenes Comparison Chart

Product	Terpene content	Effects	cost	Rating
Limoncello Profile Click Here For The Deal!	13	relaxation/mood elevation	$$$	5/5
Strawberry Banana Click Here For The Deal!	12	relaxation/mood elevation	$$	4.5/5
Lev8 Labs Ltd. Click Here For The Deal!	NA	relaxation/mood elevation	$$	4.5/5
Kind Terpenes Click Here For The Deal!	NA	relaxation/mental clarity/calming	$	4.5/5
Elevation Terpenes Click Here For The Deal!	1	relaxation	$	4.5/5

Leading Terpene Isolates and Profiles

Below you’ll find brief summaries of the top five terpene isolates and profiles currently on the market. The terpene profiles are made up of a variety of pure, powerful terpenes that work together to create the desired effect whether it’s increased energy, relaxation, stress reduction, or improved mental clarity. Each of these products offers long-lasting benefits when used regularly and correctly. They can be added to your favorite strain of cannabis or THC infused product, or they can be used for aromatherapy or even added to your favorite beverage. The fact that these terpenes are food grade quality not only means that they’re one hundred percent organic, it also indicates that they have not been sitting on a shelf for several months. Purer terpenes equal a more powerful user experience.

Best Terpene for Anxiety-Limoncello Profile by Terpene Profile

Our Rating: (5/5)

The Limoncelloprofile by Terpene Profile contains a variety of powerful terpenes, including the following:

This terpene profile features a sweet lemon taste that can satisfy any sweet tooth. Its strong citrus scent features subtle notes of pepper, pine, and mango, giving the strain a spicy, lemony tang that makes it one of the most unique terpenes on the market. To use, the blend must be diluted prior to use for effect and flavor. Since terpenes, in general, are oil soluble, they mix well with coconut oil and different types of plant extracts. This blend should not be ingested without dilution.

Effects: Promotes relaxation and mood elevation.

Top Terpene Profile for Pain- Terpene Botanicals Strawberry Banana Natural Terpene Blend

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This flavor-packed terpene profile consists of many of the popular terpenes you’ll find in cannabis, and then some. The sweet, potent taste and aroma is enough to leave your mouth watering, but not enough to truly outshine all of the health benefits these terpenes have to offer. This formula consists of the following terpenes:

This formula consists of one hundred percent terpenes, so there are absolutely no additives or fillers. This highly concentrated formula is very powerful, which means you’ll only need to use a drop or two to achieve desired effects.

Effects: Elevated mood, improves short-term memory, promotes relaxation.

Best-Terpene Profile for Sleep-Lev8 Labs Ltd. Zkittles Strain Specific Terpenes

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This terpene packed profile consists of one hundred percent organic terpenes, offering a unique aroma and flavor. The manufacturer uses a unique extraction process, extracting the terpenes directly from the flowers of the cannabis plant, which are organically grown. Unlike the competition, Lev8 claims that they do not mix both synthetic and organic terpenes. Instead, they pride themselves on their unique blend of fresh organic terpenes that are designed to pack a punch. This particular formula is one of their biggest sellers for all the right reasons. Each terpene in this profile interacts synergistically with each other, in addition to cannabinoids, for the perfect entourage effect that will provide the results that both the terpene and cannabis user are looking for.

This profile is categorized as indica dominant and made from a cross between the popular cannabis strains grape ape and grapefruit, in addition to an unknown strain. It features a mildly bitter and sweet taste with a fruity aroma. This profile can be used alone or added to your favorite ointments, creams, and other types of topicals, beverages, buds, distillates, and shatter.

Effects: Elevates mood, relaxing and calming effects.

Improved Mental Focus-Kind Terpenes – Kind Terpenes Pineapple Express Strain Specific Terpenes Profile Solution Concentrate

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

A popular terpene profile made by Kind Terpenes, this profile is derived straight from a specific cannabis strain. Potent, powerful, and the perfect addition to creams, topicals, edibles, aromatherapy, beverages, and cannabis, a little goes a long way. As an example, when mixing with cannabis, you will only need to use just one drop of the Pineapple Express terpenes per one gram of cannabis. This profile is designed to promote mental clarity, relaxation, and it works as an all-natural anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving treatment that’s both safe and gentle to use. Users who are familiar with the Pineapple Express strain of cannabis will be able to appreciate the true potency this profile offers, in addition to the soothing effects that leave the user feeling calm without causing sedation.

Effects: Mental Clarity, boosts mood, promotes relaxation.

Leading Mood Elevator-Elevation Terpenes: D-Limonene: Food Grade Natural Terpene 10ML Made in The USA

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This D-limonene isolate by Elevation Terpenes contains one hundred percent pure, organic, food grade terpenes. D-limonene is one of the most commonly occurring terpenes found in nature. It’s found in citrus fruits and is what gives them their distinctive scent. It’s also often used in lotions, shampoos, perfumes, and soaps and can even be found in some lemon-scented household cleaners.

This terpene is a powerful lipid-lowering agent. This means it has the ability to naturally lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It’s also been proven to contain properties that can lower blood pressure, can boost immune function, and can even provide indigestion relief. Because it can suppress the appetite, it’s also found in weight loss supplements.

In terms of how it makes you feel, D-limonene helps to decrease anxiety and stress and can be used to promote sleep.

Effects: Relaxation

Terpenes Buyer’s Guide

Not all strains of cannabis smell the same and just like any other type of plant, cannabis contains compounds that are responsible for its unique flavor and aroma. These compounds are called terpenes, which are aromatic hydrocarbons. These molecules are secreted inside the resin glands of cannabis flowers. In some strains, they tend to produce a type of citrusy aroma. In others, they have more of a fruity smell or they may even taste earthy, with a hint of lavender. Certain strains of terpenes have a more musky smell and a deeper flavor.

But did you know that terpenes can also cause a wide range of medical effects? To date, there are approximately fifty thousand terpenes found in plant life. There are more than two hundred terpenes found in cannabis alone. The combination of cannabinoids and these unique compounds is responsible for the cannabis plant’s success.

Terpenes are produced by some animals and by most plants. The simplest way to understand the terpene is to consider them a volatile aromatic molecule. The fact that they give plants their unique scent is what makes them so special.

How Terpenes are Put to Work

Chemically speaking, the terpene is derived from the basic molecule of isoprene. Isoprene replicates to make terpenes. Both of these substances play an important role in a plant’s life and that’s to produce resin and protect the plant’s flowers from predators.

Because of their aromatic power, they’re an ideal choice for beauty and skincare products, it’s also why you’ll commonly find terpenes in your favorite fragrances. They’re also used in both alternative and conventional medicine. More commonly, you’ll find naturally-occurring terpenes used in aromatherapy, however, synthetic terpenes are also used as food additives in the form of aromas and flavors.

In cannabis, terpenes give every strain a different taste and fragrance. They also work to boost the effects of cannabis because they influence how the cannabinoids are processed. Just like cannabinoids, certain terpenes will bind to the brain’s receptors, which can lead to a variety of effects. To learn about how to boost the strength of your favorite strain, click here to read my article on Working With Terpenes: How to Mix and Add to Buds, Distillate and Shatter.

When you choose a strain of cannabis-based terpenes, different harvests can actually demonstrate vastly different terpenoid profiles because of the variety of curing and growing techniques used. The only surefire way to know you’re using a highly potent strain of terpenes is to choose lab-tested products. Many manufacturers will proudly display certificates of purity to show consumers that they use only the purest, freshest terpenes.

Choosing High-Quality Terpenes

A pure terpene blend means that it’s carrier-free. This simply means no cutting agents have been added, including:

• Polyethylene glycol
• Medium chain triglycerides
• Propylene glycol
• Vegetable glycerin

Many of these substances are commonly added to vape products, however, they’re not required aside from the fact that they can help in terms of managing material viscosity. In reality, the addition of these substances doesn’t add any benefits to the terpene blend. The whole point of checking out the purity is to ensure that the terpenes you purchase are not mixed with any undesirable substances. The above-mentioned substances tend to negatively impact the blend and can reduce the effectiveness of a product, which will give you less control of the viscosity to flavor ratio. Adding in these substances has become very common in order for retailers to increase their profit margins since these blends obviously don’t contain the terpene content they should. If you’re not sure whether you’re buying a pure product or not, be sure to look for proof that the terpene compound is carrier-free.

A potent blend allows for a deeper, more robust flavor, better effects, and a stronger aroma.

Know Exactly What’s in a Blend

Knowing what’s in your terpene blend is essential in order  to ensure quality and safety. When you purchase your terpene, if possible, request to see the COA, or certificate of analysis. Some companies will display this directly on their website, making it easy for consumers to see exactly what they’re getting.

Product Freshness

Freshness definitely matters here since terpenes are naturally derived compounds. Fresh terpene profiles and isolates have been poured and blended recently and stored properly. This means that the product has not been placed on a shelf for several months. While fresher terpene blends can involve a longer delivery time, a much fresher mix equals a better product overall.

Packaging

Proper packing will involve protecting the product from ultraviolet light and exposure to air. additionally, the packaging should be informative and helpful regarding product safety and use. You should also look for a batch number which clearly indicates when the blend was mixed, poured, and packaged.

In terms of the bottle,  terpenes should be stored in glass bottles with caps that are made out of material that’s corrosion resistant. There are many types of isolated terpene mixtures that are corrosive to certain types of plastics which can lead to exposure to air during storage, contamination, or a leak.

Since UV damage is a concern, then the color of the glass will also be important. Cobalt, amber, and green bottles all work to protect the terpene blend against UV lights.

Is Your Terpene Blend Food Grade?

Not all types of terpenes are designed for human consumption. Before you buy a certain compound, ensure that it’s safe to use for vaping. Most manufacturers will label their products as food grade if they are.

Benefits of Terpene Use

Terpenes give vape oil and cannabis its natural flavor. In essential oil form, they can be used to treat:

• Fungal infections
• Bacterial infections
• Epilepsy
• Cancer
• Addiction
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Inflammation
• Pain

Thanks to scientific research and the awareness of the medical benefits of essential oils, terpenes use is now more popular than ever. Additionally, almost all of the major terpenes found in cannabis are either anti-pain or anti-inflammatory.

Different types of terpenes will have different health benefits. As an example, limonene has been proven to help treat anxiety. The most dominant terpene in cannabis, myrcene, has been shown to work as a natural pain reliever, which significantly adds to the pain-relieving properties in CBD oil.

Understanding the Entourage Effect

In 1998, Raphael Mechoulam and S. Ben-Shabat coined the term the entourage effect. This effect describes the idea that the different chemicals in cannabis work together with THC in order to create a more potent psychoactive experience compared to just THC alone. According to S. Ben-Shabat and Raphael Mechoulam, the entourage effect can explain why whole plants are more effective compared to the natural products that are isolated from them. Mechoulam has been doing cannabis research for decades and was actually the first person to synthesize and isolate THC back in 1964.

Dr. Ethan Russo published a report in 2011 that focused on the relationship between chemicals in cannabis including THC, CBD, and terpenes. His research suggests that terpenes may be major contributors to the entourage effects on medicinal extracts that are cannabis-based. They may also contribute to the overall therapeutic properties of cannabis. Additionally, he claimed that the different combinations of terpenes and cannabinoids that vary between different cannabis strains may be responsible for each strain’s distinct properties. Myrcene, the most powerful terpene in cannabis may be responsible for the different effects that cannabis has on both the mind and body.

In regard to CBD oils and infused products, there is not much research to back up whether or not terpenes work in the same manner as they do with THC. However, research does suggest that when combined with terpenes, CBD oils may provide stronger effects compared to CBD use alone.

To get an in-depth look at the unique effects of terpenes, click here to read my article Can Terpenes Get You High: The Truth About Terpene Use.

How Terpenoids and Terpenes Differ

Terpenes have received plenty of attention lately from cannabis, holistic, and health industries over the past five years. Marijuana legalization has encouraged new studies that delve into every aspect of the cannabis plant. This has led to the discovery of the variety of terpenes found in cannabis. If you’ve taken an interest in terpenes then you may be wondering what’s the difference between terpenes and terpenoids, or if, in fact, they’re the same thing.

Terpenoids are naturally occurring compounds that are derived from terpenes, while terpenes are a class of organic compounds that are found in some animals and most plants. Terpenes are a type of hydrocarbon. This means that terpenes are comprised of only hydrogen and carbon. Terpenoids are chemically modified using a type of curing or drying process. Because terpenoids and terpenes are commonly used in conjunction, they’re often used interchangeably. However, as you can see, there are significant differences between the two.

Important Terpenes

As I mentioned earlier, there is some research that suggests both limonene and myrcene have important medicinal value in relation to relieving pain and anxiety. Limonene is also effective in relieving symptoms associated with acid reflux and heartburn. Below, you’ll find some of the commonly used terpenes that offer important health benefits:

Linalool

Found naturally in spices and flowers, this terpene can reduce inflammation and pain while promoting relaxation. This terpene is known for its ability to boost mood, promote relaxation, and for its anti-anxiety effects. It can also be used to provide relief to people who are suffering from psychosis or to relieve symptoms associated with seizures.

Terpineol

Floral-like, terpineol smells like lemons, apples, and lilacs. It also has a minty taste. It’s a common ingredient in food, cosmetics, and perfumes. It can work relax the body and mind and can be used to treat severe migraines, inflammation, and anxiety.

Pinene

Found in conifers and pines, pinene is said to have anti-inflammatory properties. It can also provide a natural boost in energy.

Limonene

This terpene is considered a potent stress reliever and anxiolytic. It’s also known for its heavy citrusy scent and can be found in citrus fruits such as oranges, limes, and lemons. This terpene is also commonly used as a fragrant additive in cleaning supplies, soaps, lotions, and cosmetics. It’s known for its powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties and it’s a natural insecticide for the cannabis plant.

This terpene can be easily absorbed via inhalation and can work to improve the absorption of other types of terpenes through body tissue like the digestive tract and mucous membranes.

Trans-nerolidol

Considered a secondary terpene, trans-nerolidol is mainly found in tea tree oil, lemongrass, and jasmine. It has a floral scent with a fruity undertone. It’s widely used for it’s antioxidant, antiparasitic, and antimicrobial properties.

Bisabolol

This terpene possesses a floral scent and is found in the candeia tree and the chamomile flower. It’s primarily used in cosmetic products, but it has recently been proven to be effective in treating wounds and bacterial infections. It also possesses analgesic and anti-irritation properties and is a powerful antioxidant.

Eucalyptol

Found in the eucalyptus plant, this terpene can provide pain relief, reduce inflammation, and improve blood circulation.

Myrcene

One of the most abundant terpenes found in cannabis and known for its earthy scent, myrcene is known for its ability to promote relaxation. It’s commonly found in lemongrass, thyme, hops, and mangoes and it’s a very important terpene. The presence of myrcene determines whether a strain is sativa or indica. If a plant has more than half a percent of myrcene it can cause indica-like effects. A lower percentage of myrcene will cause stative-like effects.

Humulene

Aside from sage and cloves, this terpene is also found in cannabis and black pepper. It contains many medicinal properties and has been proven effective in suppressing appetite, which is what makes it a popular choice for people who want to lose weight. It can also help to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and fight bacterial infections.

Delta 3 Carene

Found in a variety of plants including pine, cedar, bell peppers, and basil, this terpene has a very sweet aroma. It can help aid in healing broken bones and is often recommended to people diagnosed with arthritis, osteoporosis, and fibromyalgia. Since it promotes memory retention it’s also recommended to people with a dementia diagnosis.

Camphene

This terpene smells like earth. Its scent is similar to that of myrcene, which is why it’s often mistaken for it. It also shows a lot of promise in the medical world. When mixed with vitamin C, it turns into a very potent antioxidant and it’s already widely used topically to treat certain skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. However, its ability to lower triglycerides and cholesterol is one of the main reasons it’s used.

Borneol

Offering a minty, herbal scent, this terpene is found in camphor, mint, and rosemary. It works well as a natural insect repellent, which is why many alternative medicine specialists believe that it can be used to help prevent diseases such as lime.

Terpenes and Their Effects

If you’ve ever smelled cannabis, lavender, citrus, or sage, then you’ve smelled terpenes. These fragrant molecules don’t just give trees, flowers, and plants their wide range of scents, they’re also good for your health. Experts have found that there are both physical and mental benefits that come with regular terpene use.

Just like with aromatherapy, inhaling certain terpenes in nature has been linked with a boost in mood and emotional well-being. These fragrant molecules are basically oils that release a type of therapeutic scent. However, the scent is much stronger when the terpenes are combusted because at high temperatures they become aerosolized. Although, terpenes can also release a scent in their natural state.

Aside from boosting mood, terpene use also offers physical health benefits such as anti-tumorigenic and anti-inflammatory effects. In the past, it was believed that inhaling terpenes caused these effects because our sense of smell is directly linked to the emotional centers in the brain, which is why the terpenes have a positive impact on mood. However, it has recently been discovered the terpene works by directly affecting the brain cells, effectively modulating their activity.

Black pepper, oregano, cannabis, and basil contain the terpene beta-caryophyllene. Studies have shown that this terpene possesses pain-relieving, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits. Studies are currently underway to determine how to use this terpene to treat the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Because the progression of this disease is dependent on reducing inflammation in the brain, this terpene can be used to minimize inflammation by activating the cannabinoid receptors in the brain.

In other studies, the use of linalool proved it possessed anti-epileptic and anti-seizure effects.

Terpenes for Energy

Terpenes can be used to promote relaxation, relieve pain and inflammation, and reduce anxiety and stress. But there are also types of terpenes that can actually increase your energy, and without the harmful side effects you would normally experience with fat burners, energy pills, energy drinks, or coffee. These energizing terpenes are perfect for giving you an energy boost when you need it the most.

These energizing terpenes include the following:

Terpenes for Sleep

People fighting insomnia or those who have trouble falling or staying asleep more than three to four nights a week will experience a natural dip in energy. In fact, people who have trouble sleeping are also more prone to chronic fatigue, anxiety, depression, irritability, and stress.

Trouble sleeping can be caused by an increase in stress, depression, an increase in anxiety, or a wide variety of mental or physical issues that can have a negative impact on your regular sleep cycle. This never-ending cycle can wreak havoc on both your mental and physical health if you fail to treat it in a timely manner. But for many, sleeping pills may help a person to fall asleep, but once it wears off a few hours later, They’ll be right back where they started. So, what’s the solution?

These days, one in three people suffer from insomnia at some point in their life, and each year, more and more people report having trouble falling asleep more than three times a week.

But as our knowledge of terpenes continues to grow, a mix of CBD and terpenes can help you rest better at night. The leading calming terpenes are not habit forming like over the counter and prescription sleep medication. In fact, these all-natural substances can help you to fall asleep faster, and stay asleep, and without any harsh side effects.

So, if you’re tired of tossing and turning at night, then the following terpenes with sedative properties can help to reset your sleep cycle:

• Terpinolene: Terpinolene is often referred to as the least common terpene. It can be difficult to find but it contains extra-powerful sedative effects that can have you fast asleep in no time.
• Myrcene: This terpene has many uses, one of which is its tranquilizing effects. This terpene offers much-needed relief when you’re ready to wind down at the end of the night. This powerful anti-inflammatory terpene is very calming and can help to relax both the body and the mind.
• Caryophyllene: This terpene reduces stress and pain, which is what makes it perfect for quieting the mind at night. Since it’s also a great choice for natural pain relief, it can work well for chronic pain sufferers who have trouble sleeping.

Terpenes for Pain

Many chronic pain sufferers turn to CBD for its ability to reduce pain. But did you know terpenes offer their own pain relieving benefits? When the right terpenes are mixed with CBD they can help to relieve both inflammation and pain. Terpenes not only provide aromatic qualities to your CBD they also have their own unique health benefits. When you add terpenes to CBD it helps to achieve the entourage effect. As an example, terpene profiles that contain alpha-pinene are commonly used for its anti-inflammatory effects, not to mention its ability to positively impact the respiratory and immune systems. When mixed with CBD infused products, these pain-relieving terpenes can easily boost the effects.

Below you’ll find a list of the terpenes commonly used for their pain-relieving power.

• Tangi: This terpene profile has been used for years due to its ability to relieve pain, and it’s relaxing and cerebral effects. This terpene profile contains beta-myrcene. A study conducted on this powerful terpene showed that it can be effectively used to treat chronic pain conditions such as arthritis and migraines. Another important terpene, caryophyllene is also in the tangi’s terpene profile. Research suggests that caryophyllene has powerful analgesic properties.
• Beta-myrcene: A powerful terpene, it works to relax the muscles and helps to ease inflammation and pain.
• Limonene: Considered the second most common terpene found in cannabis, limonene can combat bacterial infections, fight tumor growth, relieves anxiety and depression, and naturally relieves pain.
• Alpha-pinene: This terpene can increase cognitive function, kill bacteria, reduce inflammation, and can relieve pain. It can also cause the bronchial tubes to dilate.
• Beta-Caryophyllene: This terpene works to relieve nerve pain and can also ease inflammation and helps to elevate mood.
• Linalool: A common ingredient in perfume, linalool is much more than just a pleasant floral scent. It can reduce pain, fight inflammation, and can even work to reduce stress and anxiety.

Can You Vape Terpenes?

As you can see, many terpenes promote relaxation and provide anti-inflammatory effects, which can be a huge plus for anyone who wants to use CBD oils that are terpene infused in order to reduce stress and anxiety or to reduce inflammation.

Terpenes have different molecular structures, and because of this, their boiling points tend to vary. Some compounds will require a higher boiling point in order to turn into vapor, while others can be ineffective when at a higher temperature. This also applies to cannabinoids. The differences in boiling points can be vast. As an example, the boiling point for linalool is 388F, while the boiling point for THC is 315F. Currently, there are many vaporizers on the market and the ability to adjust the temperature is a must-have feature. Many of the leading vaporizers will allow users to adjust the temperature directly on the device or via a smartphone app.

Compared to smoking, vaping is much easier on the body and more of the vape content is made out of the most popular terpenes on the market.

Terpenes Function in Cannabis

Terpenes are simply one way a plant is able to defend itself against predators. This is done by excreting pungent aromas. Doing so can repel certain bugs and birds that are attracted to plant life. These same aromas can also attract beneficial insects for the purpose of pollination.

While we already know that terpenes are what give cannabis its distinctive smell, research now tells us that terpenes can also play a huge role when it comes to the effects of each different strain of cannabis. These aromatic oils can make a particular strain taste minty, earthy, or fruity. Some terpenes can even cause a strain to smell like cheese.

A cannabis plant produces terpenes in the same gland where CBD and THC are produced. However, the terpenes have not gotten as much attention as CBD and THC, until recently. Medical researchers and growers alike have focused solely on CBD and THC in the past. But recent studies have shown us that terpenes can play a major role when it comes to the unique effects of cannabis.

The type and amount of terpenes a cannabis plant can produce will depend on a number of factors. Even the same strain may not always produce the same type of terpenes. This will depend on the following factors:

• Fertilizer
• Soil
• Climate
• Age of plant

There are approximately two hundred different types of terpenes found in cannabis. Each strain has its own unique terpene profile in various concentrations.

Did you know that terpenes work synergistically with such cannabinoids as THC? Some strains of cannabis will contain the exact same levels of CBD and THC, however, their effects may be very different from each other. Medical researchers are now saying that the terpenes are what’s responsible for the unique effects of each strain.

Cannabis Terpenes

It’s already widely known that THC binds to the brain’s receptors, which is what causes the psychoactive effects of cannabis. Terpenes can also effect the brain’s receptors and the way they function. They have also been found to influence the percentage of THC that enters the brain via the blood-brain barrier. Science has also shown how terpenes can influence the brain’s neurotransmitters directly, in a number of ways. It’s worth mentioning that not all types of terpenes work in the same way. Some types of terpenes will influence the brain, promoting relaxation, while others can naturally boost energy or mental focus.

These days, instead of testing for CBD and THC, labs are now testing for terpene content. By understanding what types of terpenes can affect a certain strain, and how, growers can have more control over the effects.

Additionally, this deeper understanding of terpene function has opened new levels of medical research in terms of learning more about the effects of cannabis.

So, what are the most common terpenes found in cannabis?

THC, CBD, and Terpenes

There are more than four hundred chemical compounds found in marijuana, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and cannabinoids. Each chemical compound contains certain medical properties which work together to encourage the entourage effect. When you use a full spectrum CBD product you’ll receive more than just CBD. CBD also contains terpenes, essential vitamins, flavonoids, fatty acids, minerals, and trace cannabinoids. Different strains of cannabis contain hundreds of terpenes that vary in levels and combinations. Aside from having an impact on the flavor and scent of cannabis, as you know by now, terpenes can also impact the effects of cannabis. Mostly, these terpenes offer additional medical value as they work to mediate how the body interacts with cannabinoids. With their synergistic effects and the different terpene combinations available, terpenes have opened a new door for medical and scientific cannabis research.

Considering terpenes have been around for thousands of years and have been used for decades as an active ingredient in aromatherapy, it seems likely that as more studies are done, the role of these powerful molecules in relation to THC and CBD, will only continue to grow in importance.

Essential Oil and Terpene Use

You can’t be a diehard essential oil user without knowing a thing or two about terpenes, especially when it comes to their medicinal value. That’s because, when most people buy essential oils they’re buying these oils for their terpene content.

Terpenes are basically the main organic compound that gives an essential oil its medicinal benefits, flavor, and its aroma. Different types of terpenes will offer different benefits, flavors, and aromas.

This means you can use different types of terpenes to control the medicinal effects, flavor, and aroma of your essential oils.

If you don’t already know, essential oils are aromatic oils that are obtained via the process of aromatic plants. They’re usually named after the type of plant they came from and offer different types of health benefits such as calming effects, or increased energy. Using essential oils isn’t necessary to improve your health, but regular use does come with its own unique health benefits. But in reality, essential oils aren’t really responsible for these health benefits, terpenes are.

Essential oils do appear in liquid form, but the process in which they’re refined, such as steam distillation, tends to remove important materials including fatty acids.

Most essential oil manufacturers market their products as pure, due to the complicated extraction process in which the oils are obtained. But in actuality, essential oils consist of a combination of chemicals. Each type of essential oil features a different chemical composition that will affect how it’s absorbed, how it smells, and how it’s used in the body. Even essential oils that are derived from the same species of plant will have its own unique chemical composition. But because the formula of many essential oils is negatively impacted by the extraction process, adding terpenes to essential oils can boost the oil’s power and overall effectiveness. That’s why, these days, many diehard aromatherapy enthusiasts are now paying more attention to terpenes and the types of effects they offer.

Final Thoughts

It’s obvious that terpenes are powerful and can offer many benefits for people looking for an all-natural way to manage anxiety, stress, pain, and inflammation. Because terpenes are naturally occurring in nature, they’re gentle and come with no known side effects. In terms of using terpenes with cannabis or THC infused products, they have the ability to increase the duration of a high, can impact the type of high you experience, and can even strengthen a cannabis strain. As we continue to learn more about terpenes, there’s no doubt that more terpene isolates, profiles, and terpene infused products will hit the market in the near future.