Terpenes & Potential Benefits

When it comes to cannabis, most people have a go-to; something sweet, funky, gassy, or even cheesy. These unique aromas and flavours are generated by terpenes, chemical compounds containing aromatic oils also found in trees, herbs, fruits, and flowers. As the industry ages, interest and research have increased rapidly – to the point where many consumers purchase products based on terpene profile over THC percentage alone.

Cannabis has well over 150 terpenes, though a few sources put that number closer to 400. Despite the increased interest in these compounds, what terpenes do and what flavours are expected from them aren’t common knowledge. Additionally, these terpenes come in near-limitless combinations, leading to a massive variety of flavours from cannabis containing the same dominant terpenes. This has also made it difficult to determine how the individual terpenes affect the human body.

As you read, it’s essential to understand that these potential benefits are based on limited research, and everyone’s experience will vary. All cannabis terpenes are part of a complex blend, and the effects can fluctuate depending on the combination of cannabinoids and terpenes present, the source from which the terpenes are derived, and the dosage.

Myrcene [mur-seen]

Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes within cannabis and is also commonly found in hops, lemongrass, and mangoes. The aroma is herbaceous, earthy, and a little musky (musk is defined as a warm, subtle scent, a complex blend of sweet, subtly floral, woodsy, and earthy notes).

While more research is required to fully understand the impact and potential benefits of myrcene, some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that myrcene can be used for:

Sedative and Relaxing: Many people contribute the “couchlock” feeling commonly associated with cannabis to this terpene. Myrcene is known for its calming ability and could potentially be used to reduce stress or anxiety in individuals. It could also possibly help people suffering from muscle spasms or general tension.
Pain Relief: It is believed that myrcene may contain analgesic properties and interacts with pain receptors in the body. If this is true, then myrcene has the potential to relieve pain in some circumstances.
Anti-Inflammatory: Some cases have already shown promise in using myrcene to reduce inflammation, and studies are currently looking into its potential for chronic inflammation associated with many conditions.

Limonene [li-muh-neen]

Limonene, or delta-Limonene, is likely one of the most easily recognizable terpenes in cannabis and is found in most fruit rinds, often citrus fruits like grapefruit or lemon. Limonene is also prevalent in herbs like rosemary and peppermint. The scent is described as intensely citrusy, sweet-tart, and fresh.

More research is required to understand the impact and benefits of limonene, but some studies and circumstantial evidence suggest that it can be used for:

Mood Elevating & Stress Relief: Numerous people have found limonene an effective uplifting mood booster. It also has been used in various aroma therapy circles to help reduce negative feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Antioxidant: Limonene is known to have antioxidant properties and, as such, can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals (unstable atoms causing illness).
Anti-Inflammatory: In some studies, limonene has shown the ability to reduce inflammation caused by numerous health conditions.
Digestive Health: Limonene has been studied for its potential to alleviate symptoms of heartburn, acid reflux, and a few other gastrointestinal conditions.

Caryophyllene [carry-oh-fi-lean]

Caryophyllene, also called beta-Caryophyllene, is regularly found in many plants, herbs, and spices, including cannabis, black pepper, cotton plants and cloves. It provides a sharp smell that’s peppery, spicy, and a bit woodsy.

While caryophyllene has gained attention for its prospective therapeutic properties, more research is needed to understand the full effects. Current studies and research suggest that caryophyllene could be used for:

Anti-inflammatory: Caryophyllene has demonstrated the ability to reduce inflammation in some studies and could be used to help symptoms attributed to several health conditions.
Neuroprotective Properties: Some research indicates that caryophyllene may help protect the brain and nervous system from damage, potentially benefiting illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease.
Pain Reliever: A few studies suggest that adjacent to the possible anti-inflammatory effects, caryophyllene has the potential to interact with pain receptors in the body and reduce pain sensations.
Anxiety Relief & Anti-depressant: Caryophyllene has shown potential in interacting with receptors in the brain associated with mood regulation, potentially producing a calming and relaxing effect.
Gastroprotective: Caryophyllene is being investigated for its ability to protect the gastrointestinal system, potentially reducing ulcers and possibly preventing damage to the stomach lining.

Pinene [py-neen]

Pinene, alpha-pinene or beta-pinene, is often found in pine needles, rosemary, basil, orange peels and cannabis. This terpene’s aroma is reminiscent of pine forests, soil, and refreshing mountain air.

While more research is required to fully understand the impact and potential benefits of alpha-pinene or beta-pinene, some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that pinene can be used for:

Anti-inflammatory: In some studies, pinene has shown the ability to reduce inflammation caused by numerous health conditions.
Bronchodilator: Pinene may help open-up airways and promote better airflow, theoretically helping respiratory conditions like asthma.
Memory Enhancement: Research suggests pinene may improve cognitive functions such as memory and alertness.
Antimicrobial: Pinene has shown possible antimicrobial effects against certain bacteria and fungi and may help inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms.
Anxiety Relief: Many people find the aroma of pinene to be very calming and relaxing, which can help reduce anxiety and stress in individuals.

Humulene [whom-u-leen]

Humulene is a terpene commonly found in cannabis and hops, cousin plants of the same family. It’s also found in cloves, ginseng, as well as basil. Humulene is known for its earthy, musky, and slightly spicy bouquet.

Humulene is also known as alpha-caryophyllene as it has a nearly identical structure to beta-caryophyllene and has similar effects. Though, it does not interact with endocannabinoid receptors in the same manner as beta-caryophyllene.

More research is required to understand the impact and benefits of humulene, but studies, circumstantial evidence, and historical use in Eastern medicine suggest that it can be used for:

Anti-inflammatory: Humulene has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties that could help symptoms accredited to various conditions.
Appetite Suppressant: In some studies, humulene has shown promise in reducing food cravings. It might assist in weight loss as a result.
Pain Relief: Some studies suggest that humulene could interact with pain receptors and reduce pain sensations.
Anti-bacterial & Anti-fungal: Humulene has shown potential effects against certain bacteria and fungi and could inhibit the growth of detrimental microorganisms.
Digestive Health: Humulene has been studied for its potential to aid in digestion and relieve distressful gastrointestinal symptoms.
Immunomodulatory: This terpene may have the ability to help regulate and support the immune system.

Ocimene [oh-sih-meen]

Ocimene is found in many fragrant herbs and plants, including cannabis, mint, parsley, basil, and lavender. The given scent is described as sweet, woodsy, and herbaceous. Ocimene is often used in the making of perfumes and cosmetics.

While remarkably limited, studies and anecdotal evidence on ocimene have suggested that it can be used for:

Anti-inflammatory: In some studies, ocimene has shown the ability to reduce inflammation caused by numerous health conditions.
Anti-viral & Anti-fungal: Studies are looking into the potential that ocimene has for inhibiting the growth of certain viruses and fungi.
Decongestant & Respiratory Support: Ocimene may act as a decongestant by alleviating nasal congestion and promoting clearer breathing. It may also have support abilities beneficial to individuals with respiratory conditions.
Mood Elevating: Ocimene is often associated with uplifting and energizing cannabis effects. Some anecdotal evidence does support this, and the woodsy, plant-forward aroma is also considered generally calming in aroma therapy circles.
Insect Repellant: This terpene can potentially drive away specific pests and insects.

Linalool [lin-ah-lool]

Linalool is likely one of the easiest-to-recognize terpenes by smell, as it’s responsible for the aroma of lavender oil. It’s found naturally in lavender and cannabis, in addition to rosewood, sage, and citrus fruits. The fragrance is richly floral and sweet, with subtle hints of citrus.

While more research is required to understand the impact and potential benefits, linalool has been used in aroma therapy to aid relaxation for years. Some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that linalool can be used for:

Mood Enhancer & Stress Relief: Linalool has been reported to promote happiness, relaxation, calm, and well-being. It’s well known for having sedative effects, which may reduce anxiety and alleviate stress.
Sleep Aid: As a potential sleep aid, linalool may improve sleep quality and promote more restful sleeping habits.
Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic: In some studies, linalool has shown the ability to reduce inflammation and pain sensations caused by several health conditions.
Anti-microbial: Linalool has shown possible antimicrobial effects against certain bacteria and fungi and may help inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms.
Neuroprotective: Some research indicates that linalool may help protect the brain and nervous system from damage or degradation caused by various ailments.

Sabinene [sab-i-neen]

Sabinene is not considered a common terpene. It’s produced naturally by cannabis, Norway spruce, black pepper, cardamom, and carrot seeds. The aroma is uniquely woodsy, peppery, and spicy with citrus hints.

While research on sabinene is limited, there are a few anecdotal studies that suggest it can be used for:

Anti-inflammatory: Sabinene has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in studies and may help reduce inflammation associated with various conditions.
Antioxidant: Sabinene may possess antioxidant effects that could help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Digestive Support: Sabinene has been studied for its potential to aid in digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms.
Analgesic: Studies have shown sabinene to have the potential to interact with pain receptors in the body and reduce pain symptoms as a result.
Respiratory Support: Sabinene has been studied for respiratory benefits and may help relieve respiratory issues and promote clearer breathing.
Skin Health: Sabinene has been investigated for its potential to help the skin as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent.

Geraniol [ge-rah-ni-ol]

Geraniol is naturally found in many plants, including cannabis in small quantities, roses, peaches, oranges, lavender, and lemongrass. Geraniol is more often found in cannabis with high levels of CBD than in cannabis with little to no CBD. Geraniol gives off a sweet, fruity, and floral bouquet. This aroma makes Geraniol popular for use in bath products and body lotions.

Geraniol research is still in its early stages, and further studies are needed to clarify what potential benefits and impacts could be had. Thus far, circumstantial studies suggest that geraniol could be used for:

Anti-inflammatory & Pain Relief: In some studies, geraniol has shown the ability to ease inflammation and pain sensations caused by various health conditions.
Antioxidant: Geraniol has antioxidant properties that may positively impact overall health and well-being by protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Anti-microbial: Geraniol has shown the potential to inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms from some bacteria and fungi.
Relaxation & Calming: Geraniol is typically associated with its pleasing floral scent, which many believe to have relaxing effects, potentially reducing mental tension and stress.
Skin Health: Studies have investigated geraniol’s potential to help the skin as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent.

Terpinolene [ter-pin-oh-leen]

Terpinolene is a less-than-common terpene found within the cannabis plant but is found naturally in apples, lilacs, nutmeg, cumin, and tea tree oil. Terpinolene emits a fruity, floral, and herbaceous scent with minor notes of refreshing pine.

Though research on terpinolene is limited, some anecdotal studies have shown that it has the potential to be used for:

Sedative & Relaxing: Terpinolene is believed to have relaxing qualities that promote relaxation, tranquillity, and stress relief.
Antioxidant: Terpinolene is alleged to have antioxidant properties and, as such, could help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Anti-microbial: Terpinolene has shown possible antimicrobial effects against certain bacteria and fungi and may help inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms.
Respiratory Support: Some research suggests terpinolene may help open the airways and promote clearer breathing, like other bronchodilators.
Insect Repellant: Terpinolene has been researched as an insect repellant and may be useful against certain pests and insects.

Borneol [bor-nee-ohl]

Borneol is a unique terpene found unsurprisingly in cannabis, additionally to camphor, sage, mint, and rosemary. This terpene’s aroma is loaded with refreshing mint and herbal scents. People sometimes describe borneol as having an underlying light metallic scent.

While borneol has been widely used in Chinese traditional medicine and acupuncture, research on it is limited, and more is needed to make strong claims about its effects and benefits. Some of the associated potential benefits of borneol include:

Analgesic: Borneol is believed to have pain-relieving properties and has been studied for its potential to alleviate pain sensations.
Anti-inflammatory: In some studies, borneol has demonstrated the ability to reduce inflammation associated with various health conditions.
Neuroprotective Properties: Some research suggests that borneol may help protect the brain and nervous system from damage.
Gastrointestinal Support: Borneol may help alleviate gastrointestinal issues and promote digestive health.
Relaxation & Calming: With its refreshing aroma, it is thought that borneol helps to promote calm and reduce stress.
Insect Repellant: Borneol has been investigated as an insect repellant and may help deter specific pests and insects.

Eucalyptol [yoo-kuh-lip-taal]

Eucalyptol, also known as cineole, is found in cannabis, rosemary, bay laurel, ginger, sage, and eucalyptus. The aroma produced by eucalyptol is fresh, minty, and a little bit sweet.

More research is required to understand the impact and benefits of eucalyptol, but some studies and circumstantial evidence suggest that it can be used for:

Respiratory Support: Eucalyptol has been studied for respiratory benefits and may help relieve respiratory issues and promote clearer breathing.
Anti-inflammatory: In some studies, eucalyptol has shown the ability to ease inflammation caused by numerous health conditions.
Pain Relief: It is believed that eucalyptol may contain analgesic properties and interacts with pain receptors in the body. If true, then eucalyptol has the potential to relieve pain in some circumstances.
Anti-microbial: Eucalyptol has shown the potential to inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms from some bacteria and fungi.
Cognitive Enhancement: Some studies indicate that eucalyptol may improve focus, alertness, and mental performance in some.
Gastrointestinal Support: Eucalyptol may help alleviate gastrointestinal issues and promote digestive health.

Nerolidol [neh-rol-i-dawl]

Nerolidol is naturally found in many plants, including cannabis, jasmine, citronella, bitter orange blossom, ginger, and tea tree. The aroma is floral, with notes of citrus fruit and tree bark.

More research is required to understand the impact and benefits of nerolidol, but studies and circumstantial evidence suggest that it can be used for:

Sedative & Relaxing: Nerolidol is known for having calming and sedative effects. As such, it may help reduce anxiety and alleviate stress.
Anti-fungal & Anti-parasitic: Some studies have shown that nerolidol has the potential to inhibit the growth of certain fungi and parasites.
Skin Penetration Enhancer: Nerolidol has been studied for its ability to enhance the absorption of other compounds into the skin. It may help increase the permeability and efficacy of certain topicals.
Insect Repellant: Nerolidol is already found in many plants that naturally repel insects and pests and could be used to deter them.
Anti-inflammatory: In some studies, nerolidol has shown the ability to reduce inflammation caused by numerous health conditions.

Farnesene [far-neh-seen]

Farnesene is produced by various plants, including cannabis, sandalwood, cedarwood, patchouli, hops, ginger, and, most notably, green apple skin. The aroma of farnesene is considered soothing for many people and is described as sweet, apple-like, fruity, and slightly floral.

While more research is required to fully understand the impact and potential benefits of farnesene, some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that it can be used for:

Insect Repellant: Farnesene is known for having insect-repelling abilities and may be beneficial for protecting crops and gardens from insect infestations or other pests.
Fragrance & Flavour: Farnesene is used in various industries as an additive to several products, including perfume, cosmetics, and food.
Anti-inflammatory: Some studies have demonstrated farnesene’s ability to reduce and manage inflammation caused by various conditions.
Antimicrobial: Farnesene has displayed some ability to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
Biofuel Production: Farnesene has the potential to be used as a biofuel which could contribute to renewable energy efforts.
Skin Care: In some cosmetic and skin care products, farnesene is used for its moisturizing properties.