What is a Terpene and Why Does it Have a Profile?

Medical News Today defines Terpenes as “Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, though many people commonly associate them with cannabis because cannabis plants contain high concentrations of them. These aromatic compounds create the characteristic scent of many plants, such as cannabis, pine, and lavender, as well as fresh orange peel.”

But what does that have to do with anything?

Many Cannabis consumers (medical or recreational) have no idea that the terpenes in your cannabis can make a huge difference in the high and effects the medication has. Who knew?!?!?

Terpenes are found in nature, so yes, they are natural and in all sorts of things. Limonene is found in lemons, Linalool is found in lavender, pinene is found in pine and the list just goes on. The cool thing about Cannabis though is that the Cannabis plant packs these bad boys in beautifully therapeutic amounts. Terpenes can enhance and change the effects of the breed of cannabis you are using. Some terps will aid in sleep, appetite, or stress relief and the list goes on. So looking at your terpene profile is hugely important for getting the affects you want out of your medicine.

What should you be looking for when you go to your local dispensary? I’ll give a break down of some of the terps you can find and what they can do for you 😊

Caryophyllene – has anti-inflammation properties, acts like a cannabinoid and can activate our endocannabinoid system also believed to be good for pain and anxiety and ulcers – also found in cinnamon, cloves, and pepper

Humulene – this earthy terpene is believed to be anti-inflammatory – its also found in hops, cloves, basil and others.

Limonene – it is believed to relieve anxiety and stress, helps to elevate mood and energy levels, and can also help with pain– its also found in lemon rind, oranges, and juniper

Linalool – can help with relaxation, stress relief, depression, pain, inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases can be helped – if you haven’t figured it out Linalool can be found in Lavender and is awesome in every way! (Its no secret I am obsessed with Lavender and how amazing it is)

Ocimene – antiviral, anti-fungal, antiseptic, decongest and antibacterial – its also found in kumquats, orchids, mangoes, parsley, mint and others.

Pinene – this is the worlds most common terpene and is believed to be good for anxiety pain and inflammation – its also found in pine needles, rosemary, dill, basil and parsley

Terpinolene – has an uplifting effect on the body and mind, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-cancer! This is also found in tea tree- conifers, lilacs and a few others

There are other terpenes out there, these are just the most common you will come across in the dispensary. Next time you are in the dispensary talk to the bud tender about what affects you truly want and flex your new terp knowledge!

As always if you have questions please ask. You can also join the Facebook Group I created or you can follow me on Insta. Please don’t be shy, the only way we can end the stigma is to talk about it.

Much Love

Lynn