What Are Terpenes & Why Do They Matter?
Terpenes are aromatic molecules found in all plants. These essential oils give different plants their distinctive smells, and they also play a role in the plant's medicinal properties. In cannabis, terpenes work together with cannabinoids to create what's known as the "entourage effect." By understanding terpenes, you can better select strains or chemovars that will address your specific health concerns. Let's take a closer look at this important component of cannabis!
The Benefits of Terpenes for both Mind and Body
There are many different aspects of our health that we can improve by making simple changes to our lifestyle. For example, adding more exercise and fresh fruits and vegetables to our diet, or using natural remedies instead of prescription medications. Terpenes are one such natural remedy with a variety of potential benefits for both mind and body. Terpenes function as a defense mechanism against insects, bacteria, fungi and other plant predators. If you are an essential oil advocate, you use certain oils based on their terpene profile even if you didn’t know it. Terpenes interact with human cells, neurotransmitter receptors and other aspects of human physiology. Keep reading to learn more about terpenes and how they might be able to help you feel your best during menopause.
How to find the right terpene profile for you
Since each terpene has it’s own unique properties, it’s important to find the right one for you and what you are trying to address. There are many different terpenes that can be beneficial for menopause. Some of the most popular terpenes for this purpose include linalool, limonene, and myrcene. Each of these terpenes has its own unique set of benefits that can help to ease the symptoms of menopause. For example, linalool is known for its calming effects, while limonene is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Myrcene, on the other hand, is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect against free radicals. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which terpene is right for you. However, it is always a good idea to speak with a doctor before using any type.
Cannabis Strains and Terpenes
With so many chemovars of cannabis to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. However, the terpenes present in each variety can have a big impact on the effect you're looking for. For example, if you're struggling with chronic pain, linalool and pinene are two terpenes that can help alleviate those symptoms. You can find them in both essential oils and different cannabis chemovars. Some essential oils that contain these terpenes include lavender, bergamot, basil eucalyptus, balsam fir, frankincense, rosemary and clary sage. As for cannabis chemovars, options like Do-Si-Do's, Purple Kushh, Big Smooth and Purple Cream all have significant levels of linalool and pinene. So if you're looking for a natural way to manage chronic pain, these are some great options to consider.
The future of Terpenes in the Cannabis Industry
If you've ever stepped into a dispensary and felt overwhelmed by the sheer variety of cannabis products on the shelves, you're not alone. With all of the different terms and labels, it can be tough to know what you're actually buying. But soon, there may be a universal label that will provide some much-needed clarity.
The Universal Cannabis Information Label (UCIL) is a proposed standard that would reveal the terpene and cannabinoid content of cannabis products. This would enable consumers to choose products based on the specific effects they're looking for. For example, if you want a product that is high in THC and low in CBD, you would be able to find that information quickly and easily. And if you are looking for a product with a higher % of linalool, you will be able to find it easier with this labeling.
The UCIL is still in the early stages of development, but it has the potential to revolutionize the cannabis industry. If implemented, it would create a more informed and empowered consumer base, which is always a good thing.
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