Terpenes are naturally derived compounds found in plants. The name comes from turpentine which is a natural substance made from pine tree sap. Terpenes have been used for a very long time as preservatives, naturally-sourced cleaning products, and medicine. We chose to use them in our tinctures and body oils because they are reported to enhance the entourage effect, as well as modify the respective flavor profiles. On top of that they also have their own individual health benefits that coincide with our spagyric hemp extracts. The main terpenes we use are:
Myrcene
Has a dank, earthy, herbal scent, this terpene can be found in hops and lemongrass. Myrcene can be used to aid sleep and has anti-inflammatory properties its also shown to amplify the effects of certain cannabinoids.
(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/)
Beta-caryophyllene (BCP)
Has a spicy and woody aroma, this terpene can be found in cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper. BCP is shown to have anti-inflammatory properties
(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2449371/)
BCP interacts with the endocannabinoid system and with CB2 receptors found within our bodies.
(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/)
Caryophyllene also has been demonstrated to help with hypoperfusion/reperfusion injuries in rats, which in turn helps conserve the body’s stored antioxidants. Hypoperfusion/reperfusion refers to the sudden loss of blood flow into the body’s extremities like the limbs and the head, in which cells in the extremities still haven’t had their toxic byproducts, like reactive oxygen species, washed out by the blood. The paper below mentions how caryophyllene also helps the body conserve its innate antioxidant supply of DHA when dealing with oxidizing byproducts, while activating the CB2 receptors and PPAR-alpha receptors, helping prevent cellular damage.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29402275/
Limonene
Has a citrusy aroma, this terpene is primarily found in citrus fruits. Limonene is proposed to be an anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) agent as well increases the absorption rate of other terpenes.
(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/?_escaped_fragment_=po=31.2808)
Linalool
Has a delicate, floral aroma, this terpene is primarily found in lavender. Linalool is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-epileptic properties. Linalool helps the immune system become more resilient to stress and helps with sleep.
(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12535857)
(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/?_escaped_fragment_=po=31.2808)
Humulene (alpha-caryophyllene)
It has a spicy and woodsy aroma, this terpene can be found in black peppers, hops, and ginseng. Humulene is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial.
(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17559833)
Terpinolene
Has a woodsy aroma in tandem with citrus and floral notes, this terpene can be found in sage, lilac, conifer trees, apple trees, and tea trees. Terpinolene offers a mildly sedative effect and helps reduce anxiety, helps regulate health through the endocannabinoid system, and is known to have antioxidant effects.
(http://europepmc.org/article/MED/23339024)
(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24590926)
Alpha-Pinene/ Beta- Pinene
Has the aroma of pine, this terpene can be found in pine trees. Alpha-Pinene and Beta- Pinene are believed to have anti-inflammatory and a broad spectrum of antibiotic properties.
(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/?_escaped_fragment_=po=31.2808)
These two terpenes have many of the same properties and effects however are different because they are shaped like mirror images of each other on the molecular level.
Ocimene
Has a sweet and herbal aroma, this terpene can be found mint, kumquats, mangoes, and basil. Ocimene is believed to treat multiple ailments from viruses to congestion.
(https://hemppedia.org/what-are-terpenes/#ocimene)
Alpha-Bisabolol
Has a sweet and floral aroma with hints of citrus and spice, this terpene is found in chamomile and the candeia tree. Alpha-Bisabolol is believed to have anti-inflammatory qualities which indicates that it can be used for pain relief if the pain is caused by inflammation, lastly its also believed to have antimicrobial properties.
(https://cvdvt.org/terpene-of-the-month-bisabolol/)
Valencene
Has a sweet citrusy scent, with notes of wood or fresh herbs. This terpene can be found in Valencia oranges. Valencene is believed to be anti-inflammatory and exhibits anti-allergen activity.