When it comes to cannabis therapy, terpenes are as crucial as cannabinoids. These fragrant essential oils found in many plants, including cannabis, interact with cannabinoids to create a powerful synergy known as the entourage effect. The entourage effect refers to the ability of cannabinoids and terpenes to enhance each other’s therapeutic benefits and reduce unwanted side effects. In this article, we’ll explore how terpenes assist the entourage effect, how they interact with the endocannabinoid system, and how they modulate the effects of specific cannabinoids.
What is the Entourage Effect?
The entourage effect is a term used by scientists to describe how cannabinoids and terpenes combine to produce the therapeutic effects of cannabis. When consumed alone, cannabinoids such as THC and CBD aren’t nearly as potent as the whole-plant extract. Terpenes play a significant role in this because they assist in making cannabinoids more bioavailable. They do this by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates many of the body’s functions. The entourage effect can boost the medical benefits of marijuana while lowering its psychoactivity, which might be overpowering if a person takes in too much-isolated THC, for example.
Terpenes and the Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system helps regulate many of the body’s functions, including pain, appetite, mood, and memory. Cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant mimic those found in our bodies. THC and CBD are cannabinoids that bind to receptors in the human body’s endocannabinoid system, specifically the CB1 and CB2 receptors. THC is primarily the psychoactive compound in marijuana and is responsible for the “high” that users experience. On the other hand, CBD is non-psychoactive, thought to provide many of the plant’s therapeutic benefits.
When terpenes and cannabinoids bind to these receptors, they create an entourage effect that helps to improve the body’s overall health. Terpenes also protect the cannabinoids from degradation, which can be stored in the body for extended periods.
Terps for Daze: Types of Terpenes
Terpenes are considered a class of organic compounds produced by various plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the unique smells and flavors of different strains of marijuana. Each terpene has a different scent and flavor, and they all interact with the cannabinoids to create the entourage effect. There are many different types of terpenes, and each one offers its unique benefits. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis:
- Linalool: known for its relaxation properties and its ability to reduce anxiety and stress levels
- Limonene: known for its ability to boost the immune system and its uplifting effects
Terpene Benefits
Terpenes have been shown to have many potential health benefits, and their unique properties can provide relief for a wide range of conditions. Some of the most common benefits of terpenes include:
- Pain relief: Terpenes like beta-caryophyllene and limonene have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce pain and swelling.
- Anxiety and depression: Linalool, myrcene, and beta-caryophyllene have all been shown to have anxiolytic properties and can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Insomnia: Terpenes like myrcene and linalool can have sedative effects, making them useful for promoting sleep.
- Digestive issues: Limonene and beta-caryophyllene can help to alleviate symptoms of digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
